I caught the bouquet + Cates Ridge

First up...

If you haven't already ordered your copy of Historical Concepts' new book, "Coming Home: a southern vernacular," then you need to... now.  The book is beautiful... plus I took some of the pictures... so go get one already.  If you are feeling lucky, you can WIN a SIGNED copy of the book.  How?

Go to the Beacham & Company Facebook Page and check out our album of listings.  All you have to do is like or comment on a photo, and you will be entered to win a signed copy!  The agent who's listing gets the most likes or comments also wins a copy of the book.  How easy is that?

Good luck!

In other news... Beacham & Company got 15 new listings last week!  We also got 21 homes under contract.  It's safe to say the market is officially hot!  If you are interested in hearing the specifics of the Atlanta Real Estate market, please check out the latest issue of "The Beacham Insider."  It is packed full of the latest statistics and market information, so take a look.

All those new listings means I have been VERY BUSY.  Can you imagine?  15 new listings in one week.  They don't photograph themselves!  Thank goodness my uncle photographs half the houses, or I wouldn't be able to sleep!

One of my favorite houses I've photographed recently is Troy Stowe's listing on Cate's Ridge.  (Clearly I did not take this PARTICULAR photograph.  I don't own a plane.  Duh.)

This property has one main house and THREE additional houses... plus a lake... with fish in it!  That little house in the distance there is the guest house!  The guest house is basically my dream house.

See?  How cute is that?

You also get this amazing view...

and you can go the the movies whenever you want, in your own home!

Next?

I got a new family member this weekend!  My cousin Beau married Elizabeth, and my family is so happy!  It was a beautiful wedding in Hilton Head.  I just love family events, and this one was no different.  It's so nice when we can all get together.

One funny thing from the weekend... I caught the bouquet.

It was sort of by accident.  FOR REAL.  See those two girls in front of me?  The bouquet bounced off their hands and was flying in the air.  THIS IS NOT A JOKE.  I thought to myself, "the flowers are too pretty to hit the ground!"  So then I sort of lept for them in a very awkward/unladylike way, and BOOM.  I got the bouquet.

Believe it or not.

It was my very first time catching a bouquet, and I was THRILLED.

On the other hand, Jimmy looked terrified.

That's all I've got for now.  See ya!

P.S. Enter my contest by choosing your favorite listing!  Please.  I asked nicely.

P.P.S.

Charlotte's the cutest dog in the entire world.

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"Beacham Series" Party Tomorrow Night + Catch Up!

I'm sorry ok.  I know I have been gone forever.  If it makes you feel any better, the latest issue of "The Beacham Series" is finished!  Thank God.  It is a massive amount of work for three people to do... but Laura and Rod and I managed to finish it up and are convinced it is "the best one ever" (quoting Glennis).  Tomorrow night is "The Beacham Series" party, but before we go into that, lets play a quick game of catch up.  Here's what's happened in the past month...

Glennis and I went to the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World conference in Orlando.  According to beacham.com, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (www.LeadingRE.com) is the largest network of top independent local and regional brand-name brokerage firms in the residential sector of real estate. The 550 firms affiliated with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® are represented by 4,600 offices and 140,000 associates in more than 30 countries worldwide. The organization's leadership is demonstrated by the fact that its affiliates comprise 15 of the top 25 real estate companies in the country. Collectively, LeadingRE affiliates produced nearly 800,000 home sales valued at $225 billion in the U.S. in 2010. In addition, LeadingRE locally-branded affiliates hold the Number One position in sales in 40% of the top 96 markets in the U.S., more than any national franchise organizations. For complete information on LeadingRE statistics, visit http://stats.leadingre.com/.  <--  BIG DEAL. :)

We won first place in the Property Brand Advertising category of the marketing contest!

We also got second place in the "New Media" category...  so many thanks to all of you for reading this blog...  Thank you! Thank you!

Glennis and I worked the whole time, but we took a few minutes to stick our feet in the pool...

and celebrate our wins with a Miami Vice.

Jimmy and Charlotte were very proud of us!

Once we got back I went straight into picking a cover for "The Beacham Series."

Rod and Laura and I went over to Janey Lowe's listing at 94 Peachtree Way and started scouting shots.

We loved this porch shot...

We also loved this picture going into the family room.  Isn't that archway pretty?

Here is Rod setting up for a shot through the front door.

There I am holding the reflector. :)

After we picked the cover we had to get the ad designed for the WINNER OF THE AD SPACE COMPETITION: Calligraphy by Kristen Flournoy Hay

We were thrilled that she won, and we love her ad, don't you?

After the ad was ready, we sent the magazine out to Tucker Castleberry to get printed.

That was a cause for celebration at Local Three!

I spent last week at Tucker Castleberry making sure all the colors were right.

The magazine looked amazing...  So I left it in Kent's capable hands and went to Palm Beach with my love to see his family.

We had such a nice time, and I came back refreshed and ready for "The Beacham Series" party tomorrow from 5:30 to 8 PM.

The party is at Janey Lowe's listing on 94 Peachtree Way.  The house is such a treat.  According to Janey's remarks: Stunning to the studs renovation & restoration of this 1900 era home designed by Frank Neely & Davey Construction. Photographed & published nationally. Sweeping front lawn leads to porch with redwood floors. Bright family kitchen with walnut island, highest end appliances, 2 dishwashers, 2 refrigerators, hand-painted custom cabinetry, walk-in pantry, bfast area, all opening to a fireside den. Handsome study w/exquisite hand stained built-ins& brass lighting. Mstr bdrm suite with its own sitting area, dual walk-in-closets, 3 large other bedrooms. Herringbone brick patio & fireplace. 2 car garage w/full guest house.

Here is the amazing news: this house is already under contract!  So, this really is your last chance to see it!

Here are a few photos just to get you in the mood to see an amazing house.

I hope to see you all tomorrow night!  Email me if you have any questions.  [email protected]

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That Dog is Such a Ham. Aren't We All?

Hey kids.  Did you all have a nice weekend?  I sure did.  I went down to spend time with my cousins in Warner Robbins.  I always feel better after a little family time. Yesterday my good friend Katie Oblinger did a photo shoot with Jimmy and me.  She is an amazing baby photographer and trying to get into couples photography.  She asked if we would mind being her "test couple."  Turns out Jimmy and I are really Hammy with the camera.

So Hammy that I forced Katie to iPhone picture me a picture from her camera.  I am sooo excited.  A lot of times when I take pictures for people and they ask me over and over when they will be ready I'm like, "just give me a little time."  Well, now I AM one of those people!  I am just sitting around twirling hair waiting to see those pictures!  Ha Ha.

While I am twirling I thought I would show you some pictures from the home of another ham...  this puppy!

705 Norfleet, NW (Listed by Rachel Farmer) is home to one of the cutest dogs ever... and the fact that he loves being in pictures makes him even cuter.

Rachel asked me to come take photos of this beautiful newer (2008) home located in the sought-after neighborhood of Springlake.  I was immediately drawn to the large front porch across the front of the home.  I was also drawn to the little dog hanging out on the front porch.  Can you see him?  It's the little white spot right at the bottom of the front door.

