











Home. It’s more than just a place—it’s a feeling, a connection, a sanctuary.
Here in Troy, home reflects a balance of elegance, innovation and community that makes our city truly special. From stunning residences to vibrant neighborhoods, Troy is a canvas where luxury meets comfort, and life’s most cherished moments unfold.
What makes Troy unique is its ability to feel cosmopolitan yet deeply personal. Whether it’s a walk through the bustling Somerset Collection, an evening at one of our acclaimed restaurants, or a moment of peace in your own backyard, Troy offers something for everyone seeking an elevated lifestyle.
As we curated this issue, we had the privilege of connecting with creators, visionaries and innovators who call Troy home. Their passion and dedication are a reminder of the vibrancy that defines our city.
We hope this edition inspires you to embrace the beauty of your own home and community, while also discovering new ways to enrich your surroundings.
Thank you for letting us be a part of your journey. Here’s to celebrating the place where life begins and memories are made: your home.
TODD HAIGHT , PUBLISHER @TROYCITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Todd Haight | todd.haight@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Margaret Haight | margaret.haight@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Allison Sommerville
Allison.Sommerville@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erica Hobbs, Marshall Zweig
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Simran Bajwa, Darrel Ellis, Cindy Stewart, Amy Gillespie
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
If you are worried about dementia - or if you’ve already been diagnosed- you need hope. Did you know that something can be done to prevent, delay and even reverse cognitive decline?
Discover how with a FREE 30-minute consultation. Call (941) 529-0077. Let us be your guide.
1-2: Biggby Coffee Troy South’s opening with owner Mike Pearson (center), Mayor Ethan Baker and Troy Building Department 3-4: Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology christens its new Education Center with an Open House celebration 5: Tappers Jewelry reopens at Somerset Collection after an incredible renovation and expansion 6-7: Dale Carnegie Detroit celebrates its move to Walsh College with a grand opening event
Cultivating excellence: How Greenline Lawn Service is changing landscapes and lives across the community
A team of landscaping experts in Troy is revolutionizing outdoor spaces, crafting stunning backyards—and making a lasting difference in lives.
Matt MacLennan and Brandon Hagar, founders of Greenline Lawn Service, wouldn’t have it any other way.
“We're not just about cutting grass and planting flowers. We’re changing lives,” says Brandon, “and that’s something you wouldn’t expect from lawn cutters.”
Call them Troy’s Lawn Masters. Providing premier services—grass cutting, fertilization, bed maintenance, landscaping, sprinklers and snow removal—with a greater interest in people than profits.
The roots of Greenline Lawn Service are as local as the soil they till. A Troy native, Matt graduated from Athens High School, while Brandon grew up in Warren. For Matt, landscaping began as a college side hustle that turned into a lifelong passion.
ARTICLE BY R. TODD HAIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARREL ELLIS
"I always thought it was temporary," Matt admits. "But then I realized I could turn this into something meaningful. I like creating— taking something that doesn’t exist and turning it into something beautiful."
Brandon’s journey was a bit more winding. A martial artist turned entrepreneur, he brought his flair for communication and strategic thinking to Greenline in 2014. “I’ve always been about relationships. That’s what keeps me going,” he shares. “When a client’s face lights up after we finish a project, well, that’s everything.”
Greenline started humbly in 2008 with a simple mission: provide exceptional lawn care. But over the years, the company has grown to offer a suite of services, from drainage solutions and patio installations to fertilization and seasonal maintenance.
“Lawn care was just the entry point,” Matt explains. “It gave us the foundation to expand into hardscaping, landscaping renovations and more specialized work.”
What sets Greenline apart is their dedication to being a one-stop shop. “You shouldn’t have to call one person to cut your lawn, another to fertilize, a third to landscape and still another to service your sprinklers. We’re that one trusted provider that packages them all together. We like to say, ‘Let us handle it. Take your weekends back.’”
For Matt and Brandon, landscaping is about creating environments where life happens.
"That patio we just installed?" Brandon says, leaning forward with a smile. "That’s where someone’s going to have a birthday party, grill with their family or just sit and relax after a long day. It’s a stage for life’s moments. That lawn? It’s where your children and animals play, where you’ll enjoy going barefoot in the heat. That’s how we think.”
Their approach to customer service is equally personal. “We build real relationships with our clients,” Brandon says. Like Miss Karen, a longtime client in St. Clair Shores.
