Perspectives in Architecture: Buckhead’s famed Round House keeps distinctive character

A Buckhead mid-century modern household developed by pointed out architect Cecil Alexander for his household had been on the market for additional than a 12 months prior to a stop by from Ted and Susan Pound. 

Although possible buyers noticed a house concluded in 1957 as a composition in have to have of updates, Susan envisioned this property, affectionately known as the Round Dwelling, as “a excellent put to raise their family.”

Alexander, a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects who died at age 95 in 2013, launched the architectural agency FABRAP (1958-1984) and was a well-revered civil rights chief, who made the 2001-2003 Georgia condition flag.

Alexander additional his distinctive style sensibilities to the Round Home, just as he did with prominent Atlanta constructions like the previous AT&T developing, Ga Ability headquarters, and the now-demolished Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium.

A extraordinary atrium with a skylight, reminiscence of the oculus in the ancient Pantheon, centered the rooms in the circular property. Scenic sights of the 3.75-acre wooded home from 5 bedrooms, 4.5 loos, and a mild-filled residing room and the joyful vibe of the home could imprint a inventive state of mind for their two small children. As the son of a Columbus, GA-based architect, Ted aspired to honor the one of a kind layout of the residence showcased in countrywide magazines.

Considering that their 2006 buy of the Round Home, the Lbs . have been watchful with renovation initiatives to preserve the character of the household. Bathrooms have been renovated. More lights into the atrium have inspired nighttime use of the area.  The roof, electrical wiring, and mechanical programs have been changed.  New exterior home windows have remodeled the basement into an inviting multi-reason space.

Until finally Alexander’s dying in 2013, the few formed a friendship with the architect and his wife Helen as they consulted with him about important house improvement tasks.  

The Lbs . also engaged proficient architects, contractors, and artists, this kind of as Noel Dent and Anne Terhokoski, for more than a decade for modernization jobs at the Spherical House.  The married artists enlivened the kitchen not too long ago by changing a copper backsplash with their handcrafted art-tile. Cleanse lines and uncomplicated designs in the design and style mirror a Scandinavian-affected design and style. A shared enjoy for craftsmanship has designed admiration in between the Lbs . and Dent and Terhokoski.

New exterior modernizations involve a finely comprehensive small addition to the residence by architect Steve Robinson of Axios Architecture, LLC that resolves longstanding structural challenges from the deck. New walkways permit the homeowners to stroll all-around the house, to obtain a new outdoor spa and hearth pit, and to take pleasure in the flora and fauna of the house.  

Whilst severe house makeovers attract focus and television viewers, the Kilos show the benefit of restrained improvements and kindhearted stewardship of architecturally major households.  For these exclusive landmarks, wonderful renovations are assessed by how thoughtfully the household is enhanced and preserved.