ISSUE 1&2 2025 for ISSUU by Cosmopolitan Home magazine

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David

EDITOR

Jennifer Vander Vliet

MANAGING EDITOR

Marie Kamp

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

RJ Meindertsma

Lisa Cargill

Jennifer Koning

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Scott Norsworthy Photography

Ashley Avila

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Jennifer Koning

Angie Brennan

ADVERTISING SALES

David J. Koning

Michelle Ashley

Olivia Rhoades

photo

Scott Norsworthy Photography

AIR FRY IT? Gotta Try It!

Healthier Cooking, Healthier You

The new Kalorik VIVID Touch Air Fryer is a perfect fit for those seeking a healthier lifestyle, the ultimate way to care for oneself. It allows you to enjoy your favorite fried foods with no oil required. It features a high-resolution display delivering infinite cooking opportunities. Offered in a 1500W stainless steel finish, it looks elegant on kitchen countertops with its modern, ergonomic design. This is what the future of meal preparation looks like, The full-color display and intuitive touch control with 202 presets, 12 food categories, and colorful recipe guides. It automatically adjusts settings based on selected food type, cut, and quantity for precise results. And, who doesn't appreciate a shake reminder and ready alert to keep you on track and help you avoid burnt surprises? Available on Amazon and at www.kalorik.com

EXPERIENCE THE EXCEPTIONAL WITH

TEA Forté

Extraordinary teas meet unparalleled presentation for an exceptional experience that is Tea Forté. Their diverse, subtle flavors are a result of creating without compromise. Handcrafted luxury tea blends, design-driven accessories and exquisite packaging come together for an experience worth savoring every day.

Pictured here is a unique collaboration with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation that is rooted in tradition and celebrates creativity from robust classics to spiced warming blends that inspire connections to nature, beauty, and each other.

Tea Forté makes gifting easy with an array of beautiful tea gifts at a variety of price points that are perfect for any occasion.

Steeped in over 35 countries, Tea Forté is proudly featured at leading hotels, restaurants, resorts and retailers. www.teaforte.com

Awaken Creativity with this Distinct Collection of Grounding Teas Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright®

A portion of purchase price supports the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation’s work to advance the legacy of America’s greatest architect, including educational programs, scholarship, and the preservation of Taliesin and Taliesin West for future generations. ®/TM/© Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. Franklloydwright.org

Get Your GLOW ON

The Pure Daily Care NanoSteamer is a new type of steamer that generates nano-ionic steam by combining a conventional heating element with a new ultra sonic vaporizer to produce steam with negatively charged ionic particles. Nano steam combined with ionic water particles are up to 10 times more effective in penetrating skin. It also promotes micro-circulation and helps deep clean the complexion, so you’ll see glowing, vibrant skin quickly without irritation or dryness. “It’s now a permanent part of my skincare routine,” said our CH Tester. “I won’t go another winter without it!” It is also a Towel Warmer: Roll up a facecloth and insert it in the towelwarming chamber for a refreshing moist towelette in just a few minutes. And, finally, use it as a Humidifier: The 200 ml water tank provides a steady output of steam to add humidity to rooms large or small. It makes the air more comfortable to breathe and can be particularly helpful for cold or allergy sufferers. www.puredailycare.com

The Best Chocolate Truffles

Set the Mood for Relaxation

Pamper yourself or your beloved with Sugar Plum’s Wine Box Truffle Assortment!

This decadent dozen features a variety of Sugar Plum’s incredible handcrafted chocolate truffles, all beautifully laid out in a wine-bottle-shaped box that will set the mood for a fantastic day of relaxation! Each box comes with truffle varieties that may include: Amaretto Dark Chocolate, Raspberry Milk Chocolate, Hazelnut Milk Chocolate, Champagne Dark Chocolate, Coffee Milk Chocolate, Irish Cream Milk Chocolate, Butter Pecan White Chocolate, Tiramisu Milk Chocolate, Caramel White Chocolate, and more. Retails for $48.00 at www.sugar-plum.com

Skincare with Results

A Serum that Delivers — We’re Impressed!

Alpha Skin Care Intensive Renewal Serum 14% Glycolic AHA

This anti-aging serum is formulated with 14 percent Glycolic Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) to gently lift away dead skin cells revealing fresh, healthy, younger-looking skin. Perfect for all skin types, the serum is specially formulated with the optimal balance of 14 percent Glycolic Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) and a pH level of 3.7. Glycolic AHA is an ingredient derived from natural sugar cane which helps reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles for a younger-looking you. Glycolic AHAs work naturally to gently lift away dead skin cells so new healthy skin can emerge. Immediately your skin will feel smooth, fresh and healthy, and over time you will see a more radiant, even skin tone.

“I haven’t noticed results this effective since by first battle with Retin-A or an intense facial,” said our CH Tester. “I apply before bed and I wake up with dewy and glowing skin and after repeated use, my stubborn dark spots are fading away and I’ve tried everything on them. I’m loving this serum!” $21.99 on Amazon. www.alphaskin.com

DELICIOUS NUTRITION — Fast

Avatar Natural Foods - Bettr Bowl ($3.99/bowl): Don’t feel like cooking dinner? Just pop a Bettr Bowl in the microwave! Bettr Bowl offers high-quality, affordable frozen meals that let foodies explore healthy world flavors that delight taste buds! Fresh sustainable sourced ingredients are incorporated into each wholesome recipe, with no fillers, hydrogenated oils, corn syrup, added sugars, or preservatives. The flavors are balanced and sodium-conscious. BettrBowl delivers the benefits of a healthy prepared meal that anyone can enjoy with little prep time (just three minutes in the microwave). You won’t find any shortcuts in the way Chef Diego Silva and his team prepare these meals, only highnutrition solutions made with natural ingredients! Its debut bowls are now available at Aldi— Chipotle Chicken Bowl and Birria Rice Bowl.

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Retirement Travel

What’s on Your Agenda?

One of the great benefits of retirement is having the freedom to pursue new interests and hobbies at your leisure. For many, travel is at the top of their retirement bucket list.The key question is how to make sure your retirement savings can keep up with your travel ambitions. The following considerations can help you determine your answer:

• Make travel a part of your retirement budget. Without the funds to pursue travel, you likely won’t get too far. As you plan for your living expenses, include travel as a line item in your retirement budget. Identify a portion of your monthly income to cover travel expenses before you the road.

• Consider travel timing. Most retirees plan their biggest travel excursions in the early years of retirement, when health challenges may be lesser and they have more stamina. Therefore, your travel budget may represent a larger portion of your overall expenses in the first years of retirement. If this aligns with your travel vision, factor it into your retirement budgeting strategy.

• Determine your travel style. To come up with a reasonable cost estimate, identify the types of traveling you plan to do. Are you more interested in short trips to nearby locations, mostly traveling by car? Do you plan to explore the country in an RV? Are you looking to visit foreign destinations on a regular basis? Your travel goals will tell you a lot about how much you are likely to spend which should be reflected in your retirement plan.

• Find ways to cust costs. It’s easy to face “sticker shock” when you travel. Expenses like food (usually eating out), lodging and transportation can add up quickly. If you plan to stay in one place for an extended period, look into renting a home or apartment rather than “hotel-ing” it. Try to eat like the locals by buying food at grocery stores and markets. Take the time to look for flight deals or make your automobile travel routes as efficient as possible. One of the perks of being retired is that you may have more flexibility than working people to lock in deals by traveling off season or at other unpopular times.

• Dont overlook insurance needs. Travel insurance may be appropriate if you get sick or lose luggage on a trip. Keep in mind that Medicare is not accepted outside the U.S., and even within the U.S., you want to be sure your health insurance has you covered in states outside your own.

• Look for discounts and rewards. Seniors have a unique advantage in that costs for some activities are reduced. Even though the discounts may be modest, every dollar helps stretch your travel budget. Check to see what discounted options are available through clubs like AAA or AARP. Also, pursue smart credit card strategies that help you earn rewards like free travel or cash back on your purchases.

If travel is in your plans when you leave the workforce, it’s key to go beyond dreaming and do some significant preparation in advance. Use the time you have now to set specific goals and build savings that will help make your dreams a reality.

Lisa Cargill, ChFC®, CLU®,CRPC®, CDFA™

EGG-spirational Recipes

Nourish Family Connections

Dine together, shine together. Weekly sit-down meals with family can reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make everyone feel more connected – all while sharing delicious, healthy and easy-to-prepare food.

Give your family the opportunity to refuel and reconnect each week with recipes that bring everyone together. Whether it’s 10 people or two, research shows that those who enjoy frequent meals with others, particularly parents with their children, have better social and emotional well-being, according to the American Heart Association.

Enjoying great conversation and camaraderie is at the heart of every meal, and with the right dishes, you can make every bite as delicious as it is nourishing. Ingredients like eggs are easy to use and versatile, making them the perfect choice in the kitchen to help you cook up conversation.

Gently cooked egg yolks take center stage in this Egg Ravioli with Sage and Almonds recipe, and delicate poached eggs rest atop whole grains in the Poached Eggs with Pesto Bulgur recipe. If breakfast is the best time of day for your tribe to gather, whip up these Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls for added protein and fiber.

These egg-inspired recipes and more are part of the American Heart Association’s Together Tuesdays and Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best. Both initiatives stress the importance of gathering at least once a week around the table with family or friends to satisfy cravings for connection, a delicious meal and overall healthy living.

In addition to the social and emotional benefits of dining together, shared family meals can help promote healthier choices at the table.

Eggs, for example, can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean protein and fish, according to the American Heart Association. Remember not to isolate just one food – it’s not only about the egg, but also about what’s eaten alongside it. For example, eating eggs alongside foods high in saturated fat – like bacon – is different than eggs eaten with steamed veggies, whole grains or a side of fruit.