This dining room opens right out on the the front porch.  It would be perfect for the type of weather we are having right now in Atlanta!

This living room/office also opens to the front porch.  The wall on the right pops out and reveals a work space behind them.  It is such a great idea!

There's my little friend again hanging out by the front door.  Don't you love that stairway?  The railings are beautiful!  I also like those stools a lot.

The kitchen in this home is amazing.  Those glass cabinets on the right are so cool.  I'm not sure I've seen any like them.  Check out the red knobs on the stove.  What a fun pop of color!

This family room is located right off the kitchen... and guess what's to the right?

This beautiful porch!  Is that perfection or what?  I know where I would be spending all my time!

The master also opens up to it's own private porch.  Can you have too many porches?  In a word, no.

Here we are on the master porch.  Since you all know how much I enjoy a glass of wine... wouldn't this be a perfect place for one?  I thought so!

To see more of this home, including the beautifully finished terrace level, check out the listing here.

See you guys later... I will be trying to find other ways to occupy my time while I wait for those pictures!!

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Farms are cool. So is Widespread Panic.

I've always fancied myself a little farm-ie...

Here I am in college with my rabbit, Napoleon.  I bought this little guy without telling my mom...  not smart.  Then he grew to be like 8 lbs and would chew up all the wires/hardwoods in my apartment.  I really loved him and was able to tolerate it, but as soon as I moved back in with my mom on Habersham we had to find Napoleon a new home.  Bummer.

Here I am holding a goat.  Classic.  If I had a back yard big enough you better believe I would have my own goat.  How cute is he??

And who could forget the great chicken experiment of 2010?

I got 8 of these little fellows... and 5 of them were... well, fellows.  That left me with three of the meanest hens you've ever met.

See, she's plotting to peck my eyes out.  Kidding... kind of.  It turns out chickens don't really love being raised in the city on a concerte slab.  They would much rather be out in the country...  like me.

If I had my own farm I could own all the crazy animals I wanted, thus I was THRILLED when Nan Haverty asked me to go shoot her new farm near Serenbe.  (Hey, you never know when the opportunity might present itself and you just NEED to buy a farm.)

8275 Chochan Mill was exactly what I was looking for in a farm property.  I love that wide front porch!

Here is the barn, which is located just steps from the main house.

Of course I had to get a peak inside.  Don't hate me, but I am not a huge fan of horses.  I had a scary experience riding one once when I was little and have never really had any desire to climb aboard...  that being said I do think they are beautiful and love watching them... from afar. BTW, there is an artist studio in the attic space of this barn, so go ahead and sign me up for spending time in there!

There are acres and acres of horse paddocks behind the house.  We walked back so you could see the home, barn and garage/guest house.  The homeowner told me that every night she pours herself a glass of wine and walks around the property checking the fences.  I'm sorry, but how pleasant does that sound?

I was really impressed by the inside of the house.  It was so bright and comfortable!

Isn't that great?

Digging this fireplace in the master!

This is the perfect place to cook meals for your family while they are out tending the pigs!

My favorite part of the house is the huge back poch overlooking the fields.  I would love to sit out here at night with a glass of wine.  Apparently when I move to the country I am also going to start drinking a lot of wine.  :)

I asked Jim-Bo if he could ever see himself moving to the country.  He didn't answer... but he did buy me a nice little ticket to Widespread Panic at the Tabernacle last weekend (wood tour, for those of you in the know).  

City Mouse + Country Mouse = Two very in love little mice.

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395 Beverly in Ansley Park

Hi everyone!  I just want to thank you all for the tremendous outpouring of support you gave me about Sister.  I appreciate it so much, and it really made the grieving process easier.  Thank you so much. I got this ring off of ETSY last week.  It's such a nice reminder of Sister, and it allows me to keep her with me.

I can't help but share these little photos of Charlotte with you guys!  She is so smart!  She learned to fetch is like 10 minutes...  I'm such a proud mom!

Here she is with her favorite ball!  She is VERY serious about fetching!

Here she is snuggling on my chest.  I am VERY serious about snuggling!

Can you see her little face?  She is upside down.  She is kind of hard to get a picture of since she is so dark :)

Moving along to more important things... Erin Yabroudy and I went on the show to discuss her starting a team here at Beacham and launching her own website!

We also took a lo0k at her gorgeous listing at 395 Beverly Road.  Built by Gail Cook, this is one of the most beautiful homes in Ansley Park.  I had the privilege of shooting the home, and I wanted to share a few photos with you.

This is the front, which located directly across from Ansley Golf Club.

This is your view from the front porch!

Foyer.  Love that detail in the hardwoods and groin vaulting.

Design Galleria kitchen.

Keeping room off kitchen.

Beautiful porch overlooking the back yard and pond.

Formal living room off of kitchen.  Great fireplace.

Large dining room with Juliet balconies.

I love this bar area that runs between the kitchen and the dining room.  I am always such a sucker for those star light fixtures!

Office/study on the main level just off the foyer.

Master bedroom.

Spacious master bath.

Love this bathtub!

And we end in the beautifully finished terrace level!

What doe you guys think?  I just love Ansley Park, and this is such a great example of the beautiful homes located there!

Have a great week!

Photographer Angela West's Personal Home: Before and After

Famed photographer Angela West and her husband were the buyers.  Angela and her husband have decided to sell the home, and they listed it with Glennis once again.  I went to shoot the home last week!  I was so excited.  I have always loved this house....

Angela West got a BA from UGA and an MFA from Yale.  I've seen a lot of her pieces at Jackson Fine Art.

Screen Shot 2012-01-17 at 2.48.51 PM

Since my main two loves are photography and houses, I was so excited to see the changes she had made to the home.  How did her skills as a photographer influence the choices she made in the house?  Lucky for you guys I have the before pictures (I know, I spoil you), so you can see for yourselves how skilled Angela is not only at photography, but also at transforming a home!  Before the home was done very traditionally.  I loved it then, but I am really enjoying Angela's modern approach to the home.

Here is the kitchen before..

And here is is now.  I never get tired of seeing how fresh paint can change a room.  I love the bare walls and that simple green vase on top of the cabinets.

The before breakfast area...

I love the paint color and new pillows.  Did you see the chairs?  The different fabrics on the front and back are really cool.  The table is perfect as well.  It's much lighter.

Here is the dining room before.  It's very Traditional with the Oriental rug and furniture.

Here it is now.  Obvious changes: wallpaper, curtains, chandelier, larger table, rug removal, de-cluttering.  I am usually a fan of rugs, but these hardwoods are so beautiful I am glad we can see them.  I believe Angela and her husband had all the floors refinished.

Here is another view of the dining room where you can see Angela's beautiful photograph on the back wall!

The living room is where you can see the biggest difference.  Here is the before picture.  I remember being amazed with how large this room was the first time I shot the house.

Here is an additional before picture form the other direction.

Ready to see it now?

Doesn't that look great?  I love the style of this room now, and the painted beams almost seem to disappear.  The room is light and airy.  They added custom fireplace screens and a built-in bar in the second enclave.  Also, isn't that chandelier beautiful?

