A 1930s Time Capsule by Alden B. Dow Seeks $675K in Michigan
A rare slice of architectural history just hit the market in Midland, Michigan. Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac, the multilevel dwelling was designed in 1936 by acclaimed architect Alden B. Dow, FAIA, for George Greene, a plant engineer at the Dow Chemical Company. Since then, the residence has been thoughtfully cared for, and it was even added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
The Green Residence was designed in 1936 by Alden B. Dow, a prominent architect based in Midland, Michigan. "The home sits on perhaps the most serene little street in town," says listing agent Badger Beall. "It offers privacy, yet open views to the Midland Country Club golf course."
Floor-to-ceiling stained glass bathes the main foyer in a warm, colorful glow.
According to public records, the 1,600-square-foot home broke ground in 1936, and it was completed at a final cost of about $16,983. To accommodate the gently sloped lot, Dow designed the property to appear as one long, rectangular structure with several low roof planes.
Upon entry, steps leads down into the home’s primary gathering spaces, including a large living room with a wall of windows designed in a sawtooth pattern. This design element is repeated throughout the interior, and it can also be seen in the chimney wood bands that point up toward the vaulted ceilings.
Once inside, steps descend to a large living area, complete with expansive glazing and exposed brick. Original built-in shelving units—both vertical and horizontal—offer ample storage.
Colorful tiles create a vibrant, patterned backsplash in the kitchen.
The property received several renovations over the years, including one that expanded the interior to 3,631 square feet. The redesigned layout seamlessly flows between indoors and out. "My favorite thing about the home is the emotionally moving living room as it transitions to the dining room, koi pond, and outdoor patio," says listing agent Badger Beall.
A cozy seating nook is nestled on the other side of the kitchen, steps from the central island.
In the dining room, a wide picture window overlooks one of two reflecting pools in the backyard.
Previous renovations introduced a number of modern amenities—including a bright kitchen with Viking appliances and custom cabinetry, a heated garage, and a roomy home office. In total, the home offers three bedrooms, two of which are located on the upper level. The primary suite features an array of built-in furniture, as well as ample natural light. Down the hall is a cozy study and storage room.
The daylit home office features custom built-ins and sweeping views of the nearby golf course.
Clerestory windows and a broad skylight illuminate the primary suite.
While the Green Residence is the second of three houses Dow designed for the cul-de-sac, the architect worked on more than 100 homes and buildings throughout Midland. "We see Alden B. Dow homes on the market a few times throughout the year," says Beall. "He was a diverse architect, so we see his work in varying sizes and price points."
Last sold in 2014 for $530,000, the Green Residence is now back on the market—this time with a slightly higher price tag of $675,000. Scroll ahead to see more of the historic home.
Bold blue tiles stretch across the walls in a bathroom located off a long, narrow corridor.
One of the home’s three bedrooms includes a spacious walk-in closet.
A concrete patio in the backyard offers an idyllic setting for entertaining.
An aerial view of the property shows the home’s rectangular core and the lush surrounding lot.
1115 W Sugnet Road in Midland, Michigan, is currently listed for $675,000 by Badger Beall of Ayre/Rhinehart Realtors.
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