The original builder of this charming Craftsman style home is unknown, however, it is believed that it was built prior to the Civil War and was a rental property for many years. The façade features classic detail and Adam ornamentation. To the casual observer there is nothing to indicate that it has been converted from residential to commercial use by VanClaire’s Decorating Studio. In this instance, the concept of adaptive use for a building in order to preserve it has been accomplished in a manner which would allow the home to be re-converted to residential use with minimal change and expense.

From 1898 until 1901, this was the home of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Harding Barnes. Mr. Barnes, a civil engineer, was the chief engineer for the Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroad and was responsible for all railroad construction. Both Mr. and Mrs. Barnes were prominent members of the ‘Society’ at that time.

From 1905 until 1909, this was the residence of the Charles B. Blair family. Mr. Blair, a native of Grand Rapids, was the son of James Blair, one of the city’s earliest postmasters. He graduated from Harvard in the same class with Teddy Roosevelt, took his law degree at the University of Michigan, and was active as an attorney for most of his life.

In 1919, Lemuel S. Hillman, a prominent member of the Grand Rapids banking community, purchased the home and engaged the services of the architect, Harvey W. Jackson, who extensively remodeled the house. In addition to the positions which he held with the Grand Rapids Trust Company, the Old National Bank and the Old Kent Corporation, Mr. Barnes served the community as a trustee of Fountain Street Church, the Isabella Home, Butterworth Hospital, a director of the YMCA and treasurer of the Grand Rapids Art Association. Your host and hostess, Mr. and Mrs. Claire VanDusen purchased this home from Mr. Hillman’s widow in 1943.

VanClaire’s was one of the oldest interior design studios in Grand Rapids. VanClaire’s was known for their custom designs, classic furniture and English antiques for discerning clients. Many of their fine pieces were actually made in their own shop, such unique lamps from unusual and interesting vases.

In approximately 1985, local attorney, Gary McInerney, purchased the building, continuing its commercial use as a law firm. In 2004, Attorney Troy W. Haney purchased the building from Gary McInerney at which time the site became the new home of DilleyHaney, P.C. Proudly, Troy W. Haney continues to operate his law firm, Haney Law Office, P.C., from this historic Grand Rapids site with respect for its history and appreciation of its truly unique character and charm.