High Museum: Salvador Dali Exhibit

Leslie Ransom, Buckhead Office, REALTOR ®

Recently while driving through Midtown Atlanta on Peachtree Street, I noticed a very large banner hanging from The High Museum announcing an upcoming exhibit of Salvador Dali’s late works. As a teenager I attended a wonderful exhibition of Dalí’s jewelry creations in the Birmingham Museum of Art, and was captivated by his eccentric and remarkable art. My husband’s birthday was coming soon and I had been deliberating about something fun and different to give him for his birthday, Dalí and Dinner with friends! Perfect!!

The High is to be the sole venue for the first exhibition to focus on Dalí’s art after 1940. The exhibition, featuring more than 100 works including 40 paintings and a related group of drawings, prints and other Dalí ephemera, explores the artist’s enduring fascination with science, optical effects and illusionism, and his surprising connections to artists of the 1960s and 1970s such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Willem de Kooning.  Many of Dali’s pieces during this time period were ruminations on his interest in Christianity, and several of the pieces depict events from varying periods in Biblical and Christian history including the crucifixion of Jesus, the assumption of Mary, and the spiritual visions of various saints. However, true to Dali’s eccentric nature and his surrealist roots, even his depictions of these once traditional subjects for the art world are filtered through his surrealist lens and provide a fresh look on the subject. Dali mixed his depictions of Christian themes with ideas and advancements in the realms of science and physics, subjects he was also increasingly fascinated by. As a result, many of the pieces he created during this time period he labeled as “nuclear mysticism” and they are truly as unique as this description suggests. These paintings are magnificent in their scope, beautiful in their compositions, and fantastic to be able to see in person, where one can truly be impressed with the sheer size of some of his canvases and, by extension, the size of his artistic vision.

Salvador Dalí’ (1904-1989) born in Figures, Spain, is one of the most famous and controversial artists of the 20^th century. He was prolific for more than 60 years, creating over 1,200 oil paintings, countless drawings, sculptures, jewelry, theatre and fashion designs, book illustrations and numerous writings.

This exhibit is a treat not to be missed. Take a friend and be sure to get the audio tour also. After seeing the Dalí’ exhibit we had a delicious dinner at Parish in Inman Park with our friends and lots of interesting discussion after seeing these very eccentric and thought provoking works!

My friend bought this replica of one of his jewelry pieces and I bought a book about Dalí.

Dalí: The Late Work is currently on display through January 9, 2011. Please visit high.org for ticket prices and additional information.

 

Sustainable Homes No Longer Seen As Just A Fad

Carson Matthews, Buckhead Office, REALTOR®

While Atlanta’s housing market remains stuck in low gear, the trend toward certified green or “sustainable” homes has been growing.

More builders are adopting sustainable practices and more buyers are weighing the economic benefit of paying a little extra up front for a house featuring environmentally sound design, construction standards and materials.

“Even if the economy had not gone sour, people are looking at sustainable practices and materials, not just for housing, but for the entire neighborhood,” said Sibet Freides, president of Idea Associates Inc., a marketing and consulting firm with a real estate development focus. Idea Associates clients include Reynolds Signature Communities, The Settings Development Companies LLC and Urban Land Institute.

“You might have some builders who have been in the industry for a long time who are thinking this is a passing fad, but people have bought into the concept of sustainability,” Freides said. “Younger buyers have now come to expect it and I don’t think the industry, as a whole, thinks it’s a fad anymore.”

According to a report by Carson Matthews, a Realtor with Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty, in the first quarter of 2010, green homes comprised 8.4 percent of the new homes on the market, which compares consistently with the 2009 total of 8.5 percent,

Matthews is a certified EcoBroker and the author of a blog, www.GreenToTheScene.com, which delivers news about green residential building in Atlanta.

In April, Matthews launched the Green MLS Toolkit, a resource that can be used by any Multiple Listing Service to track green activity.

In the first three months of 2010, Matthews reported that the median selling price of a certified green home was $494,000, which is 133.5 percent higher than a conventional new construction home; however, the report shows green homes are fetching more at closing.

“In the first quarter, green houses sold at 98 percent of list, whereas standard new construction homes sold at 92.5 percent,” Matthews said. “In the custom home market, that percentage is much higher.”

