Vote for Paul Fikse!

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2Xay9wAS-Nl_DTOtMLlaIc_cYpaCWxYBPM0g6jqCu_1u8VjS0yzsOK3CuVlIaCBipJ1quG7rp1jUl5CL_XngoBLFQs0aLlueqbx3kmRKYIp8qpDHjTQlBylgsyzhihHB0mwloT9OZAJm/s1600/Paul.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601083917759205938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2Xay9wAS-Nl_DTOtMLlaIc_cYpaCWxYBPM0g6jqCu_1u8VjS0yzsOK3CuVlIaCBipJ1quG7rp1jUl5CL_XngoBLFQs0aLlueqbx3kmRKYIp8qpDHjTQlBylgsyzhihHB0mwloT9OZAJm/s320/Paul.jpg" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 251px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Our Vice President, Paul Fikse, is currently running for Byron Center Public School Board in the upcoming election on May 3, 2011. Paul is involved in the community through his three children currently attending Byron Center schools. You may have seen him at one of many equestrian, swimming, volleyball, baseball and other sporting events that he has been involved with and attended over the years. Fikse has most recently added participation in the Watch Dog Dads program to his contribution to the school district. According to Fikse, "it is undeniable how important the education of our children is. The knowledge and skills they learn in the classroom and in extra curricular activities will serve each student in developing the framework for the rest of their life. This is noteworthy both as a parent and for the community at large." He has always been a big proponent for public education after growing up in a large school district in the suburbs of Chicago. Fikse says, "I've always worked towards excellence, and given the opportunity to join the school board, I will work with that same goal in mind while also being a positive influence on the education system in Byron Center." Vote for Paul Fikse on May 3, 2011!<br /><br /><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG2UUhBMgEIdDXcsBXYcVMdSgpQi6OIcOCKSASmq2FoyBCRGcFzMfu8jUN-sUoOyVmaLYLob7Y6ATrGDlItRd_CbMytp0xXFn2fmXt6Fe-eQZwozycIUIpf2TKrJX4l6x6ZNuxXIcrvTSb/s1600/Sign.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600702143491273762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG2UUhBMgEIdDXcsBXYcVMdSgpQi6OIcOCKSASmq2FoyBCRGcFzMfu8jUN-sUoOyVmaLYLob7Y6ATrGDlItRd_CbMytp0xXFn2fmXt6Fe-eQZwozycIUIpf2TKrJX4l6x6ZNuxXIcrvTSb/s320/Sign.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 201px; CURSOR: hand" /></a></div>

Vote for Paul Fikse!

Our Vice President, Paul Fikse, is currently running for Byron Center Public School Board in the upcoming election on May 3, 2011. Paul is ...

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Architectural Tutorial: Shingle Style

