Mega thanks to reader Ron for spotting this gem — a 1962 home in Rockford, Michigan (near Grand Rapids) that includes a spectacular two-lane bowling alley in the basement. This is beyond amazing! The house is currently for sale, it’s listed at $189,000 by Theresa Robinson of 616 Realty (listing now ended.) I talked to Theresa via phone to get permission to show this photo, and she explained that the house has been in the same family since they built it — with great care — in 1962. The original family member loved to entertain … and yes, loved to bowl! He got the bowling alley components from a bowling alley in Lansing, Mich. that was going out of business. Then, he built the house around the bowling alley. Theresa said that the local newspaper wrote a feature story about the house when it was finished.
The house is a wonderful time capsule a number of other ways — it does not appear to have been re-muddled. Original bathrooms, kitchens upstairs and down, great space, great finishes. But the bowling alley: Blow me away!
Jane / MulchMaid says
Un-freakin’-believable! Forget the west coast: I was meant to live in Michigan! Thanks, Ron, Pam and Theresa Robinson, for this total Monday perfection. I just hope this fabulous home finds the perfect retro-renovation-minded owner.
clampers says
Oh my GOD!!! So cheap!
Plus there is a full wet bar and pool table downstairs!
And a hot tub and pool outside?!?!
What a steal! Someone snatch this up quick. This is pretty much the perfect house.
Mod Betty / RetroRoadmap.com says
I have to add another OMG to this – how freakin fabulous! I’d love to have a bowling alley in the Hacienda basement – but candlepin of course, since I’m from New England 🙂
Billie says
I was on vacation in MI 2 weels ago and had lunch in this town… Beautiful area and really cool house….If I was just 2000 miles closer I’d put a bid on it
Queen of Fifty Cents says
Wow. And here we thought our tennis court was kind of cool!
Lisa Kmecik says
OMG this is HEAVENLY!!!!!!!!!!!! DROOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What a FIND!!!!!!!!!
Eartha Kitsch says
This one’s going to haunt me. I waaaaaaaaaaant it. Or at least to be best friends with someone who owns it.
STL Mom says
That house is wonderful! Not just the bowling alley, although that takes the cake. I also love the sun porch with the flagstones and the two-way fireplace between the living room and dining or breakfast room. And for $210,000? Wow!
pam kueber says
$189,000 !
Lou Meigs says
Oh, My, Goodness! We are all sitting here in lust! Husband and children alike!!!
Charlotte says
Mom, Dad, I have an important announcement to make: I’m in love! With a house, but still….