245 Briarwood Avenue SE

You may remember this charmer when it last hit the market about a year ago- it was designed and renovated by interior designer Sarah Sherman Samuel, not as a spec flip, but as a personal project that married its classic storybook character with modern aesthetics and function. It found a buyer quickly, and that buyer planned it to be their forever home. Over the course of the past year, they spent accordingly- investing over $130,000 into the property, layering pride of ownership onto an already outstanding base. Their circumstances changed, making this special property now available just a year later- and at an even better value than it was the first time. Recent updates include all new landscaping, underground sprinkling, a fully finished basement living room with private walk out- complete with millwork, lighting, and wired for sound; refinished hardwood floors on the main level; for peace of mind, asbestos was professionally removed in the basement along with all the old boiler pipes. Custom cabinetry was added in the laundry area, as well as glass block windows; the laundry tub was even reglazed. Plans were also made to finish out the large attic into an expansive additional living space (full design plans are provided with the house). The best of the original design was kept, but many great updates were added. A new brick paver pathway was added from the driveway to the front door, seamlessly matching the existing original walkway from the front door to the street. New copper gutters and extra wide, high flow gutters were added. There is original Pewabic tile floor in the entryway, flanked by built-in bench seating and a coat closet. The fireplace has its original limestone mantel and surround, and double doors at the right which lead to a light-bathed office, library, or study overlooking the beautiful grounds of Aquinas College. Luxurious natural stone with gorgeous profile details was added throughout the home. The kitchen was completely redesigned and renovated in 2024, with classic elements that reflect the original character of the home while adding modern function and flow. The buttery kitchen cabinetry is complemented by aged brass hardware; the island is in American black walnut, and features integrated drawers and a built-in dishwasher. The marble countertops are in Calacatta Rosa and have a striking double bullnosed edge. Pop-up brass outlets, tumbled travertine stone flooring, and brass fixtures add style, texture, and function. All kitchen appliances were new in 2024, and include a Fisher & Paykel refrigerator with a custom cabinet; panel-ready Bosch dishwasher; and a Hallman range with a custom plaster hood. The kitchen opens graciously to the formal dining room, offering amazing sight lines and great flow from kitchen to dining room to entryway and living room. The main level powder room features handmade mosaic zellige tile flooring, dreamy Tiffany green marble countertops, brass fittings, and tulip print wallpaper. There is decorative lighting throughout, including fixtures from Soho Home and SSS x Lulu & Georgia. There are three generously sized bedrooms and two full baths upstairs, including a primary with double closets and an en-suite bathroom with finely patterned floor to ceiling Zia tile, heated marble flooring, and a custom vanity. A new and larger glass panel was added to the shower in 2026. You would be hard pressed to find a better location- in East Grand Rapids and with top rated East schools, but close to Eastown and right across the street from the beautiful grounds of Aquinas College. The neighborhood is established and friendly- there is always someone passing by walking their dog. It's just .4 miles to Eastown shopping and dining; .5 miles to Wilcox Park playground; .8 miles to EGR Gaslight Village; 1 mile to Reeds Lake; 1 mile to the Fulton St Farmer's Market; convenient to Wealthy and Cherry Street shopping and dining; and just 2 miles from downtown Grand Rapids. Now available to the next lucky buyer- possession is available at closing.