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">The Shingle style is an architectural style that is uniquely American. Simply defined, it a style in which the entire building is covered in shingles. It developed in the late 1800's out of the Stick and Queen Anne styles because of a revived interest in colonial American architecture from the 17th century. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">The style is characterized by having a picturesque or rustic look, with irregular roof lines includ</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">ing </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">hipped, gabled, or gambrel</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">free-flowing floor plans, open porches, and less variety in color and materials.*</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Over the years, we have become known for our work in traditional residential architecture, including the numerous shingle style homes we have designed. Take a look at a few of our designs as well as some of our uniquely original variations.</span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA84qjrE6QK_Z11YVxVVpGyrQdogw_J520p6-M7mT4-P52JxsIFFpGsk48ed_RufPuKOX8RE4mD7xBNs2JhTP_mgEQTFgNCYSn5f3xuy8rcWw60mMd4if1mwUkEcOpeFmtaK9_I5o0Ronh/s1600/1-Westchester+_DSF3490.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600682533278910034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA84qjrE6QK_Z11YVxVVpGyrQdogw_J520p6-M7mT4-P52JxsIFFpGsk48ed_RufPuKOX8RE4mD7xBNs2JhTP_mgEQTFgNCYSn5f3xuy8rcWw60mMd4if1mwUkEcOpeFmtaK9_I5o0Ronh/s320/1-Westchester+_DSF3490.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 205px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQwYKKsNkAV0qC1HJvsBnwmcuzsLpW533l4FH33Y5UCf24f2PHk1noDsOVB1bbYjxnjDpYbkCzLE8sAXFd9PzzZrnB3XQv3pGSSFkkVLmWkUTmmTYtMaMhQUjVS0e_jN34twWoZb4wa05/s1600/2-Westchester+_DSF3763.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600682531226784002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQwYKKsNkAV0qC1HJvsBnwmcuzsLpW533l4FH33Y5UCf24f2PHk1noDsOVB1bbYjxnjDpYbkCzLE8sAXFd9PzzZrnB3XQv3pGSSFkkVLmWkUTmmTYtMaMhQUjVS0e_jN34twWoZb4wa05/s320/2-Westchester+_DSF3763.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 219px;" /></a><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:16px;"><div style="text-align: center; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">This dramatic design, called the Westchester, takes its inspiration from the past but retains the best of the present.</span></span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></i></div></span></i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCjS73Oblo5GdVtBPhpY18BhbH_AYvEta6MMf3C30ef4ZCq132fKzX5r3q6YPCbVEvT_rAd9YoR_mD_lCEVYzDSSEiSkJBfAuSwJztNoDV4lxSK7s-KhPVd6VRuNw-AgBsUFS-s1DMWqA/s1600/3-VisbeenExterior_3c.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600682275620193074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCjS73Oblo5GdVtBPhpY18BhbH_AYvEta6MMf3C30ef4ZCq132fKzX5r3q6YPCbVEvT_rAd9YoR_mD_lCEVYzDSSEiSkJBfAuSwJztNoDV4lxSK7s-KhPVd6VRuNw-AgBsUFS-s1DMWqA/s320/3-VisbeenExterior_3c.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" /></a><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:16px;"><div style="text-align: center; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">Our most recognizable design - the Ingleside. The challenge of this modern version of the shingle-style was to recreate the classic look while avoiding the pitfalls of the original materials.</span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></i></div></span></i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbLwMnvOQs5Bkaxo6_qwpyaFUI-9ROXxkuerUElXELlnhG0wuzDajYYSMllnFlSAEi3Tg_WF75UhvR_NqJoisyY9NUJNEYFsEo7b0VY3Sy7IrtoNYkSN9FBC2YN1aVmYFFnLcS9TFsgaAZ/s1600/4-Wainsborough+-+9022_7219.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600682272373798722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbLwMnvOQs5Bkaxo6_qwpyaFUI-9ROXxkuerUElXELlnhG0wuzDajYYSMllnFlSAEi3Tg_WF75UhvR_NqJoisyY9NUJNEYFsEo7b0VY3Sy7IrtoNYkSN9FBC2YN1aVmYFFnLcS9TFsgaAZ/s320/4-Wainsborough+-+9022_7219.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><i>Touches of the ever-popular Shingle Style – from the cedar lap siding to the pitched roof – imbue the Wainsborough with all-American charm without sacrificing modern convenience.</i></span></div></span><div><i></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i><br /></i></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTrDJgMZfR9E6HQu0mvxtoXU7BmJjmaTRJXLs_Jg0dnQdHcZfZiuk4l4Vpn8vhhylyKcruRSIgSv_bssdS1K0-rScGO0-CxXP2H33QreRZZBPedZ5-pxWjrtbB18yn_fo1YIVY7A0WVlc/s1600/5-Cyprus+Pointe+Front.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600682263432424642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTrDJgMZfR9E6HQu0mvxtoXU7BmJjmaTRJXLs_Jg0dnQdHcZfZiuk4l4Vpn8vhhylyKcruRSIgSv_bssdS1K0-rScGO0-CxXP2H33QreRZZBPedZ5-pxWjrtbB18yn_fo1YIVY7A0WVlc/s320/5-Cyprus+Pointe+Front.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 134px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 115%; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Filled with traditional accents, this Shingle-style design, called Cypress Pointe, features a stylish exterior and a thoroughly livable interior.</span></i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></i></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2p9fJVvN_F179Vg1imkMdU_4-sEVbwPYk43gGOXs-RsI3Fkx3saJs1TrY9QRBkvfFG81NxMf3UHOD0IgWsjp8ht5VSiTttWhSbwbqnP1qFfWNkFPq1ZnWdCSSVUiL0l8Buhz9bITXzCC/s1600/6-Blaine+_MG_3118.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600682259241659874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2p9fJVvN_F179Vg1imkMdU_4-sEVbwPYk43gGOXs-RsI3Fkx3saJs1TrY9QRBkvfFG81NxMf3UHOD0IgWsjp8ht5VSiTttWhSbwbqnP1qFfWNkFPq1ZnWdCSSVUiL0l8Buhz9bITXzCC/s320/6-Blaine+_MG_3118.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center; font-family:georgia;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">The Blaine was inspired by both the relaxed aspect of the Shingle Style and the all-American Four Square found around the country.</span></i></div></div><div><i></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><br /></i></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzt086G0ffkobQN_645fM0Z-S9qXpu8gKsTUk2g1dmz8B9YJZDqYXjM7O9R-yLRmvwA-KEI2Q4vuigm8kUpFwHObLHsVHyVi5IaoWWR-28l7fvRQl2V6jJu5Ejp_N-gxYGt6_mda2DgRI3/s1600/7-Sunset+Coast+-+06.2.02+-+Rendering.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600682251593339634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzt086G0ffkobQN_645fM0Z-S9qXpu8gKsTUk2g1dmz8B9YJZDqYXjM7O9R-yLRmvwA-KEI2Q4vuigm8kUpFwHObLHsVHyVi5IaoWWR-28l7fvRQl2V6jJu5Ejp_N-gxYGt6_mda2DgRI3/s320/7-Sunset+Coast+-+06.2.02+-+Rendering.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(153, 153, 153); font-family:Georgia, serif;"><i><p class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Ideally suited for property across the street from a lake, this distinctive, shingle-style home is designed for primary viewing from its expansive wrap-around porch and myriad front-facing vantage points.</span></span></span></p></i></span></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153); "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment--> </i></span></div></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153); "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;">*sources: http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/540781/Shingle-style, </span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;">http://www.wisconsinhistory.org/dictionary/index.asp?action=view&term_id=9251&term_type_id=3&term_type_text=things&letter=S</span></span></div></div></div>

Architectural Tutorial: Shingle Style

The Shingle style is an architectural style that is uniquely American. Simply defined, it a style in which the entire building is covered in...

