We sold a historic estate, and I get doves! YEA!

Hi everyone!  Before I begin this post, I wanted to give you an update on the Simply Buckhead photoshoot.  It went great!  We finished everything!  Whew.  It was all hands on deck there at the end, but we actually did it!  I love the way it turned out.  A huge thank you to Laure Green Thome for all her hard work. It will be published in the March/April issue. I will let you know as soon as it comes out. They have asked me not to publish any pictures of the house until the magazine is published, so we will have to wait until then. Of course my uncle took beautiful pictures of the house and I will share them with you as soon as the magazine comes out. Thank you all for your support, especially readers who wrote to me offering help. I really appreciate it!

So, on to this post! Susan Cross sold Glennis Beacham's listing on Valley Road. This was such an exciting sale because it was one of the best pieces of Atlanta Real Estate on the Market! The house is beautiful, but so is the land! So get a tour of the home, please take a look at this post I wrote. One of my favorite features of the house is this dovecote. I fell in love with it the first time I saw it! I took a ton of pictures of the doves. (Yes, i think I can officially say i am obsessed with birds!) I love this little guy... just taking a bath in his food! Look at his friends above him! Here they are just hanging out like a little family. Well, guess what? The doves need a new home, and guess who wants to give them a home? ME! More birds to add to my little flock! I am so excited I can't see straight! I found out today they are kind of domesticated, and they have babies. HEAVEN!!! I can just go out and hold them whenever I feel the need to hold something tiny (which is often... have you seen my dog Sister?). I've been missing my chicks now that they are all grown up, but I do love their personalities! They have so much attitude this time of year. Tomorrow the new doves come... so I have to hurry home tonight and prepare a place for them :) YYYEEEAAAA Question. What should I name them? If there are 6 I am thinking: Rachel, Ross, Monica, Joey, Phoebe, and Chandler. Too much? What are your ideas?

I've never shown you this house, but I love it!

Hello everybody!  Whose ready to see the first house I am going to feature this year?  Drumroll please! It's an amazing Atlanta Real Estate Listing from Glennis Beacham. Click here to view the listing. Built circa 1937.

It's located on one of my favorite streets, Habersham. I actually lived a few doors down from this house for a while (with my mom), but I never knew it was there. It was such a surprise to pull into the driveway and find it.

It was decorated by Patricia McLean. I did not know Patricia's work before this house, but I am a fan!

This is the living room, which is to the right of the foyer. It is so elegant and "Old Atlanta."

Here it is from the other side. You can see the foyer through the doorway. I love that mirror.

This office is located on the other side of the foyer.

And this is the doorway to the dining room, which can be seen from the foyer. I actually an a big fan of French doors on the inside of a house. They allow you to get natural light but still have some separation.

And here is a better view of the dining room. It's just simple and elegant. I am also a fan of the round table. Perfect for a square room!

This doorway leads from the dining room out to the back garden.

This might be my favorite room in the house: the family room. I love all the light... and it's cozy and classy, two of my favorite things!

The other side of the room... wouldn't it be great to sit here and read a book? (speaking of, have you made a suggestion for my next project?) And finally a detail of the fireplace... and here's the best part... those pictures above the fireplace are actually all connected and you can pull them away to find the tv! Awesome, huh?

Of course we have to see the kitchen! It's like a blank canvas, and you know how I feel about subway tile (have to have it!)

Here we are in the master! Nice and spacious with a fireplace.... perfect!

A nice little detail of the master.

And of course the master bath. So handsome.

Even the guest rooms are beautiful!

Let's go outside.

here we are in the garden. It's it fantastic... and doesn't it make you long for summer weather and BBQs? (My mouth is actually watering and my skin feels a bit sunburned...)

This view of the back of the house shows the upper level porch, which is accessible from the master. You can also see the master's Juliet balcony.

Here is the pool... ahhh it would be perfect for a pool party....

And the back yard...

Shall we go into the guest house?

I don't know about you, but I would be tempted to live out here! Isn't it perfect? I love the ceiling and all the blue and white...reminds me of the infamous beach house in Somethings Gotta Give.... (swoon!).

Isn't this cute kitchen? I love the built-in eating area too.

And the bedroom :)

Last but not least....

There is nothing I love more than a painting of the house in the house!!!!! I am being totally serious. Isn't this painting fantastic? I actually did a really fun painting of my own house and have it framed and hanging up in my bedroom... they are such a fun portrait of life. This make me smile so much when I saw it.

Happy Tuesday everybody :)

Imagine Making Christmas Cookies in these Kitchens!!!

I love holiday baking, but I have a tiny kitchen with lime green countertops...  you can barely even turn around in it.  I still manage to churn out about 200 Christmas cookies every year.  Can you IMAGINE how many cookies I could make if I had the privilege of baking in some of these kitchens? (all Atlanta Real Estate Listings from Beacham & Company)  

This fantastic kitchen is from the Atlanta Holiday House 2009 (read post here). Listing by Troy Stowe.

There is so much work space here! I also like the two islands so I could have several work stations going....

This kitchen is from the Atlanta Holiday House 2010. Designed by Harrison Design Associates. Built by Steven West Custom Homes.Listing by Troy Stowe.

This is a similar set-up. If I had kids, I would have them all sit around at the island and be testers!!! It would also keep them out of my work space... One of these days maybe!

While both of these kitchens are obviously gorgeous, I could also see myself cooking in some other kitchens...

See the post about this listing here. Architect: Historical Concepts.Listing by Glennis Beacham.

This kitchen is so warm! I love the butcher block top on the island. The double ovens would be very helpful for cooking huge batches of cookies... and then I could fit all of my mixing bowls right there into that beautiful farm sink! And then that rustic hood would be useful if I burnt a batch (I get distracted, so it happens!)

See the post about this listing here. Designed by Harrison Design Associates. Kitchen Design by Design Galleria.Listing by Glennis Beacham.

This is one of my favorite kitchens! I love it because it opens to the family room, so you could bake but still watch your family hanging out. I also like the two sinks. I am VERY messy when I bake.

Read the post about this home here. Listing by Janey Lowe.

This is a true family kitchen. I love all the counter space, the warming drawer, and the abundance of natural light. Also, see the mixer sitting right there on the counter? I have that same mixer! See, it was meant to be! Mine is even white :)

Built by YM Derazi.Listing by Nan Haverty.

A kitchen after my own heart! I love the grey subway tile and the wide plank floors. The "legs" of the island are very cool! I am just noticing those for the first time! What a great modern touch. Also, if you look at the range you can see that there are drawers under it rather than ovens. I like this because it offers great storage right under the range! No more walking around with flour on my hands looking for another cookie sheet!

Home designed by Spitzmiller & Norris.Listing by Glennis Beacham.

I ALMOST have no words to describe my love for this kitchen! (yea right, when has that ever happened!) Two huge islands?? Am I dreaming? Look at the refrigerator! Eggs, milk, butter, oh my! Give me a minute to compose myself....

Listing by Sally George.