EGG RAVIOLI WITH SAGE AND ALMONDS

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association

Servings: 4

8 cups water

1/2 cup fat-free ricotta cheese

1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

1 1/2 teaspoons fresh, chopped thyme

1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

8 gyoza wrappers, shumai wrappers or wonton wrappers

4 large egg yolks, unbroken

1 large egg white, lightly beaten

2 teaspoons olive oil

1/4 cup sliced almonds, chopped

1 tablespoon chopped, fresh sage

1 tablespoon finely chopped red bell pepper (optional)

Fill large pot with water. Bring water to gentle boil over mediumhigh heat.

In medium bowl, stir ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, orange zest and pepper.

Place four wrappers flour sides down on cutting board. Spoon 1 1/2 tablespoons cheese mixture onto center of each wrapper. Using back of spoon, press down on cheese mixture to create well about 1 1/2 inches across (width of large egg yolk), leaving at least 1/2 inch space around edges of wrapper.Without breaking it, carefully place one egg yolk in center of each well.

Using pastry brush, brush edges of wrappers with egg white. Place one top wrapper with flour side up on each bottom wrapper. Using thumbs and forefingers, firmly press edges together to tightly seal each ravioli. Set aside.

Using slotted spoon or spatula, carefully drop each ravioli into boiling water. Cook 2 1/2-3 minutes, or until wrappers are al dente (cooked not too soft but not overdone). Using slotted spoon, gently remove raviolis from pot, draining well. Transfer to plates. Drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with almonds, sage and bell pepper, if desired.

Tips: Gyoza wrappers (or shumai wrappers) are preferred because they’re thinner than wonton wraps. Look for gyoza wrappers in the dairy aisle, deli department or freezer section.

Use these guidelines to determine how you want eggs cooked: At 2 1/2 minutes, eggs are yellow and slightly thickened but not set around edges, similar to sunny-side up. At 3 minutes, eggs are deeper orange and slightly set around edges, similar to over-easy.

POACHED EGGS WITH PESTO BULGUR

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association

Servings: 4

2/3 cup uncooked instant or fine-grain bulgur

1 1/3 cups, plus 2 tablespoons, fat-free, low-sodium vegetable broth, divided

1 cup tightly packed fresh basil

2 tablespoons chopped walnuts, dry roasted

1 small garlic clove, minced

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 dash cayenne

1/2 cup finely chopped yellow or red bell pepper

1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions

4 cups water

1 tablespoon white vinegar

4 large eggs

1 medium lemon, cut into 4 wedges

In medium saucepan, prepare bulgur according to package directions, omitting salt and substituting 1 1/3 cups broth for water. Fluff with fork.

In food processor or blender, process basil, walnuts, garlic, salt, cayenne and remaining broth until smooth. Stir basil mixture, bell pepper and green onions into bulgur.

In large skillet, bring water and vinegar to boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer. Break one egg into cup then carefully slip egg into simmering water. Repeat with remaining eggs, placing in water so they don’t touch. Simmer 3-5 minutes, or until whites are completely set and yolks are beginning to set but aren’t hard. Using slotted spoon, drain eggs well and place on bulgur mixture. Serve with lemon wedges.

Note: White vinegar helps firm egg whites quickly, preventing them from spreading too much.

SOUTHWESTERN QUINOA AND EGG BREAKFAST BOWLS

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association

Servings: 4

1/4 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained

2 medium tomatoes (about 2 cups), chopped

1 cup no-salt-added frozen corn, thawed

1/2 medium avocado, pitted and diced

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

nonstick cooking spray

4 large eggs

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

red hot pepper sauce, to taste (optional)

Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat.

Spoon quinoa into four bowls. Top each with even amounts of tomatoes, corn, avocado, green onions and cilantro, if desired.

Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray and set over medium-high heat. Crack eggs into skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook, uncovered, 3-4 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks are still runny. Using spatula, carefully transfer one egg, sunny side up, into each bowl. Sprinkle with hot sauce, to taste, if desired. ❂

Personalized Training Transforming Your Fitness Journey

In today’s fitness world, with countless online resources and influencers offering self-guided routines, Mary felt overwhelmed and frustrated. Like many others, she tried following fitness trends but quickly realized that generic advice often left her confused and far from reaching her health and wellness goals. What she truly needed was a personalized approach — something that would provide the guidance, support, and accountability she wasn’t finding elsewhere. That's when Mary discovered MVP Athletic Clubs.

Getting Started: A Perfect Match

Upon joining MVP Athletic Clubs, Mary was introduced to the first step in her fitness journey: finding the right personal trainer. With plenty of highly credentialed trainers, MVP took the time to match Mary with someone who would complement her specific goals and personality. This personalized trainer-client match made all the difference. Unlike the countless fitness influencers she’d followed online, MVP’s certified trainers brought years of education and real-world experience to their partnership. They were well-versed in functional movement screening (FMS), nutrition coaching, stress management, sleep and recovery strategies, and more — tools that Mary needed to feel supported and understood.

Mary’s trainer, Sarah, specialized in postpartum fitness, which was exactly what Mary needed after having her second child. Sarah’s knowledge of functional movement and recovery techniques gave Mary the confidence she was looking for and together they set a clear, achievable path forward.

The PLAN: Laying the Groundwork for Success

Mary’s fitness journey began with MVP’s PLAN assessment, a onehour, complimentary session designed to set her up for long-term success. The PLAN: — partnership, Learning, Assessment, and Next Steps—provided Mary with the structure she had been missing. During the Partnership phase, Sarah became Mary’s ally, taking time to listen to her goals and design a customized approach that would work best for her life.

In the Learning phase, Mary understood the importance of a solid fitness foundation and gained a deeper understanding of her body’s needs, limitations, and potential. The Assessment phase included an FMS screening and an InBody scan, which quickly and accurately analyzed Mary’s body composition, revealing her muscle mass, body fat percentage, and even visceral fat levels. This data was eye-opening and helped Sarah craft a personalized plan based on sciencebacked insights.

Finally, in the Next Steps phase, Sarah provided Mary with specific, actionable feedback that guided her in setting realistic goals. With this roadmap, they were able to align on her path moving forward and Mary was ready to embrace her fitness journey with newfound clarity.

Connected Coaching: Achieving Measurable Success

After completing the PLAN session, Mary continued working with Sarah, who remained dedicated to helping her reach her goals. Every new member at MVP is also given two complimentary hours of additional programming, which Mary used to book extra training sessions with Sarah. This support was crucial as Mary needed guidance and accountability to keep her moving towards her goals.

MVP’s approach was never “one-size-fits-all.” As Mary progressed, her program evolved to reflect her changing goals. Whether she was working on increasing strength or improving her endurance, benchmarks were set along the way to ensure measurable progress. These milestones kept Mary motivated and focused on achieving her goals, and her trainer regularly tracked her progress through assessments.

With access to a training app, something all MVP training clients receive, Mary could view her progress in real time. The app helped her stay connected to her data, track her training plan, and even follow her workouts when she was traveling or couldn’t meet with Sarah in person. Seeing her achievements and benchmarks updated continuously gave Mary the motivation to keep pushing forward.

By sticking to the personalized plan and hitting her benchmarks, Mary not only saw her fitness improve but also gained a deeper understanding of what was possible when she had the right guidance, tools, and support. Whether she was lifting heavier weights, noticing increased energy levels, or simply feeling more confident, the sense of accomplishment she felt after each milestone was gratifying.

A Rewarding Partnership

For Mary, the MVP experience was about more than just losing weight or building muscle — it was about finding a partner in her fitness journey who truly cared about her goals. With tailored coaching, the InBody scan, and a fitness plan designed specifically for her needs, Mary gained the confidence and accountability she had been searching for. She could now celebrate her success, knowing each step was backed by science, support, and real progress. Mary’s journey is a testament to what happens when you combine the power of personalized training with the expertise of certified professionals at MVP Athletic Clubs.

Visit mvpsportsclubs.com to learn more about membership options and personal training services.

Sports Clubs ❂

Author: Seamus Dooley Vice President of Business Development at MVP

CAMP MADRON

THE 2024 COSMOPOLITAN HOME OF THE YEAR

TEXT BY RJ MEINDERTSMA

PHOTOS BY SCOTT NORSWORTHY PHOTOGRAPY

Mathison | Mathison Architects

Design

IIn 1963, Allen Sherman debuted his comedic musical parody “Camp Grenada” presenting the trials and tribulations of summer camp from a child’s perspective. The legendary novelty song, best known for the opening line, “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh,” laments the stereotypical camper pratfalls of contracting poison ivy, becoming lost and developing the inevitable homesickness.

Summer camp has been a rite of passage for well over a 100 years for many Michigan children allowing them to connect with other children amidst the state’s storied woods and waters.

One such camp is Camp Madron in Southwest Michigan developed from a family homestead that was purchased in 1928 by Louis and Fred Upton Sr., founders of the present day Whirlpool Company. The Berrien County Boy Scout campground later grew to 260 rustic acres including a 60-acre spring fed lake and natural woodlands.

Today, the camp looks much like it did 100 years ago, but now serves as a second home getaway for families looking for respite from the hustle and bustle of hectic city life. Seventy percent of the residents are from the Chicago Area — a relatively short 90 miles away. Passing through the main gate, enclaves of secluded, eclectic homes are set back from the lake nestled deep into the hallowed Philip Upton Memorial Woods on sites arranged to maximize privacy and limit environmental impact. “Quiet Time” camp rules apply on the weekends, and the non-motorized lake boasts near potable quality water.

