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1920s Atlanta Residence
Atlanta, Georgia
Built in the 1920s, this Classical Revival home is located in the rolling hills of a traditional Atlanta neighborhood. Although the front façade looks virtually untouched, the recent renovations implemented several bold moves, like relocating the original staircase and adding a classical orangerie-inspired Conservatory. Driven by a desire to improve circulation for both everyday use and more formal entertaining, to create more functional spaces, to bring in additional natural light, and to elevate the interior detailing, the interior architecture features subtle, but richly detailed layers and complementary materials.
The homeowners and their guests now enjoy a home where highly detailed architecture, sophisticated interiors, and a reimagined formal landscape come together for an elevated experience. The result is a highly traditional home that has one foot in the 1920s and the other in the 2020s.
BEFORE PHOTOS: The rear façade, prior to the addition of the conservatory, is seen above left. The photos to the right depict the original entry, its staircase taking up valuable space in the traditional center hall.
With its architectural integrity intact, the front façade of this Classical Revival home was maintained, simply embellished with a custom-designed storm door in an iron Art Deco motif - a style prized at the time the home was originally constructed.
Once dark and confined, the entry hall is now open and appropriately scaled. With the staircase removed, the opening to the original sitting room was expanded. The new millwork in the entry hall echoes the grandeur of the sitting room’s formal trim.
THE SITTING ROOM was given a modern refresh. On what was once the sitting room’s exterior rear wall, a bay window was replaced with an interior partition window that overlooks the newly added Conservatory. This feature visually connects the spaces and allows them to share light.
With the stair relocated, a gracious entry hall offers views through the newly added conservatory to the gardens beyond.
Classical detailing and fresh colors give this traditional stair a timeless and modern appeal.
THE DINING ROOM
On the new staircase, a classic ebony-stained handrail and turned newel post topped with a crystal finial add a touch of 1920s glamour. The conservatory expresses drama through strong contrasts and rich materials. A bespoke fireplace surround, carved from Occhio di Pavone marble, is an opulent focal point against white plaster walls. Graphically striking, the black and white marble floors and arched steel doors are a nod to the home’s 1920s architectural language.
THE CONSERVATORY
The Butler’s Pantry serves as a connection between the existing kitchen location and the new conservatory.
Casual and formal outdoor spaces surround the new conservatory. Inspired by orangeries of the past, the conservatory is now the centerpiece of the garden.
The Conservatory is the embodiment of the clients’ vision, simultaneously offering drama and serenity, filled with natural light, and in harmony with the landscape. This addition, with its classical composition and stately presence, marks a new chapter for this cherished home.