How cute is this?? I love the red island! That backsplash is also fantastic. I like the type of double ovens where one is big and the other is a little smaller. The smaller one heats up quickly and is perfect for smaller batches of cookies :) Also, I wanted to point out that sink. The cookie sheets would fit right in there! I don't clean the sheets myself... that's Matthew's job for getting to eat them all... but I am sure he would enjoy that feature.

What do you guys think about these kitchens? Aren't they wonderful?

If you think of me over the weekend, imagine me standing in my tiny kitchen, wearing an orange apron, surrounded by green counter tops covered in flour, with butter in my hair and milk on my shoes... with a HUGE smile on my face.

Merry Christmas my friends!

Remember to enter the giveaway if you want the calendar! It ends tonight.

Frazier and Bodin Classic

It's one of the best pieces of Atlanta Real Estate for sale today! This home is a Frazier and Bodine classic in the heart of Buckhead.

Listed by Glennis BeachamThis home was built in 1927 and as a true Tuxedo Park classic. I was so excited we got the listing and I got to go photograph it!

It sits on almost an acre and a half, and the landscaping is seriously spectacular. It almost feels like you are in a fantasy world... or at least on a huge manor in England! (basically the same thing, according to me!)

The foyer is beautiful and sets the tome for this handsome Tudor home. I love the Tudor arches in all the doorways!

This is the formal living room.

Isn't the light amazing? It actually reminds me of the Azalea House (also by Frazier and Bodin).

And the mantel shot!!! You guys know I'm a fan. It is so ornate, and I love the shield!

This is what I would consider the library. It's off the formal living room. I am a big fan of the arched bookcases :)

This shot is from the foyer into the formal living room. You can see the staircase here.

And this is from the foyer into the dining room.

I love the coffered walls in this dining room. So handsome. And the bay window (is that right?) allows for a ton of light!

This is the breakfast room, which showcases that gorgeous hallway!

Here is a closer shot.

And the kitchen! Perfect for a cook :)

Here is the family room. Aren't the arches amazing?

And then of course we have the office. I love the arches above the windows. Such a perfect detail!

And here is it from the other side :)

So do you love this house?

If so, be sure to enter my calendar giveaway, because this house is on the front and back!!

My Favorite House- A Once in a Lifetime Post

Hello everybody!  How are you guys?  I feel like it's been forever since I've talked to you.  It has been so busy around here at Beacham & Company! You would not believe it!Anyway, while I LOVE to be busy I miss getting to spend time with you guys... so in order to make it up to you I am offering you a once in a lifetime post.

If you've ever read my blog before, I'm sure you know my COMPLETE OBSESSION with this house. I have gone on and on about it in the past... In fact, in a very strange way it's the house that got me to start this blog. When I saw this post on Holly's blog "Things That Inspire," I contacted her to ask her a few questions. She told me a little about blogging, and here I am.

So, to continue with the story, I started this blog, but never featured the house... And then Holly wrote about the house again, but this time on the AH&L blog in a post called Twenty Beautiful Homes, Take Two. While that post was up, I decided it was finally time to feature the home on my blog and show some never-before-seen pictures of the house. And guess what? People out there were reading... first of all, I got to meet Margaret Bosbyshell, who was the interior designer for the home. I got to go to lunch with her and her daughter. I loved just sitting and talking to them... of course I went on and on about my love for the famous green wallpaper. Thank you again so much for lunch Margaret. I loved meeting you guys. Someone else out there was reading too, and she agreed with me that this is the best looking kitchen she had ever seen, and you know what? SHE BOUGHT THE HOUSE!! (Home was listed by Linda Williams and Neno Schildgen of Beacham & Company) Can you believe it?? Is that the most amazing blogging story you're ever heard, or what? Well, it gets better. The lady who was buying the house asked me to lunch. So I got to meet her, and she's amazing! It's like we had been friends for years. We talked about our mutual love for the house, and there was an instant connection. And the story gets even better. Right after I had lunch with her I had to call architect Duane Stone about a completely unrelated topic, and we started talking about the house. I am not sure if I have mentioned this before, but he did a total renovation of the house. I wasn't sure until I started talking to him what exactly he was responsible for, but it turns out it was a lot. He agreed to meet me and the new homeowner over at the house and walk through it with us. And not only that, but he brought presents! Duane brought pictures of the house before he designed the renovation, and he also brought the plans. I was like a kid in a candy store. So, for this post I went back through all the pictures of the house I have taken while it's been on the market. Usually when I go shoot a house I take "test pictures" that I never end up using. In this case I actually saved them, so I have a few "undoctored" and never-before-seen pictures of my own I am going to show you just to give you a sense of how much the house has changed. The above picture shows the front elevation before Duane started working on it. You may notice it's missing the now famous rotunda. Here is a picture of the side of the front elevation. You can see how they expanded the top level... This is the plan of the front elevation as he originally drew it. You can see it does not have the rotunda. It actually kept an entrance similar to the one on the original house, but before they started construction he and Sumter Bradwell (the builder) both thought it needed a little something more. And that's how they created the rotunda! When we were there I noticed that the windows were actually curved, which I had never noticed. You can see the curved windows in these "test photos." He also showed us the photos of the original back of the house. The thing that looks like a chimney was actually an elevator shaft, which has since been removed. This view is of the side of the house. This is a photo of what it looks like now. Can you believe the difference? And this is a picture of the garage/guest house before it was renovated. And this is a picture of it now. This picture is from the front and the other picture is from the side, but you can see the improvements. This is a photo of the side porch that leads into what is now the dining room. Here is a picture I took of the same area the first time I went to the house. It seems like the gate and columns are the same, but the dining room is all new. This is the side of the house looking into the dining room before Duane's renovation... And this is the beautiful window he and Sumter added. You may recognize the dining room from the cover of "The Beacham Series" a while back. Well, until I met with Duane I thought that the dining room was all Neel Reid. Wrong. Does this look familiar? With this once piece of paper Duane convinced me he is a genius. He created the room I dream about. This space is always in the back of my mind, setting the bar for architectural elegance and mastery. These are the doors we saw above through the columns. Even the drawing is breathtaking. I want to say a special thank you to new homeowner and for Duane Stone for including me in the meeting. It was better than meeting the author of your favorite book. Duane, you did a masterful job, and to this day it's my favorite home in Atlanta. Congratulations to all!

A visit with Keith Summerour

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting with Keith Summerour.  If you read this blog, you know what a thrill that was for me. He gave me a tour around his building.  I was amazed.  It's gorgeous. It's near Atlantis Station, but you would never know it.

So this picture shows it within the context of it's surroundings...

Once you walk in the courtyard it's like being in a different world!

Aren't these arches beautiful?

Can you imagine walking up these stairs every day?  How could you not be inspired?

The stairs are a copy of Michelangelo’s Laurentian Library stairs in Florence, Italy.

My favorite part about this space is the exposed ceiling and the windows.  There is such amazing light in here.

