Eye sore of the week

Posted

Property: 210 Michigan Ave., East Lansing

Owner: Devi Gayatri Inc.

Assessed value: $160,100

Owner says: Could not be reached for comment

Architecture critic Amanda Harrell-Seyburn says: When a street vista terminates, like it does at Grand River and Michigan avenues in East Lansing, a good design principle is to place a building in the line of sight — a landmark building that serves as a gateway to downtown and a transition to the western neighborhoods. The building in the sketch above is a bold alternative to the convenience store, facing the intersection with iconic architectural details. It is a rare opportunity when a single building can transform a place — this could be one.

The three ´Now Open´ signs and even the name “24/7” suggest that you could walk into this convenience store at any time of the day. The store doesn´t quite live up to its name, though: the windows are dark and its hours are unknown at best.

This building at the split of Grand River and Michigan avenues has shut down and re-opened over the past few years, previously housing a 7-Eleven. 

Regardless of what goes on inside, the view from the outside is unimpressive for such a prominent parcel. Vandals seem to have gotten to the 24/7 a few times, including the tasteful addition of the inscription ´Buyin´ on the storefront. And the telephone box out front is missing its phone, so good luck calling for directions to another liquor store.

“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 Andy Balaskovitz at 999-5064.

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