This year Camp Madron serves as the tranquil backdrop for Cosmopolitan Home Magazine’s Home of the Year (HOY). This annual designation has been given to the best of the best in West Michigan new home construction for the past thirty-four years.

“Custom Home” has essentially become a generic term used for a broad array of modern homebuilding. This year’s HOY is truly a design that has expanded this spectrum as a hybrid contemporary home that cannot be clearly labeled with a single style given so many influences. The home emanates a Mid-Century Modern vibe with the divergent sloping roof lines on the exterior. In a comfortable jump, the Mid-Century yields to an Industrial feel with exposed galvanized beams and structural supports.

Mathison | Mathison Architects’ ability to balance functionality with aesthetics is superb. The comfortable living area features a correctly-scaled, concrete-clad, wood burning ﬁreplace by HardTopix. To add warmth, the prominent sloped ceiling features massive beams supporting wooden slat ﬁnishing.

Being a secondary home, a beachy minimalistic Scandinavian mood is apparent in light, natural wood flooring adding to a clean, efficient, functional flow in the interior. Naturally there is also a rustic camp influence in the charcoal gray, horizontal, corrugated metal siding along with the prolific use of massive wooden beams. To the discerning eye, there is even a subtle nod to an Asian “Pagoda" feel with beams that span the width of the interior of the home extending through the walls with clever fluted near “Dougong” brackets supporting the extended wooden eaves.

Owners Mark and Diane Falanga from the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago were looking for a complementary living experience that was a complete contrast to city life. Their ultimate goal was to spend part of their time in the city and part of their time in a rural setting. The secondary home needed to be close enough so they could travel between the properties spontaneously and frequently. Camp Madron, with its protected maturely-wooded rolling hills, streams, hiking and XC ski trails and private lake, checked all of their boxes.

“Ben Franceschi and the team at Mathison bring an exceptional level of creativity and professionalism to every project.”

Mark relates, “The vibe is a sophisticated camp. There is a lodge and a beach where people gather, and when we are at Camp Madron, it is easy to acclimate quickly to camp-mode, where we are on our mountain bikes, paddling and swimming on the lake, hiking the trails, gathering around bonfires and seeing lots of stars.”

Mark attended Boy Scout camp in upstate New York, so Camp Madron evokes fond childhood memories.

Given Diane Falanga is the owner and principal designer of Space Defined Interior Design, the Madron design was a labor of love. While Camp Madron is a new build, Falanga through self introspection recognized and added to what the tranquil, natural setting offered.

She confessed, “I loved being my own client and did not modify my approach in any way. When I’m working with clients, I work expeditiously and remain laser focused on the project until it is completed. Probably like most designers, I gather many samples/ideas/pieces and typically narrow down my recommendations to no more than two concepts in each category … knowing

The

either will work very well. Presenting ideas to Mark — showing him how each room/space will be layered on to the next through art placement, area rugs, selected furnishings, etc. — were exciting and gratifying ‘client pitches.’”

Diane continued, “I’m an enthusiastic person and bring that fervency, spirit and exuberance into each project … I make sure that no space is simply a pass-through but one where people want to linger, enjoy, hang-out and feel the connections between areas. I collaborate closely with my clients. They are heard, ideas respected and the bones of the home are taken well into account.”

Mark confirmed, “Diane is a talented, collaborative and practical-minded interior designer who gets it. … Diane would invite opinion and conversation around all of her choices to make sure that what she ultimately selected was something everyone in our family would love. In all cases, Diane’s choices were spot-on.”

Given the beauty of the scenic, ever changing woods, the interior needed to be equally captivating. It needed a sedated wow factor down to the smallest detail and finishing touches. With a realistic eye on the build budget, the goal was to

A dining hall style table offers seating for twelve under multiple skylights that picture frame views of day and night time skies.

adjoining kitchen features a honed Quartz topped island with seating for six and open views to the front courtyard.

create positive spaces reflecting lifestyle and personality that are well used.

As a humorous aside of situational irony, owner Diane Falanga is a recognized author of two books documenting anecdotal examples of young children’s letters home from summer camp. P.S. I Hate It Here and its sequel present poignant, humorous glimpses of camper life reminiscent of those presented earlier by Allan Sherman.

A meandering natural surfaced drive approaches the home under a canopy of medium growth timber and the home subtly rises up from the forest floor. To the left, in an “L” shape configuration, lies a detached carport and ample appropriate open air parking. On the right of the front facade lies a serene covered screened porch. Eyes are drawn up from the porch to the partial second story level.

Rather than sitting in stark contrast to the site, the multi-sloped standing seam metal roof with extended overhang eaves and dark woodsy tones of the horizontal metal siding blend seamlessly with the shaded natural landscape.

On closer inspection, due to ample dark trimmed glass, sightlines extend through the

The kitchen is clearly delineated from the main space with a ﬂat ceiling treatment and porcelain tile ﬂoor. The furniture style island is topped with honed Quartz from MKD Kitchen & Bath and offers seating for six. The custom wood cabinets and AKDO White Haze backsplash are done in a simple style, offset with a focal point stainless oven hood.

One of the home’s entries is through an unassuming, shielded glass front porch. A short, tiled hallway with a ﬂoating bench leads from the foyer to the home’s common area.

A cozy reading nook just past the kitchen features a ﬂoating, corner banquette, large windows and a unique trellised ceiling. The trellis brings some closure to an otherwise open space without forfeiting natural light.

transparent structure to the gently sloping downward wooded topography. An open, three level floating stairway serves as a focal point from either side of the home while the exposed Glulam beams and steel structural members, both inside and out, attest to the home’s structural honesty. Aside from crushed aggregate and paver walkways, no attempt was made to compete with the natural flora of the camp aesthetic.

A huge focus in the design is the connection with the outdoors. The challenge was to preserve and work with the heavily wooded site. Significant hurdles to the project are the winding unimproved camp roads. Getting materials to the site required precise, often time-consuming navigation.

Entry can be made to the home either through an unassuming, shielded glass front porch or a secondary door directly from the parking area. A short, tiled hallway with a floating bench leads from the foyer passing a powder room on its way to the home’s common area. To the right, the kitchen, a dedicated dining space and a comfortable living area featuring a correctly-scaled, concrete-clad, wood burning fireplace can be found.

To add warmth, the prominent sloped ceiling features massive beams supporting wooden slat finishing and multiple skylights that picture frame views of day and night time skies. Natural light also pours in through the soaring floor-to-ceiling glass rear wall and the transom style windows near the converging rooflines.

“The home is contemporary,” said Mark. “One of the guiding objectives was to bring the outdoors in and create large, open and airy gathering spaces which meant that there would be a significant amount of glass and glass wall systems. The glass and the underlying steel structure really dictates the home’s contemporary form. The six outdoor rooms give the feel that we are living in a tree house.”

As often is the case, the minimalistic design approach is enhanced by a subdued color palette. Low-key tones of browns, off-white and light grays serve to focus the eye on limited ornamentation and the scenic panoramic views. Strategically placed art throughout the home is an eclectic mix of whimsical family photos, eye-catching art prints and nostalgic retro phots fittingly centered around the outdoor camp theme. Furnishing textures

The common area has direct access to an adjacent open deck that seamlessly offers other places to relax and take in the views.

“It

was inspiring to collaborate with them and see their ideas come to life in such a remarkable way. Their ability to balance functionality with aesthetics truly sets them apart.”

range from thick, comfy floor coverings to sleek wooden mid-century modern style furniture.

“My goal was for the eye to not stop on any of the interiors or art but to draw attention right through the front glass wall, out the back glass wall, to the surrounding woods … I wanted to make sure the art was a surprise and opened up upon entering the home and rounding the corners,” shared Diane.

The kitchen, clearly delineated with a flat ceiling treatment and porcelain Concept Gray tile floor, features a honed Quartz Caesarstone Pebbles topped furniture style island with seating for six. The custom wood cabinets and AKDO White Haze backsplash are done in a simple style, offset with a focal point stainless oven hood. To maintain consistency, these kitchen finishings run throughout the entire home. A dining hall style table offers seating for twelve with direct access to incorporate an adjacent open deck that seamlessly offers other dining possibilities.

AVB is a noted industry leader in eco-friendly construction; integrating nature and being stewards of the environment. They take great pride in being minimally intrusive, preserving the natural landscape, and maximizing greenspace.

A natural surfaced drive approaches the home under a canopy of medium growth timber. To the left, in an “L” shape conﬁguration, lies a detached carport providing ample open air parking. On the right lies an inviting screened porch. Eyes are drawn up from the porch to the partial second story level. A multi-level metal roof with extended overhang eaves along with the dark woodsy tones of the metal siding blend seamlessly with the natural landscape.

Passing the open staircase, a pocket door opens to the primary suite.

Using a democratic approach, the design is of a modest size and appropriately minimal with Gluelam wood beams and creamy tones. Access can be made from the suite to the front screened-in porch — perfect for evening enjoyment.

A cozy reading nook is tucked away to the left with a floating, corner upholstered banquette, large windows and a unique trellised ceiling. The trellis brings some closure to an otherwise open space without forfeiting natural light.

Strategically placed windows in the layout provide a clear view of three open roof features that allow sunlight to filter through, and during rainy days, rain spills giving a zen-like, tranquil waterfall effect.

The left wing, found through concealed passthrough pocket doors, consists of an office/den as well as a full bedroom suite. The bedroom, as are the others in the design, is serene and lovely with stunning outdoor views. Functionality is the ultimate goal; time will be better spent in the common, social areas of the home, and, better yet, in the great outdoors.