So, as I was talking to Keith I officially decided he's a genius.  You can see his genuine passion shine through when you talk to him!  We sat and talked for a while, and he told me about this article he wrote about rammed earth.  It was not something I had ever really thought about, but the more I listed to him, the more excited I got about it.  For me, that's the mark of an exceptional person, when their passion is contagious.

I asked if I could share the article with you guys, because I had an inkling it would be every interesting to you are well, and Keith was nice enough to say yes! So here it is...

Rammed Earth Walls For The Farm By: Keith Summerour

In the never ending search for cost effective, yet substantial construction techniques, I am forever finding that our predecessors had perfected cost efficient, locally supplied buildings long before modern construction technology entered the scene. In fact, one of the oldest, most long lived erection concepts is the use of dirt. That’s right, soil when compacted to 50% of its normal volume becomes 60% the strength of concrete and lasts, well, practically forever. This ancient building type has been employed for thousands of years. Sections of the Great Wall of China, churches, plantation houses and garden walls have used this method throughout human history.

In the United States, rammed earth structures were exposed to the public through a book by S.W. Johnson named “Rural Economy” in 1806. Rammed earth buildings lost popularity and were soon forgotten as a construction method after World War II when there was a need for quickly constructed houses and manufactured material costs dropped significantly due to industrial output for the war effort.

Today there are the same sound reasons to employ rammed earth technology in constructing a shelter or fence/wall as in the past – it is your materials from your land, it is very energy efficient, uses only locally supplied resources (it is sustainable) and fast (taking 2/3’s the time of typical masonry structures) and is very durable (you are making man made sedimentary rock). What you need to know: • Soil type - The best is 70% sand, 30% clay with low organic content. Georgia soil is ideal as long as there is not too much clay. • Testing soil for suitability – Form a ball of mud and drop from 3’-0”. The amount of disintegration indicates its viability. • Formwork (see diagram) – Two 3/4” plywood forms or metal concrete pan forms. Very well braced.

• Tamping (Ramming) – Use pneumatic tamping devices, compress soil to 50% of the its original volume. • Time Costs – Four people can erect 300 square feet per workday

Rammed earth structures can provide an exciting, cost efficient alternative to purchasing manufactured materials and also provide a unique flavor to your rural landscape. In this time of economic uncertainty, you can always count on your land, your soil and your efforts to build structures that last. Where to learn more: • Easton, David. The Rammed Earth House. Chelsea Green Publishing Co., 1996 • McHenry, Paul Graham. Adobe and Rammed Earth Buildings: Design and Construction. University of Arizona Press, 1989

Thank you Keith!

So, what do you guys think? Have you ever seen any rammed earth structures? Do you think they could ever work here in Atlanta?

Deshawn Snow's (Real Housewives of Atlanta) House

First I want to thank everybody for their amazing guest posts last week while I was on vacation.  Can you believe the response?  Amazing!  Thank you all so much!
I had a wonderful trip taking a boat to ll the different islands in the BVIs, and I'm back refreshed and ready to roll.
We are working on the next issue of The Beacham Series around here...  so you know it's hectic!

I think we might do the same contest we did before where we offer ad space in The Beacham Series as a contest. What do you guys think? I am nervous because I hate to be the judge... I love all of me readers so much that it makes me sad to have to narrow it down to 5 entries, but at the same time I feel like it's such a great offer. I would love to hear input from you guys...

Well, guess what was the first house I photographed after I got back from vacation? Deshawn Snow's house from the Real Housewives of Atlanta!

The house is listed by Troy Stowe of Beacham & Company, REALTORS. Click here to see it.

Do you guys watch the show? I don't... so I really had no idea what to expect on the way there. Do you want to see it?

View from the front... Impressive, right?

This is what it looks like driving in the driveway...

Foyer as you walk in ... Dining Room to the left, and office to the right.

Here is the dining room. Notice how large the chairs are. Can you believe it? I bet you would feel like a 5 year old sitting in them, which would be kind of cool.

Office...

I like the walls quite a bit.

Standing in the foyer looking up.

Living room. I like the art above the fireplace a lot.

Here is Deshawn's kitchen. Does anyone know if they showed this on TV?

And on to the master...

Aren't those ceilings impressive?

I love a walk through shower.

This is the view from the master balcony.

Ok, you have to see the terrace level.

This is the first room i saw when I went downstairs... Do you see Deshawn on the wall?

There she is again!

She can just hop over to her sauna...

or go for a run...

This is her terrace level living room with the full kitchen.

Billiard area

I'm loving this theater.

I though this was a cool shot of all the electronics.

Let's go outside!

Here is a shot of the house from the side.

Playground

Full sports court

Inside the pool cabana

view from one pool cabana to the other

And finally, the picture of the back of the house. Impressive, right?

It might even look familiar!

So glad to be back! Now I just have to many comments to catch up with! Hope you all liked the tour ...

Traditional+Industrial+AWESOME! .... Also, check out my Historical Concepts Shoot in Pine Mountain, GA

Earlier this week I shot another house for Linda Williams ... and it was amazing.  I love the mix of the traditional exterior and the clean/industrial/Restoration Hardware-esque interior.

I think the photos speak for themselves, so I am going to let you just look around.

See the traditional front? Isn't this relaxing?

Now we move to the terrace level...

And here is the foyer of the upper level...

Thanks for touring the house with me!

Thanks for touring the house with me!

----- One More thing -------

I told you guys the other day that I was starting another blog, www.blaynesonething.com where I discuss my artistic goals for the next ten years. One of those goals is to shoot for an architect's portfolio, and two weeks ago that goal came true when I got to shoot this home for Historical Concepts.

Interested in Owning Your Own Golf Course?

You could if you buy Troy Stowe and Glennis Beacham's listing at 2015 Trammel Road, "La Reve."

This one-of-a-kind Norman Askins/Bonner Construction home offers 7 Bedrooms, 9 Full and 11 Half Baths. It's over 72 gated acres and has a 25-car garage that can be converted into a ballroom.

If this sounds familiar, you may remember the post I did on this home a while ago... the post with all the interior pictures.

Last week I went back and shot the home with all the beautiful Summer grass and trees... You will not believe it.

Here is the winter picture.

And here it is now. All this change in only a few months!

Can you believe the difference in the Winter light vs. the Summer light? As a photographer it has always fascinated me.... The house actually looks warmer in the winter picture, but the summer pictures show its true color much better.

Here is a picture of the golf course this winter....

And here it is now. This nine hole golf course includes replicas of the 11th and 12th holes at Augusta National.

Here you can see the club house.

And here is a tee box. Wouldn't you love to play here?

And finally the back of the house. It's big enough to play football!

In other news ... later this week I will be announcing our next giveaway. You will not want to miss this!

Two breathtaking pieces of jewelry from Nastro Bello, so get ready for that!

Dutch Colonial Gets Fresh!

Janey Lowe has a new listing!
This beautiful home is located a shot walk from Chastain Park and has an amazing backyard.