CONTINUED >
“I started with them last summer,” Karen shares. “My backyard was flooded and I was told I would need an expensive French drain. But after meeting Brandon, he got his team working immediately. They installed four catch basins and a dry well.
“Three days later, we had a downpour, and the system filled up. Brandon came back with his team and equipment, drained the water in four hours—and didn’t charge me a penny. Now it works beautifully.
"I’ve switched all my services to Greenline. They care about their clients and the community. Brandon even helped my friend, who was recently widowed. He removed a shrub and didn’t charge her for it. They’re warm people—and they make my yard beautiful.”
Then there’s Andrea in Royal Oak, who has been with Greenline for 12 years.
“If there’s ever something urgent, they come out fast," she says. "And if something isn’t done right, they fix it without questions. They’ve taken care of everything for me—lawn maintenance, cleanup, mulch, gutters, snow, weeds—you name it.
“The best part is how they’ve bundled everything into an affordable package for me. I pay the same amount every month, which makes budgeting so easy. The team is friendly and they know my family by name. They’re more than just a company; they’re
“We watch our clients’ families grow and expand. We’ve watched our employees buy homes, get married and achieve milestones—all because of this company we’ve built. “
part of our lives. Matt, Jenn, everyone—they treat us so well.”
As Matt and Brandon say, it’s never really been about lawns. It’s about people.
“We watch our clients’ families grow and expand. We’ve watched our employees buy homes, get married and achieve milestones—all because of this company we’ve built,” Brandon shares. “It’s rewarding to know Greenline has played a part in those moments.”
As they look to the future, Matt and Brandon are focused on their affordable service packages that bundle everything from lawn care to landscaping renovations. Like the one Andrea has.
“We bring convenience and value to our clients,” Matt says. “We want to make their lives easier and keep their budgets under control.”
For Brandon, who has six children with his wife Jessica, Greenline is an extension of his family. “I want to create a legacy for my children, one of hard work and service to other people,” he says. And for Matt, the business represents the fulfillment of a dream to create something lasting in his hometown.
As Greenline continues to grow, one thing is certain: their impact reaches far beyond lawns. They’re cultivating connections, nurturing trust and proving that even the smallest details—something as small as a blade of grass—can make the biggest difference.
Visit greenlinelawnservice.com to meet Brandon and Matt or call (248) 765-1626.
Transform your home into a place you love to live in
A surprising trend is emerging in homes today: people who don't feel comfortable in their own spaces.
Interior Designer Nicole Gudeman hears the complaints of unwanted walls, limited storage and rooms too small—or too big—for a cohesive style.
That's why she's quietly revolutionizing the way people experience their homes—from multi-milliondollar manors to $300,000 middle-income residences.
As the owner of New Era Designs, a boutique interior design firm, Nicole combines science with artistry to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who inhabit them.
Her philosophy is simple: Design should be about functionality, psychology and, above all, creating a sense of home.
Nicole didn’t always envision herself as a designer. Her journey began at Michigan State University, where she initially pursued dentistry.
“Then I started taking interior design courses to fulfill elective requirements," she recalls. "I’d leave class, call my mom and gush about everything I’d learned. It felt like the perfect marriage of art, science and math.”
That spark led her to transfer to the prestigious College for Creative Studies (CCS), where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Interior Design.
“People think of interior design as purely artistic, but to me, it’s a science. There’s a psychological foundation behind every design choice, from the colors on the walls to the layout of the furniture. We create spaces that not only look good but also feel good to live in.”
This meticulous approach has become her hallmark, as she begins the process with her clients’ unique needs and lifestyles.
“Every home is a puzzle,” she says. “You have to consider how the space will be used, who’s living there and what makes them comfortable. For one person, that might mean designing a
compact kitchen to minimize walking distance during meal prep. For another, it’s about creating a living room that doubles as a home theater for family movie nights.”
Her commitment to functionality extends to her business model. Nicole offers a transparent, client-friendly pricing structure.
“I don’t mark up furniture or materials and I pass on my trade discounts directly to my clients. It creates a mutually beneficial relationship and helps make design accessible to everyone.”
It’s almost a mission with Nicole. “There are so many people with homes in the $300,000 to $600,000 range who don’t think they can afford an interior designer,” she says. “With me, they can.”