The right wing can be found down a hallway opening near the fireplace. Passing the open stairwell, a pocket door opens to the primary suite. Once again, using a democratic approach, the design is of a consistent size and appropriately minimal with Gluelam wood beams, creamy tones and a large walk-in closet. The Primary Bath with porcelain Ascot Gemstone tile features a large glass curbless shower enclosure and floating double vanity. Access can be made from the suite to the earlier mentioned front screened-in porch which is perfect for evening enjoyment.

The open, wooden tread stairway with hardwood capped metal banisters and cable rail system leads upward to the third level. At the top of the landing are two offices that feature skylights and simple floating desks fronting sizable windows.

The owners explained, “Our entire family enjoys our work, and we spend a lot of our time working … We wanted dedicated, attractive work spaces for every family member to make the home a draw during week-days.”

The stairwell also drops down to the lower level of the home. To the left lies a guest bedroom and an adjacent full bath and convenient laundry. To the right, a lateral hallway passes a frameless glass wall looking into a well equipped wellness

room. Further, the hall opens to a recreational room with a wet bar. Walkout doors lead to a screened patio with a hot tub and firepit.

A finished mudroom provides access from an outdoor shower and the rear of the property. Pocket doors pass through to an open office/den and a full bedroom suite.

Mark, a real estate investor and developer, has been surrounded by great architecture and noted architects and designers in his career. From his vast experience, a long list of architectural firms was formulated and from the first point of contact, Mathison | Mathison Architects of Grand Rapids was a stand-out.

The open, wooden-tread stairway with hardwood capped metal banisters and cable rail system leads upward to the third level and also drops down to the home’s lower level.

“The vibe is a sophisticated camp. There is a lodge and a beach where people gather, and when we are at Camp Madron, it is easy to acclimate quickly to camp-mode ...”

Upward on the third level are two ofﬁces that feature skylights and simple ﬂoating desks fronting sizable windows.

The owners entire family enjoys their vocation and spending time working. These dedicated, attractive work spaces entice everyone to plan stays during the week.

Mathison | Mathison Architects (MMA), founded in 2013, is a full-service architectural firm committed to creating meaningful spaces that improve their client’s lives providing function, comfort and sustainability. MMA’s rigorous design process takes a project from concept to a reality of daily living. Time invested early pays huge dividends in the later stages of actual construction.

“Evan Mathison and principal architect Ben Franceschi have a client-focused approach, which started with Diane and I independently completing extensive questionnaires on the experiences we would like in our home,” said Mark. “We were in agreement on many things, but at the core, we both wanted a house that was outward-focused … that would be a magnet for us, our family and our friends. Rather than MMA imparting their design philosophy on us, they teased out ours and then did a masterful job in translating our desired Camp Madron living experience into an extraordinary design.”

Once again, given Mark’s vast experience, he rolled up his sleeves in due diligence formulating a list of 35 Michigan quality contractors. To whittle down the list, he reached out to each company. Through the process, AVB outshined the rest. For Mark and Diane it was clear that AVB’s talented team with 44 years of experience are focused on delivering a quality, value engineered product. It was also clear that through their regional experience and connec-

tions, they would have control over scheduling the best subcontractors.

John Bakos, president of AVB in Portage, Michigan, stated, “We build relationships with clients, and those relationships are built on trust. Right from the start, collaborating and working with Mark and Diane and the team at MMA was a pleasure. We trusted one another through the entire process, sharing a common goal of

“I loved being my own client and did not modify my approach in any way.”

The lower level offers access to an additional screened porch with comfortable seating surrounding a ﬁre table. The proximity to the surrounding woods provides close up views to endless woodlands activity.

achieving Mark and Diane’s vision. It was a total team effort.”

Through AVB’s proven “Concierge” approach, Dave Timmer was able to tailor an enjoyable customer experience creating not only a lifetime of enjoyment, but also a maximization of investment. AVB is a noted industry leader in ecofriendly construction; integrating nature and being stewards of the environment is part of AVB’s DNA. They take great pride in being minimally intrusive, preserving the natural landscape, and maximizing greenspace.

“Dave Timmer delivered our project exactly when he said they would and at exactly the pricing they initially promised,” said Mark. “On top of all that,

the AVB people were so darn nice. While under construction, Diane and I would check on the progress each and every weekend over the course of a year.” The Falangas were never disappointed.

Dave Timmer responded, “Working with the Falangas was an absolute pleasure. They had a clear vision for their home … and they trusted our expertise while contributing valuable insights, which resulted in a home that truly reflects their personality and lifestyle.”

Ben Franceschi agreed, “Working with Mark and Diane was a joy! They trusted us, challenged us, expressed their gratitude, and were transparent about all of their concerns. They were also clear-minded about what they

wanted. We learned so much from Mark and Diane!”

Franceschi continued, “AVB was a wonderful collaborator … the structure has to be dead-on because you can’t use much trim later to obscure inaccuracy.”

As far as working with Mathison, “Ben Franceschi and the team at Mathison bring an exceptional level of creativity and professionalism to every project,” said Timmer. “It was inspiring to collaborate with them and see their ideas come to life in such a remarkable way. Their ability to balance functionality with aesthetics truly sets them apart.”

“Our goal was to create a family gathering space to share and be shared with each other, extended family and all of our friends.”

Diane summarized, “Our goal was to create a family gathering space to share and be shared with each other, extended family and all of our friends. As our family is now growing … we see how the space is growing with us. For example, the lounge and workspace that is outside of our son/daughter-in-law’s bedroom is now the baby’s nursery.”

As far as the recognition, Timmer stated, “Earning the Home of the Year honors is an incredible recognition of the dedication, creativity, and craftsmanship that went into the project. We’re thrilled to see the home celebrated in this way and grateful for the opportunity to work on something so special.”

Franceschi echoed the sentiment, “We are extremely honored to receive this award. Ultimately, when a private residence receives this kind of recognition it’s satisfying because it’s about sharing the joy that comes from a built structure that harmonizes with the natural world.”

Mark and Diane concluded, “Being selected for Home of the Year is a culmination of all that went into bringing this home to life. This recognition is a testament that all of the passion, care, thought and effort poured into this process by MMA, AVB, all of the subcontractors, vendors and Diane and I resulted in something special.”

Home of the Year, like a savory campfire s’more, is definitely a tasty tidbit to add to a letter home.

“Wait a minute, it’s stopped hailing Guys are swimming, guys are sailing Playing baseball, gee that’s bettah Muddah, Fadduh kindly disregard this lettah.”

RESOURCE INDEX

BUILDER AVB

ARCHITECT Mathison | Mathison Architects INTERIOR DESIGN Space Defined Interior Design

CABINETRY T2 Cabinets

COUNTERTOPS MKD Kitchen & Bath

ELECTRICIAN Esper Electric

FIREPLACE SURROUND HardTopix

GLASS & MIRRORS Dave’s Glass

LIGHTING Hogdsons Light and Log

PLUMBING Helmus Plumbing Services

ROOFING Versatile Roofing Systems

Camp Madron Residence

Riverglass

Brower Shores

Hidden Creek

Northern Writing Studio

Dune Forest Retreat

Deer Haven

APPLIANCES

BEKINS (616) 957-2333 www.bekins.us

BRUMMEL’S HOME FURNISHINGS

616.534.4958 www.brummelshomefurnishings.com

DECKER & SONS 616.456.5121 www.deckersons.com

GERRIT'S APPLIANCE, INC. (616) 532-3626 www.gerritsappliances.com

NAWARA BROS 616.459.7098 www.nawarabros.com

TREVARROW INC. (248) 330-4017 www.trevarrowinc.com

ARCHITECTS & ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNERS

BRAD DOUGLAS DESIGN (616) 617-0330 www.braddouglasdesign.com

FITZPATRICK CUSTOM DESIGN (616) 532-2000

GEN 1 ARCHITECTURAL GROUP (616) 931-3671 www.gen1-architecture.com

J. VISSER DESIGN (616) 954-2509 www.jvisser.com

LORENZ & COMPANY (616) 393-9763 www.lorenzandcompany.com

MATHISON MATHISON ARCHITECTS (616) 920-0545 www.mathisonarchitects.com

SEARS ARCHITECTS (616)336-8495 www.searsarchitects.com

STUDIO CHAPMAN www.studio-chapman.com

VIA DESIGN (616) 774-2022 www.viadesign-inc.com

VISBEEN ARCHITECTS, INC. (616) 285-9901 www. visbeen.com

ARCHITECTURAL & LANDSCAPE

LIGHTING

OUTDOOR LIGHTING PERSPECTIVES (616) 378-8676 www.outdoorlights.com

AWNINGS

ACTION AWNING LLC (616) 874-7400 www.actionawning.com

BASEMENT WATERPROOFING

EVERDRY OF GREATER GRAND RAPIDS (616) 406-0808 www.everdrygrandrapids.com

BISTRO STRING LIGHTING

OUTDOOR LIGHTING PERSPECTIVES (616) 378-8676 www.outdoorlights.com

BRICK, STONE & MASONRY

BELDEN ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS (616) 459-8367 www.beldenae.com