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Room Guide: Laundry Rooms That Work For You

For many people, laundry day is the most dreaded day of the week. Sorting, washing, stain fighting, folding - it can be an exhausting task. But what if your laundry room could take some of that dread away by simplifying this household chore? Visbeen Associates designs laundry rooms for living - functional, cheerful and organized so that wash day becomes just another day of the week. According to Wayne, here are few key elements of a successful laundry room...<br /><br /><br /><b>1. <i>Systems</i>:</b> Develop a system for the coming and going of your laundry and make sure the storage in your laundry room properly adapts to that system. Baskets, cubbies, hanging space and plenty of counter space for folding are key elements of an effective laundry system, so be sure your laundry room accommodates.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFECppL4u1OwKoJxknKNZ6tH4GR9Qsatr0dt9lDJyi8_afRYqWQu4jEyDYcPik_10mRAh9rDk3cvLbtCHJF-fZ8TdNtBgqvq-l3dPWiJ5x5cLZEbI6Mwy-B-5gslIV9oLDbiyCzKkqFPla/s1600/1-LaCati%2540DF+%252342+9022_9798.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599611611534717762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFECppL4u1OwKoJxknKNZ6tH4GR9Qsatr0dt9lDJyi8_afRYqWQu4jEyDYcPik_10mRAh9rDk3cvLbtCHJF-fZ8TdNtBgqvq-l3dPWiJ5x5cLZEbI6Mwy-B-5gslIV9oLDbiyCzKkqFPla/s320/1-LaCati%2540DF+%252342+9022_9798.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><p align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;"><em> The Wainsborough's laundry room has ample storage space and </em></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>having a front-loading washer/dryer allows for additional counterspace.</em></span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;"><em><br /></em></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojEi0MvKOgZG_rfCSteqZv0duJaWLwNnpDl05Ml3H1UO2YltEC2B_sjA2yOXjOYxfezJfb10orAAOc_uo-3pekWql5D0u27sEMON9tJtSGciMRGX_kHJZvaVdSUEytRPIfVYu-iZIcnkB/s1600/2-Olesnavage+Design+Home+1066.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599611607786407138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojEi0MvKOgZG_rfCSteqZv0duJaWLwNnpDl05Ml3H1UO2YltEC2B_sjA2yOXjOYxfezJfb10orAAOc_uo-3pekWql5D0u27sEMON9tJtSGciMRGX_kHJZvaVdSUEytRPIfVYu-iZIcnkB/s320/2-Olesnavage+Design+Home+1066.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><b></b></p><em><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Inverness' laundry room includes closed cubboard space, open shelving for cute touches and even a space for hanging clothes above the washer & dryer. This proves you don't need to have a lot of space to include key elements of a successful laundry room!</span></em></span></div></em><br /><b>2. <i>Multi-use</i>:</b> If you can have your laundry room serve multiple functions, it will be a more effective space. You can literally "multi-task" and get multiple chores done at the same time as doing the laundry when you have a home management system built right in. For some of our clients, we have incorporated sewing space so that their clothes would never again be lost in mending never-never-land. Or we have built in pet accessories into the space so that they aren't taking up floorspace. Constantly tripping over a doggie bed under toe can make any task less enjoyable!</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguh1l575-tayFjL8s3dpfZk77mrtyRVzLMeGzsBValIwMiCem6vxHg1YvQKUBtGp6rR6IrFiaUVVQoTn_HUpYP1sSPjjZLFotJCcn__Lw0neGxbMyPVX8CrZO-STbrE2mmcdrusH46yTQK/s1600/3-Saur_1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599611606480069698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguh1l575-tayFjL8s3dpfZk77mrtyRVzLMeGzsBValIwMiCem6vxHg1YvQKUBtGp6rR6IrFiaUVVQoTn_HUpYP1sSPjjZLFotJCcn__Lw0neGxbMyPVX8CrZO-STbrE2mmcdrusH46yTQK/s320/3-Saur_1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 203px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><em><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><em><span style="font-size:85%;">The laundry room for Two Creeks is a great example of multi-use. This room has a built-in doggie bed in the corner to keep the home's kanine out of the working area.</span></em></span></div></em><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOzEAqRfCDP0K-RaRsmmR9lC4JDunNkmH4cwPYlWOpB8D-u2LCJYPzX4X77DWBmLidAnOlhKnqFxaU_7PQJoTLcQTn12qgI-jtACuc26Wo3rNJuCJ4PR2JXxnzCIbbI239gx7PZtvdIeY/s1600/4-Stellin_29.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599611345648146434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOzEAqRfCDP0K-RaRsmmR9lC4JDunNkmH4cwPYlWOpB8D-u2LCJYPzX4X77DWBmLidAnOlhKnqFxaU_7PQJoTLcQTn12qgI-jtACuc26Wo3rNJuCJ4PR2JXxnzCIbbI239gx7PZtvdIeY/s320/4-Stellin_29.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 143px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><em><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Sunset View's laundry space not only displays great storage solutions, but the wrapping paper station under the open shelving also shows another way of creating a multi-functional space. Why not get your wrapping done while waiting to switch a load?</span></em></span></div></em><br /><b>3. <i>Windows</i>:</b> If your home allows for it, we recommend having a window in your laundry room. No one wants to feel cooped up while they are working, so why not have a nice view of the outdoors while you sort and fold? And if you are able to put a window, that means that your laundry would be on an outside wall of the home, making it much easier for venting to go to the outside. Efficiency, efficiency, efficiency!</div><div><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599611345195865394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4NNYKj3_q0zQiy3NgQb054K_OlgGlC_aMTxJ9Z_Y_Q3PEAh8eymqkbf_TwJMfUuWg4JRk4RnT9YDPKqY0UMjoYc4w9Rzt3PbBhzDFuGv0AegwK_l7jke4riNkCd_JkPne3-regZRvq17/s320/5-Foxfire+laundry+room+-+190.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Pemberley's laundry room has a large window, allowing for ample daylight to illuminate the space at the same time as providing a great view of the home's beautiful surrounding landscape.</span></i></span></div></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><br /></i></span></span><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguex5DfqWddDRj39dS-fnUVtO1kDP98S08u1qq6aY3NM43NzZEY9Xw6smVeesLyl9jk_LMIhNIuywIc55bMwZC-wlhJ_rSBEZIlPFOpIOD7fRTPZ3WtQmdrr0P4fzR0AN3qZOovrhRGFEc/s1600/6-Fleming+Laundry+Room.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span style="font-size:85%;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599611340437556674" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguex5DfqWddDRj39dS-fnUVtO1kDP98S08u1qq6aY3NM43NzZEY9Xw6smVeesLyl9jk_LMIhNIuywIc55bMwZC-wlhJ_rSBEZIlPFOpIOD7fRTPZ3WtQmdrr0P4fzR0AN3qZOovrhRGFEc/s320/6-Fleming+Laundry+Room.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></a></p><p align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">In this laundry room, using the sink also means being able to enjoy the outdoors through the window.</span></em></p><p align="center"><b>4. <i>Workspace Adjacency</i>:</b> The age old question of where to place the laundry - do you put it on the main floor, next to the master bedroom or upstairs by the other bedrooms? Our answer - place it near where you work. If you spend a good portion of your time cooking, place it near the kitchen. If you spend the majority of your time in your upstairs living spaces, then place it near your favorite spots upstairs. Your laundry experience will be more efficient and enjoyable if you do not have to travel so far from where you work to the laundry room. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOI31OuHmXAIApX0IpULMszNMnU3vWGAL2nwFJC9Y1nr8-A8O0c8QQP4on0l2Sfi38ZqfnrnBr5o1tJ2fv4HRtNxtNdzcdLgPyMxFBQg9Z-CFZG7ELk982ToSL-0whjX7ZYQcjn131R6lb/s1600/7-Abbott+DH2008-8146.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599611337668267346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOI31OuHmXAIApX0IpULMszNMnU3vWGAL2nwFJC9Y1nr8-A8O0c8QQP4on0l2Sfi38ZqfnrnBr5o1tJ2fv4HRtNxtNdzcdLgPyMxFBQg9Z-CFZG7ELk982ToSL-0whjX7ZYQcjn131R6lb/s320/7-Abbott+DH2008-8146.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" /></a></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>The Stafford's laundry room keeps in mind all of the key elements of a successful space - ample counterspace, systematic storage, a place for hanging clothes and it is located on the main level of this home, close to the kitchen and with a great view of the backyard pool. This homeowner can complete the laundry chore, enjoy the view </em></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>and still keep an eye on the kids playing out back - a true multi-tasker!</em></span></div><p></p><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavSTMt3jCu2ktQXOrx-3yJ8gUniZUEW8kyhatQsVN3QfMp4KLn_UUHCt1XSXlb-VXk_IqJ4GKVB87ctOmWyQ5HhbqN-m08S4bDFoJRZxD4r8zAhr8rC1jX53bEkbZOoqbmbSpRokqozcT/s1600/8-Saur_1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599611332954765874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavSTMt3jCu2ktQXOrx-3yJ8gUniZUEW8kyhatQsVN3QfMp4KLn_UUHCt1XSXlb-VXk_IqJ4GKVB87ctOmWyQ5HhbqN-m08S4bDFoJRZxD4r8zAhr8rC1jX53bEkbZOoqbmbSpRokqozcT/s320/8-Saur_1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 203px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> <em>We cannot talk about laundry room placement without including Two Creek's laundry room. This room is located on the main level of the home with a dutch door to the back hallway directly across from the home management center and a pocket door to the right which leads to the pantry connected to the kitchen. A great way to stay connected to the kitchen workspace without guests being able to view directly into the laundry room.</em></span></p><p align="left"><br /></p><p align="left">So with just a few key elements, instead of your laundry putting you to work, you can have a room that works <em>for you</em>!</p></div>