Accessibility is a cornerstone of Nicole’s mission. “I’ve worked on homes ranging from 1,000 square feet with tight budgets to
$1.6-million properties with expansive floor plans,” she says. “The goal is always the same: to make your space feel like home, no matter your budget.”
This philosophy is exemplified in one of her favorite projects—a redesign for a family in Troy with a small budget but unique needs.
“Both the husband and son have ADHD, and they felt more at ease in the grandparents’ home than their own,” Nicole shares. “The goal was to bring more comfort and organization to their home. I approached it like solving a puzzle, reimagining their floor plan to create a calming, cohesive environment. Seeing the mom tear up during our first meeting was incredibly rewarding. That’s why I do this.”
Nicole’s portfolio includes commercial spaces, such as multifamily housing and dental offices.
“I enjoy blending the personal touch of residential design with the functionality of commercial spaces,” she notes. Her expertise in both realms, coupled with a reputation for photorealistic renderings, has set her apart. Through her secondary venture, The Render House, Nicole creates lifelike visualizations that help clients and fellow designers envision their projects with clarity.
“With renderings, you can see exactly how your space will look, down to the finishes and furniture. It eliminates guesswork and makes decision-making so much easier.”
When asked what drives her, Nicole’s passion is palpable.
“I designed my home to be my sanctuary, and the joy I feel here is immeasurable,” she says. “I want everyone to feel that way in their own space. It’s about creating a place where you can be yourself.”
Visit NewEraDesigned.com or call (248) 330-6380 for a consultation.
Special thanks to Ghiordes Knot (248.643.0333) for availing their gorgeous showroom in the Michigan Design Center. Their luxurious new and antique carpets from around the world are a treasure to any project.
AFTER AN UNTHINKABLE ACCIDENT, REALTOR LAWRENCE LEWIS VALUES OPEN COMMUNICATION
“My son and I are eating outside on the patio… and the car hit me.”
A minute into my conversation with Lawrence Lewis, I realize I witnessed a miracle: the simple act of Lawrence walking into the restaurant we've met at.
“June 2nd, 2016.” Lawrence begins with the date, the way people often do when recalling a day their lives changed.
"My son Troy and I are at a restaurant, eating outside on the patio. My back was to the parking lot, and my son was sitting across from me, kind of like you and I are right now,” Lawrence tells me.
“And the car hit me.”
A car drove right into Lawrence’s back, while 11-year-old Troy watched in horror.
“Literally out of nowhere, I heard tires squealing and then this car, I just remember seeing this car," Troy recalls. "It all happened in such a split second.”
Troy managed to blurt out a warning.
“I said ‘Move! Run!,’ and this car just bulldozed right through the patio and right through our table. And he's just laying there like he was…”
Troy trails off.
“He thought I was dead,” Lawrence explains.
“I remember hearing the lady behind me screaming,” Troy continues. “All I saw was my dad under this car. And so…that’s like…it's over, it's done.”
“I was unconscious for some period of time,” Lawrence says. “I have no idea how long.” Troy guesses a couple of minutes.
“I froze,” Troy recalls. “I was just getting out of 5th grade. You don't know what to do. It was terrifying."
Suddenly, miraculously, Lawrence woke up and got up.
“Suffered a lot of injuries from that,” Lawrence says. “Concussion, slurred speech, closed head injury, torn rotator, herniated discs, bulging discs, tears.”
“He immediately went straight to the hospital,” recalls Troy. “And ever since that first day, it was just constant in and out of physical therapy appointments, surgeries, doctor’s appointments.”
“It changed the trajectory of our life, not just mine,” Lawrence says. “He's used to seeing a figure in his life that's strong, that's going to work, that’s doing these activities.”
Troy agrees. “At that age, he was always taking me to do stuff, movies, go-karting. It was definitely a hard adjustment for me. I would come home to my dad and he would be there, but it was just a completely different person, rehabilitating himself.”
Lawrence persevered through grueling physical therapy, but it didn’t come quickly.
“There were some dark days,” Lawrence remembers. “I was a very independent person, very active. All that was taken away. I gained a lot of weight, I was depressed, I developed anxiety. I mean, I had a near-death experience, right?
“Thank God for my mother. Had some good people around me. And the man upstairs decided it wasn't my time to go yet.”
I wonder if Lawrence remembers a moment where the clouds lifted.
“In one of my doctor's offices," he recalls, "there was this lady, always joyous when I saw her. A car accident had left her wheelchair-bound the rest of her life at the age of 20. So when I met her, it's 20 years later. And I was like, 'If she can find a way to move forward, so can I.'"
