spring
MarchHome Issue
This month, we had the privilege of connecting with local businesses and individuals who shape this community. Their stories highlight the creativity, resilience, and heart that make this area feel like home. We hope that as you turn these pages, you’ll be inspired to strengthen your connections—whether within your neighborhood, your city, or your own walls.
Many of our readers tell us they hold onto this magazine long after the month on its cover, treasuring it as a piece of home—whether as coffee table art or a source of inspiration. That’s a tradition we’re proud to uphold, and we remain committed to delivering the value you expect each month.
In this issue, we showcase 15440 Windmill Pointe on Lake St. Clair. Broker Jeff Meldrum brings us this 2 level open concept home on one of Grosse Pointe’s most prestigious lots. Lakefront property is rare so it’s a special opportunity to enter and view this beautiful home.
Over the years, we have been able to enjoy Ford House creating numerous memories and traditions. Ford House is Grosse Pointe’s home with countless opportunities to enjoy events and the grounds. We find out about some new events this upcoming year as we hear from Malea Tipton, Communication and Public Relations Manager at Ford House.
Enjoy these articles plus much more as we celebrate the Home Issue. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes. Here’s to making this March a celebration of the spaces and people that matter most.
Happy March!
DAVID MATTALIANO,
March 2025
PUBLISHER
David Mattaliano | david.mattaliano@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Paige Peabody | paige.peabody@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Susan Baldani, Margaret Carroll
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Kimberly Rensburg | info@kimberlyrensburg.com
Corporate Team
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 Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
From ideas and thoughts to completed designs, Russell Landscaping Inc. delivers creativity, individuality, and satisfaction. We are passionate about the potential of a project and are committed to the great execution of a design that fits best for our clients. Our team concentrates on making it easier for you to achieve all of your project’s intention and ideas.
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI
BY KIMBERLY RENSBURG
OPEN HOUSE
15440 Windmill Pointe
PHOTOGRAPHY
Late architect Louis Kamper, described as one of the most impactful designers in Detroit, has built many structures throughout the area. Two of his most well-known projects are the Italian Renaissance-style Book Building constructed in 1917, and the incredible Book Tower built in 1926. In 1923, he went on to design the 33-story Book Cadillac Hotel, which at the time was the tallest hotel in the world, according to HistoricDetroit. org. He was also instrumental in transforming Washington Boulevard into Detroit's most opulent and successful retail destination.
Along with commercial construction, he also utilized his talent in residential builds, including those still found at 1 Rathbone Place, 251 Lincoln, 16761 East Jefferson, 836 Edgemont Park, 1008 Buckingham, and 175 Merriweather Road in Grosse Pointe.
CONTINUED >
In addition, Kamper designed a luxury French Châteaux that used to stand on the property at 15440 Windmill Pointe in Grosse Pointe Park, which was built in 1921. The home, erected right on the shores of Lake St. Clair, really highlighted his extraordinary talent.
The 6,000-square-foot mansion, originally built for prominent resident Herbert V. Book, was constructed of limestone and topped with a steep roof of block slate and many other unique elements. No expense was spared. According to the Grosse Pointe News in 1978, the build itself cost around $650,000 (which would be approximately $9.5 million today), with an additional cost of $50,000 for the land (around $700,000 today).
Upon entering, one would be dazzled by the foyer and stair hall, which were constructed entirely of marble. Walking into the enormous living room, which extended across the entire east wing of the house, allowed a view that overlooked the 200-foot wide frontage. Outside the massive windows were the terraced lawn, lovely gardens, and, of course, the stunning lake. Also featured on the first floor of the home were the dining room, library, bar room, vault, activities room, and multiple powder rooms.
The second floor boasted seven large bedrooms, six full bathrooms, four dressing rooms, and a large sitting room. The third floor contained five servants' bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and storage.
"We always liked the community and the old-fashioned neighborhood," she says. "We liked the grass and the yards where the children could run and play. But we also liked living close to Detroit and the many activities it offered."
Outside, the estate encompassed a stone carriage house containing a four-car heated garage on the main floor with an entire apartment consisting of a living room, kitchen, bath and three bedrooms above. Also on the property were a workman's shed, a large greenhouse, a fishpond, concrete boat well, and an electric boat/seaplane hoist.
Unfortunately, this grand estate was lost to a fire started by vandals after Charles P. Helin purchased it in 1945. He was the owner of the Helin Tackle Company and inventor of the "Flatish" fishing lure, which made him a millionaire. In addition to destroying the house, the flames also wiped out the largest private butterfly collection in the world. Helin was so heartbroken that he never
returned, and sadly, in 1978, this grand estate was completely demolished.
In 1979, this beautiful lakefront double lot totaling almost two acres was purchased by Ingida and Elizabeth Asfaw. "After we purchased the lot, we didn't build on it right away because we had young children and were really afraid they might wander into the water," says Elizabeth. "So, we waited until we thought they were old enough to respect the lake."
The present two-level house, completed in September of 1993, is open concept and encompasses well over 6000 square feet. It features five bedrooms, five full baths, and two half baths. From the front door, one can see right through the house to the lake. The couple's daughters Sofya and Zewditu, and son Engeda, who goes by his middle name Selemon, loved growing up in the home.
The landscaping is lush and green and it's almost like having one's very own private park. "We always liked the community and the old fashioned neighborhood," she says. "We liked the grass and the yards where the children could run and play. But we also liked living close to Detroit and the many activities it offered."
Being right on the lake allowed the family to enjoy all it had to offer, including sailing lessons for the children.