Room Guide: Laundry Rooms That Work For You

For many people, laundry day is the most dreaded day of the week. Sorting, washing, stain fighting, folding - it can be an exhausting task. ...

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Waterfront Design: Challenges & Opportunities

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbY8zL0Pz6Bunmk7UKojJXMA4lEkbSRfAk0MxqG9xUPhBZSoOXkOebWlKaHxnzE9AgwaqmvdMiwlD6LQI1FanyFXoRrhHmxPpQahcehKOLGr3haBYxinqJhX0dheHwnZCxyT94Mo4p6Wp/s1600/aiagv_logo_ezg_39.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598078728384771154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbY8zL0Pz6Bunmk7UKojJXMA4lEkbSRfAk0MxqG9xUPhBZSoOXkOebWlKaHxnzE9AgwaqmvdMiwlD6LQI1FanyFXoRrhHmxPpQahcehKOLGr3haBYxinqJhX0dheHwnZCxyT94Mo4p6Wp/s320/aiagv_logo_ezg_39.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 54px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAJs4M8_C33KWzslOdcDElPzLPvBFbofOuDe_fXkcp9VpFestFJzmbR6VyzO3bYo-Mr108FTCJkY2AsJbOghJo2rhphdQ809PubyAi00Nj5u0ewXUss_iRPYIRJU5ALCCNhQy_yJyszvC6/s1600/aiagv_logo_ezg_39.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br /></a>Next week <b>Thursday, April 28</b>, Wayne Visbeen will be leading a free educational seminar hosted by the <a href="http://www.aiagv.net/">Grand Valley Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA)</a>. Wayne will present a pictorial essay on the design challenges and opportunities of waterfront living. Topics will range from site considerations and restrictions to functionality and aesthetics. Whether you're an architect or a waterfront enthusiast, you will find this presentation educational and entertaining.<br /><div><br /></div><div><b>Location:</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></span>UICA, 41 Sheldon Blvd SE, Grand Rapids, MI</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Time:</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></span>6:00p - Cocktail social hour with appetizers</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></span></span></span>7:00p-8:00p - Lecture</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Cost:</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></span></b></span><b>FREE</b> so don't miss it!</div>

