Eyesore of the week

Property: 622 Genesee Street, Lansing Assessed value: $15,400 Owner: RAL Realty LLC, Grand Blanc, MI

To be fair, this house is not excessively deteriorated. Although the trash scattered in the front yard has been removed, the scrubby shrubs and peeling paint remain. It would not be unfair to describe the property as “tired.” The main upper story window is damaged and the original trim details were removed or obscured when the current grey siding was installed. With some minor effort, this simple side-loaded home could be transformed into the illustration attached.

The removal of the synthetic siding will likely reveal narrow horizontal boards and the former trim details. A fresh coat of paint, highlighting the trim casing in complementary colors will brighten the exterior. Pairs of outswinging casement windows could be installed on the front elevation, providing welcome ventilation in place of the picture window on the main level, and hardly changing the appearance of the sliding window on the upper level. In both cases, dividing the large glass panes with muntins would introduce additional character.

— Daniel E. Bollman, AIA

“Eyesore of the Week” is our look at some of the seedier properties in Lansing. It rotates each week with Eye Candy of the Week. If you have a suggestion, please e-mail eye@lansingcitypulse.com or call Belinda Thurston at 999-5065.