What a Transformation!

Anyone who remembers accountant Paul Smith’s old office building at 2 West Hitt Street, on Route 64 in Mt. Morris, will testify that its transformation into County Line Design is remarkable. Sleek, simple lines, a new black roof, fresh white exterior, and lots of windows give it a clean, modern look. There isn’t a better example of Jeremy Nesemeier’s architectural design skill than his new office, which opened for business in March.

Nesemeier has a degree in Architectural Drafting and Design and worked for a firm in Loves Park for 14 years before venturing out on his own (coincidentally) at the beginning of COVID in 2020. “Working from my home office (in Mt. Morris) was fun for a couple years,” admitted Nesemeier. “Driving by this building a few times a day made ideas start bouncing around in my head. It looked like something with a bit of potential.”

Potential was about all it had. It needed major repair. During the planning and reconstruction, he learned how the Mt. Morris Economic Development Corporation (EDC) could help and worked closely with Executive Director Paula Diehl to obtain grant funding and a loan. That inside look at the EDC was an eye-opener, and he appreciates how they can help new and existing businesses.

Despite redesigning his own office, Nesemeier focuses primarily on residential drafting and design for new construction rather than renovations, due to current market demand. He admits that renovation is more challenging. “Trying to put the puzzle back together is harder.” Clients primarily live in Ogle, Lee, and Whiteside counties, though he receives calls from across the country.

Nesemeier is also venturing into panelized building through Amwood Building Systems. He considers their system a way to potentially help owners build their dream homes. “For every five homes I design, usually only two get built.”