Waterfront Design: Challenges & Opportunities

Next week Thursday, April 28 , Wayne Visbeen will be leading a free educational seminar hosted by the Grand Valley Chapter of the American I...

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Church Design

Did you know that in addition to the residential and retail projects that we do here at <a href="http://www.visbeen.biz">Visbeen Associates</a>, we also design churches? Check out these images from our church portfolio and contact our office today if you have any new construction or remodel design needs for your church!<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfTEMLVZPvJBdTXIsWgBSXGOmD_zIfIGyHLVQtAS9c0IAZgslnqhfeFbrbQGE8_MsQbg2gDqAOSAOlevlW5aPC18Oh0fM2N8LMIfzV96DdnixqQnxjduB_nXrIiFpie4UkyUikUd8w_4_/s1600/1-Brookside+CRC+R1.2+-+NE+%2528Dusk%2529+for+canvas+copy.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597026899623081074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfTEMLVZPvJBdTXIsWgBSXGOmD_zIfIGyHLVQtAS9c0IAZgslnqhfeFbrbQGE8_MsQbg2gDqAOSAOlevlW5aPC18Oh0fM2N8LMIfzV96DdnixqQnxjduB_nXrIiFpie4UkyUikUd8w_4_/s320/1-Brookside+CRC+R1.2+-+NE+%2528Dusk%2529+for+canvas+copy.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 162px;" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Brookside Christian Reformed Church</b> • <i>Grand Rapids, MI</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm_j_si1YwhIoGUhXYGl2xQ_e4hGQAC5PeiFBrjh9IJD6V1UpfjkK7XqHY7kLp3fUeCbcf6cwVMLzJuUgHuMau6eETHb-KukardZ1kOv6kecgumyOs0AkUOO7s15ZV7oDboSSAstRpysMi/s1600/2-Georgetown+CRC+R1.2+-+Aerial.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597026241102907426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm_j_si1YwhIoGUhXYGl2xQ_e4hGQAC5PeiFBrjh9IJD6V1UpfjkK7XqHY7kLp3fUeCbcf6cwVMLzJuUgHuMau6eETHb-KukardZ1kOv6kecgumyOs0AkUOO7s15ZV7oDboSSAstRpysMi/s320/2-Georgetown+CRC+R1.2+-+Aerial.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 156px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Georgetown Christian Reformed Church</b> • <i>Hudsonville, MI</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1YlKlg0_lP0IYUrmU2vXQfsrJfMcndN_u8SYb1xXw3jT-1dlQWehTkkmohPviLsoAuvuCNNYCpvD7TJchWMgY0MUKYEltqdDToRmr41y1uEQxWOkEHH6WCb8Nvv_mW4iu-14ufe2l1W4y/s1600/3-RemRef72807No6132baMxr.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597026237575583794" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1YlKlg0_lP0IYUrmU2vXQfsrJfMcndN_u8SYb1xXw3jT-1dlQWehTkkmohPviLsoAuvuCNNYCpvD7TJchWMgY0MUKYEltqdDToRmr41y1uEQxWOkEHH6WCb8Nvv_mW4iu-14ufe2l1W4y/s320/3-RemRef72807No6132baMxr.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 203px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Remembrance Reformed Church</b> • <i>Grand Rapids, MI</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5acez9NQKsVZtG00KAN78AdoNBYFks1m6fYMUwkmy_iB_2LLtbiz09kgoVqELju9WNjIPFdyJhaDvEp_SHhAbVKkgmbcbVMKZJJtiejXCxH64Wu-FEXwfWaucb1MU54p6jjOk0XSauko/s1600/4-Westminster+Pres+R1_1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597026228019907874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5acez9NQKsVZtG00KAN78AdoNBYFks1m6fYMUwkmy_iB_2LLtbiz09kgoVqELju9WNjIPFdyJhaDvEp_SHhAbVKkgmbcbVMKZJJtiejXCxH64Wu-FEXwfWaucb1MU54p6jjOk0XSauko/s320/4-Westminster+Pres+R1_1.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 161px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Westminster Presbyterian Church <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">• <i>Rock Tavern, NY</i></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><i><br /></i></span></span></b></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktDjowxdTh6BhlCf7o0V7TaGVdhpXGNehZSV86FbmpFcom4mCSeKvP3NJAtGv9U7lNaJZDx9D6A6YAcbTBFE5qyImIai5ZBqeAxL8b-rCjHxtbveBtT28qYO3KU20LOm0DZJKvsVO3r4e/s1600/5-Central+Park+Chapel+-Sanctuary+%2528large%2529.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597026226398829554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktDjowxdTh6BhlCf7o0V7TaGVdhpXGNehZSV86FbmpFcom4mCSeKvP3NJAtGv9U7lNaJZDx9D6A6YAcbTBFE5qyImIai5ZBqeAxL8b-rCjHxtbveBtT28qYO3KU20LOm0DZJKvsVO3r4e/s320/5-Central+Park+Chapel+-Sanctuary+%2528large%2529.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 194px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Central Park Chapel</b> • <i>Holland, MI</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNlvhtPshJ0dwjk_FrD_oUBi-FS3IuhI-a6CbItUL107gAfRbVp_qvcjkkWy8xmgm7dtV_Ltm5mA3_Xnla2eyX_XJHrZI1v5sui8jB7D0xUSo_BMTfTqm-lz_gEZe9soOEfi6MpvwE4MGJ/s1600/6-Wellspring+CC+R1.1+v05.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597026221045088402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNlvhtPshJ0dwjk_FrD_oUBi-FS3IuhI-a6CbItUL107gAfRbVp_qvcjkkWy8xmgm7dtV_Ltm5mA3_Xnla2eyX_XJHrZI1v5sui8jB7D0xUSo_BMTfTqm-lz_gEZe9soOEfi6MpvwE4MGJ/s320/6-Wellspring+CC+R1.1+v05.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 174px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Wellspring Community Church</b> • <i>Georgetown Township, MI</i></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>