Architect: William B. Margeson

4 Bedrooms
3 Full, 2 Half Baths
+/- 1.23 Acres
Jackson School District

Here's what I love about this house. When you walk up it all feels very Dutch Colonial. It has the typical roofline, appears to be one story (it's actually 3), is made of brick, and even has a divided Dutch door on the left (a door where the top can open while the bottom remains closed). The fun part about the house is going inside where the interiors are fresh and classically updated. Perfect for a modern family who wants a huge backyard and to walk to Chastain park!

For me, Dutch Colonial homes have an almost farmhouse feel, but these interiors represent classic Atlanta style! You can see the finishes are immaculate, and there is tone of space.

Love this formal living room!

And here is the dining room. You can get a feel for the layout here by looking through the foyer and into the living room.

This brick-walled wet bar runs between the kitchen and the dining room. I love exposed brick in a home!

Can you believe the space in this kitchen? I love the pattern in the wood floor. Can't you imagine cooking with all your family gathered around talking?

I love the appliance placement in this kitchen, and that there is so much counter/prep space.

Here is a shot from the breakfast area showing the layout. You can see the wet bar to the left and the dining area to the right, and the screened-in porch beyond that.

Here is another dining area lined with windows.

Can you believe this porch? These vaulted ceilings are amazing, and look at all the privacy.

This is an additional porch off the kitchen.

And this is a shot going back into the house from the screened porch. Look at those floors!

Here we are in the family room. Again, such a clean and warm room. I love the exposed brick around the fireplace. Also, you can see the divided Duch door where the top opens while the bottom can remain closed.

Did you notice the wood floors here?

And here is a better picture of the fireplace.

This is the main level master suite. The door in the back leads out to a private master porch.

Master bath.

I love this bathtub!

Do you want to go upstairs?

Isn't this a perfect family house? Wait until you see the terrace level...

And those doors open right to the backyard...

So, what do you think? Could you see yourself living there?

Don't forget to enter my Taigan Giveaway! It ends Friday, June 11th, so you still have time!

Keith Summerour Renovation + Master Bedroom Before and After

NEW NEWS!  I found out the paint colors!  I was wrong about the whole main level being painted the same color ...  The Dining Room, Living Room and Foyer are painted Benjamin Moore 1095, The Kitchen and Family Room are Benjamin Moore HC-99.

-Original Post-

This is another of my all time favorite houses in Atlanta... one day I am going to have to do a list of them :)  Anyway, I have driven by this house a thousand times, and every time I do I slow down a little as I pass. This home represents historic Atlanta, with the gracious Southern porch and doorway, and the warm brick.  It's located in one of the best family neighborhoods in Atlanta, Kingswood. This home is listed by Nan Haverty of Beacham & Company, REALTORS. Click Here to see the listing. Year Built 1963 5 Bedrooms 5 Full, 2 Half Baths Over an Acre Lot This is the first house I've ever shot for Nan, and all I knew was that it was on Foxcroft. As I drove down the street looking for the right house, I saw this house at the end of the street. As I contemplated whether or not to drive by it before or after I met Nan, I realized IT WAS THE HOUSE I WAS GOING TO SHOOT! Slightly panicked, I ran up to the front door, met the homeowner, and blurted out, "I love your house! I have been obsessed with it forever!" Maybe too much? :) Nan told me that the house was renovated by Ketih Summerour, and I think you all know how I feel about his work (love). Keith renovated the home in his signature clean-lined, classically finished-style. The homeowner decorated the home herself, and Nan offered suggestions about the best way to present/market the home. This is one of Nan's special services as an agent. She comes from a design background, has an incredible eye, and is able to make easy and affordable suggestions to her clients. Wait until you see her work in the master bedroom. So, this is the foyer. The front door with the leaded glass detailing is classic and beautiful. If you walk through the door in front of you, you would be in the formal living room. If you turned around 180 degrees you would be looking into the dining room.

Here is a photo from the desk in the formal living room looking back through the foyer and into the dining room. I love how the rug picks up all the hues in the floor, and then it echoes those Nectarine curtains in the dining room. Note: Nan told me that the same paint color was used throughout the main level. It's such a great color. It seems to pick up the attributes in each room, and sort of mirrors them in a way. Here we are in the formal living room. The window size is really something to notice here. They are larger than most windows, which allows for plenty of light in both the morning and afternoon. Detail shot of the table and sofa. The pinks and golds mix so well together. The doorway at the back of the photo leads through to the family room. Here is the family room with the pass through window to the breakfast area. See how the paint here seems much more yellow than is did in the other two rooms? I love the fireplace here and the mix of the elegant marble and mantel with the rustic furniture. If you turned a little to the right you would see this... Two things to notice here, the wall of windows along the back, and the dark stained wood floors, something very characteristic of Keith. Here is the breakfast area. Doesn't the paint seem almost like a taupe with a little pit of light pink? See those little bookcases built into the hallway? That's something you don't think about a lot, but it's the mark of a well-designed/built home. I never thought about them before Glennis put them into her personal home, but now I see them from time to time and always think about what a great idea they are. You may have seen them before in the dining room/cover shot from this home. How amazing is this kitchen? The finishes are so clean and neutral! So, if you turned around 180 degrease, you would see the stairs to your left and the back hall/office/mudroom to the right. My favorite thing about these stairs is that the middle window on the landing actually passes through the landing, so you can see the other half of it as you go to the terrace level. I also really love that the iron detailing echoes the pattern of the leaded windows in the front door and door surround. This is the desk in the back hall. And the elegant powder room in the back hall. And the back entrance with the coat rack and the window seat. Now we are going to circle back around to see the dining room, which connects the foyer and the kitchen. Isn't it beautiful? This photo gives a good idea of the home's floorplan. This is the niche on the left side of the dining room. You can see in the top of the photo that the niche is the same shape as the window between the breakfast area and the family room. Want to go upstairs and see the master bedroom transformation? Here is the master bedroom the first time I went to the house. I think it looks beautiful, but Nan had a different vision for the room. According to Nan, "As a realtor, I advised the sellers to let me stage the home, in particular the master, as it was such a fabulous room and she had used furniture she had from another style home. We did it in a budget. We bought the neutral headboard at Havertys and the linens on the bed at Linens and Things. I wanted the room to have a warm, elegant feel, as the ceilings are high and the space is large. We also pulled up the rug, which was heavy in color, and once it was removed and the beautiful hardwoods were available to the eye, it totally transformed the room all was done for about 1500." Can you believe how much the larger the room looks? I was blown away. Are you? Master bath. Excellent, right? This is the guest room. Look how beautiful the fixture and the built-ins are. I think Nan is planning on doing a make over in this room as well, so we will have to check back. Now to the terrace level... How great is the fireplace? There is also a gym and a guest suite on the terrace level. Now we are in the back formal garden. The master suite is above the covered eating area. This window door leads into the kitchen/breakfast area. This path leads to the upper yard. Back of the home. This gate is in the lower yard, and it leads to this path, which goes along the stream in the front of the house. So, what do you guys think? What did you think about the paint color, the mater bedroom redesign, the grounds? You guys will not believe the giveaway that starts in a week or two! It's worth $1200 and something every woman will want! Two words, black pearls. You may want to sign up to get this blog delivered to your e-mail so you don't miss it!