HERITAGE/VANDERWALL (616) 842-4500 www.vanderwallbros.com

INTEGRATED EXTERIORS, INC. (616) 588-0099 www.integratedexteriors.com

BUILDER

BDR CUSTOM HOMES, INC. (616) 458-8505 www.bdrinc.com

BERGHUIS CONSTRUCTION LLC (616) 217-6565 www.berghuisconstruction.com

CELEBRITY BUILDERS LLC (616) 291-1808 www.celebritybuildersllc.com

COLONIAL BUILDERS LLC (616) 534-2030 www.colonialbuilders.biz

DAN VIS BUILDERS LLC (616) 293-3597 www. danvisbuilders.com

DBC CUSTOM HOMES (616) 878-5400 www.dbccustomhomes.com

INSIGNIA HOMES (616) 940-1703 www.insigniahomesmi.com

LET US, INC. (616) 893-2341 www.letusserveyou.com

LIVINGSTON HOMES (616) 520-1904 www.livingstonhomesllc.com

LOWN HOMES LLC (616) 366-3436 www.lownhomes.com

MAKUSKI BUILDERS, INC. (616) 299-1725

MEISTE HOMES (616) 392.4814 www.meistehomes.com

MIKE SCHAAP BUILDERS, INC.. (616) 399-9925 www.mikeschaapbuilders.com

MOSAIC CUSTOM HOMES (616) 235-0711 x201 www.mosaicproperties.com

MUSTON CONSTRUCTION, INC. (616) 887-9088 www.mustonconstruction.com

RÄK CONSTRUCTION (616) 299-7664 www.rakhomeconstruction.com

RAYMAR HOMES (616) 299-7664 www.raymarhomes.com

RENDR CUSTOM HOMES (616) 481-9470 www.rendrgr.com

SCOTT CHRISTOPHER HOMES (616) 784-4500 www.scottchristopherhomes.com

SHERWOOD CUSTOM HOMES LLC (616) 891-1865 www.sherwoodcustomhomes.com

SNOWDEN BUILDERS LLC (616) 299-8455 www.snowdenbuilders.com

WHITMORE HOMES LLC (616) 446-3482 www.whitmorehomesllc.com

YOUR HOMES LLC (616) 890-1381 www.yourhomes.com

BUILDING MATERIALS

EIKENHOUT, INC. (616) 459-4523 www.eikenhout.com

FOUNDATION BUILDING MATERIALS (616) 534-4903

LUMBERMEN’S, INC. (616) 366-3046 www.lumbermens-inc.com

STANDALE LUMBER (616) 530-8200 www.standalelumber.com

WIMSATT BUILDING MATERIALS (616) 885-1500 www.wimsattdirect.com

ZEELAND LUMBER & SUPPLY (616) 879-1158 www.zeelandlumber.com

CABINETRY

ADVANCED INTERIORS, INC. (616) 457-4818 www.Ainteriors.net

ASCENT FINE CABINETRY (616) 682-6055 www.ascentcabinetry.com

BENCHMARK WOOD STUDIO (616)994-7374 benchmark-studios.com

GALLERY INTERIORS (616) 874-7000 www.galleryinteriors.com

HOUTNERF CABINET CO. info@houtnerf.design

STANDALE HOME STUDIO (616) 453-8201 www.standalehomestudio.com

STRAIGHT LINE DESIGN (616) 296-0920 www.straightlinekitchens.com

VANBEEKS CUSTOM WOOD PRODUCTS (616) 583.9002

WEST MICHIGAN KITCHEN STUDIO (616) 281-6684

THE WILLIAMS STUDIO (616) 771-0530 www.thewilliamsstudio.com

CENTRAL VACUUM SYSTEMS

OVERHEAD DOOR CO. OF GRAND RAPIDS (616) 261-0300 www.overheaddoorgr.com

CLOSET ORGANIZERS

CLOSET CONCEPTS, INC. (616) 913-9148 www.closetconceptsofgr.com

CLOSET DESIGN (616) 298-2506 www.closetdesign.biz

CLOSET & ROOM SOLUTIONS (616) 785-1021 www.closetandroomsolutions.com

SLIGH CLOSET & GLASS (616) 422-4321 www.slighdesign.com

STUDIO G INC. (616) 994-7050 www.studioginc.com

CONCRETE & CEMENT

B&B CONTRACTORS INC (616) 447-0190 www.bnbcontracting.com

HARD TOPIX (616) 662-9800 www.hardtopix.com

NOBEL CONCRETE, INC. (616) 797-1210 www.nobelconcrete.com

TED MIEDEMA CONTRACTORS, INC. (616) 457-4170 www.tedmiedemaconcrete.com

COUNTERTOPS

ADVANCED INTERIORS, INC. (616) 457-4818 www.Ainteriors.net

GRANITE TRANSFORMATIONS (616) 512-3810 www.granitetransformations.com

GREAT LAKES GRANITE WORKS (616) 785-3088 www.greatlakesgranite.com

HARD TOPIX (616) 662-9800 www.hardtopix.com

KSI KITCHEN & BATH (616) 583-9304 www.ksikitchens.com

MONT SURFACES (616) 647-0700 www.montsurfaces.com

PREMIER GRANITE & STONE, LLC (616) 647-5538 www.premiergranitetops.com

STANDALE HOME STUDIO (616) 453-8201 www.standalehomestudio.com

THE WILLIAMS STUDIO (616) 771-0530 www.thewilliamsstudio.com

DECORATIVE HARDWARE

PROGRESSIVE HARDWARE (616) 607-7373 www.pro-hardware.com

STANDALE HOME STUDIO (616) 453-8201 www.standalehomestudio.com

STUDIO G INC. (616) 994-7050 www.studioginc.com

US10B (616) 682-2792

ELECTRICIANS

VELDHOUSE ELECTRIC (616) 437-5362 www.veldhouseelectric.com

FIREPLACES

FLAME CENTER (616) 662-4400 www.flamecenter.com

H2OASIS (616) 866-0557 www.h2oasisinc.com

HEARTHCREST FIREPLACE & HOME DECOR (616) 583-9349 www.hearthcrest.com

HERITAGE/VANDERWALL (616) 842-4500 www.vanderwallbros.com

PREMIER GRANITE & STONE, LLC (616) 647-5538 www.premiergranitetops.com

FLOORING

ADVANCED INTERIORS, INC. (616) 457-4818 www.Ainteriors.net

CARPET BONANZA, INC. (616) 396-2765 www.carpetbonanza.com

CENTURY (616) 988-4524 www.century-gr.com

DEGRAAF INTERIORS (616) 669-1621 www.degraafinteriors.com

FLOORING BY DESIGN (616) 534-6500 www.flooringbydesigngr.com

KLINGMAN'S FURNITURE (616) 942-7300 www.klingmans.com

RIVERSHORES HARDWOOD FLOORING (616) 243-7000 www.rivershores.com

SPARTA TOWN AND COUNTRY (616) 887-1767 www.sparta.abbeycarpet.com

STANDALE HOME STUDIO (616) 453-8201 www.standalehomestudio.com

URBAN PLANK (616) 748-8080 www.urbanplank.com

VERHEY CARPETS (616) 957-0430 www.verheycarpets.com

GARAGE DOORS

BOUMA BROS. SALES & SERVICE, INC. (616) 452-4704 www.boumabros.com

ENVIRONMENTAL DOOR (616)580-1289 www.environmentaldoor.com

OVERHEAD DOOR CO. OF GRAND RAPIDS (616) 261-0300 www.overheaddoorgr.com

ZYLSTRA DOOR, INC. (616) 698-7242 www.zylstradoor.com

GARAGE ORGANIZERS

CLOSET CONCEPTS, INC. (616) 913-9148 www.closetconceptsofgr.com

CLOSET & ROOM SOLUTIONS (616) 785-1021 www.closetandroomsolutions.com

GLASS & MIRROR PRODUCTS

NORBERT'S GLASS & MIRROR CO. (616) 531-1110 www.norbertsglassandmirror.com

STUDIO G INC. (616) 994-7050 www.studioginc.com

VOS GLASS, INC. (616) 458-1535 www.vosglass.com

HOME AUTOMATION/ ELECTRONICS INSTALLATION

BEKINS AUDIO/VIDEO & APPLIANCES (616) 957-2333 www.bekins.us

CREATED CONTROL (616) 356-2660 www.createdcontrol.com

STREAMLINE SYSTEMS (616)457-5460 www.streamlinesystemsmi.com

HOME FURNISHINGS

THE HOME STUDIO (616) 774-9200 www.thehomestudio.net

KLINGMAN’S FURNITURE (616) 942-7300 www.klingmans.com

MODRN GR (616) 901-3064 www.modrngr.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