Church Design

Did you know that in addition to the residential and retail projects that we do here at Visbeen Associates , we also design churches? Check...

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WZZM 13 and MLive features on "MoDiv" Retail Incubator

Wayne Visbeen was featured in a piece on WZZM 13 and an article on MLive.com regarding the retail incubator called The Shoppes at Monroe and Division, or "MoDiv," that Rockford Construction is looking to open this fall in downtown Grand Rapids. Check out the features here!<div><br /></div><div><b><i>"Planned incubator seeks to bring more retailers to downtown Grand Rapids"</i></b></div><div><a href="http://www.mlive.com/business/west-michigan/index.ssf/2011/04/planned_incubator_seeks_to_bri.html">http://www.mlive.com/business/west-michigan/index.ssf/2011/04/planned_incubator_seeks_to_bri.html</a></div><div><a href="http://www.mlive.com/business/west-michigan/index.ssf/2011/04/planned_incubator_seeks_to_bri.html"></a><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="339" id="flashObj" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1"><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF"><param name="flashVars" value="omnitureAccountID=gntbcstwzzm,gntbcstglobal&pageContentCategory=video&pageContentSubcategory=&marketName=Grand Rapids, MI:wzzm13&division=Broadcast&SSTSCode=&videoId=903227884001&playerID=34875839001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAB_wnb7E~,pFMO9rMBvUlCXtUnJzJ93fpPhjy-5LXn&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true"><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com"><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashvars="omnitureAccountID=gntbcstwzzm,gntbcstglobal&pageContentCategory=video&pageContentSubcategory=&marketName=Grand Rapids, MI:wzzm13&division=Broadcast&SSTSCode=&videoId=903227884001&playerID=34875839001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAB_wnb7E~,pFMO9rMBvUlCXtUnJzJ93fpPhjy-5LXn&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="400" height="339" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" swliveconnect="true" allowscriptaccess="always" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object></div>

WZZM 13 and MLive features on "MoDiv" Retail Incubator

Wayne Visbeen was featured in a piece on WZZM 13 and an article on MLive.com regarding the retail incubator called The Shoppes at Monroe and...

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Vendor Spotlight: Diane Hasso, Faux-Real, LLC Decorative Painting