The Azalea House, Originally Owned by Charles H. Black

This one-of-a-kind home was originally owned by Charles H. Black, the original developer of the Tuxedo park Neighborhood, one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Buckhead.  It was built in 1930 and was designed by the famous architecture team Frazier & Bodin.  It has been renovated twice by Harrison Design Associates. It is currently listed by Glennis Beacham of Beacham & Company, REALTORS. Click here to see the listing.

7 Bedrooms 8 Full, 3 Half Baths Carriage House (1 Bedroom) Guest House (2 Bedrooms) More than 3 Gated Acres

Please enjoy this photo tour through the home! (all photos by Rod Collins and Blayne Beacham)

To see more of this house, check out the post I wrote when it was on the Buckhead In Bloom Tour.

Have a great weekend everybody!

Blayne

The Andrew Calhoun Estate - One-of-a-kind Neel Reid and Phillip Shutze Home-Part 1

This is the most historic home to hit the Atlanta real estate market in years, 3418 Pinestream Road. Listed by Glennis Beacham of Beacham & Company, REALTORS.

The home was designed by Hentz, Reid & Adler in the early 1920s when the team included Neil Reid, Philip Shutze, Lewis Crook, Earnest Ivey and James Means. Historians agree Philip Shutze did the lion's share of the work and it is considered his "first house," according to this page from House Beautiful in September 1978.

He modeled the house after the Villa Cussano in Verona, Italy, which was designed by Giovanni Battista circa 1650. This photograph is from American Classicist: The Architecture of Philip Trammell Shutze.

These are the original drawings of the front and back facades, from the book American Classicist: The Architecture of Philip Trammell Shutze. You can see the influence of the Villa Cussano, Especially in the rear elevation.

In her book Peachtree Road, Anne Rivers Siddons described a "long, curving ... ribbon of asphalt that was the driveway to the Pink Castle." According to Classic Atlanta: Landmarks of the Atlanta Spirit, The Pink Castle was what Atlantans called the Calhoun-Thornwell Estate. The entrance to the home was marked by Baroque piers on West Paces Ferry modeled after those at the Villa Cuzzano. The lad has since been divided, and today these piers mark the entrance to Pinestream from West Paces Ferry. This photo is from J. Neel Reid Architect: of Hentz Reid & Adler and the Georgia School of Classicists,

Riddons wrote, "The Pink Castle was a great pile ... of pink stucco and red pantile that lay far out West paces ferry Road ... and had been built vaguely in sixteenth-century Italian style in 1923." Photo from American Classicist: The Architecture of Philip Trammell Shutze.

In the book J. Neel Reid Architect: of Hentz Reid & Adler and the Georgia School of Classicists, William R. Mitchell, Jr. wrote, "The Calhoun Estate, which was called Tryggveson, included an orchard, a garden, a lake, tennis courts, and formal gardens. This site plan is from American Classicist: The Architecture of Philip Trammell Shutze, shows how the home and gardens were designed on an axis, per the Italian model.

To see more of he history and the inside of this home, check back soon!

Are you a real estate agent in Atlanta, GA?  This home will be on Caravan tomorrow, and we would love for you to stop by!

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The Best Deal In Atlanta Real Estate, a Neel Reid Home

This is the first page of the most recent "Beacham Series."

Does that house look familiar? Guess what? It's back on the market, and it could be yours! This is literally the deal of the century. If I could buy it, believe me, whatever it took, I would!!

Any guesses why it should look familiar?

Holly Street from Things that Inspire did a guest post on The Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Blog called Twenty Beautiful Homes, Take Two, and this house was on the list.

It was also the cover of our Fall 2009 Issue of "The Beacham Series."

Basically, it's one of may favorite homes OF ALL TIME. It is listed with Beacham & Company agents Neno Schildgen and Linda Williams.

Click Here to see the listing.

Built circa 1900
Renovated by Neel Reid in 1920
Interior Design by Margaret Bosbyshell (amazing!)
6 Bedrooms
6 Full, 1 Half Bath
Carriage House above 3-car garage

This was the picture we used on the invitation of the magazine release party when it was on the cover. (To read about our most recent release party click here.) I love how the monochromatic feel makes the door pop even more.

Here's some shots inside the rotunda. Can you see the inlaid star in the foyer? I really love the matching paintings that flank the foyer.

I shot this house twice.  During the two shoots they did a little re-mix... It's fun to see how things changed.  The first time I shot the living room it looked like this.

And here it is the most recent time I shot it.

Don't you love seeing one room two ways? This goes to show that everything looks great with beautiful, classic architecture!

This is a detail of the painting above the fireplace. Does anyone know who the painting is by?

The other side of the living room, taken on my first shoot.

And here it is on the second. Notice the way the Greek Key pattern on the molding is echoed in the pattern on the rug.

Gasp! Can you believe how beautiful this dining room is? It is right off the living room. You can see the lattice work through the doors of the first pictures of the living room. There are so many things I love about this photograph.

1. Reflections - an almost must have for a strong photograph.
2. Texture and repeating shapes - another must have ... plus, look at the reflection in the mirror of the texture and repeating shapes. Bueno!
3. It's a square picture, but everything is slightly off center, which makes it evenly weighted on both sides without feeling bogged down in the middle. Killer :)
4. The contrast of the black dots on the white chairs make them feel almost 3-D
5. I LOVE that the whole photo could almost be in black and white, but then there is the pop of the green fern... It's the interplay of something so structured and man made with the bright organic living form.

And that my friends, is why is in one of my favorite pictures ever, taken at one of my favorite houses ever!

Would you like to continue on the tour?

Here is the office the first time I shot it. Do you recognize the orange pillows?

And this was the second time. The sculptural quality of the artichoke against the natural shape of the birds is so strong. Don't you love all the birds in this house? How many have you seen so far? Hint, there are two birds in the dining room picture.

I think this would be considered the drawing room. It is across the hall from the formal living room. This is the first shot...

Second shot.

I believe I've said before that green and white is my favorite color combination, making this my second favorite room in the world (you will see my favorite in just a bit).

This is the view of entering the kitchen from the den. Look at those counter tops. Swoon.

Here it is from the family room. Does anybody know anything about this kitchen? Who did it? I wish they would do mine :)

And a close up of the breakfast area. Can you see the sea shells in the chandelier? What about the curtain pattern? It's funky and classic at the same time.

And of course the family room. I could hang out in here, couldn't you?

And on to the master bedroom. Amazing, right? Can you imagine getting to sleep in here very night? You'd never have to travel! Does anyone know who did the painting on the wall? Isn't it gorgeous?

This is the master from the other angle. Look at the mirror! It's like it was made to hang there!

And a close-up of the mantel. Does this look familiar to you? It should :) It's on the banner. Now you know where it came form :) It just screams Neel Reid to me. You?

