Built in 1924 at a cost of $40,000, this Prairie style mansion has probably endured fewer changes than most. Many of the wall coverings and fixtures are original. Walnut and mahogany woodwork, two wall murals believed to be by the nationally recognized artist, Mathias Alten, an indoor water fountain, a walk-in safe, and original tiled bathrooms display the workmanship and the "money" of the day. It was home to Frank and Irene McKay (owner of the McKay Lumber Company and McKay Towers).
401 Morris SE
Like its parent at 411 Morris SE, this Colonial Revival house has received good care over the years. It was home to Mr. McKays son and its oak and ceramic tile floors invite visitors to traverse from room to room. Many original fixtures and sconces adorn the wall. The warmth of the home continues on in the private garden behind.
440 College SE
This circa 1905 home was built by George Keeler, owner of Keeler Brass. It is another example of a prairie style home and has a decided open and airy flow. The new kitchen invites the outside in as the large windows allow a conservatory atmosphere to the garden beyond.
332 College SE
Built in 1908, this home was built for Frank Voigt who was president of the Voigt Milling Company and the eldest son of Carl Voigt (Carls home is the Voigt House Museum.) It architectural style is Queen Anne but is more commonly referred to as a
craftsman-style. The main floor is home to three different woods and the stained glass window in the front stair landing is a "junior" version of the Voigt Houses window. Untold time and money has converted this home back to its former
self. The "ivy-garden" kitchen is a must see.
300 Morris SE
This 1917 home is a reflection of the current owners passions. It has just enough old-fashioned decor to reflect its age and just enough modern amenities to reflect the times. Built for the advertising manager of Herpolsheimers Department Store, this
prairie style home is graced with front and back gardens.
218 Union SE
This 1908 Queen Anne is considered the Cats Meow. Once home to over 70 cats, current owners spent four years removing damaged woodwork, flooring and mouldings, marking each and bundling it for cleaning and reinstallation, as well as gutting and rebuilding all the plaster and lath before they could finally move in. Now it truly is the cats meow!
516 Prospect SE
This circa 1927 home is a colonial revival style and takes its model from very early Georgian-period homes. Its current owner believes that this is one of few houses in the Hill to escape with little or no change except for decoration. Lovely gardens surround the house.
516 Fountain NE
Two apartments in this spacious 1913 Arts and Crafts home will be open. It is a good example of how a large single family home can be adapted to apartment living. Open picture windows in the back of the house overlook a park-like backyard.
352-354 College SE
This 1908 construction is a perfect example of the most common form of prairie style construction: the American Four-Square. Built as a duplex, each side of the house mirrors its counterpart. Currently home to twin brothers, the open duplex has a
"relaxed formality" look with an eclectic mix of antique, traditional and contemporary furnishings and decor.
455 Cherry SE
The "Castle" is a landmark in Heritage Hill. The house represents local architect William Robinsons variation on the Chateauesque-style and is modeled after a Scottish baronial castle. A castellated tower and large bay window adorn the exterior. Used residentially until 1922, the Castle has been home to a variety of commercial enterprises.
159 College NE – Fountain School
This large red-bricked school building was constructed in 1918 and was "one of the finest in the state". It has a great deal of ornate exterior trim near the corners and roof line. Small, sculptured childrens faces grace the north and south entrances. Inside the school retains much of its original character.
115 College SE – the Voigt House Victorian Museum
Built in 1895 by local businessman, Carl Voigt, this opulent structure is really a romantic adaptation of a French chateau. Home to two generations of the Voigt family, the mansion is furnished with belongings the family used over the years. The Voigt House is a property of the Public Museum of Grand Rapids.