"You get a very good view of the lake, and we enjoy watching the sailboats, motorboats, and freighters," says Elizabeth. "It's nice to be able to walk down to the lake without having to walk across Jefferson. And at night, when there's a full moon, it's really beautiful to have the reflection of the moon on the water."
Elizabeth's late father used to come by and fish right from the bank. "He would catch five different varieties of fish because every spring, the fish would spawn right at our site because Mr. Helin did something that attracted the fish to this area," she says"
Today, the couple's children are all successful adults, and Ingida and Elizabeth have decided to put the home up for sale. The couple have enjoyed living there, but now, with the maintenance and having to walk up and down the stairs, it's getting too hard. They wish to stay in the beautiful community, though, and hope that another family will love the house and the property as much as they have over the last 32 years.
To find out more about this home and to embrace the property's amazing history, contact broker and Realtor Jeff Meldrum at JeffMeldrum.com or by calling 586-630-1139.
FRESH FARMS MARKET
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
As Communications and Public Relations Manager at Ford House, Malea Tipton manages the Organization’s digital presence and oversees media relations and public outreach. In January, she celebrated her third work anniversary. Needless to say, she loves what she does.
QUESTION 1: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB AND WHY?
I love my job because of the creative freedom it gives me to promote and share all the exciting things happening at Ford House, while incorporating one of my favorite pillars of Ford House—playfulness. I also get to work alongside amazing people who are all passionate about helping Ford House grow and remain a special place for families and individuals to enjoy.
Malea Tipton
QUESTIONS 2: WHAT ARE YOUR ANCHOR EVENTS AND WHAT ARE YOU PERSONALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THE UPCOMING YEAR?
Our upcoming year is packed with events designed to appeal to all interests and age groups. One new event I’m especially excited about is Cabaret Over the Cove. We had a GREAT turnout at the Valentine’s Day kick-off event. We have several more cabarets happening throughout the year! Picture yourself overlooking Ford Cove, sipping a cocktail, and enjoying live music. Whether
it’s date night or just needing a reason to get out of the house, it’s bound to be a fantastic experience!
QUESTION
3: HIGHLIGHT OF CABARET OVER THE COVE
Discover the magic of Cabaret Over the Cove, Ford House’s intimate concert series where exceptional live performances meet breathtaking views. Held in the Lake Shore Room on the second floor of the Visitor Center, this series offers an up-close musical experience set against the stunning backdrop of Ford Cove and Lake St. Clair.
Big Goblins
"I LOVE MY JOB BECAUSE OF THE CREATIVE FREEDOM IT GIVES
QUESTION 4: HIGHLIGHT OF HALLOWEEN AT THE FORD HOUSE Halloween at Ford House offers a variety of unique and festive experiences for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy the beloved Little Goblins event, featuring trick-or-treating and Halloween-themed activities for kids, while adults can indulge in thrilling Murder Mystery Dinners, an evening of intrigue and suspense. New for 2025, the reimagined Big Goblins event returns with a spookier twist. Guests 21 and older can explore a shadowy trail, collect adult treats, and enjoy live entertainment, haunted hayrides, and more.
Please visit our Website or Blog for more event information: www.fordhouse.org/events www.fordhouse.org/news/ford-houseunveils-extraordinary-2025-lineup
Lake Fest
Dr. William Krieg, Dr. Brynn Jezdimir and Dr. Richard Frenchi
Grosse Pointe Hornets Boys
Grosse Pointe STING Girls
Brick By Brick
CUSTOMIZED MASONRY OFFERS FUNCTIONAL CURB APPEAL.
ARTICLE BY ERICA HOBBS
From chimneys and porches to walkways and siding, masonry marries the worlds of practical and aesthetic value. Garden City’s 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.
INNOVATION MEETS
ARTISTRY
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE SHEETS
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
“KITCHEN DESIGN HAS ENTERED AN EXCITING TIME WHERE THE POSSIBILITIES FEEL LIMITLESS.”
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.
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
“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
THE HEART OF THE HOME
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.
Bloomfield
Bloomfield
Bloomfield
NAD+
is found in every cell in your body and aids in rejuvenating the age and health of a person. It works by improving the cellular processes at the mitochondrial level within the cell. NAD+ is administered through an iV infusion or an iM shot.
iCRYO Grosse Pointe offers a variety of services that are known to reduce inflammation throughout your body and minimize the pain you experience in your muscles and joints. All first-time guests receive a 1-on-1 tour of our center, to learn about the lifechanging benefits of our services
iCRYO - Grosse Pointe 96 Kercheval Ave Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236
and Dominic have joined the iCRYO family
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 2ND
Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra Concert
Concert held at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church 467 Fairford Road, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236 | 3:00 PM
Sibelius | Andante Festivo
Chopin | Piano Concerto no. 1; Ethan Mihaescu, piano
Wagner | Selections
I. Prelude to Act 1 of Lohengrin
II. Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral
III. Prelude to Act III & Bridal Chorus
IV. Entry of the Gods into Valhalla www.warmemorial.org/eventcalendar
MARCH 15TH
Once Upon a Tea: Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
Ford House | 11:00 AM
Step into the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland at Ford House’s Once Upon a Tea: Mad Hatter’s Tea Party! Perfect for children and families, this tea party offers a relaxed, fun-filled twist on the traditional tea experience. www.fordhouse.org/events
MARCH 28TH - APRIL 6TH
Groundhog Day: The Musical
Pierce Auditorium
How would you spend your time if forced to repeat the same day over and over again?
Phil Connors, a seasoned big-city weatherman, is frustrated to be reporting the annual Groundhog Day Ceremony in small town Punxsutawney, PA. grossepointechamber.com/event