CONTINUED >
Lawrence sought out group counseling and began counting his blessings.
“I started looking at what I can do versus what I can't do," Lawrence says.
In addition to healing psychologically, Lawrence substantially recovered physically.
“He went from 100 to zero and zero to 100,” Troy observes.“He’s the busiest man ever now. Man, seeing everything my dad has been through, and pushing through that…that makes me work so much harder, in school, in my job, in everything I do."
As you’d expect from a person as resilient as Lawrence, he has put himself in the best possible position to succeed for his real estate clients.
"I hold two designations. Sellers’ Representative Specialist means that I have more knowledge than the average agent on selling homes. Accredited Buyer's Representative means I know more than the average buying agent.
“I’m also a certified Pricing Strategy Adviser. I have more knowledge in evaluating a home's value. I'm not an appraiser, but I can get you close. There's more to it than just looking on Zillow."
In addition, Lawrence has done home inspections for many fellow Realtors.
“I did like 15, 20 home inspections in my first year. So that gives you a huge advantage too.”
Lawrence also has a fair housing certification.
“I don't discriminate," Lawrence says. "As long as you qualify for a home, I can help you."
When he talks about helping clients, Lawrence is quick to mention his team: Chelsea Thomas, Rachel Farabee and broker Ron Rocz.
"They're a huge part of my success and I’m extremely grateful for their support, knowledge and responsiveness," Lawrence says. "Ron has created a positive, healthy environment where an agent can thrive, and next-level tools that allow me to move quickly for my clients."
The hard-earned wisdom from having survived pain is perhaps Lawrence's biggest advantage: he has compassion for what his clients may be going through.
“It’s important to me to have a deep understanding of you as a client. Your wants, your needs, are different than someone else's. So part of my role is the communication, listening, bringing up things that you may not think of.”
Lawrence pauses, and I see on his face again that empathy for others’ challenges that’s borne from having triumped over his own.
“That’s what I'm really trying to convey,” Lawrence says softly.
“I care.”
You can contact Lawrence at (248) 891-4269.
ARTICLE BY ERICA HOBBS
From chimneys and porches to walkways and siding, masonry marries the worlds of practical and aesthetic value. Locally owned Next Level Custom Brick (nextlevelcustombrick.com ) offers expertise in both, infused with a family-owned sense of pride and service.
“We focus on the needs of the homeowner and their project. We are a team, and we work together with our customers from start to finish to ensure a smooth and easy transition throughout the process,” says Nic Thompson, who owns the business with his wife, Catie Thompson.
With Nic’s background in construction and Catie recently retired from 16 years as a hair stylist, the couple decided it was time to venture out on their own. Together, they founded the company in 2021.
“After being in the residential construction industry the majority of my life, I realized that with starting a business, we could specialize in one area — masonry,” Nic says. “Whether it be brick, block, stone, concrete or something else — it can provide such a big transformation to any home. I absolutely love to work with our team and see the finished product.”
While Catie says chimneys and porches are their most often-requested jobs, the company offers a range of masonry services, including cultured stone and stone veneer, concrete flatwork, walkways, landscape walls and more. They also work with a variety of customizable brick and stone options, all sourced locally from a select group of suppliers.
“We have really great standing working relationships with our suppliers,” Catie says. “The handful of supply places that we get our materials from are smaller companies that are local; we don’t just order in from other places.”
The company’s pride in being “family-owned” applies to more than its literal ownership — the business’ 12 employees include Nic’s brother, another set of brothers, and family
“Whether it be brick, block, stone, concrete or something else — it can provide such a big transformation to any home. I absolutely love to work with our team and see the finished product.” — Nic Thompson Catie and Nic Thompson
friends among its tight-knit team. Additionally, Catie says the crews work exclusively with Next Level and are made up of master masons with at least 15 years of experience.
“We invited specific people; we had a lot of purpose behind our hiring process,” Catie says.
That expertise, she says, is important in masonry. Like electrical and plumbing, Catie says masonry should be done by people who know what they’re doing, or the consequences could be dangerous. Nic says waiting too long to make necessary repairs or not investing in quality work can also be costly.
“The value of adding upgraded masonry materials or even just keeping up on maintenance of the existing materials provides longevity on the exterior of the home,” he says, “which in turn keeps the interior of your home protected and weatherproofed from Michigan's ever-changing climate.”
