Architecture critic Amanda Harrell-Seyburn says: Neglected garage doors diminish the overall attractiveness of this early 20th century house. Everyone thinks garage doors are no big deal. All too often, people choose doors that are fairly commonplace.

With housing values unlikely to increase in the near term, why not invest in energy-saving measures that not only reduce your energy bills but also make you money? Lansing resident Pat Ballentine has provided us with an inspiring example of how sustainable design can be a wise investment for your pocket book and the environment.

Address: 1542 N. High St., Lansing Owner: Wanda Lester Assessed value: $28,300 Owner says: Could not be reached for comment Architecture critic Amanda Harrell-Seyburn says: A damaged roof detracts from the beauty of this craftsman style house.

Few, very few, Americans live in architectdesigned homes. In fact, architects design less than 2 percent of American homes. You can understand why Addiann Hinds could hardly believe her luck when presented with the opportunity to buy an architect-designed home overlooking the Red Cedar River near Potter Park.

Architecture critic Amanda Harrell-Seyburn says: Original Hot ‘n Now buildings are becoming an incredibly rare find. Although most have been torn down, a shuttered one located at the corner of Larch and Liberty streets seems to have escaped demolition, patiently waiting for someone to do something with it.

Property: Capital Area District Library (Downtown), Lansing Every community has a library, the lucky ones have several, but how often do we really take the time to appreciate the buildings? Lansing is blessed with a library that is an architectural landmark designed by local modernist architect Kenneth C.

Property: 413 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Lansing Owner: Ingham County Land Bank Fast Track Authority Assessed: $27,000 Owner says: It’s coming down Architecture critic Amanda Harrell-Seyburn says: Look closely. Obscured by the heavily boarded-up face of 413 S.

Labor Day traditionally marks the end of summer and indicates that cooler autumn days are just around the corner. There is no better way to enjoy the final days of summer than on a front porch like this elegantly refined one at 1416 N. Genesee Drive, between Jenison and Westmoreland avenues, on Lansing’s west side.

Architecture critic Amanda Harrell-Seyburn says: Shuttered mid-block between Pleasant Grove Road and Richmond Street is one of Lansing’s most diminutive residences, 2212 W. Jolly Road. With a footprint of less than 500 square feet, this 1 1/2-story house takes advantage of every inch.

Hear “urban farming” and think “oxymoron?” The reality is that farming has an incredibly urban tradition. In fact, the first cities in human history occurred as a direct result of the simultaneous agricultural revolution of the Neolithic period.