Four Pleasant Ridge Homes Graced with Beautification Awards
(Jan Treuter, Nov. 25, 2021)
Pleasant Ridge, MI – Four homes and their owners were recently recognized for their investment in time, talents, and financial resources to enhance the aesthetics of their residences and, ultimately, the city. Unable to make the presentations last year due to COVID restrictions, the awards covered 2020 and 2021.
Each of the recipients received a beautiful, Marcia Hovland ceramic tile commissioned especially for this recognition. Lawn signs at the winning homes also announced this achievement.
The city’s seven-member Beautification Committee selected two homes east and two homes west of Woodward Ave.
37 Fairwood Blvd – Ashleigh and Jeff Imerman
The unique architecture and the eye-catching contrast between the dark siding and white trim give 37 Fairwood Blvd an undeniable charm and appeal. With a warm wood tone door, flanked by an American flag and a pop of color from the matching planters, the front porch immediately draws your attention. But it’s the small two-window dormer on the façade that really steals the show. Well- manicured garden beds along on each side of the porch add additional depth and visual interest. Another unique feature that distinguishes this home is an appealing covered side porch with a custom railing in warm wood tones that connects to an inviting raised deck in the back of the house.
89 Oakdale Blvd – Jean Herron and Jeffrey Husby
Immaculate grooming and attention to detail makes 89 Oakdale a real winner. This Tudor Revival home is approached by a decorative path that takes a turn from the porch to meet up with the driveway. On either side of the porch, a neatly trimmed, low hedge holds two anchoring shrubs and a bevy of blooming hydrangeas. Moderately sized ornamental trees on either side of the walkway are surrounded by a ring of stones and Hosta. Two pedestal pots filled with seasonal plantings flank the stairs. Final touches include an attractive porch lamp, address plaque and mailbox. There are additional details that should not be overlooked. The homeowners have installed traditional bronze screens that were made up by a supplier in California. They also had a few replacement heavy exterior storms (with glazed-in glass) made locally.
16 Fairwood Boulevard – Geoffrey Diamond and Thomas Hosinksi
What first catches your attention with this stunning brick colonial home is the impressive, and immaculately cared for landscaping that surrounds the property on all sides. A classic combination of hydrangeas and manicured boxwood hedges provide a vibrant, natural contrast to the traditional brick façade. Thoughtful, eye- catching planters line the sides of front walkway creating a welcoming front porch environment. The charm does not stop there – an inviting brick pathway leads around to a cozy back patio surrounded by wrought iron fencing and a decorative gate. At night-time, the exterior lighting elevates the impact of the natural environment and makes this home a true stand out.
11 Elm Park Blvd – Amy and Chip Kulikowski
Having purchased this home in 2013, Amy and Chip embarked on an aggressive renewal of most aspects of the home’s interior – as well as the exterior. This Georgian Colonial exudes warmth, welcome, and traditional Americana. Overall, it is unusually asymmetric, yet nicely balanced. The landscaping is in keeping with the style of the home, incorporating tightly clipped boxwood hedges that enclose a profusion of hydrangeas against the façade. From the top of the circular drive, one can enter a bricked area surrounded by the same, neat boxwood hedges, this time filled with an abundance of pink shrub roses around two, facing painted benches. The intense pink accent is echoed in the pattern of the bench pillows, in the porch urn arrangements, and the elegant door wreath – that changes seasonally.
Recognizing that beautification is contagious, the Pleasant Ridge City Commission expressed its appreciation to these homeowners, acknowledging that the awards are a testament to their commitment to improving the overall aesthetic, not only of their homes, but of the entire city.
The presentation opened the Oct. 12 City Commission meeting and can be viewed on You Tube.