AMANDA CHRISTINE DESIGN (616) 566-0468 www.amandachristinedesign.com

ANDY YATES DESIGN (616) 287-3871 www.AndyYatesDesign.com

BECKY SCHROTENBOER DESIGNS (616) 460-7557

COSMOPLAY

BENCHMARK DESIGN STUDIO (616)994-7374 www.benchmark-studios.com

CANNARSA STRUCTURE & DESIGN (616) 610-0907 www.cannarsadesign.com

CHRISTINE DIMARIA DESIGN (616) 299-9229 www.christinedimariadesign.com

DWELLINGS, INC. (616) 532-7897 www.dwellingsid.com

FRANCESCA OWINGS (616) 805-9825 www.francescaowings.com

GALLERY INTERIORS (616) 874-7000 www.galleryinteriors.com

JENNIFER BUTLER DESIGN (616) 551-2168 www.jenniferbutler.design

JOSEPH SZYMCZAK www.studioatslate.com

JULIE KAY DESIGN (616) 893-3887 www.juliekaydesign.com

KATHRYN CHAPLOW (616) 791-7196 www.kathrynchaplow.com

KATHY WAITE DESIGN (616) 551-9495 www.kathywaitedesign.com

KRISTINE KAY INTERIORS (616) 403-7375 www.kristinekayinteriors.com

LYNN HOLLANDER DESIGN (616) 889-1903 www.lynnhollanderdesign.com

MATHISON MATHISON ARCHITECTS (616) 920-0545 www.mathisonarchitects.com

MODRN GR (616) 901-3064 www.modrngr.com

RAYE DESIGN (616) 485-4829 www.rayeinteriordesign.com

ROCK KAUFFMAN DESIGN (616) 956-3008 www.rockkauffmandesign.com

STANDALE INTERIORS (616) 453-8201 www.standaleinteriors.com

TIFFANY SKILLING INTERIORS (317) 501-7953 www.tiffanyskillinginteriors.com

VIA DESIGN (616) 774-2022 www.viadesign-inc.com

VISION INTERIORS (616) 285-9901

www.visionbyvisbeen.com

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

ALFRESCO LANDCAPES LLC (616) 453-2530 www.alfresco-landscapes.com

LANDSCAPE DESIGN SERVICES, INC. (616) 399 1734 www.LandscapeDS.com

RIVER RIDGE LANDSCAPING (616) 696-7391 www.riverridgelandscaping.com

ROOKS LANDSCAPING (616) 897-4287 www.rookslandscaping.com

LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION

CONSERVA IRRIGATION OF GRAND RAPIDS (616) 277-7230 www.conservairrigation.com

LIGHTING

BRIDGE STREET ELECTRIC (616) 458-4209

GRAND RAPIDS LIGHTING CENTER, INC. (616) 949-4931 www.grandrapidslighting.com

KENDALL LIGHTING CENTER (616) 459-8866 www.kendalllightingcenter.com

THE LIGHTING CORNER (616) 534-8560 www.thelightingcorner.com

MASONRY

OPHOFF MASONRY (616) 862-0457 www.ophoffmasonry.com

MOLDING & MILLWORK

ELENBAAS HARDWOOD, INC. (616) 669-3085 www.elenbaas.com

PHILLIP ELENBAAS MILLWORK (616) 791-1616 www,elenbaasmillwork.com

R J RAVEN CORPORATION (616) 245-5684 www.rjraven.com

STANDALE LUMBER LLC (616) 530-8200 www.standalelumber.com

ZEELAND ARCHITECTURAL COMPONENTS (616) 772-6000 www.zeelandarch.com

OUTDOOR LIGHTING

OUTDOOR LIGHTING PERSPECTIVES (616) 378-8676 www.outdoorlights.com

PAINTING

COLORS PAINTING SERVICES (616) 437-3032 colorspaintingservices@hotmail.com

FRONTJES PAINTING (616) 813-6444

MEULENBERG PAINTING & DECORATING (616) 453-3533 www.meulenbergpainting.com

WIERSEMA PAINTING & FINISHING LLC (616) 889-9150

PERMANENT HOLIDAY/ROOFLINE LIGHTING

OUTDOOR LIGHTING PERSPECTIVES (616) 378-8676 www.outdoorlights.com

PLUMBING

DEWEERD & VAN DYKE, INC. (616) 669-6740 www.deweerdandvandyke.com

DIVERSIFIED SPEC SALES INC. (616) 785-9000 www.diversifiedspec.com

GODWIN HARDWARE & PLUMBING, INC. (616) 243-3131 www.godwinplumbing.com

GRAND RIVER PLUMBING (616) 986-1331

VELCO PLUMBING, INC. (616) 455-8890 www,velcoplumbing.com

PLUMBING FIXTURES

FERGUSON (616) 803-7521 www.ferguson.com

REMODELER

CELEBRITY BUILDERS LLC (616) 299-2178 www.celebritybuildersllc.com

MONTELL CONSTRUCTION (616) 805-4966 www.montellconstruction.com

MORRIS BUILDERS, INC. (616) 874-6110 www.morrisbuildersinc.com

NUGENT BUILDERS, INC. (616) 866-7663 www.nugentbuilder.com

RIDGELINE RECONSTRUCTION (616) 987-4245 www.ridgelinereconstruction.com

SCOTT CHRISTOPHER HOMES (616) 784-4500 www.scottchristopherhomes.com

STANDALE HOME STUDIO (616) 453-8201 www.standalehomestudio.com

THOMPSON REMODELING, INC. (616) 942-1866 www.thompsonremodeling.com

WHITE BIRCH BUILDERS, INC. (616) 723-4610 www.whitebirchbuildersinc.com

WOODS BUILDERS HOMES, INC. (616) 272-3468 www.woodsbuildershomes.com

SHOWER & TUB ENCLOSURES

CLOSET DESIGN (616) 298-2506 www.closetdesign.biz

GODWIN HARDWARE & PLUMBING, INC. (616) 243-3131 www.godwinplumbing.com

NORBERT'S GLASS & MIRROR CO. (616) 531-1110 www.norbertsglassandmirror.com

SLIGH CLOSET & GLASS (616) 422-4321 www.slighdesign.com

SIDING & ROOFING

AMBER VALLEY CONSTRUCTION (616) 212-3271 www.ambervalleyconstruction.com

BELDEN ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS (616) 459-8367 www.beldenae.com

EIKENHOUT, INC. (616) 459-4523 www.eikenhout.com

MONTELL CONSTRUCTION (616) 805-4966 www.montellconstruction.com

PROFESSIONAL HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. (616) 784-5700 www.professionalhomeimprove.com

STANDALE LUMBER & SUPPLY (616) 530-8200 www.standalelumber.com

ZEELAND LUMBER & SUPPLY (616) 879-1158 www.zeelandlumber.com

SOLAR SCREENS

ACTION AWNING LLC (616) 874-7400 www.actionawning.com

SOLID SURFACE, STONE & TILE

ADVANCED INTERIORS, INC. (616) 457-4818 www.Ainteriors.net

GREAT LAKES GRANITE WORKS (616) 785-3088 www.greatlakesgranite.com

HARD TOPIX (616) 662-9800 www.hardtopix.com

PREMIER GRANITE & STONE, LLC (616) 647-5538 www.premiergranitetops.com

STANDALE HOME STUDIO (616) 453-8201 www.standalehomestudio.com

STONEWAY MARBLE GRANITE & TILE (616) 842-6118 www.stonewaymarble.com

TOP OF THE WORLD GRANITE, INC. (616) 791-7444

WILLIAMS KITCHEN & BATH (616) 771-0505 www.williamskitchen.com

STAIRWAYS

ZEELAND ARCHITECTURAL COMPONENTS (616) 772-6000 zeelandarch.com

STONE & TILE

BELDEN ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS (616) 459-8367 www.beldenae.com

CERTIFIED TILE & STONE INSTALLERS (616) 437-3520 www.certifiedtilewm.com

GENESEE CERAMIC TILE DIST (616) 243-5811 www.gctile.com

GREAT LAKES GRANITE WORKS (616) 785-3088 www.greatlakesgranite.com

HERITAGE/VANDERWALL (616) 842-4500 www.vanderwallbros.com

KAMPS TILE & STONE, INC. (616) 669-6417 www.kampstile.com

MONT SURFACES (616) 647-0700 www.montsurfaces.com

PREMIER GRANITE & STONE, LLC (616) 647-5538 www.premiergranitetops.com

RON MIEDEMA CEMENT CONTRACTOR, INC. (616) 457-2244 www.miedemaconcrete.com

TORCHWOOD LANDSCAPING (616) 551-0711 www.torchwoodLandscaping.com

SUNROOMS

ACTION AWNING LLC (616) 874-7400 www.actionawning.com

ALL GUTTER SYSTEMS (616) 532-2200 www.allguttersystems.com

MONTELL CONSTRUCTION (616) 805-4966 www.montellconstruction.com

RODENHOUSE DOOR & WINDOW, INC. (616) 784-3365 www.rodenhouse-door-window.com

TITLE COMPANIES

CLEARSTREAM TITLE (616) 285-9300 www.clearstreamtitle.com

FIRST AMERICAN TITLE (616) 975-3429 www.mi.firstam.com

SUN TITLE (616) 458-9100 www.suntitle.com

WINDOW TREATMENTS

CREATIVE WINDOW TREATMENTS (616)247-4771

KLINGMAN'S FURNITURE (616) 942-7300 www.klingmans.com

STANDALE HOME STUDIO (616) 453-8201 www.standalehomestudio.com

WINDOWS

& DOORS

EIKENHOUT, INC. (616) 459-4523 www.eikenhout.com

MONTELL CONSTRUCTION (616) 805-4966 www.montellconstruction.com

R J RAVEN CORPORATION (616) 245-5684 www.rjraven.com

STANDALE HOME STUDIO (616) 453-8201 www.standalehomestudio.com

STANDALE LUMBER LLC (616) 530-8200 www.standalelumber.com

THE WINDOW CENTER, INC. (616) 656-5834 www.TWCwindows.com

WMGB, INC. (616) 243-3700 www.wmgb.com

ZEELAND ARCHITECTURAL COMPONENTS (616) 772-6000 www.zeelandarch.com

ZEELAND LUMBER & SUPPLY (616) 879-1158 www.zeelandlumber.com

For more information on how to be included in our interactive LIST, use the QR code or email: newviewdave@gmail.com

DESIGN INSPIRATION

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COSMOPOLITAN

Cosmopolitan

KKNOWLEDGE and experience take time. As the longest running home and lifestyle publication in Michigan, we at Cosmopolitan Home magazine feel a level of responsibility in paying our knowledge of the building industry forward. For the past 37 years CH has highlighted the talent, quality and skill of some of the finest companies in Michigan. We would like to take our experience and knowledge and share with you who we believe to be the best in the industry. Within the following pages we do just that as we introduce to you: The Best Companies for Your Home – 2025.

To assemble the most comprehensive, companyvetted guide around, we’ve invited hundreds of companies to be a part of our annual lookbook, a go-to guide that every homeowner should have at their fingertips. Whether in print, on your laptop, iPad or phone, the information is all in one place so you will be confident that you’re working with high-level, respectable, and trust-worthy companies. We have taken out the guesswork.