I wanted you to see Angela's photography above the fireplace.  Those are the same pieces highlighted above on the Jackson Fine Art website.

Here is a better view of the bar they added.

And I include this overview so you can see how large the room really is, and how functional the room is with this furniture layout.  Didn't she do a great job?

To see more of the amazing rooms in the house, including these...

... and to see the gardens...

... and the guest house...

Have a great week everybody!

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Phish... and a restoration???

Well, here we are in the new year!  Hi!  Are you loving 2012?

I had the nicest Christmas/New Years break with Jimmy.  (yea, I know... I talk about Jimmy all the time.  What are you gonna do?  I'm going to show you guys a house, so I get to talk about Jimmy as much as I want.  A deal's a deal! -- see the results.)

We started out our visit in North Carolina where his mom's family lives.  We went to his aunt's house for lunch.  You may remember her from the kitchen she designed in Jimmy's grandma's house.  She has a great eye for design, and I was really looking forward to seeing her house.  Her home used to belong to Jimmy's grandmother's sister (great aunt?).  She lovingly restored/renovated it and did an amazing job!  There were so many unique things about the house I had to take pictures so I could share them with you.  I found out later my camera was actually on the brink of death, so forgive me if these pictures are not my best.  One more side note...  Jimmy's aunt had an awesome lunch for us.  It was so great that I got distracted and forgot to take a picture of the kitchen.  #totalfail  Don't blame me though, I was on vacation and didn't have my head totally in the game.  Ha.

This is the foyer, which I love.  Why?  I love a glass front door.  It's nice to be able to open the wood door and see out to the front yard.  I also like the wood floors.  The man in the picture is Jimmy's grandfather.  Unfortunately he died before I got to meet him, but everyone in the family raves about how kind he was.

This is the other side of the foyer.  I was really drawn to the bronze wallpaper.  I tried to get a close up of it...

Aren't those pretty imperfections?

This is the formal living room.  I love those bay windows.  They looked like iron to be, but I am not positive.  You may notice Jimmy's sisters in this photo :)

This is the fireplace in the living room.  I loved the carvings on the mantel!

I really like the dining room a lot!  The China Cabinets probably had the most space of any I have ever seen.

See?

Here is the solarium.  Loving the oversized windows and brick floors.  You guys know I am a sucker for brick floors.  Duh.

His aunt told me that she chose these Christmas decorations to echo the bronze in the foyer.  How clever is that?  I would never have thought of it and really admire the fact that she did.  The decorations look amazing.  Let's walk outside.

This is the other side of the window we were just looking through...

and here is the back patio.  Is that flagstone?  Or maybe bluestone?  It looks great.  I love the size of the stone.

Here is a view of the home from the pond in the back yard.  They put in a lot of landscaping that all looks so natural and lush (even in December!).

More landscape and the pond :)

Lets head back in show I can show you my favorite room!

We are heading up the stairs.  I put in this picture of the window seat because that's Jimmy's favorite place in the house.  He said he would hang out there a lot when he was a little boy.... awww.

We end in my favorite room.  She vaulted this ceiling and added the beams, which really opened up the space.  The recessed lighting is such a nice touch because it really lightens up the room.  We had such a nice time sitting and talking in this room, and before we left we even got to have a fire in that great fireplace!  Jimmy's sisters hung out on that bench seat in the corner.  I love it now, but wouldn't that have been such a cool nook as a kid?  Jimmy's family has been visiting this house for their whole lives and were kind enough to share all their childhood memories with me.  I can imagine this would have been quite the place to explore as a child.

Here is a closer look at the craftsmanship on the ceiling.  They even had a stained glass window made and put up in the corner.  If my camera had not been failing every other shot I would have had a picture of it for you.  Sorry!  Just believe me that it was beautiful.

Here is the other side of the room, which had great buil-ins!  If I were in high school/college I would have done all my studying here... it just makes me feel studious.

A close up of the fireplace where we had the fire...

This is the coolest balcony off the room.  It was warm enough to open the doors and go out there for a little while, which was so pleasant!

Finally we have Jimmy just doing a little hanging out in the room.  Can't you imagine him there as a child?  No?  Let me see if I can help you out a little...

How's that?  I KNOW, RIGHT!!!  CUTEST BABY EVER!  Thanks for letting me use that picture :)  And thank you to Jimmy's aunt for having us over for a wonderful holiday lunch!  I love your house!

Moving along...  What did we do the rest of the break?

Phish MSG night 1...

Phish MSG night 2...

Phish MSG night 3...

Phish NYE and MSG...

And my new years dress!!!  Success! And see how I am trying to make my arm look skinny?  Success.

Did I have fun?  Yes.  Am I glad it's over?  No.  What was my favorite song they played?  46 days.  What song got stuck in my head the most?  Quinn the Eskimo.  What was my favorite set?  NYE set 3.  "How were you able to make it through four nights?  Didn't you get tired?"  Yes...  but it was totally worth it!   Am I glad Jimmy took me?  Absolutely.  Thank you so much honey.  I had a wonderful time.

HAPPY 2012 everybody!!!

Let's sell some houses this year!

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Keith Summerour, the perfect glass of wine, my NYE dress...

For those of you who have been reading this blog a while, you know I am slightly obsessed with Keith Summerour.

If you are looking for a laugh you can read this post I write about him 2 years ago titles "Keith Summerour: What makes it a Summerour?"  I think it was maybe my 3rd blog post ever.  Cute Blayne.

I somehow got the nerves to interview him a year later about this house.  It was a wildly popular post.  Read it if you like.

People like Keith's houses because it is modern without being too modern.  It's clean and European and just a tad bit equestrian.  I adore his work, and that is true for Glennis Beacham's new listing at 5549 Long Island Drive. It's lovely and everything a Summerour should be.

The home is beautiful from the approach.  I love the arches (back right), which are so characteristically Summerour.

The heavy wooden doors are very wide (like barn doors), which provides a nice entrance to the home.

This foyer is open and welcoming.

Love this dining room with the wood windows and cathedral ceiling.

The best part about the living room is the curved/trey ceiling.  Oh yea, that fireplace is pretty amazing as well.  Oh heck... I love the floors and the arched hallways as well, so it's all great!

What a great kitchen!  There is so much prep space with the center island, and then you can have people eating at the island closest to us in these pictures.  The wood beams on the ceiling tie the kitchen to the rest of the house and echo the floors nicely.

This is the family room right off the kitchen.  You can see how the wood beams are continued in here, and the oversized windows let you look out to the back (we will see that later).

This hallway leads to the master suite, and is so reflective of Summerour's style with the arched doorways, beamed ceilings and wood doors opening to the front porch.

I like the trey ceiling in the master, and all the windows allow for tons of natural light.  That's also a really cool fan that I am just noticing for the first time!

Look at the archway leading to the master bath!  It's interesting how it's open from the bedroom into the bath, but the shower is off to the side, so it's still private.

Let's head outside!

Not to shabby, eh?

Oh yea, this is the approach to the house.  Amazing, right?  It's like something out of a childhood fantasy.  Once again Keith Summerour=Perfection....  duh.

To see the rest of this dream home, click here.

