GRANDVILLE, Mich. - A new apartment complex in Grandville is getting mixed reviews on social media, but despite the criticism, the owner of the Grand Castle Apartments says there is a waiting list to get into his unique complex.
The 1.3 million square foot structure is the brainchild of local developer, Roger Lucas, who has a fascination with castles. "It's special, unique, it's inspirational. So that's why I did it," said Lucas.
The Grand Castle is modeled after a popular tourist destination in Germany, called Neuschwanstein Castle. "It's the most toured castle on earth. Disney's patterned after it; it's magnificent when you see it."
The 522-unit apartment complex, located just off I-196 along 28th Street in Grandville, took over two years to build. Lucas admits there were a lot of complications along the way. The challenges included finding European windows that met code here in the United States. Then, there was the process of wiring the massive building with fire alarms. Lucas says it will all be worth it when it's done.
The amenities include a pool, fitness center and a library fit for a king. "There is a double curved stairway to the second floor and windows that look out over Grandville." A 6-foot cuckoo clock will also be installed outside the library.
The floor plans range from studios to a penthouse suite. Prices will range from $700 to $5000. "We have granite countertops inside. Usually things you'll see in a nice high-end apartment. We have 750 parking spaces which is unusual." The complex also sits next to a 28-acre lake which will be accessible to all residents. Lucas is confident he can fill all 522 apartments. “We have a lot of demand in GR. I have no problem with that."
Lucas knows his Grand Castle comes with controversy. On Facebook, some have called it an "ugly fake castle" or a "disaster of epic scale Grandville." The city, which approved the plans, says the property is already zoned for high density use. It was previously a mobile home park and had been vacant for 10 years. The city hopes the new complex will help revitalize the area.
“If you don't like it, it's ok. The reality is some will, some won't." Right now, Lucas says there are 100 people set to move in with another 350 people on the waiting list. He thinks it will become a West Michigan landmark that people will want to come and see.
"I always thought when I saw castles in Europe, it would be fun to stay there. Now, people can."
The final phase will be the certificate of occupancy, which is expected to happen in late September. If all goes as planned, residents could be moved in by the end of October.
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