Next time you need a home resource or design inspiration, open up the pages of our digital or print guide for the best of the best in West Michigan. If you desire additional information, please feel free to email us at newvieweditor@gmail.com and we will do our best to give you the information that you need.

Thank you and enjoy,

David J Koning

PUBLISHER

THE LATEST AND GREATEST INNOVATIONS

Appliances

ENTERTAINING AT HOME is at the forefront of kitchen design in 2025 and the appliances are playing a big part.. Sound-minimizing features are being included in everything from dishwashers to washing machines — even garbage disposals are becoming less noisy. With open concept ﬂoor plans usually having the kitchen right next to the family room, quiet appliances are a must. Hi performance appliances are also on the rise. Since most appliances are used daily, it makes sense to invest in the best. The ease of cleaning and faster task time are also important factors in the world of today’s appliances.

Microwave Drawers

Microwaves have traditionally been placed over the range or oven but, as of late, more people are opting for microwave drawers and loving them. A microwave drawer is aesthetically more pleasing, no swinging side door. Often they are hidden on the side of an island. They are more accessible — it's easier to reach into a draw than to reach up above a range or oven, which also makes them easier to clean.

Deluxe Wine Refrigerators

It’s no secret that people love their wine. Whether you’re a collector, an every day sipper or someone who loves to pair wine with meals, keeping your vino at the perfect temperature is a must. It’s no wonder that home designs are incorporating more and more wine fridges into homes. And they’re not just putting them in kitchens and bar areas. Other popular spots include dens, formal dining areas and family rooms. As people lean toward entertaining at home rather than going out, wine fridges are becoming a staple that many can’t imagine living without.

Panel-Ready Appliances

Customizing appliances with an outer panel that matches surrounding cabinetry in a kitchen isn’t a new idea but it is becoming more popular than ever. These appliances create a more streamlined aesthetic and the results are beautiful. Many different types of appliances come panel-ready, including refrigerators, refrigeration drawers and dishwashers.

GERRIT’S APPLIANCE

Gerrit's Appliance is a local, family owned business, offering the largest selection of appliances in the area. With over 75 years of experience, Gerrit’s carries on a tradition of excellence with a fourth generation of family members (pictured above).

To give you an idea how the appliances will look and function in your home, they offer many of the latest appliances in kitchen vignette settings. Gerrit’s prides themselves in offering great value to their customers, in all aspects of the business; including full delivery, professional installation services, and their own inhouse parts and service departments. Gerrit's belongs to the Nationwide Buying Group which allows them to purchase products at very competitive prices and therefore pass the savings on to their customers. Gerrit’s Appliance would appreciate the opportunity to serve you.

Check us out at our two locations: in Wyoming on the corner of 28th Street and Byron Center Avenue as well as in Kentwood on 29th Street just West of East Paris Avenue.

2410 28th Street SW Wyoming, MI 49519

616.532.3626

Appliance Showroom Only 3850 29th Street SE Kentwood, MI 49508

616.532.4131 www.gerritsappliances.com

Cabinetry

ENHANCING THE CLASSICS

THE CABINETS YOU CHOOSE are one of the most important elements in the design of your home. The good news is, the current cabinet trends are sure to inspire, it’s a great time in greater design world to create the kitchen of your dreams. While the ever-enduring shaker-style cabinet is still a ﬁrm favorite, 2025's kitchen and bathrooms are seeing this look with an upgrade. It seems most of today’s cabinet trends are all about enhancing the classic designs, rather than replacing them. From metallic accents to textural looks, the current trends do not disappoint.

The urban and/or industrial kitchen style has ﬁnally seen the biggest dip in popularity in recent years according to cabinetry suppliers. Instead, a “soft” modern or a modern traditional look — essentially a hybrid of modern and traditional elements — is becoming common. It seems that people are choosing to break away from the minimalist aesthetic, looking for a little more interest in their designs.

Wood tones continue to gain steam as homeowners seek to incorporate warmth and natural texture into their kitchens. Oak, walnut, and maple species are currently the most popular selections, with light and mid-tone stains being preferred. Darker stains may start to pick up over the next few years, offering a retro vibe that can be hard to resist. But, really, when it comes to wood tones, go with what you like the most.

Evolved Shaker

The Shaker-style is still one of the most popular styles of cabinet fronts. It’s not surprising since it’s the perfect blend of contemporary and traditional which is all the rage right now. What is surprising though, is the evolution of the style as it’s becoming a little modernized. It’s classic-width border is becoming narrower presenting a fresh, modern-ish look, the perfect upgrade for today’s desired aesthetic.

KITCHENS INTERIOR DESIGN

6585 Belding Rd NE Suite A Rockford, MI 49341

MARY BURNS

P: 616.874.7000

E: galleryinteriors@aol.com galleryinteriors.com

Twenty five years in the making, our team of experienced designers and craftsmen partner with our suppliers so we can create innovative design, and overcome any challenge to execute the project of your dreams. Our staff is not only knowledgeable, detailed and energetic, but most importantly, fun to work with. Our philosophy has always been one of service and integrity. We strive to offer practical solutions that are not only visually pleasing and meet the needs of our clients, but stay within their budget.

Targeting retail shoppers, potential new home buyers, existing homeowners and builders,

Gallery Interiors is also a 'home experience' retail store that allows consumers to design, decorate and furnish their homes all in one place. Our design team can assist you with everything from paint colors to window treatments, home furnishings, accessories, lamps and wall art.

Gallery Interiors also houses the award winning Rockford Kitchen Design Studio. Featuring Fieldstone semi-custom cabinetry (www.fieldstonecabinetry.com) as well as hand-crafted custom. With the emphasis on interior space planning, from concept to execution we can identify your needs, wishes and budget to create your perfect space.

GALLERY INTERIORS AND ROCKFORD KITCHEN DESIGN specialize in full-service design and project management, including :

Interior design

Kitchen Design

Space Planning

Remodeling and Building Services

Lighting

Flooring

Window Treatments

Furniture

Home Staging

Countertops

ADDING VISUAL INTEREST

A KITCHEN'S FUNCTIONALITY and décor are directly tied to its countertops. When you consider how much visual space they fill, countertops become a crucial part of a kitchen’s design. And, they are where all the action takes place. Finding the right material, color, and finish matters a greatly — you want to choose something that feels reﬂective of your style yet still timeless. Durability is a key factor, but making sure your kitchen doesn’t look outdated too soon is also important. For 2025 it is time to say goodbye to plain block color and bring in some visual interest instead.

Warm-Toned Surfaces

Trends in general have been shifting from cool tones towards a warmer palette, and countertops are no exception. For so, so long white and gray marble and marble look-alikes were the staple in kitchen design but, ﬁnally, 2025 is the year to embrace warmer stone hues. This shift includes a resurgence of materials like tumbled marble and travertines.

Custom Quartz

People love quartz because it's a non-porous material. This makes it harder to stain, scratch, or chip than other surfaces. It can also be made to look like any stone or surface you desire. As manufacturing processes are becoming better and more accessible, custom quartz countertops are sure to be very common in the coming year. So, get as creative as you'd like and deﬁnitely think beyond the look of gray and white marble.

Thinner Edges

While choosing the material for your countertops, you must also think about how you should style the slab. Expert fabricators are reporting that how stone is cut is changing. If this is the year you’re getting a new kitchen, don’t miss this step. Thick countertops with sharp edges and pointy corners are starting to look dated according to designers. Instead, consider something a bit less sharp and thinner. Rounded corners are becoming quite popular. Fabricators can cut super thin countertops — less than an inch thick —giving a clean, modern look. Rounded edges can also make a kitchen more functional and safe. No more bumps and bangs into your island’s corners.

GREAT LAKES GRANITE WORKS

Known for its quality stone, expert craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service, Great Lakes Granite Works has served builders and homeowners throughout West Michigan since 1992. The most knowledgable fabricator and installer of granite and quartz in West Michigan, the company designs and installs dramatic countertops, vanities, fireplaces, and tabletops to client specifications.

GLGW has access to more than 500 spectacular granite colors, as well as an extensive variety of other natural and man-made materials, including a variety of quartz and porcelain products. You’re welcome to visit their showroom, located in Comstock Park, and choose your color or inspect your slab and approve it prior to the cutting and polishing process. In addition to their continued access of new material, the company maintains an inventory of over 1,500 remnants for use in various smaller projects.

With an impeccable, hard-earned reputation, Great Lakes Granite Works takes great pride in their hard earned reputation, and works tirelessly to maintain it. Their entire team, from sales to installation, cares about each project. They acquire the best material for each project, and invest in the area’s finest craftsmen and machinery. You can find comprehensive information about granite on their website: www.greatlakesgranite.com.

3970 West River Drive

Comstock Park, MI 49321

616.785.3088

Curb Appeal

FIRST IMPRESSIONS MATTER

CURB APPEAL HAS ALWAYS BEEN KEY in creating a welcoming, visually striking home exterior. As we enter spring 2025, homeowners and designers are embracing bold, innovative ways to enhance a property’s look and increase its value. This year’s trends for a home’s exterior bring a fresh focus on personality, sustainability, and the important materials that elevate the look of any property. From statement colors to purposeful landscapes, these elements combine style and functionality, helping homes make a great first impression.

Year-Round Color

Keeping a landscape visually appealing through all seasons is a top priority for homeowners looking to boost curb appeal. Evergreens, ornamental grasses, and seasonal perennials provide year-round color, helping to create a vibrant outdoor space regardless of the season. Trees and shrubs that change color in the fall add variety while winter-blooming plants offer interest during colder months. A mix of plants ensures that the landscape remains colorful and engaging, making the home look welcoming every day of the year.