In other news....  (I'll make this quick... I know you only came for the houses!  ha ha.)

1.

My NYE dress came in, and I couldn't be happier!!  If you don't ignore my horribly messy closet behind me I'll die.  I cropped it as tight as I could.   Now I get to wear this $70 dress that looks much more expensive for the Christmas party and New Years!  Shhh.  Don't tell anyone.  Also, sorry for the confusion in the dress post.  I am FOR SURE going to NYC to see Phish at MSG for NYE (wow!).  I have THE BEST boyfriend ever.  He got us 4 nights FREE at the Four Seasons New York and got us tickets to all four nights of Phish.  He is amazing...  I am a very lucky girl with a REALLY cool dress.

2. 

We finally took our Christmas card picture.  This is usually painful because Ben bitches and mom and I always think we look bad.  This year was a breeze!  My uncle, Rod Collins, took the picture.  He's very talented, especially when it comes to people.  Let me know if you would like him to take a picture for you!

3.

I discovered the perfect glass of wine.  Jimmy and I went to Roswell on Saturday and ate at Salt Factory Pub, which Jimmy claims was the best place he's eaten in Georgia... so there.  This glass of wine is called "Knights Valley" by Beringer.  I went to Beringer when I was in Napa a few years ago and and was really impressed.  I have tried a lot of their wine, but this was the best glass I've had by them.... maybe by anyone.  Do yourself a favor and order a case.  Since I don't know how to talk about wine, I am stealing this from The Wine Enthusiast, "an appealing wine showing likable softness and flashy flavors. The palate brings cassis, mocha, licorice, sweet tobacco, sage, Asian spice and smoky oak; finished long and rich. Notable for its superb structure."  See?  Told ya.

Don't say I never gave you anything! Happy Holidays Kid-Os

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Before and After: Tips for Staging Your Home (even during the Holidays)

Fine.  I heard you.  You like houses :) The results of the poll are in, and the results are STAGGERING.  #joke.  Thank you to my sweet friends who read because I force you.  Hey, I do nice things for you, too!

You said that you would like to see more houses, interior design and architecture on this blog.  LESS Blayne, MORE houses!!  Well here you go! :)  (It's ok, I know you still love me.)

Nan Haverty, a top agent with Beacham & Company, has 3224 Paces Bend Court listed (Architect: Norman Askins).  I shot this home a few months ago when it was empty.  It has a great shell... or what agents call, "great bones," but it was hard to imagine what it would look like with someone living there.  The interiors feel really Country French to me.  The entry way is imported tile and the wood throughout the home is also imported.  Nan asked her friend/client Barbara Culbreath, who is world renowned designer and antique dealer, to stage the home.  Barbara used modern/artistic/handsome furniture and art.  It creates an amazing juxtaposition to the traditional interiors.

-Study-

Here is the library/study the first time I shot it.  It looks so big and empty, and the chairs are dwarfed by the ceiling height and space in the center of the room.

Here it is now.  Can you believe the difference?  The rug is the same, but she laid down an animal skin rug on top of it to break it up a bit.  I love the sofa moved to the center of the room.  It feels so much more cozy.  The bookshelves were arranged and the large armoir moved.  The acrylic table seemed to disappear in the room before, but now it adds a cool contemporary feel to the warm furnishings.  It also looks as if sconces were added above the fireplace, which brings in a lot of warm light.

-Dining Room-

Here we have the dining room when I first saw it.  There are the imported tile floors I was telling you about.  I really like them, but maybe some people would have a hard time imagining what a dining room could look like with brick/tile floors.

Here it is now.  It looks so much better.  The large scale of the artwork is perfect.  I also really like the round table in the square room.  It breaks it up and makes it feel livable.  I'm also glad she moved the fireplace screen... I don't know why.  I just am.  I don't have anything against fireplace screens or anything... who knows.

-Living Room-

Here is the before living room.

Here is an overview of what it looks like now.  Things to notice: that rockin' table in the middle of the room serves to break the room into two halves, and the herringbone pattern floor is visible now that the rug was lifted.

Love... especially that flying dragon piece of art in front of the window.

That's a great piece of art.  Note: when staging a house or trying to make it feel more "finished,"  ORCHIDS ARE A MUST.  Tattoo that to your forearm if you like, but don't forget it.  Very important.  Hydrangeas also help.

-Kitchen-

The first thing I notice about this before picture is the wallpaper.  While, yes, wallpaper is coming back in style, this type of wallpaper is not.  It's all I can look at.  Very Dorothy from the Wizard of OZ.  Don't act like you son't know what I'm talking about.

Check it out!  No wallpaper.  See what painting your home neutral can do.  I think that's the number one piece of advice agents give clients when asked what people can do to get their house ready for the market.  Paint your house neutral!  See what a difference it makes?

-Breakfast/Family Room-

Here is is.  Again...  wallpaper is really all I can see... well, wallpaper and that AWESOME fireplace!

And here you go.  How much better does this look?  Neutral walls?  Check.  Great art?  Check.  The circular table helps also.   The white table cloth does a lot to soften the space.   She also ditched the tv on the stand, which is always a plus.  Have a tv?  We all do.  Want to sell your house?  Hide it.

Here is a close up of the Family room.  I just adore this space.  That sofa is incredible.  I've never really thought of not having arms on a sofa, but this one doesn't have them and I like it!  Also, the architectural qualities of that fireplace are superb.  I love that they went with white and not brick.  Brick would have been too heavy.

-Master-

The master bedroom is my favorite transformation in the house.  Here is the before shot.  You know, a ton of people have two beds in the master bedroom.  It is much more common than you would think.  Even though I see it all the time I am still a little shocked every time I encounter a two-beded master.  It's just not what I think of when I think "Master Bedroom."  If you are a two-beded (that joke was so good I threw it in again) master person I want to say to you, "you are not alone," but for the sake of selling your home you may want to go for just one bed. It's more relatable.

Doesn't that look better?  I can imagine living in that room even though the painted ceiling and curtains are not my favorite things in the world.  Just by adding a contemporary bed I can visualize myself there.  Can't you?

To see the rest of this house, please view Nan Haverty's listing.

In case any of you are looking for an last minute gift ideas for me, STOP.  You don't have to look any further.  I want these.  Free People strikes again.  #ugh. Why do I love everything they make??

Speaking of Christmas (see the segue there)...

I was quoted in THIS article int the AJC Homefinder about how to decorate for Christmas when your home is on the market.  Do me a favor and read it.  PLEASE.  Those of you who are my friends, I'm not forcing you, I'm just strongly suggesting.

Deck the Halls Y'all(s).

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NEW ART, an update on your favorite house, and a quick favor (please).

Hey kids.  How is your Thursday going?  I for one am ready to kick it into high gear with this Holiday Party thing.  Bring on the egg nog (which I've never actually tasted, but is sounds Christmas-ie).

Love the holiday parties.  Two years ago I wore this dress (detail of dress in above photo) to the Christmas party, and it was glorious. :)  Tonight I am going to my dad's company party and am trying to decide on an outfit...  To see what I choose become a fan of this blog on The Facebook and I'll post a picture tonight.  duh.