Let's head upstairs.

First stop, my all time favorite room.  I said I like green and white didn't I? It's so fresh! I might just take a little nap... kidding.

Do you just adore the painting? The gold frame is ideal. (artist?)

And the little side table!!! I might have to try to find that book just to have a piece of the room.

Here is a second upstairs bedroom. What can I say, it's perfect.

The little sitting area.

This painting is by my good friend Kenson Thompson (it's a bird, are you counting?). If you don't know Kenson's work you should get to know it. She is literally a genius.

This is the hall bath. The graphic wallpaper and the tile floor make me drool :)

And here is a detail from the other bedroom upstairs. The brown and blue work so well together.

And the secluded back yard. Wanna go for a swim?

See, I told you, it is the best deal in Atlanta Real Estate! When you buy it, will you promise to invite me to all your parties?

Love, Blayne

So, which room would you pick to be YOUR room?

Did you count the birds? How many did you get?

To get your blog sent to you by email click here.

80 Valley Road on the Buckhead in Bloom Home Tour

Last week my friend Rodolfo Castro let me know about the Buckhead in Bloom Home Tour, put on by the Atlanta Preservation Center. It takes place on Sunday, April 11th from Noon-5pm (the website says it was last weekend, but it just hasn't been updated). Check out Helen Young’s blog Whitehaven for more information.

You can buy tickets the day of the event at the first stop, 205 West Paces ferry Road.

This year one of our best listings is on the tour, 80 Valley Road. This graceful Southern estate is listed by Glennis Beacham. Clem Ford designed it, and it sits on more than 4 acres. Don't miss this once in a lifetime chance to tour the inside and the gardens of the home...

Check out some of the highlights:

Photo of the side hallway to the elegant curved staircase and foyer.

Detail shot of the foyer, right when you walk in the front door.

And the shot up the stairs...

Large formal dining room.

Detail shot in the Dining room. Photo by Rod Collins.

And a mirror shot. isn't this gorgeous?

Here is the formal living room.

Fireplace in living room.

Here is the other side of the room...

And here is a detail shot from the formal living room into the dining room.

And this is the chandelier at the top of the shot.

Hallway from the foyer to the main level office. This is the opposite view from the first hallway picture I showed.

Here is the half bath on the way to the office. Isn't this fancy!

And a little shot of what's on the vanity...

Here is the office with fireplace.

And the fireplace detail...

The formal living room, which spans the back of the home, opens to the grand back porch.

Since it’s on the Buckhead in Bloom tour, the gardens must be fantastic, and they are!

The porch overlooks the flat manicured back yard and aviary. Can you See the aviary? It's to the right. Can you imagine a better place to spend a lazy afternoon? I can't... but there's more!

This is a fountain between the back lawn and the pool.

And the pool, of course!

There is an elevated private garden with quaint wood fence and fountain just off the main lawn.

These photos came from that private garden, but to see the secret garden yourself, you will need to go on the tour!

See you Sunday?

Thanks again to Rodolfo for spreading the word about the tour!

Blayne

P.S. Right now I am in Birmingham getting "The Beacham Series" printed. I am working on a shot by shot explanation of how we get the magazine from the computer on to paper. It is very cool, so come back soon.

Janey Lowe's New Listing

It's time to start working on the next "Beacham Series!" That's my busiest time of the year. To that end, I am going to have do less blogging, more photographing. To tide you guys over, I wanted to share one of Janey Lowe's new listings.

This is a great family home!

5 Bedrooms 4 Full/1 Half Bath

Enjoy the tour....

This is the view from the front door out to the fountain.

Foyer, with the dining room to the right.

Living room with the double-sided fireplace.

Here is the other side of the fireplace in the keeping room.

Large kitchen with eat-in island.

Beautiful breakfast area.

Handsome vaulted family room off kitchen. Opens to porch.

This is the Friend's Entry into the kitchen.

Main level office.

Master on main.

Master bath.

Here are the secondary bedrooms upstairs. All so spacious.

And now to the terrace level.

Terrace level living room.

Kitchen.

Office area.

Gym.

And a bedroom on the terrace level.

Beautiful courtyard at the back of the home....

And don't forget the putting green!

Happy Wednesday everybody!

For more information on this home, please view the listing.

Pringle and Smith + John Oetgen + Mason Murer Fine Art

The Perfect Storm!

This classic Ansley Park home is truly unique. It was recently listed by Sally George of Beacham & Company, REALTORS. Click here to see the listing. It was built in 1928 and designed by the powerful architectural team of Francis Palmer Smith (1886-1971) and Robert S. Pringle (1883-1937), who are responsible for such classic Atlanta landmarks as...

Photo Source the Rhodes-Haverty Building (Atlanta's tallest skyscraper until 1954) ...

Photo Source The William Oliver Building (Atlanta's first Art Deco skyscraper),

Photo Source and the W.W. Orr Doctor's Building (an Atlanta skyscraper at eleven floors)

To read more about this pair and how the helped shape the Atlanta skyline, read this article on the Georgia Encyclopedia

Note: I could not find too much information about Pringle and Smith via Google. I know that there are stores of information out there, but I can't find them! If you know where they are could you point me in that direction?

So, back to the house that's the focus of this post.

211 The Prado Year Built: 1928 Architects: Pringle & Smith Interior Design: John Oetgen

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3 Full, 1 Half

The first time I went to the house was this summer to shoot it for "The Beacham Series" Fall 2009 edition.

I knew then that John Oetgen was the designer, but he had not finished. Since I walked into a work in progress, I was less concerned with the design and more focused on the architecture. The owner told me about how thy restored the home, and how many of the architecture details were original. Some are even signed and numbered on the back by the original construction team! (Things like that make me very excited). I was so impressed with the care they used in restoring it. The pictures I took for that shoot reflect my awe over the architecture. I am going to put up some larger pictures, so hopefully you can see the details.

This lines of this mantel are so clean and fabulous.

Look at that archway. I think this staircase looks a lot like some I have seen in Neel Reid homes. This one particularly (also listed by Sally George).

Study with one of the most beautifully carved mantels I have seen.

Porch framing Midtown views.

...

On Tuesday I went back to shoot the finished product. I was literally blown away. John Oetgen finished, and it is amazing. I think what makes it so amazing is the classic architecture juxtaposed with such modern design. The tension between those two creates something truly breathtaking. Just like icing on the cake, the homeowners have phenomenal art. YOU KNOW I LOVE GREAT ART! The homeowners are involved in Mason Murer Fine Art, and it looks to me like a lot of the art came from there, but I am not totally sure about that. (again, I would love more information about that) It's amazing anyway! Something about striking art placed within the context of classic architecture makes it even better. Get ready for an amazing tour. I know many of you like to know the floor plan, so I am going to try and show the photos and explain them in a way that demonstrates that.

Detail shot of the front door. Arch, which has been repeated in the window... low doorknob... no knocker. All things I love.