Eco-Friendly Landscapes

With sustainability on everyone’s mind, eco-friendly landscaping practices are a natural choice for 2025. Homeowners are turning to xeriscaping, which minimizes water usage, and rain gardens that capture and utilize runoff, keeping water use efficient and environmentally friendly. Mulch is also extremely important. Mulch slows down the evaporation of water from the soil so it cuts down on watering. Mulch also insulates the soil, keeping it warmer in the winter cooler in the summer. And, it reduces weed growth which saves time and reduces the need for weed killing chemicals.

Layered Lighting

Installing exterior lighting similar to how we would inside the home makes the yard more welcoming. For instance, a living room might have a chandelier, a standing lamp, and table lamps that all serve a different purpose and mood, — you can apply the same concept outdoors. Consider using low-level step lights to safely illuminate a walking path or gas-look lanterns for romance and nostalgia or even pendant lights in a tree for unexpected drama.

ROOKS LANDSCAPING

Design

Installation

Maintenance

Creating landscapes that are beautiful, fascinating and beneficial to the environment for over 40 years

AHEAD OF TRENDS

THE BEST COMPANIES HOME FOR YOUR Flooring STAYING

WHEN IT COMES TO OUR INTERIORS, the flooring we choose can make all the difference. The right choice can elevate a space’s design, add personality, and even make a room feel bigger and brighter. This year is shaping up to be an exciting one for innovative, beautiful, and practical flooring ideas. However, the trends are ever-changing, so it is important to know which flooring materials and aesthetics are currently in style and which will stand the test of time. Here are some of the favorite styles and trends to look for in 2025.

Wider, Longer Planks

It’s all about scale in 2025 and going big makes the grade. As we desire more spacious and luxurious interiors, extra wide, extra long planks are increasing in popularity because they hit the mark on both counts. Longer and wider planks can make a room look larger, all while allowing for the full beauty of the ﬂooring to come through. The large planks also offer an elegant, streamlined look, reducing the number of seams which gives a cleaner, more continuous ﬂow.

Sustainable Materials

Eco-conscious living is on everyone’s mind and when it comes to flooring, designers and homeowners are seeking sustainable options. Cork, bamboo and engineered wood are leading the way, offering beautiful finishes with a guilt-free twist. Sustainable engineered wood flooring offers the ideal balance of durability and environmental responsibility. They resist natural expansion and contraction caused by heat and moisture and are compatible with underfloor heating. When choosing this type of flooring, homeowners create a stylish, sustainable floor that will stand the test of time and contributes to the wellbeing of the environment.

Contemporary Parquet

A timeless choice that adds visual interest and sophistication, Parquet is once again a much desired ﬂooring design but, this time around, it has an updated feel. It’s a common choice as it ﬁts in well with both contemporary and period properties alike. Parquet styles like herringbone, chevron and Versailles offer elegance and visual depth. Customized patterns are also becoming common.

Advanced Interiors

616.457.4818

DeGraaf Interiors

616.669.1621

Johnson Carpet One

616.531.3100

Rivershores Hardwood Flooring

617.253.7000

Sparta Town and Country

616.887.1767

Standale Home Studio

616.534.8201

Urban Plank

616.748.8080

Verhey Carpet

616.957.0430

Village Custom Interiors

616.878.5000

Old-world craftsmanship. Modern style. Crafted by hand.

The Color Specialists

No matter what your next project brings, Urban Plank Wood Flooring has the expertise to bring your vision to life.

Explore our collection of designer-inspired colors. Or create something custom, whether it’s between two samples or something completely unique. So you get the perfect color every time.

Urban Plank combines 25 years of experience in hardwood floor finishing, and the innovation of our cutting-edge finishing systems. All our floors are created by us, from end to end, not just distributed from a factory. Plus, our finish is durable and repairable, meaning not only will it hold up to life‘s wear and tear, but can be easily rejuvenated when the heaviest used areas start to look worn.

Let’s create something unique for your next project.

We also offer third-party finishing for builders, designers, and architects — plus we supply wall material, ceiling material, custom cabinets, and more.

LOOKBOOK

Glass&Mirrors

AIRY, LIGHT & BRIGHT

NATURAL LIGHT IN OUR HOMES is one of the most important elements for many reasons. Using quality, organic materials in our homes is also very important. In recent years an increased use of glass and mirrors has helped to accomplish both. All-glass showers, interior glass doors, glass railings, antiqued mirror decor, and many other innovative ideas are putting glass to use. And, when it comes to durability, glass does not corrode with exposure to water, crack due to extreme temperatures or change color when exposed to sunlight. Glass is extremely durable, will look great for a long period of time and keeps spaces bright and airy.

Wet Rooms

According to industry professionals, wet rooms have grown in popularity in recent years. These glass-enclosed, walk-in bathroom spaces eliminate the need for shower doors or curtains, allowing for easy access to both a spacious shower and a freestanding tub. The entire floor of the wet room is waterproofed, often with stylish drain systems, removing the worry of water damage. This creates a spacious and minimalist look, while also making the bathroom more accessible for people with disabilities. These glass-enclosed wet rooms offer a luxurious place to unwind after a long day.

Wine Rooms

Wine collectors rejoice! Glass wine rooms are trending as a stunning way to showcase your collection. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls allow for easy viewing and admiring of your prized bottles. Temperature-controlled environments keep your wine at the perfect temperature. LED lighting adds a touch of drama and highlights the beauty of each precious bottle.

Oversized Mirrors

Oversized mirrors, particularly in living rooms and entrances, are becoming more and more fashionable in 2025. These big mirrors create strong statements that accentuate room space. One might frame them out of wood, metal, or glass among other materials. In contemporary homes, especially in areas that call for a bit of glitz, an expansive mirror performs nicely. The best mirrors are designed to be both functional and decorative.

NORBERT’S GLASS & MIRROR CO.

No matter what type of building you are designing, you can get custom glass and mirrors created by Norbert's Glass & Mirror Co. For over 30 years we have been a local, family-owned and operated business. Our showroom is filled with an extensive display of mirrors and hundreds of custom frame options as well as shower door displays.

We take great pride in the quality of our service, products and professional installation. Services include: Custom Shower Doors, Glass Railings, Custom Mirrors, Decorative Glass, Tabletops and Replacement Thermopanes.

Specialties include: Custom Shower Enclosures including Euro Frameless Showers, Custom Cut Mirrors and Custom Framed Mirrors, Glass Deck Railings, Decorative Pattern Glass, Backsplashes, IGU Replacement and Custom Cut Glass for Shelving or Tabletops.

Open Monday Through Friday 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM Stop in or give us a call. 560 44th Street SE Kentwood , MI 49548 (616) 531-1110

norbertsglass@gmail.com

www.norbertsglassandmirror.com

@norbertsglassandmirrorco

Lighting WHERE PERSONALITY SHINES

LIGHTING IS AN ESSENTIAL component of any home, but it's also a way to express your personality and solidify your design preference. Whether you're in the market for a new chandelier or are just looking to add visual interest with some table lamps, there are plenty of options to brighten your home and highlight your own style.

Play with Scale

Using scale to create interest continues to be a favorite design go-to. By mixing big and small and playing with unconventional proportions, lighting can become a sculptural statement and take a space from bland to grand. Try placing a large pendant in a smaller room or place a delicate piece to add subtle interest in a larger area.

Layered Looks

The trend of layering different types of lighting —ambient, task, and accent — continues to gain momentum. Homeowners are seeking to create versatile spaces with adjustable lighting options. Layered lighting allows homeowners to direct light in a preferred area when needed. It also creates a comfortable space that’s visually pleasing and functional. The key is having multiple lighting scenarios for the spaces you live in the most.

Sculptural Pieces

Incorporating lighting that doubles as art into our homes is a win win. Sculptural designs are everywhere and they deﬁnitley elevate the feel of a room and give it a “designed” look. Statement pieces like these can be pricey but considering the impact they bring to a space, they are worth it. Make it something that you really love, not just a trendy look. The art we love never goes out of style.

Home Tech

COMFORT MEETS INNOVATION

THE WORLD OF TECHNOLOGY is constantly changing. Tech companies are continuously working to create technology that users can enjoy at home along with making their homes more efficient, enjoyable and their lives more productive. In 2025, home tech trends are driven by advancements in smart technologies, sustainability, and immersive experiences. These top trends highlight how technology is making homes smarter, more energy-efficient, and responsive to the needs of modern life, blending comfort with cutting-edge innovation.

Home Ofﬁces

Regularly working from home or utilizing a hybrid working model is nothing new and home offices continue to be a priority when it comes to home improvements. Smart home technology is a particularly advantageous area of investment for those looking to upgrade an office space. AI-Powered Productivity Tools: Smart desks, ergonomic setups, and AI systems that manage work-life balance by controlling distractions or suggesting breaks are a wonderful way to optimize home office space and the athome work enviroment.

Smart Locks

Running on either Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, smart locks are designed to allow homeowners to control their door locks from the convenience of their smartphone. Wi-Fi connected devices are growing in popularity as they allow homeowners to remotely unlock and lock their door from anywhere at any time.

Protecting our planet for future generations has never been more important. Smart home technology is being utilized as a way to be more conscious about energy usage. From monitoring a home’s heating with smart thermostats to controlling devices remotely using smart plugs for minimal energy waste, smart home products continue to not only make life easier, but also encourage a reduction in energy costs. In terms of upgrading your property, investing in a smart thermostat, upgrading to LED lights and opting for smartphone-operated security products, you can ensure you not only have convenient control over your home, but you’ll also help the planet and your bank account.