I'm thinking I am going to wear this hot little number I got from Urban Outfitters.  I spied it in the window when we were in Chicago and then waited for it to go on sale on the website for like 70% off...  it came Monday.  #cheap.  The only problem is it's a little short and creates a bit of a middrift issue...  so we'll see what happens.  #gametimedecision

Changing the subject...

As a little Christmas present to me, I was hoping you guys would take these two quick polls.  I am trying to reshape the focus of this blog.  I would assume most of you come here to read about houses, but I'm not quite sure.  Recently I have been trying to broden the focus of the blog a little bit and include more community happenings, things about my personal life, and fashion.  I just want a little feedback.  Maybe you love knowing what is going on with me... or maybe you're like, "shut up Blayne and show me more houses."  Who knows?  Oh... that's right.... you do.  Please please take a quick moment to answer these questions so I can taylor the blog to what you want.  Let's be honest, if you guys don't like the content why am I even writing this?  If you have more you would like me to know (please) you can email me at [email protected] or leave me a comment at the bottom or this post.  There is also a place where you can fill out your own answers, and I am always looking for laughs, so feel free to be as funny as you want.  (You can choose multiple answers as well)

[polldaddy poll=5741684]

[polldaddy poll=5741695]

Thanks so much for doing that guys!

Moving right along...

Remember this house?  I wrote about it here in what I called a "Once in a Lifetime Post."  Sold by Linda Williams and Neno Schildgen of Beacham & Company in 2010.  Architecture by Neel Reid and Duane Stone.

Interiors by Margaux Interiors Limited

Best bedroom I've ever seen in any house anywhere....  now that's saying something!

This is the only home in Atlanta I can actually say this blog helped sell.  The owner loved the post I wrote about the house (to read that post click here) that she ended up buying it!  Go This Photographer's Life!!  It was one of my proudest blog moments.

Through the blog I met the new owner of the home.  We became fast friends.  Apparently she is a fan of my art...  yippie!  She is working with Margaret Bosbyshell and Clary Bosbyshell of Margaux Interiors Limited to redesign the interior of the home.  I had the privilege of getting a sneak peak into the new interiors, and they are unbelievable!  According to the homeowner, "Margaret's experience and talent paired with Clary's edge and fashion-forward approach is the one-two punch that is perfect!"I am so excited to see how they improve something I thought was perfect in the first place!!

The new homeowner actually commissioned me to take photographs of her husband's plane.  I am so honored to have some work hanging in MY FAVORITE house in Atlanta!  I am also so honored that Margaret and Clary said it was ok to use my art.  They have amazing taste.

I love commission work.  It's always so interesting to be presented with an idea but allowed to put your own spin on it.  (If you are interested in commissioning your own art from me, please contact me at [email protected])  She took me out to the hanger, showed me the plane, and said I could do whatever I wanted.  Here are the pieces I came up with...

What do you think?  I hope you all have a nice Thursday :)

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Italian Villa in Buckhead

Jim Warwick and Jo Ellen Bradley  listed this beautiful Italian Villa at 1111 Crest Valley Drive here in Atlanta.

The home is actually turned away from the road, so the view above is the front of the house...

... but this is what you see from the street.

According to beacham.com, "This architectural tour de force was designed by Bill Harrison and influenced by the timeless appeal of a 16th century Palladian villa in Verona, Italy. There are four remarkable finished levels. Wide-plank flooring, soaring groin vault ceilings, five over scale fireplaces, numerous out-door terraces and porches and pool. Formerly the estate of artist Athos Menaboni."

This beautiful fountain is located in the courtyard in front of the home.

Here is a beautiful archway leading to...

... this area located to the left of the front door at the side of the home.  It is a perfectly flat yard for children to play, and there is also a pool and veranda.  You can see the beautiful portico leading to the guest house.

Here is another view from the pool on the side of the home.  It's all so Italian!  Couldn't you imagine sipping wine out here on a summer afternoon?  The porch above the veranda is located off the master suite, which we will see later.

This is a better view of the back veranda.  Isn't it lovely?

I love this photo because it shows the fireplace.  Wouldn't this be perfect for this time of year?

Here is the view as you walk through the front door.  The curved staircase, the stone floors, and the high ceilings set the "Italian villa" mood.

This is the view from the opposite direction.  Can you see the glass front door?  I love the feel of the heavy wood and the niches on either side of the door.

The central hallway of this home is amazing!  The groin vaulting is so elegant, and the archways allow light in from the front and back of the home.

Here it is from the opposite direction.  Simply beautiful!

The living room has this beautiful 2-story window that overlooks the yard and allows for tremendous natural light.  The fireplace really anchors the room.

This straight on picture gives you a better idea of the scale of the windows.

Here is the view from the window through the hallway and into the dining room.  Isn't the light pretty?

The dining room overlooks the front patio and has those same beautiful wooden doors.

Here is a view looking back toward the foyer.  Be sure to notice the ceilings.

I got so excited about this kitchen!  It's one of the best ones I've seen in a really long time.  The island is huge!  It's perfect for a family gathering.  Don't you love the beamed ceilings?

The view into the breakfast and keeping room.  I just noticed that they used the same wood they used for the cabinets above the kitchen window.  I have never seen this before, have you?

This view of the breakfast room really showcases the three doors that lead out to the back porch.

Isn't this family room unbelievable?  I really like the light fixture and the fact that the curved windows mirror the doors from the above breakfast room.

This study is also located on the main level.  It's through the foyer from the front door.  You can see those three arched windows again.  I love the color of the wood, the coffered ceilings, and the herringbone pattern of the brick in the fireplace.  They all come together to form quite a handsome study!

This is the master, which is located upstairs.  I enjoy seeing hardwood floors in masters.  I recently took the carpet out of my master and replaced it with hardwoods and couldn't be happier.

Between the master and the master bath there is this beautiful private porch.  This would be so great at night!

And of course the master bath is beautiful!  I liked the tile in the shower a lot (if you can peek into it).  It looks to me like the cabinets are made from the same material as the ones in the kitchen and the wood in the study.  What do you think?

The coolest part about the upstairs is this secret passageway.  I've only seen a handful of these in real life, and it always makes me so excited.  I'm such a little kid!

The secret passageway leads to this third level loft type area, which is perfect for kids.

The terrace offers this beautiful groin vaulted stone wine cellar...

a kitchen and dining area...

and a huge gym!

What do you guys think? Isn't this home fantastic?  If it were yours, where do you think you would spend most of your time?

It's the perfect Italian getaway here in Atlanta!

5th Birthday Beacham Bash!

This past Tuesday we had our "Beacham Series"/ 5th Anniversary party at a Bobby McAlpine home on Tuxedo Road. (Listed by Glennis Beacham)We pulled out all the stops for this party, and we estimate we got over 350 people!

Here I am in front of the latest cover :)

Did you guys know you can request a copy of "The Beacham Series" on the website?

We owe a HUGE HUGE thank you to Billy Holcomb of Liz Lapidus Public Relations.  He worked so hard on this party, and we really appreciate it.  The party went so smoothly, and he was so professional.

Thank you Billy!

