By: Deborah Johnson Wood
The economic impact of downtown Grand Rapids’ $19 million Verne Barry Place could be the catalyst that transforms a block of urban decay into a thriving hub of artistic creativity.
The developer, Dwelling Place, is banking on that transformation with the renovation of five commercial storefronts, including four art studio/residences just down the street from two new construction live/work spaces opened last Friday in the same complex.
The nearly 1,000-square-foot renovated live/work spaces at 40, 42, 44 and 46 S. Division are all part of the former Dwelling Place Inn. Each single-level unit combines studio and living spaces in an open floor plan with a kitchen and bathroom, 14-foot ceilings, original hardwood floors, storefront windows, and basement storage for $700 a month, including utilities. Three of the units include covered parking in a new parking deck next door.
"We’re gearing these units to artists," says Heather Ibrahim, Dwelling Place spokesperson. "We already have an art gallery in one space, and have applications from a photographer and an audio/video production company we’re considering for two of the spaces."
Around the corner is 10 Weston, a space with 3,000 square feet, two restrooms and a theater space in the rear. Lease price is $2,400 a month plus electricity.
Another sign that the block is among the up and coming areas of town is the investment of longtime tenant Heartside Ministry in a million-dollar renovation of the adjacent 48 and 54 S. Division.
Source: Heather Ibrahim, Dwelling Place; Jarrett DeWyse, Dwelling Place
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Deborah Johnson Wood is the development news editor for Rapid Growth Media. She can be contacted at [email protected].
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