Eyecandy of the week

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Property: 517 W. Madison St., Lansing Owner: Perspicience LCC

Taking its name from the use of the ancient architectural orders, the Neo-Classical Revival style traces its immediate origins to the extensive classical themes found in the pavilions at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Following the exposition, the popular style was reinterpreted throughout the United States in the early years of the 20th century. High-style versions adapted the pure classical elements, modifying and composing them for modern use.

Eventually, the style was stripped down to its essentials, which were expressed in the more modest forms seen here. References to the earlier Greek Revival style can be found in the strong entablature, which exhibits detail not often found on common neighborhood buildings. Pilasters divide the main elevation and introduce verticality on the wide façade. The heavy, bracketed cornice sits above a frieze of recessed panels and brick dentils. Frieze elaborations are not reserved for the front of the building, but are carried around to the east and west elevations.

Although the original 1915 construction has seen some minor changes, the structure remains largely intact and is worth acknowledgement.The multi-unit apartment block was damaged by fire in January and significant renovations have been undertaken this past summer.

“Eye candy of the Week” is our weekly look at some of the nicer properties in Lansing. It rotates each with Eyesore of the Week. If you have a suggestion, please e-mail eye@ lansingcitypulse.com or call Berl Schwartz at 999-5061.

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