Anyway, we could not believe how many people came!  And this was 5 minutes after the party started!

View from the second story looking out over the living room.

And here we are 30 minutes in!

The crowd on the back veranda.

People braved the rain to come for an evening of good food, drinks, music, and architecture!

Beautiful cheese plate from Local Three 

ummm... pimento cheese!  

Thank you so much to Heineken for sponsoring the event.

Lauren and Jason of The Whiskey Gentry were phenomenal!  I cannot say enough about how well they played.  

Everyone raved about them!  If you don't remember how much I was looking forward to them playing you can read about it here.

In other news, The Whiskey Gentry is playing a Christmas show Dec 2nd at Variety Playhouse.  You should go!  I'll be there! :)

You can buy tickets here.

So many of our agents and clients came out to support us!

Glennis and the homeowner Lisa.  Isn't Lisa beautiful?  We all agreed she was the most stylish woman at the party... for sure.

Here I am with Billy and my friend Laura Green of L. Green Studios.

Sue Newman

Donna Gardner and Ashley Czeschin 

Glennis Beacham and Meridy King

 Kim Foley and her client who owns THIS house, from my most popular post ever! 

Camille Brannon of Campbell and Brannon, who sponsored the party, Robert Orr and Wight Mixon.

Holly Street (far left) of the famed blog Things That Inspire and the amazing artist Melissa Payne Baker (second from right) 

Barry Milam and Sue Newman

One of my favorite things we got for the party was a photo booth!  I loves seeing our agents and friends cutting lose in there!

Ha ha ha.  I had to try it out!  Here I am with my uncle, who took the magazine cover shot!

See?

Margaret Harman and Rachel Farmer

Gabby Gray, Wight Mixon, Sheila Gray and Ginger Scott (all Beacham agents!)

Niki McNeill of Single Bubble Pop

Our Director of Graphics and Design (Laura) and all of her friends :)  See the sign?

Erin Yabroudy 

A whole slew of Beacham people :)

Elise Baumann and Janey Lowe with Margaret Harman

Debbie Farmer (with Guitar) and her three cute friends

Happy 5th Anniversary Beacham & Company!

So that I can keep from bragging about our own party, I am going to borrow words from Kyle Sturtevant of "The Well Composed Home:"  

What a spectacular event.  Graciousness was expressed through every detail.  From the hospitality, to the catering, to the entertainment – they even had the band Whiskey Gentry playing off to the side.  As much as I thoroughly enjoyed touring this Home, and viewing the work of  Beacham and Company, McAlpine Tankersley and Bonner Custom Homes, the event was truly set apart in a league of its own by the caliper of people in attendance.  Thx to everyone for granting me this remarkable experience.

Awesome Night, Awesome Group of Folks, Wonderful Evening.

Kyle wrote a beautiful post about the party, which I suggest you read HERE.  (It goes into much greater detail about the architecture of the home.)

Terry Kearns of Architecture Tourist also wrote a wonderful piece about the party and the home. Please read it if you get a chance!

Thank you all so much for your support of our company and our magazine.  We could not have done it without you!

Love, Blayne

"Sit and Feast on your Life" Part 2... Who's Closet is it Anyway?

What did you guys think of my last post?  Isn't this house amazing?  I loved all your comments.  Thank you so much!  Shall we continue?

Lets go into the master...

I had to break this post into two parts so we could really focus on this bedroom.  Isn't it beautiful?  It looks like such a light and cozy place to wake up in the morning.  It also provides tons of light and access to a porch.  I am enchanted by the idea of being able to walk out on the porch from my bedroom with a cup of coffee.... although right now it's about 105 degrease in Atlanta, so maybe an iced coffee :)

You could have a cup of coffee here, right?

This is the view of the master into the master bath.  Don't you love those doors?

And here we are in the master bath.  Swoon.  White tile+gray groin vaulted ceiling=perfection.

I just love this detail.  It feels like a hotel bathroom!

This showcases the "her" part of the his & her bath, and it leads us into... gasp... the closet!

Can you believe it?  This is what I would imagine Charlotte's (Sex in the city) closet to look like... large and very romantic!

I. Am. So. Jealous.  I was particularly struck by how the colors of the clothes match the colors in the house.  There is something very cool about that to me!

This house is so beautiful.. I have loved writing about it.... twice.  In case you missed the first post, here it is. To learn more about Kim Foley's listing, please check it out here.

Ok, now lets play a game.  Go look in your closet and decided which celebrity or fictional character could own it.  For example...  "Jennifer Aniston could own my closet," or "My closet looks like Hermione Granger's."

I'll go first...  I think my closet could also belong to Phoebe from Friends.  :) :)  ha ha.

What about you?

"Sit and feast on your life." Part 1

Love the beach?  Well I've got just the thing for you!

Front 

I got to see the most amazing house last week!  Kim Foley, one of our new agents at Beacham & Company, just listed this beautiful home in Roswell, GA.  And here's the best part... the owner reads my blog!  I get so excited when I meet people who read it. :)  It's so flattering!  Well, since she is a reader and since the house is so beautiful, I was thrilled that they asked me to  take pictures.

Foyer into Living Room

The homeowner is so talented!  She did the whole home herself.  When she and her husband bought the house it was not finished, so she really picked all the finishings and interiors!  The light wood and natural elements everywhere reminded me of the beach.  When I asked her about it she said she and her husband love the beach, and it definitely comes through in the home.

I knew the house was special the moment I walked into the door.  The light wood floors were so refreshing.  I have said this before, but I am getting a little bit tired of dark wood.  There is something so refreshing and earthy feeling about light wood.  According to Laura Green of L. Green Studios (who did not design this home), "light floors  brighten and really open up a space, push the walls out and redefine the space."

Study

This beautiful study is to the left of the front door.  I love the natural feel of the antler chandelier!  The dark furniture really pops agains the light floors.

mantel detail

I love this detail!  I was really intrigued my the beaded star on the table.  It looks like a very elegant starfish :)

Dining room

Here is the dining room, which is on the opposite side of the foyer.  I was intrigued by those burlap shades over the bottom halves of the windows.  It's brilliant really....  nobody can see inside, but lights still gets through the shades.  To continue with our beach theme, the chandelier looks like driftwood and the wreath looks like a sea sponge :)  It's all so organic.

Stairs into living room

This is the main hallway.  Isn't that stairway beautiful?

Foyer and carved wall

Here is a different angle.  I love that painting...  it looks like the shore after a wave.

art and sofa

See?

Living room 2

I was amazed by the painted fireplace.  I am not sure I have ever seen anything quite like it.  It just blends right into the wall, but has the most beautiful texture.

Living room

Here it is from the other side.  Don't forget to look at the table!  It's worth it :)

Kitchen

And here we are in the kitchen.  Breathtaking, isn't it?  I am obsessed with the light fixture and the cabinets!

Kitchen shelves

I took this detail to show you the shelves, tile and countertops.  This is one of the most unique combination of elements I have seen in a while.  It all comes together so perfectly.

kitchen detail (1)

This is the vista from the kitchen back into the living room.  !!!???!!!, right?

kitchen detail

This pillow just hangs out in the kitchen... :)  It says, "Sit and feast on your life."  Isn't that a peaceful idea?  The homeowner told me that's what she kept saying when she was creating this home.  She wanted it to be a haven where she could sit with her family and enjoy their life together.  I think she achieved that.  Don't you?

