In 1948, Harvey L. Bolkema picked up a brush, shook a hand, and made a promise. That promise — to deliver honest work at a fair price, every single time — became the foundation of HL Bolkema Decorating Company.

Harvey believed that a man’s word was his bond. In an industry where corners could be cut and quality could be compromised, he chose a different path. He showed up early, stayed late, and never delivered anything less than his best. That’s the West Michigan way.

Over 75 years later, that same spirit runs through everything we do. From the commercial high-rises of downtown Grand Rapids to the industrial facilities that power our economy, to the homes where families gather — Harvey’s legacy lives on in every coat we apply, every surface we protect, and every relationship we build.

The architecture of our city tells the story of our work. Harvey didn’t just paint buildings. He helped build a community, one project at a time.