Story

The historic renovation of two 120-year old buildings across the street from each other in Big Rapids. The Nisbett and Fairman Buildings are the only buildings in the county listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The lower level of each building was converted into commercial retail space and the upper floors were restored and converted into senior housing.

The two buildings consisted of more than 72,000 square feet of space and included 47 total housing units. Many of the historic features within the buildings were restored and maintained including a clock tower on the Nisbett Building, marble pillars along the lower level of the buildings, large pulley-system windows and historic trim throughout the buildings.

This project was the recipient of 15 awards including the following:

Pride of the Neighborhood Award (2003) - Good Neighbors Association of Big Rapids

The Best of Seniors Housing Design Gold Achievement Award (2004) - The National Association of Home Builders.

Award of Excellence in Community Development (2004), Award of Excellence in Affordable Housing (2004)- National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials

Award of Excellence (2004) - West Michigan Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors

Building Award for Rehabilitation (2005), Tax Credit Project Award (2004) - Michigan Historic Preservation Network

Grand Rapids Region Wall of Fame Award (2005) - Department of Housing and Urban Development