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 24pt; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.visbeen.biz/">Visbeen Associates</a> has worked on numerous projects with Diane Hasso, of <a href="http://www.FauxRealgr.com/">Faux-Real, LLC</a>,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> a decorative painting business specializing in creative surface design of interior spaces, furnishings, fixtures, and accessories. Since 2001, Faux-Real, LLC has offered a complete range of design and finishing services from wall and ceiling treatments, to cabinet artwork and murals, to fireplace, mantel and stove hood treatments. As the owner and chief designer, Hasso works directly with clients, architects and builders on unique designs that enhance existing architecture and can take a space from ordinary to extraordinary. Her work can be seen in commercial and office spaces as well as high-end homes, including Visbeen Associates' designs like Legacy Woods, Two Creeks, Westchester, Reynard and Wiltshire, as seen in the photos below. Her decorative painting and creative finishes have also been featured in the "Parade of Homes" in Grand Rapids and in such publications as </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Better Homes & Gardens</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Grand Rapids Magazine.</span></span></i><span style="color: rgb(82, 89, 79); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 24pt; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Hasso has studied with world renowned Master Artists and also has training in specialty product lines. She currently teaches faux painting classes and is an instructor for Just Once Classes. She has enjoyed volunteering to teach classes for Home Repair services and donating her time for the Boys & Girls Club of Holland Showcase Homes in 2007 and 2009.</span></span><span style="color: rgb(82, 89, 79); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Visit Faux-Real, LLC's </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.FauxRealgr.com/">website</a> today to learn more information about their services or to contact Diane Hasso.</span></span></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzBbZdgvZhN_mCzLZtTxtmTZTY4wz1EK2GEOwZUJXu9zNQRCaJVOg6knQPRuNtOY7T8Km4UNpBupj3C3G8jREyvwtoN3vWLFR0WnIPK3kF77sg0HxRTmdg_5XKEUPKpnSTcg3MI_20Vhcz/s1600/1-DSCF0104.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594435421792266962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzBbZdgvZhN_mCzLZtTxtmTZTY4wz1EK2GEOwZUJXu9zNQRCaJVOg6knQPRuNtOY7T8Km4UNpBupj3C3G8jREyvwtoN3vWLFR0WnIPK3kF77sg0HxRTmdg_5XKEUPKpnSTcg3MI_20Vhcz/s320/1-DSCF0104.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Legacy Woods kitchen with Old World Italian Plaster wall finish</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></i></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTV6S3rLYQ6xrbMdPZOtQkm6Kc1did4YfpLSzcoWZFEGxQzbekiGrRq5KVNno0JzYFwXc9m7cqaiJPfSS8xQ1Ri5GjagoRBh1pKj1L3bADPhHMEbRW5-F5wYg4dqCgsA6u7jzdjaovTDY/s1600/2-DSCF0077.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594435421575965186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTV6S3rLYQ6xrbMdPZOtQkm6Kc1did4YfpLSzcoWZFEGxQzbekiGrRq5KVNno0JzYFwXc9m7cqaiJPfSS8xQ1Ri5GjagoRBh1pKj1L3bADPhHMEbRW5-F5wYg4dqCgsA6u7jzdjaovTDY/s320/2-DSCF0077.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>Legacy Woo<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">ds g</span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>reat room skipped trowel with soft vanilla metallic paint for light reflection with soft brown glaze</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-PKx2OR_xYD80k-mPudcJTVxxoQLGqYgPyPUZH029xmrh8GGHt6cHTuLEzC3vjW2c-XuGiFNzASvPvAZoch5EmrJrsM8uZj2QwvZ0Z6DUMrnW_hFxSKvFjLZf3_YTGKuL9uAg6ZbqXJg/s1600/3-Saur_26.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594435414959289138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-PKx2OR_xYD80k-mPudcJTVxxoQLGqYgPyPUZH029xmrh8GGHt6cHTuLEzC3vjW2c-XuGiFNzASvPvAZoch5EmrJrsM8uZj2QwvZ0Z6DUMrnW_hFxSKvFjLZf3_YTGKuL9uAg6ZbqXJg/s320/3-Saur_26.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 279px; height: 320px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>Two Creeks kitchen cove ceilings</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1PAtbtuVzj-ZshCH2E7nB7oAZ3674mivXIKc1wU0Q6yJRomU7hqbotH1OLaTr0mkTjgo2bpVVK9gRU1JbhjggsSKOqBSQMk89Sr64iKVU6STDBfEIU2jDXPiddVeNTCLxKC8KBNJSLRcn/s1600/4-Saur_11.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594434752090412930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1PAtbtuVzj-ZshCH2E7nB7oAZ3674mivXIKc1wU0Q6yJRomU7hqbotH1OLaTr0mkTjgo2bpVVK9gRU1JbhjggsSKOqBSQMk89Sr64iKVU6STDBfEIU2jDXPiddVeNTCLxKC8KBNJSLRcn/s320/4-Saur_11.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 218px; height: 320px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>Two Creeks master bathroom ceiling in custom color metallic plaster</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKOGxjYU_RpLEfM79UlMUhhQLspALowWBMeGCR017vlcbAtOUe-AT9mVYgk2vIme3OmKKgxyoeTUQluNio0gZHwFpMPXdDr58XjFaRQ87ufGWTeXFUi2fz_2jwmIxpcsEJgC8P3hM2Oei/s1600/5-_DSF3534.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594434754274083602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKOGxjYU_RpLEfM79UlMUhhQLspALowWBMeGCR017vlcbAtOUe-AT9mVYgk2vIme3OmKKgxyoeTUQluNio0gZHwFpMPXdDr58XjFaRQ87ufGWTeXFUi2fz_2jwmIxpcsEJgC8P3hM2Oei/s320/5-_DSF3534.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>Westchester dining room ceiling custom finish</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgws-zXCAdegNkQ8LTb3bjYNydzqd67h3EJLPFhHv0DXPkiHq_uou9fMSOoobvYT0McVW-uW0__BP-0dLObyYQFFoG5sUmrhK2nqs8kMVkaKkGFi7XAoafUL4jpkhGDpBxVAeIJbLS5qSm3/s1600/6-Living+room+-+0258.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594434748703448738" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgws-zXCAdegNkQ8LTb3bjYNydzqd67h3EJLPFhHv0DXPkiHq_uou9fMSOoobvYT0McVW-uW0__BP-0dLObyYQFFoG5sUmrhK2nqs8kMVkaKkGFi7XAoafUL4jpkhGDpBxVAeIJbLS5qSm3/s320/6-Living+room+-+0258.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 320px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>Reynard living room custom multi-colored and multi-layered metallic plaster on barrel ceiling</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtyKsHh_mjjy4H3FEczjSnjFXDq7l6p87ysLUthC4X6RqJS9HN5MRAMkLQYD52gIGwLJfGYJiX2AK5nqu-a4Wt1TviCUfTlc74A4HU8DE4OCarEdZ8mlEdYfoA7fxyBU6Q82qWe7ovlb7/s1600/7-Back+entry+-+0023.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594434744883627090" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtyKsHh_mjjy4H3FEczjSnjFXDq7l6p87ysLUthC4X6RqJS9HN5MRAMkLQYD52gIGwLJfGYJiX2AK5nqu-a4Wt1TviCUfTlc74A4HU8DE4OCarEdZ8mlEdYfoA7fxyBU6Q82qWe7ovlb7/s320/7-Back+entry+-+0023.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>Reynard custom finish on MDF block wall in back entry</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexbZyvuiK7rmUMya8o7u4la2QGTejdM4YBue1IkU0QCissBSW9UV8yqK-buvG8XHFJnC7yqZqrKGbBq2uOB5OfCrqnOXf621cGEKiebUjIt5ZuIbcKj4MkWW_NggvjyAd8X5f5o-Ed982/s1600/8-Moor92508D7433aWeb.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594434740801693058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexbZyvuiK7rmUMya8o7u4la2QGTejdM4YBue1IkU0QCissBSW9UV8yqK-buvG8XHFJnC7yqZqrKGbBq2uOB5OfCrqnOXf621cGEKiebUjIt5ZuIbcKj4MkWW_NggvjyAd8X5f5o-Ed982/s320/8-Moor92508D7433aWeb.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" /></a><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;margin-bottom: 24pt; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"></span></span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>Wiltshire hand painting work on boy's playhouse</i></span></span></span></div></span></span><p></p> <!--EndFragment-->

