Downtown Muskegon Blog

Behind the Scenes – Hamilton Make-over

Since 2000, the downtown Muskegon residential market has brightened remarkably, in particular for those looking for apartments. The Amazon, Renaissance Place, 2nd story rentals above Mia & Grace, the Artworks in the former Boilerworks building, and now the Hamilton Apartments have all seen major investment and now present great options for downtown Muskegon living. The latest of these renovations took place over the summer at the Hamilton Apartments. The apartments were purchased earlier this year by David Gregersen and Blake Holtz, who also moved from Saugatuk to the former Hilt home on Muskegon Avenue. We caught up with David to hear about their adjustment to Muskegon and the work they have been up to at the Hamilton Apartments.

MS: How did you get interested in Muskegon while living in Saugatuck?

DG: Blake was born in Muskegon. He introduced me to all the great attributes of this community. I saw the potential.

MS: What came first, the chicken or the egg? No really, did you buy your house, or the Hamilton apartments first?

DG: The apartments were purchased first. We originally planned to live in the 2,000 sq ft owners unit until Mrs. Hilt's home came available on Muskegon Avenue. The location was perfect. We can see the apartment building from our new home.

MS: What have you enjoyed about living downtown Muskegon since you moved in?

DG: Being able to walk to all the great activities, waterfront and restaurants is a convenience I have never experienced before. I am enjoying it.

MS: I know you looked at a number of investments downtown Muskegon before settling on the Hamilton. What made you close the deal there?

DG: We were most impressed in the quality character of the structure. The Hamilton is built like a bomb shelter and it resembles the old Chicago hotels on Michigan Ave.

MS: Tell us a little about the Hamilton Apartments. I know they have a long and storied history.

DG: You probably know more about the history of the building than I do. The Hamilton was completed in 1927. I was told that 5 former mayors of Muskegon lived in the building. Entering from the front terrace you step into a marble/terrazzo lobby and open staircase to the 2nd and 3rd floors. Each apartment has an abundance of windows, hardwood floors textured plaster walls with archways from room to room. The studio apartments are the most intriguing. They are quite large with a living room, compact kitchen and dining room, bath and dressing room that houses a Murphy bed.

MS: And a little about the work you have done there since the summer and your vision for the property.

DG: All of the hardscapes have been replaced with the original building style in mind. In addition all new landscaping with vintage style fencing, new secure exterior doors, restored the marble floors and stairway. New hall carpet, and new entry doors. Many of the units have new cabinetry, countertops, tile floors, appliances and refinished oak floors. The windows will be replaced in the spring. Three studios, a one bedroom and a one bedroom with formal dining room are ready to lease. The rest will be upgraded as the demand requires. The long term goal is to create a warm friendly living environment for people who want an urban lifestyle in building of old world charm and character.

MS: Well, it's exciting to see folks like you and Blake moving to Muskegon and taking on wonderful buildings like the Hamilton. Congratulations and all the best.

DG: Thanks!

Check it out on the web

New Hamilton Apartments website

Labels: Downtown Muskegon E-News

posted by Dan & Sarah @ 10:04 AM