There are too many wonderful pictures of this home for me to put them all into one post.  Please check back tomorrow to see... among other things...the master bedroom, bathroom, and closet that would give Carrie Bradshaw a run for her money.

Until then I want to ask you, where do you "sit and feast on your life?"  Is it an actual place for you, or simply a place in your mind?

For me it is my bedroom...  

Yes... this is my personal bedroom.  Every morning I like to spend the first few minutes after I wake up looking around and relaxing.  I try to clear my mind and think about all the wonderful blessings before me... my family, my friends, and a job and home that I love.  I spend just a few minutes feasting on my life.  Then I get my butt out of bed and go to the gym.  Duh.

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Amazing Home in Vinings

I LOVE this house!  It's one of the most unique homes I've visited in a while.  You almost feel like you are at Lake Burton, but it doesn't have that overly lake-y feel.. You know what I mean?

Janey Lowe just listed 3540 Cochise Drive in Vinings.

I love the look of it from the road... that huge window (which is located in the living room) sets the mood for the natural interiors.

This foyer is so beautiful.  I love the color of the stair risers and the herringbone pattern of the floors in the foyer.

Here is the window we saw from the outside.  Isn't this living room amazing?  I love the wood and the beams on the ceiling.

How great is this kitchen?  I'm really into exposed brick floors, and the light fixtures are excellent.  The way the wood slats are exposed on the ceiling makes the whole room feel organic.

That island is perfect for having people hang out in the kitchen, which is where everyone always gathers anyway.  I love the light fixture as well.  It's very "Restoration Hardware."  The blue subway tile really ties the whole thing together.

The fireplace surround coordinates so well with the backsplash in the kitchen!

The master is so great!  Look at those ceilings!

... and this master bath is so relaxing!  I could spend hours in that tub.

How cool is this office?  The pitch of the ceiling is amazing, and so is the built-in seating. :)

So what do you guys think of this house?  Does it remind you of a Lake Burton House?

Garden Hills Masterpiece

Hey Guys!  How have you been?  I am sorry it's been so long, but we have been working so hard on the next issue of "The Beacham Series." We sent the magazine to the printer last Monday, and we can't wait to see it!  Keep tuned to learn about the next Beacham Series release party. ... but in the meantime, I have an amazing house to share with you.

This is one of the best houses I've seen in a very long time.  It's Janey Lowe's personal home.  Janey is the queen of Garden Hills.  She works and lives there.  I have taken pictures of a lot of Janey's listings in Garden Hills, and I have to say her house it the best. (Photos by Blayne Beacham and Rod Collins)

Here is the beautiful foyer with the herringbone floors.  One thing I really love that most people don't really think about is a glass front door.  It's so nice to have light come in and light up the foyer.  Such a nice touch.

Here is the dining room, which you could see from the picture of the foyer.  I like this dining room a lot because it feels warm and personal.  Generally speaking I find dining rooms to be the opposite, kind of cold and inpersonal... but not this one.  I am not sure if its the color of the doors, which I love, or the warm candles, or the fun folk art, but I could spend a lot of time in this room.  I also love the color of the doors.  Laura Green helped Janey pick this color, and I think it's perfect.

Here is the formal living room, which is visible as soon as you walk in the door.   This room is also warm and friendly.  I love the soft curtains and the warmer/more masculine piece of art on the wall above the fireplace.  If you go through the door at the end of the room you will enter the office.

This office is absolutely stunning.  The curved walls are an unexpected surprise, and the French doors leading to the balcony let in a ton of light.  the whimsical cow painting above the desk adds the perfect touch.

I think Janey has a fantastic kitchen because you can be in it cooking while still having access to so much of the house.  There is a breakfast room right there between the kitchen and the porch, and the kitchen alos opens to a family room.

Here's the cute breakfast area...

... and the porch off the kitchen.  One cool thing to notice it that both sets of those windows upen to an interior space.  Keep that in mind.  I will show them to you again.

This is the family room off of the kitchen.  I love those built-ins.  They feel so clean.

The main level master bedroom might be my favorite room in the house.  It's so relaxing and beautiful.  I love the Juliet balcony.  It would be the perfect room for a nap in the Spring or the rain... or the Spring rain :)

I love the warmth of this master bath.  I believe Laura of L.Green Studios also helped with the skirt under the sinks, which is perfect.

Now we move back  through the family room to the stairs to the lower level.

Here is the living room looking from the end of the family room.  See the two windows at the top?  Those are the porch windows that open to the interior.

The living room looks out over the backyard and has a huge stacked stone fireplace.  How comfortable is this room?  I love it!

The billiards area is behind the living room.

here is the bar, which is right next to the billiards area... so if you need a drink it's right there!  Perfect!  It's also great if you have a party and people are out on the back porch or playing pool or wherever.  You can have caterers here or just a self-serve bar.

There is an additional office area on the terrace level.  It is nice an quite, but still has plenty of daylight.

The back porch of this house is truly phenomenal.  I was lucky enough to go to a party here last year, and the porch was perfect for the party.  People could go freely from the living room to the porch to the backyard.  There was plenty of room for a lot of people.

Here is the porch from the other direction.  At the party I went to, they even had a musician set up over by the grill, which was so cool.

Can you believe how big this back yard is?

I especially like the outdoor fireplace.  if this were my home I would spend a lot of time out here :)

I missed you all so much and would love to know what you think about this house :)

Modern Home Inspiration (before + after)

I have gone into full blown obsession over this house!  Wait until you see it!

This modern marvel (4490 Sentinel Post Road) is located in Whitewater Creek on over an acre.

It's the perfect location especially if you enjoy walking in the Chattahoochee Nature Park (or raising chickens, like me!).

Jennifer Moyers of Beacham & Company, REALTORS has this listing. I literally haven't been able to get this listing out of mind since the first time I saw it.  there are so many possibilities for it.

Here is what the living room looks like right now, which I have to say is pretty awesome.  Those huge windows make me weak in the knees.  So much light... and privacy!  You wouldn't need blinds or shades or anything because the only thing behind you is woods.  The fireplace deserves its own recognition of course.  Lovely.

(Source: Architectural Digest)

No, its not the same living room- but it's so close.  This is a page torn out of a 2010 issue of Architectural Digest.

Here is what some of the rest looks like ... this bedroom has vaulted ceilings, natural light and a great wooded view for mornings in bed.

This is one of the secondary bedrooms showcasing the same elements I loved in the other bedroom.

And here is the beautiful kitchen with the vaulted and beamed ceilings.  I love all the light in here :)

And the amazing terrace level with a second granite fireplace and wooded views.

Thank you to Jennifer Moyers for sharing all of her ideas with us!

So my friends, what do you think?  If you had this house, what would you do?  Would you change things, or leave the rooms the same?  I am very interested to know :)

One House, Two Styles (under contract in 24 hours!)