“Green building is here to stay,” said Les Stumpff, president of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association (GAHBA) and regional manager for Texas-based Standard Renewable Energy, which provides energy audits for homeowners, businesses and government entities.

“There is a growing awareness of how much energy and water and, therefore, money can be saved by owning a home built to some level of green-building standards,” Stumpff said.

Other benefits, such as better indoor air quality and overall comfort, will increasingly propel demand for green homes.

“The housing recession has made it more difficult to adopt building standards that increase new home prices, but builders who were building green in good times will continue to build green as housing starts return,” Stumpff said.

Although they cost a little more, the formula for building green houses is not very complicated, said Matt Hoots, founder and CEO of The Hoots Group Inc., a full-service green contractor, and co-chair of the GAHBA Green Building Council.

Together with the GAHBA, Hoots helped develop the EarthCraft House residential green-building program in partnership with Southface Energy Institute, a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to promoting environmentally sustainable homes.

“You start with a good design,” Hoots said. “You can save 30 [percent] to 40 percent in operating costs right there.”

Every aspect of the design is critical, from sighting the house on the lot to putting windows in the best location to ease the load on the HVAC system and limit the cost of blinds.

“If you only build to the standard energy-efficiency code, you’re almost building an EarthCraft-certified house,” Hoots said. “Unfortunately, a lot of builders build around the code or to barely meet code.”

As materials, utility and appliance manufacturers jump on the sustainable bandwagon, the expense gap between building green and building traditional housing is diminishing — resulting in more reasonable pricing for higher- performing homes, experts say.

Currently, Freides’ clients are building two new showcase green homes, one in The Settings of West Point Lake near LaGrange, and one at Achasta, a golf community near Dahlonega. Both houses are being built by Johnna Barrett of SUSTAIN house, the residential division of Atlanta-based architecture and interior design firm Barrett Design Inc.

“We started with a budget and we’re learning that it doesn’t have to cost that much more to build green,” Freides said.

Among other products, the green houses incorporate a radiant barrier sheathing that reportedly reduces monthly air conditioning bills by 17 percent, green bedding products, and tile and wood components made from recycled materials.

“A lot of this stuff is common sense and people need to be educated about the products and building practices that are available,” Freides said.
Read more: Sustainable homes no longer seen as just a fad – Atlanta Business Chronicle

Atlanta Escape – Montaluce (Andrea Cueny)

Andrea Cueny, REALTOR ®, North Atlanta Office 404.695.7040

Recently my husband and I decided to have a rare but special day just the two of us….. So we turned off our phones, gave the kids to their grandparents, and headed to the North Georgia Mountains for a mini escape.

We had been told by clients who recently purchased a home of this development called Montaluce. They raved to us about the spectacular views, winery, and restaurant. So we were excited to give it a try. 

Upon arrival, we were shocked to see the vineyards so lush and full of grapes…I had to ask myself if we were in GA or Napa? Of course, GA but the vineyard was really very beautiful. 

Inside the restaurant, the foyer and entrance were stunning.  The entrance to the tasting room complete with all of their wines on the back wall was held in this dark mahogany wine shelving. The ceiling throughout the tasting room had exposed ceiling beams and the dining room was totally open with a fireplace and glass windows overlooking the vineyard.  As real estate professionals, we appreciate all the architectural details such as the fireplace with these mosaic tiles.  The windows were floor to ceiling giving an open view of the vineyard from every table in the dining room – every detail in regards to the atmosphere is so well done.  We walked out to the balcony overlooking the vineyard and this was the most perfect view and ideal place for a glass of wine.

Lunch exceeded our expectations to say the least. The food is all organic and very fresh. Fresh to the point that when we ordered the sausage flat bread our server informed us that the pig just arrived and they had not prepared the sausage yet! Wow. Not your typical answer in an Atlanta Restaurant.  They have short ribs, duck, sandwiches, salads, a variety of choices each day and a very elaborate Sunday brunch. The menu changes regularly. 

I would highly recommend Montaluce if you are looking for a mini escape from Atlanta. It is located just outside of Dahlonega and is a wonderful place for you to visit for a gourmet lunch or dinner.

For more information about Montaluce please visit their website at www.montaluce.com or call 706.867.4060

Sotheby’s agent, Angel Ramos, named a finalist for Best Dressed Real Man

Open this month’s edition of Esquire Magazine and you will find one classy Realtor being recognized for his style. As one of five finalists for the magazine’s “Best Dressed Real man of America,” Ramos is featured for his eclectic elegance.

