Monday, July 1, 2013

crumbling splendor





crumbling, abandoned buildings
have always fascinated me...
there is something so poignant in the boarded windows and shuttered doors...
I think about all the stories that rooms could tell...

imagine what these rooms know...
the following photos are of the 
in Traverse City






this group of buildings were
once a huge mental health facility...





"In 1885 the state of Michigan chose Traverse City as the site for the Northern Michigan Asylum, a hospital dedicated to the idea that fresh air and beautiful surroundings could ease the suffering of the mentally ill".






"the hospital closed in 1989 but it's extensive forested grounds...






and stately Castle like buildings have now been preserved."








a development company has been renovating the buildings and turning them into mixed use buildings...




the renovated building below...





features restaurants and shops on the main floor and condos on the top floors...






It is quite an amazing undertaking and the new spaces are gorgeous...






though we were at the end of my trip, I will make sure to spend more time here when I get back to TC..




there are trails all over the grounds for running and hiking, skiing and birdwatching...






next time we will definitely 
have a lovely lunch at 


and spend some time 
in the shops..

I will be back with a new post before I take some time off for the holiday weekend.. 


C4N!