Foyer shot walking through the front door. Study is through the first door on the left. Stairs to upstairs through second arched doorway on the left. Kitchen through third doorway on left. Pantry area and keeping room behind the wall with the green painting. Living room through first doorway on the right, and the dining room is through the second doorway on the right.

Study. for those of you who want to see a transformation, scroll back up to the original study picture. Wow! Also, I know this artist! It's Steve Penley! In addition to flowers, presidents and a host of other items, Steve is famous for his scenes at UGA, especially the arch. We alumni love him.

Ok, here is the living room, which is across the hall from the study. There is a screened-in porch through the doors on the left. Again, scroll back up to the mantel in the before section, and look how much better it looks with the circular mirror.

Living room detail looking out the front of the house.

And here we are turned the other way... Do you know where you are now? (Don't forget to keep an eye on the molding)

And a detail shot. I am thinking this might be my favorite shot of this house, but I am not sure. (I have a few others I will mention as well).

This is a view from the living room into the dining room. You can see the keeping room just beyond on the right.

View from the keeping room.

And from this view you can see the doors, which are beautiful. They open to a patio with a huge fireplace.

So this is the view when you walk through the dining room. Isn't the color of these cabinets great. If you turned 90 degrees to the right you would see the keeping room...

Great fireplace, right?

And here is the kitchen. Love the subway tile and the hood. Obviously a place for some serious cooking, so sign me up. I am jealous of the cookbook storage. There is a laundry in that door to the right that you can just see...

Now we head upstairs...

So, I feel like this wallpaper was just an excellent choice. I mentioned earlier how fond (understatement) I was of this staircase. This wallpaper is so great because of the transition it created between the decor downstairs and up. To me, the downstairs is more refined and elegant, while the upstairs is just plain fun and fabulous (Carrie Bradshaw flashback).

So here we are in the upper foyer. Layout: room with fireplace and awesome red chair is to the left, room with the best ceiling I have ever seen (you'll see) is to the right. Master office/sitting room to my back right and master bedroom to my back left. Oh yea, that chandelier is... I am out of good words... beautiful, amazing, perfect... take your pick.

Here we are in the room with the best ceiling ever. No explanation needed.

And the detail shot... I actually love this both as a painting, and as a photograph of a painting. I like the detail in the radiator (I think that's what it is) and the window treatment.

Here is a little detail shot of the master office. It is actually a large room, but I took this so I could remember the rug. It is straps of leather that run horizontally, and they are held together with metal rods running through them vertically. Hope I didn't confuse you :)

And here we are in the master! Look at the walls! I can't even describe them, but I think they are some type of faux leather (I mean, I don't know, it might be real! or it might not even be leather at all... I'm just a photographer, what do I know?)

This is what you would have seen if you turned just a little to the right. Those mirrors almost seem nautical to me.

This quilt was behind my back when I took both of those pictures, but it was so beautiful I couldn't resist showing it.

This is the master bath looking into the master from the room with the awesome red chair (see below). This is my second picture in the running as possibly my favorite. I like the geometric pattern of the tile and the reflections in the surfaces. There is one more, so stay tuned!

Finally, the famed red chair. Was I right, or was I right? It's awesome! Of course, I like the rest of the room too.

This is a piece hanging behind the sofa. Does anyone know the artist? It is one of my top 10 favorites of all time. Not to be strange, but this is my third option for a favorite photograph. Ii it a little awkward when you take a picture of someone's art. The focus is supposed to be their art, not yours. I absolutely respect that, and would never try to claim any of the glory, but I do love the photograph. I love the way it is situated within the frame. I love how clear the dog is, but my very very favorite part is that you can see the rest of the room reflected. You can see the window on the left side of the piece, and then you see the light streaming in right above it. Sorry to get off track.

Here is the back of the home. The homeowner told me that where I was standing was actually part of the battlefield of Peachtree Battle. If I got this wrong I'm sorry. I think I remember his saying that!

There is a guesthouse to the right. You can just see the brick corner.

Here is a picture from the living room of the guest house. It is great too!

And finally we end back at the patio and the stately fireplace. I could sit there for hours.

I hope you all enjoyed the tour of this home. I'd love to stay and chat more, but I am going to an opening at Huff Harrington Fine Art tonight, and I am very excited. Did you know? They started a blog! I can't wait to start reading it! See you next week :)

-Blayne

Every perfect day should include Neel Reid!

Some days are perfect. The only come every so often, and usually when you least expect it.

This was one of those days!

I had to drive out to LaGrange to shoot a house. I was told the house was beautiful, but that was about it. I am one of those people who loves a good drive by myself, so I had already started on the right foot. a few miles before I reached LaGrange I realized I was famished. Now, you may not know this about me, but I am a barbecue nut!! Literally! I stopped at "Roger's Pit Cooked Bar-B-Que" for lunch. It was great BBQ, and they let me take pictures of the pit for this pet project I'm doing.

After eating my pulled pork sandwich I headed on to LaGrange to photograph an amazing Neel Reid house.

(By the way, while I was there I met the couple who owns the house. They are such wonderful people, and the wife is a writer. Of course I sent her to my blog, and she encouraged me to write more. I have always thought of myself as just a photographer, but thanks to her, I have started trying to write more. I am enjoying it, so thank you!)

First, a bit about Neel Reid:

Excerpt from the Prelude of "J. Neel Reid Architect: of Hertz, Reid & Adler and the Georgia School of Classicists" by William R. Mitchell, Jr.

"For Neel Reid ... we must think back seventy years and more, to another time -- of portye cocheres and sleeping porches, French doors and parterre gardens ... We must look back through the latticework of time into the 1920s and earlier ... when Hertz, Reid & Adler came into being during the revived classicism of the beaux arts ... We must envision an (always) ambitious, growing Atlanta ... this world that Neel Reid helped to build and to give form and style ... a genius who was first and foremost an artist and tastemaker ... Let us reacquaint ourselves with this champion of architecture, gardens, and interior decoration ... who helped establish architecture and landscape architecture as a profession in his region. And let us be aware that he and his partners ... founded a Georgia school of classicists ... and set lasting professional and aesthetic standards. We recall and celebrate these achievements, especially this legacy of the artistic leader and legendary hero of the Georgia school of classicists, Joseph Neel Reid."

- See the book

William Mitchell says it better than I ever could. Neel Reid was the father of the Georgia school of classicists. He was a master of his craft and left a tremendous mark on architecture in Georgia. I remember the first time I went in a Neel Reid house. It's a strange feeling... the homes transport you back to an earlier time. They are classic and perfectly proportioned. The homes are just as beautiful and functional today as they were when they were built. The true mark of a Neel Reid home is the interplay between the home and the gardens. There is no line, no boundary. The feed off of and lead into each other. Of this, he was truly the best.

And now, on to the house.   Erin Yabroudy and Jim Warwick of Beacham & Company, REALTORS have it listed. 1002 Broad Street

This Georgian Revival home was built by Jean Clavin Farmer in 1922. It was designed by Neel Reid and built by Daniel Lumber Company.