Angel Ramos played Division 1 baseball in the minor leagues and knows firsthand the unique needs of today’s sports stars and entertainment professionals. Ramos works with the Bayne Group at Atlanta Fine Homes as the Head of Sports and Entertainment. In July, Ramos moved to Miami, Florida with his wife and young son to join One Sotheby’s International. Ramos’ key to success in working with sports stars and entertainers is his ability to manage demanding schedules and streamline the entire real estate process, whether it’s exclusively marketing his client’s property or matching them with the right luxury home, condominium or investment. Ramos strives to always keep his client’s best interest at heart.

St. Regis will host Celebrity Chef tour

Join Celebrity Chefs Kelly Liken, Kenny Gilbert and Chef Host Johnathan Jerusalmy in September for a premiere evening at the St. Regis’ Paces 88 American Bistro. The evening will include a reception, dinner prepared by the chefs and a unique opportunity to interact with the chefs.

In the heart of Atlanta’s prestigious Buckhead community, Eighty-Eighty West Paces Ferry undeniably leads the list of the city’s most exclusive addresses The Residences at The St. Regis Atlanta, located on the top fifteen floors of the building, inspires a luxury lifestyle that is inspired by the magnificent views and extraordinary standards of urban living that simply cannot be found elsewhere.

For information on the Residences at St. Regis please contact:
Ansley Fetz
Marketing Specialist, Atlanta Fine Homes
Tel: 404.580.4950
Email: ansley@atlantafinehomes.com

Ticket info: 720.201.1853 or go online: www.celebritycheftour.com

Featured Home: Contemporary Loft in the Heart of it All (Andrea Cueny)

5200 Peachtree Road

This is a spacious loft at Peachtree Malone close to Brookhaven in Atlanta, Georgia. It has freshly painted & neutral paint colors, hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances and totally updated bathrooms and kitchen.

Living Room

Peachtree Malone Lofts is a creative and fun place to live. The entire building surrounds a courtyard area and the back of this particular loft backs up to beautiful green space. On the outside you see clean lines and corrugated metal walls separating oversized balconies. Open spaces and exposed duct work immediately add character inside.

Kitchen

This particular loft has dark hardwoods throughout and the kitchen and living room are open to one another. The kitchen cabinetry is light and continues the modern concept. Stainless steel appliances work well with accents that are both eye-catching and functional. Large floor to ceiling windows and a glass door off of the living room lead to your large balcony that overlooks a wooded area.

Balcony

The master bedroom and bath is spacious and has easy access to the laundry closet. The cabinetry in the master bath is light and the room has beautiful tile work. The two bedroom unit is great for a roommate or for a home office.

The location is extremely convenient with walking access to MARTA. You are only minutes away from fine shopping, dining and entertainment. The gated community has an upbeat vibe and will put you right in the heart of everything Atlanta has to offer.

Two Bedrooms and Two Full Baths

Offered at $185,000

5200 Peachtree Road
Chamblee, GA 30341

Click here for more photos and information about this home.

Andrea Cueny, North Atlanta Office, REALTOR®

Andrea Cueny
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
(678) 695-7040
(770)442-7300

Featured Home: Great Home in Wonderful Neighborhood (Diane Higgins)

2500 Summer Oak Drive

Move in tomorrow to this great home in the Tucker subdivision of Summer. It is conveniently located within walking distance to downtown Tucker and the new high school. The home was built in 1990 and has been well-maintained. It is in great condition inside and out. Make the changes that will make it your own and start living in this perfect home immediately.

Family room

There are hardwoods on the main level and a spacious vaulted family room with fireplace. The family room has a wet bar for entertaining. The kitchen and breakfast area are off of the living room and there is also a sunroom and master on the main. There are three bedrooms upstairs, one of which could be a second master. You have lots of versatility in this floor plan.

Breakfast room

The backyard is nicely shaded with established landscaping bordering your property and the one behind you. It is a nice place to relax on a warm summer day! The entire yard has been landscaped with well-established trees, shrubbery, and flowers.

Backyard

This is a wonderful home in a cul-de-sac neighborhood. There is a lot living of space for now and to grow into later. The home has many storage areas that are a huge plus to this floor plan. It will be very easy to be at home here. The convenience to so many nearby things will make everyday life bit simpler!

