Eyesore of the week

Property: 1548 E. Grand River Ave. Owner: Ingham Co. Land Bank

Owner says the house is scheduled for demolition

Looking beyond the obvious problems caused by the vegetation that has enveloped this simple house, it seems to be sited particularly close to the busy public way. The east-facing front porch would make for pleasant evening gatherings, sheltering its users from the setting summer sun. Outside but still covered, people can interact and strengthen neighborhood connections.

However, when a porch is too far away from the street, its users are less likely to connect with the passersby. If it is too close to the sidewalk, like this example, people can feel too exposed.

The porch’s height might be raised to move its occupants above and away from the sidewalk. Additionally, if the guardrail is fabricated with wide boards and narrow gaps, the nearness can be moderated with a semi-opaque, yet neighborly screen.

“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.