Vendor Spotlight: Diane Hasso, Faux-Real, LLC Decorative Painting

Visbeen Associates has worked on numerous projects with Diane Hasso, of Faux-Real, LLC , a decorative painting business specializing in cr...

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Panache Partners Press Release: Perspectives on Design

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;">As we had previously shared here on our blog, <a href="http://www.visbeen.biz/">Visbeen Associates</a> was included in the Great Lakes edition of <a href="http://www.panache.com/">Panache Partners</a>' </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><b>Perspectives on Design</b></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;">. Panache recently posted a press release promoting this book and here are the kind words they had to say about our firm...</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"></span></b></span></span><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;">"</span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;">In addition to experiencing captivating residences designed by highly regarded architects like Wayne Visbeen and John Allegretti and built by firms such as Easling Construction Company, readers will savor viewing the fine elements that make these luxury homes so magnificent. "</span></b></span></span></blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">To read Panache's full press release, </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><a href="http://www.cisionwire.com/panache/new-book-perspectives-on-design-great-lakes-features-exquisite-homes-by-talented-architects--builders--design-specialists--and-artisans104331"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">click here</span></a></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">, and to view our feature in this fabulous book, </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><a href="http://www.echobox.com/visbeen/publication_assets/2010/perspectives_on_design/PerspectivesonDesign.pdf"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">click here</span></a></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVleWxca1aRB2zRgmMS_WEoqV6g_B916CEXNHd5gb25_Tuk_76EVtmLxotnwOuqQanEzFzeqoklQjM4NJkTf8GL1tm_3K6VLuxl_89brFKcAgVYHcK1lPKW0HRzUQKzPCKhW5kj8dgUMzN/s1600/Front+Cover.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592844776932983026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVleWxca1aRB2zRgmMS_WEoqV6g_B916CEXNHd5gb25_Tuk_76EVtmLxotnwOuqQanEzFzeqoklQjM4NJkTf8GL1tm_3K6VLuxl_89brFKcAgVYHcK1lPKW0HRzUQKzPCKhW5kj8dgUMzN/s320/Front+Cover.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 320px;" /></a>

Panache Partners Press Release: Perspectives on Design

As we had previously shared here on our blog, Visbeen Associates was included in the Great Lakes edition of Panache Partners ' Perspect...

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Shore Magazine: Master Planners

<a href="http://www.visbeen.biz/">Visbeen Associates</a> was honored by being included in <a href="http://visitshoremagazine.com/2/">Shore Magazine</a>'s "Master Planners" article from their <i>Architecture Issue</i>. The article featured five "world-class" architects in the Shore region and we were thrilled to be highlighted as one of those five. Read our excerpt here!<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijapXv9arFuyf1ItDxoNtpwiPGeK2DK5C6zzLUQLo1oGLnptSCGQ-G4YBYqT09rURCtOwF617BYFE3IYvbVHaQMjtytN0M1YKaLV376Gli8QK5RYg2w-GEANe6lMXrs4ghzcFRqhyFlaaL/s1600/Cover.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591842639267316834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijapXv9arFuyf1ItDxoNtpwiPGeK2DK5C6zzLUQLo1oGLnptSCGQ-G4YBYqT09rURCtOwF617BYFE3IYvbVHaQMjtytN0M1YKaLV376Gli8QK5RYg2w-GEANe6lMXrs4ghzcFRqhyFlaaL/s320/Cover.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 249px; height: 320px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEJOb0SK8-mjqTvsvlaO4dD9oU3nHkyXXWL9o7code2KhXcp4K059zF-PAPkFx14SQ_gtoYLBuhyphenhyphen5tr-uEXFV59Ktq1zr1c73xjDWN3fqukSp6lXXGYXRJw-IyI020-i-wdvb8cMtyvDKB/s1600/p1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591842634500313074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEJOb0SK8-mjqTvsvlaO4dD9oU3nHkyXXWL9o7code2KhXcp4K059zF-PAPkFx14SQ_gtoYLBuhyphenhyphen5tr-uEXFV59Ktq1zr1c73xjDWN3fqukSp6lXXGYXRJw-IyI020-i-wdvb8cMtyvDKB/s320/p1.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 247px; height: 320px;" /></a><br /></div>

Shore Magazine: Master Planners

Visbeen Associates was honored by being included in Shore Magazine 's "Master Planners" article from their Architecture Issue...

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