Friday, May 16, 2008

Development Update and New Site Plan

We're working hard on the Village of Orchard Hills.

First, we've updated our corporate Web site with the latest site plan. Please look it over. Let us know what you think. (FYI - we're moderating our comments here, but there are plenty of places around the Internet for free-wheeling discussion.)

Second, this weekend our team is headed out to Las Vegas to attend the ICSC convention. This is the place where thousands of developers meet with national retailers to woo them into projects in new markets. Despite Michigan's economic woes, we feel that Western Michigan is rock solid. Once you sit down with folks and explain the good news, the market's an easy sale.

We have a great team, we're working on a great location, and we're trying hard to do something that folks in Grand Rapids will appreciate. Thankfully, despite a tough market, our vision continues to be persuasive.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Imagining the Village of Orchard Hills


vorhfestivalpark
Originally uploaded by aikens_scott
The Village of Orchard Hills in Grand Rapids, MI, will be based on the successful Village of Rochester Hills that was built in metropolitan Detroit in 2002. These photos from Rochester Hills provide a sense of what's coming soon to Grand Rapids and Western Michigan.

Main Street at the Village


VORHstreet1
Originally uploaded by aikens_scott
Main Street is the major attraction at the village that draws the crowds for shopping, leisure, and community.

Fountains at the Village


vorhfountain
Originally uploaded by aikens_scott
Fountains in the park at the village provide feelings of peace and tranquility.

Little Bear at Festival Park


vorhlittlebear
Originally uploaded by aikens_scott
Sculptures and other playful features in the parks entertain children and adults alike.

Civic Art at the Village


vorhcivicart
Originally uploaded by aikens_scott
Creative civic art, like this tile, is integrated throughout the village to the delight of visitors.