Parade of Homes

I have attended the Grand Rapids Parade of Homes for YEARS. My Mom and Dad (who have always been involved in building and flipping) dragged me along each year since elementary school. I still look forward to it every spring and fall. This year, I am thrilled to be working with the Home Builders Association to promote this event! You are going to LOVE the homes in the parade this year. 

If you follow my instagram stories, you know that I am a lover of a good exterior. I have an instagram 'highlight tab' dedicated to my favorite GR homes (mostly taken on long runs around East Grand Rapids). You better believe that I find myself curious about how each masterpiece is decorated on the inside. The parade of homes allows you to do just that! With a ticket to the Parade (which you can purchase at a discount here), you get access to a myriad of homes in Greater Grand Rapids. Walk through to gather ideas, see the work of local artisans, and catch the newest trends. Last week, I was able to walk through four of the Parade Homes early. These four homes were stunning, and I hope you enjoy this "sneak peak" ​(along with tips on how to maximize your Parade experience!) 

HOME #42 MODERN FARMHOUSE

Located on 52 acres in Bryon Center, this home by Miles Builders was a dream. I drooled over the white oak floors, iron staircase, and quartz master shower. This home hit it out of the park with a clean cohesive scheme and elegant details (you know I'm a sucker for matte black hardware!). I took some notes for an upcoming project (helping my parents design their next dream home this fall - my mother loves this "Joanna Gaines" vibe!). Be sure to add home #42 to your list!

HOME #53 NAUTICAL LAKE LIVING 

Love at first sight. The exterior of this home caught my eye immediately. This home boasts refined elegance, while exuding warm hospitality. The luxury details in this home (like the master tub) were exquisite, while several whimsically decorated bedrooms express that this is the ultimate family home; welcoming fun, activity, and playfulness. The home was designed to showcase a spectacular amount of windows; natural light filled each room. You may also notice that the windows have black casing on the outside and white on the inside...brilliant! Well done, Homes by Gary Byker and Room Candy Home.

HOME #34 CLEAN & CLASSIC

Home 34 was outfitted in classic color schemes, timeless textures, and natural elegance. Spoelma Builders made this home memorable by adding details around every corner (like the Calcutta marble fireplace). The living room and master bedroom ceilings were unique with white ship lap and contrasting gray beams. Add home #34 to your route to see the rest of the details in this home! Oh, and this home is on the market!

HOME #38 MEDITERANIAN MODERN

"Mediterranean modern" was built by Ridgeline Homes and designed by True Vine Creations. Each detail was designed for the homeowner, avid artist native to Israel! Her personality speaks through each piece of furniture and artwork. My favorite part of this home was certainly the art room! The natural light was unparalleled. Traditional touches like the stone fireplace and iron finishes made this space feel warm and cozy. 

TIPS FOR YOUR PARADE OF HOMES EXPERIENCE:

1. Map out your tour! I have made a list of the homes I would like to visit, and have mapped out each day. For example,  Ty and I will be spending one day exploring East Grand Rapids, Ada, and Rockford; and another day in Grand Haven and Spring Lake; etc.
2. Keep in mind that you can attend as many days as you would like! The Parade is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Memorial Day 1:00-9:00pm, and Wednesdays 5:00-9:00pm. Remodeled homes will be open June 8-9. 
3. Get the app! The app will help you organize your tour; complete with home listings, builder information, and directions.
4. Use this as excuse to try some local restaurants! Ty and I plan to grab Rose's for lunch in East Grand Rapids, coffee at Nonna's in Ada, and Righteous Cuisine in Grand Haven (our new FAV Mexican joint). 
5. Like the Home Builders Association on Facebook for pictures, updates, and inspiration. 
6. Take notes! Note which details stood out to you, and don't be afraid to ask questions! Many homes with provide paint colors, flooring selections, etc.. Be sure to write down your favorites! 
7. Lastly, get your tickets HERE at a discounted price of $10 (kids under 12 free!)

I hope to see you there! 
- HJ