NIC
AND
CATIE’S TIPS to
easily update and beautify your home’s exterior:
• Inspect your home’s exterior two or three times a year for signs of deterioration and disrepair.
• Consider replacing dated vinyl siding with cultured stone.
• Upgrade your entryway and front porch with stone veneer.
• Used mixed materials and colors to add texture.
• Create standalone outdoor fireplaces instead of portable fire pits to create a long-lasting focal point conversation piece.
Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.
According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.
“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner. I also firmly believe that when designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to make sure everything is in the right place to
suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”
Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.
Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.
“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your
phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting compartments and advanced food preservation methods reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”
Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.
“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage. Automated drawers and pop-up outlets are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”
Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.
“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”
The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.
SHOP LOCAL, SHOP FAMILY-OWNED. Shop Premier Pet Supply.
Lowest Prices in Town Over 60 Brands of Pet Food From Local to National Brands Free, Same-Day Delivery
248.677.0154 | PremierPetSupply.com 2848 W Maple Road, Troy (at Coolidge)
Whether you’re a lifelong learner or looking to upgrade your skills, our continuing education offerings can help you go further in your life and career.
Choose from over 1,500 options from personal development classes, continuing education, micro-certifications, and high-tech boot camps.
• Art and Design
• Business
• Computer Applications
• Computer Science
• Construction and Trades
• Health and Fitness
• Hospitality
• Information Technology
Find your fit at baker.edu/ce
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 1ST, 7TH & 14TH
The Magic Soiree, Michigan’s only magic comedy dinner show
Camp Ticonderoga, 5725 Rochester Road, Troy | 6:30 PM
This is a must-see magical, funny dinner show for everyone. Tickets include a delicious buffet meal, close-up magic at your table and the hilarious magical cabaret featuring Keith Fields and Lady Sarah. It’s time for some magic! Visit TheMagicSoiree.com for tickets.
MARCH 5TH
Labor and Birth Skills Class at Oakland Macomb OB/GYN
43184 Dequindre Road, Ste. 209, Sterling Heights | 6:00 PM
Learn what to expect in the third trimester of pregnancy: stages of labor, birth review, interventions including Cesarean, and expectation for first 24-48 hours of postpartum. Review and practice of labor comfort measures including breathing techniques/relaxation, and use of the birth and peanut ball in labor. Must be at least 28 weeks; $150 for pregnant parent. Call (248) 997-5805.
MARCH 11TH & 19TH
4-Course Wine Dinner at Carrabba’s in Troy
Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 600 W. Big Beaver, Troy | 6:30 PM
Join Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Troy for a flavor exploration with a four-course food and wine pairing. Relax and enjoy this exquisite meal with family, friends, neighbors or co-workers after a long day. Discover Carrabba’s featured wine and off-menu masterpieces, as well as camaraderie and gifts compliments of the house. Visit Carrabbas.com or call (248) 269-0095 for details and reservations.
MARCH 12TH
Niles-Barnard House at Troy Historic Village, 60 W Wattles Road | 4:30 PM
Watercolor artist Megan Swoyer will show students of all levels how she creates her furry friends in a step-bystep process. Students are welcome to bring photos of their pets, too, for painting pointers. No experience necessary; all supplies will be provided. Ages 16 and up. Village member: $40/ class; non-member: $48/class. Register online at TroyHistoricVillage.org or call (248) 524-3570.
MARCH 12TH
Class at Oakland Macomb
43184 Dequindre Road, Ste. 209, Sterling Heights | 6:00 PM
Learn what to expect in the first six weeks for birthing person and baby, including maternal health, baby care, PMAD, feeding basics (breastfeeding and formula feeding), newborn diaper changing/holding/burping; also learn warning signs the first six weeks for both the birthing person and baby. Must be at least 28 weeks; $100 for the pregnant parent. Call (248) 997-5805.
MARCH 26TH & 27TH
Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 600 W. Big Beaver, Troy | 6:30 PM
Join Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Troy for a four-course meal of Sangria and delicious authentic Carrabba’s food, expertly paired and curated. Relax and enjoy this exquisite meal with family, friends, neighbors or co-workers. Discover Carrabba’s featured wine and off-menu masterpieces, as well as camaraderie and gifts compliments of the house. Visit Carrabbas.com or call (248) 269-0095 for details and reservations.