Well here I am at my new Wordpress blog.  What do you guys think?  Isn't it clean?  I am so pleased with the new look of it.  Now I am just going to have to buckle down and figure out how to work it (easer said than done).  This is my first post in the new space, and I am very excited!

Sheila Gray and Erin Yabroudy got this Morningside home (1696 North Pelham Road) under contract in 24 hours!  This is a testament to two fantastic agents and one amazing house!  The best part about this house is it's two completely different styles.  The main level is a traditional Morningside Tudor home, circa 1929.  There are classical architectural details everywhere.  The terrace level is a hip urban loft.  And how do these two styles go together in one house?  The answer is because of the amazing interior design work of Catherine Wilson of Catherine Wilson Interiors.

I fell in love with it the minute I walked in the front door.  I am such a sucker for arches!

Here is the formal living room, which is to the the right as you walk in the front door.  Isn't that fireplace beautiful?

Same room from the other side.  Don't you love the view into the music room?

If I was at all musically inclined (which I'm not) I could spend hours in this room.

This detail shot is from the living room.  The colors and so soothing and and the cabinet has such rich detailing.

The dining room is to the left of the entryway (across from the living room).

My favorite part about this room is the windows.   I always love to look at windows in older homes.

This is the view of the kitchen from the dining room.  It is so bright.  I love that it is open to both the breakfast area and the family room.  Since some people spend so much time in the kitchen, it's great when it's open to the rest of the house.

Here is the kitchen from the family room.  Wouldn't this be a great place to spend time?

And one more view just because I like this picture.  I also love the art hanging in the breakfast area.  Isn't it happy?

We can't forget to show the wet bar... a very important place in any home!

And here is the family room off the kitchen.  This would be a great place for the kids to hang out while the parents cook.

The family room leads to this fantastic screened-in porch.  I would spend so much time out here!

This is also on the main level.  The family room is to the right and the main hallway is through the glass doors on the left.  On a personal note, this wallpaper is fantastic!  I have been thinking a lot about putting wallpaper in my own home (I know! Right after I got it all finished...) and this would be perfect.

This is the other side of that hall, which I show because I am obsessed with that duck painting!!  Also, you can see that wallpaper really well in this picture.

Now lets go to the terrace level :)  Are you ready for a completely different look?

Isn't this cool?   This room has fantastic elements... the exposed brick wall, the sliding barn doors (remember these), and natural wood beams, and stained concrete floors.

You can see that behind the sliding doors are murphy beds!  That is so perfect for a slumber party!  And in case you didn't really feel like getting out of bed, there is a kitchen right next to you!

Isn't this a great idea?   I love the industrial look, as wella s the sliding barn doors you can see down the hallway.

This is an arts and crafts area!  Isn't this cool?  I would do so much art in this room!

I love these cubbies underneath the stairs!  They are like lockers :)

This is the other side of the stairs.  Great storage space.

And here is the office space.  I love the orange!

Here's  the fire pit in the backyard.  Wouldn't it be great to hang out with all your neighbors and have a glass of wine?  I'm very jealous!

And finally we have the back of the house.  Can you see why it went under contract so fast?  It's very cool.  Catherine Wilson of Catherine Wilson Interiors did a fantastic job.  The new owners are very lucky!

So there we have it.  The first post on the new blog.  Please take a second to leave a comment and let me know what you think of the new space?  I can still make changes if needed.

I've got my toes in the water...

I'm over it.  No more coats.  No more gloves.  No more leggings under my dresses.  I'm ready for boats, beers and bikinis!! I am lucky enough to get to spend most of my summer weekends at the lake, and I tell you what, those weekends can't come fast enough! (That's me.. on a boat... 3 years ago... I thought I was super-stylish) Im honor of my almost total obsession with being outside right now, I thought I would show you some of my FAVORITE outdoor spaces available on the Atlanta real estate market. (All Beacham & Company listings) Location: 3240 Ivanhoe Drive Agent: Susan Cross This would be the perfect place to hang out on a Spring afternoon with a glass of wine and maybe a fire. This is also from one of my favorite homes, which I posted about here.

<a "="" href="http://beacham.com/propertysearch/propertyDetails.php?id=4181351&db=FMLS" target="_blank">

Location: 3487 Habersham Road Agent: Jo Ellen Bradley Love love love this patio for all it's gardening potential. If you look closely you may see someone doing just that! I also love to grill and eat outside as the weather gets warmer. This is perfect!

Location: 5229 Riverview Road Agent: Glennis Beacham This is one of my favorite outdoor spaces in the whole world... much less Atlanta.  I covet it.  Isn't it beautiful? To read more about this house, please see the post about it.<a "="" href="http://beacham.com/propertysearch/propertyDetails.php?id=4177574&db=FMLS" target="_blank" title="View 'Screened in porch' on Flickr.com"> Location: 1035 Mill Overlook Agent: Robert Orr This would be great in the summer months when it gets so hot in Atlanta. You could stay in the shade under the fan, but still feel like you are outside.

Location: 4140 Hillside Place Agent: Janey Lowe Now we're talking! This is perfect for poolside drinks and lounging. If it's not too warm yet you could always hang out by the fireplace in the cabana. Perf!

Location: 5255 London Drive Agent: Jennifer Moyers What? A water slide? If I had children I would not be able to turn this down. Heck, I'd go down it now if it were about 15 degrease hotter!

Location: 3946 Muirfield Square Agent: Barry Milan

Amazing setting for a rocking chair and a book :) You can also see the river just beyond the trees there, so for me there would probably be a less reading and a little more sleeping. What? Water puts me to sleep. It would actually be smarter for me to just put a hammock out there so when I fall asleep I will be comfortable. Thinking ahead of course.

So please join me in thinking warmer thoughts! I can't wait much longer!!

Harrison Design on Tuxedo

Nan Haverty has a new listing on Tuxedo!

It is a beautiful home by Harrison Design Associates. There were some great shots in this home. Isn't this family room pretty? I love the orange (of course!) And look at that mantel? Isn't it handsome?

The mantel and overmantel are carved in mahogany by Alexander Zwalinski who's work carving the desk at the Clinton brought much fame.  This project took nearly six months to complete and is fully equipped with hidden compartments and signed by the artist himself.

Love those built-ins! isn't this a great kitchen? I like the chandelier a lot and the island too! Here's the dining room. I love those curtains! They remind me of the ones in the dining room in this house. They might actually be the same... Another view. Isn't that cool art? I love how it's sewn to the frame. I thought this was a pretty detail shot. I think those flowers are called Chinese Lanterns. I tried to plant those in my yard last summer. failure! :) I do love them though. They look like tiny orange paper lanterns.

The mahogany in the library was "leftover" from buildout out of the Reagan library in Yorba Llinda California and meticulously installed by imported Craftsmen of the highest caliber.

I think that painting is by Susie Pryor, an awesome Atlanta artist and owner of Pryor Fine Art. And lastly, I love this bathroom! isn't that wallpaper fantastic? Thought so! Have a great Wednesday! P.S. Dove update. It was too rainy today. They are coming to my house tomorrow. Matthew keeps sending me text messages that say "coo coo," which is AWESOME! Keep your fingers crossed they arrive safely!

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