View in through the front door. As expected, the gardens are visible through the study and out the French doors. The living room is to the left, and the dining room is to the right.

Living room with the two sets of French doors leading out to the sun porch.

Beautiful mantel detail from living room fireplace.

Beautiful light-filled sun porch. My back is to doors leading to the pool.

Detail shot in sun room.

Another view of the living room ... we turn right to go back into the main foyer...

So, here is a foyer view looking back into the living room. The Dining room is just to my left, and the study is to my back/right. (Don't miss those floors!)

View as you walk into the study at the back of the home.

This is a photo showcasing the built-ins, fireplace, and doors framing views of the back gardens.

Here is the view back through the foyer.

Dining room

Dining room fireplace detail.

and another...

This is the breakfast area, which would be just off the dining room, behind where I was standing on the overview photo of the dining room.

And the kitchen... If you had taken a right from where you were standing in the breakfast room, you would have opened into this kitchen. I could do some serious cooking in here!

These are some beautiful detail shots of the upper level Bedrooms.

Master Bedroom

Master Bedroom detail.

Master bath into master bedroom.

These are photos of her dressing area.

This is a photo of the attic bedroom.

This is a view down the back staircase, which ends in the hallway between the study area and the breakfast room.

This home is featured in the book "Private Gardens of Georgia," by Polly McLeod Mattox. Right after I left this house I went down to the Hills and Dales estate down the street and bought this book for myself. It is amazing!

That's right, The Hills and Dales Estate is right down the street!

Here is some information on the estate from the website.

The Fuller E. Callaway family home was designed by the noted architectural firm of Hentz & Reid from Atlanta. Mr. Callaway commissioned Hal Hentz and Neel Reid in 1913 and the design was completed in 1914. The home was officially opened on June 15, 1916 when Fuller and Ida celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary.

Hentz & Reid decided to locate the home on the site of the old Ferrell house which sat on the crest of the hill overlooking the garden and the surrounding countryside. Hentz & Reid were classically trained architects and drew their design inspiration from the Italianate character of the existing terraced boxwood garden. The Italian elements of the home were carefully blended with Georgian architectural details to create what Neel Reid called “Georgian Italian”. The use of stucco, Indiana limestone, and terra-cotta roof tiles for construction further accentuated the Italian villa look.

The 30-room home encompasses approximately 13,000 square feet of living space. Mr. Callaway hired Adair & Weinmeister to oversee construction. W.J. Clecker served as the building superintendent and his son Forrest D. Cleckler served as the timekeeper who kept track of numerous laborers who worked on the project. Mr. Callaway’s personal secretary, Ab Perry, handled correspondence and did most of the administrative work required to secure supplies and materials to build the home. Detailed records of the building process survive and provide much insight into the construction process. Construction was scheduled to begin in 1914, but was delayed due to the outbreak of WWI. Construction began in March of 1915 and the entire project was completed in 15 months at a total cost of approximately $125,000.

The exterior of the home has remained essentially unchanged since 1916. Hills and Dales is considered to be one of the finest homes designed by Hentz & Reid. The success of the project greatly advanced their careers and secured their reputation as one of the most important architectural firms in the Eastern United States. - Source

Please visit the website to learn more about this amazing house. They offer tours daily (I think). If you go, ask for Sue Ellen. She was so nice and gave me my very own tour of this magnificent estate! I think I may have overwhelmed her, because I was absolutely giddy!

These are not the best pictures I have ever taken, and you can only take pictures on the outside, but I know some of you (Terry!) will want to see them anyway...

After the amazing tour and photo ops at Hills and Dales, I headed back to Atlanta. Of course, I was hungry after a long day of work, so I stopped at Sprayberrys. A full day of Neel Reid and barbeque is about as good as it gets for me!

Beautiful New Listing!

Check out Susan Cross' (Beacham & Company, REALTORS) beautiful New Listing! Bedrooms: 5 Baths: 4 Full, 2 Half

You know what I love? When homeowners have amazing taste in art... and these do!

The amazing layout and spaces in this home make it unique!  I just want to go in and hang out in the kitchen...

So, Great house, right? What do you guys think?

P.S. To the winners of the giveaway, I just today got everybody's addresses, so I will send those out tomorrow. Thanks for your patience!

New Construction Thursday - Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles 2008 Christmas House

New Year, New Construction Thursday! Glennis Beacham listed the 2008 Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles 2008 Christmas House!

Architect: Harrison Design Associates Builder: Canonbury Bedrooms: 6 Bathrooms: 8 Full 3 Half

Ok, this is going to be a fun comparison! I am going to borrow some photos from Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles... and we can look at what it looked like then, and how it looks now :)

Info on the AH&L article:

Now, on to the tour...

This is the first spread of the feature in the Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles February 2009 edition.

This are my shots of the foyer, with a view back to the Grand Salon...

This shot is looking form the Grand salon to the front door .. I love how the circle effect of the stairs is continued over the door...

This is the AH&L shot of the Library. It is located to the right in the last foyer picture...

AH&L does a great job at supplying the components. Stan Topal is a fabulous designer!! I love the play of dark and light in this room, as well as the dramatic fireplace by Francois & Co. They have such amazing fireplaces. I love seeing them in homes around Atlanta.

Here is my shot of the library. It allows you to focus on the ceiling and the parquet floors, both of which are beautiful!

This is a shot of the Dining Room, which is across from the Library. This is from the magazine. Designer, Carol Weaks of C. Weaks Interiors

And here is the Dining room now. Again, I love seeing the floors.

On to the Grand Salon..

Designer Suzanne Kasler (who is amazing! Her book was on my Christmas List)

Here is the Grand Salon now. Obviously from a different angle.

This is the keeping room. I do not have a shot of this room. One of the designers, Mary Allison Buzzell, is a friend of mine. She is such a cute new mom, and she is the author of The Buzz Interiors (Great blog! Check it out!) Here is a link to Gilstrap Edwards Interior Design

Here is the Breakfast area. it is so beautifully decorated, my photo can't even compare :)

Designed by Liz Williams and Bowdre George Liz Williams Interiors

Here is my photo of the kitchen. It was done by Design Galleria, and is so amazing. I cannot find a picture of it from the showhouse, but I wish I could.

And finally, on to the master.

It's so luxurious!

Design by Douglas Weiss Interiors

And one last thing. I want to show a photo of one of the Guest Suites.

I absolutely adore this room! If I had a bedroom to design, I would want it just like this. It was done by Beth Webb of Beth Webb Interiors, and Nancy Pendergast (Now nancy Pendergast Duffey), who was with Summerour Interiors. I am not sure if she is still there, as she has opened HER OWN STORE!! It's called Scout for the Home. It's at the corner of East Andrews and Roswell Road. I haven't been in the store, YET, but I will be there soon. I drove by the front of it the other day and it is so beautiful. Please go check it out, I know I will :)

Read Mary Allison's post about the opening of Scout....

I hope you all enjoyed the tour of this amazing home!

Enjoy the snow here in Atlanta :)