Offered at $295,000

2500 Summeroak Drive
Tucker, GA 30084

Four Bedrooms, Three Full Baths and One Half Bath

Please click here for more photos of this great home

Diane Higgins Founding Member

Diane Higgins
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Direct: 678.778.5358
Office: 404.835.9600

Featured Home: Excellent Starter Home in Buckhead (Heery Brothers)

2125 Howell Mill Road

What an opportunity to snag a great starter home or lot for new construction in the Morris Brandon area! This 1950 home has been updated and is move in ready if you want to make this your first home or downsize.

Kitchen

You enter the home through the living room which has a large picture window and fireplace. The room is very spacious. There are hardwoods here and they run throughout the house with the exception of the bathroom. White cabinets and neutral solid service countertops in the kitchen provide a great deal of storage and work space for a new homeowner to take advantage of. A breakfast area will easily hold a table for six.

Living Room

The home has two bedrooms and a great black and white tiled bathroom. Two really nice features of the Howell Mill Road home: a large screened in porch and separate deck. The space would allow you to expand the home if you desire or have multiple ways to enjoy being outside rain or shine.

Dining Room

If the desirable Morris Brandon area is where you want to live do not miss this opportunity. What a great price for an incredible location.

Offered at $299,000

2125 Howell Mill Road, NW
Atlanta, GA 30318

Two Bedrooms and One Full Bath

Please click here for more photos of this home

Heery Brothers, Buckhead Office Founding Members, REALTORS®

Heery Brothers
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Direct: 404.974.4319
Office: 404.835.9600

Featured Home: Charming Townhouse in the Heart of Serenbe (Sandra Storrar)

9075 Selborne Lane

9075 Selborne Lane is townhouse living at its finest! It will take your breath away. Original design elements set this place apart! You will immediately be taken away when you open the front door. The large living area will enthrall you with scored concrete floors and the alcove bookshelves off one side of the room. The walls have been custom painted in a faux finish and blend perfectly with the flooring, adding a sense of calmness to the room. The open space has plenty of room for relaxing.

Living area

A central wall with openings on each side separates the kitchen and breakfast area from the front living room. The kitchen has an island bar with storage that looks into the breakfast area.

Dining area

On the second floor you find two bedrooms, one of which is an oversized master suite. Bamboo flooring sets the stage for the space with unlimited options. In addition to your bedroom furniture, you could set up a reading area or a relaxing corner to settle in and watch a movie or your favorite show. This would also be a good place for a desk or work area. You will truly be amazed at the spaciousness of the master suite.

Courtyard

Currently the townhouse is two stories, and an unfinished third floor is available for expansion. Finishing the third floor would almost double the current living area. The townhouse is not only beautifully designed in the current layout, but gives a new homeowner opportunity to add on as they desire.

The townhouse is in the heart of Serenbe. You are only steps away from the café and shops that this unique community provides. Living here makes daily life in your home and in your community convenient and pleasurable.

Offered at $299,000

9075 Selborne Lane
Chattahoochee Hills, GA 30268

Two Bedrooms and Two Full Baths

Please click here for more photos of this Serenbe townhome

Sandra Storrar
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Direct: 404.310.3558
Office: 404.835.9600

Featured Home: Sophisticated Elegance in Buckhead (Susan Fron)

3962 Wieuca Road

Superior location and homes are easily found on Wieuca Road. The property being marketed by Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 3962 Wieuca is most certainly among the finest. The home exudes luxury from the first moment you set eyes on it. The drive leading to the front of the house and the three car garage has pavers laid in a stacking fan design that immediately lets you know no expense was spared.

Front view

Cathedral ceilings and golden hardwoods on the main are the backdrop for the details within. Distinctive moldings frame large windows and add grandeur to the space. The kitchen has premium appliances and is a chef’s dream. There is no upgrading necessary even for the most demanding cooks. It is all situated in a kitchen that is just as beautiful as it is well-thought out for preparing meals. An accent island with gas range has two iron and crystal chandeliers that glisten and reflect in the black granite. You might find yourself wondering if you are relaxing in a home or in a decadent hotel bar. Although the home is so comfortable and livable that you will quickly remember this could all be yours.

Kitchen

The master suite is on the main. A fireplace and chandelier add personal touches. The master bath has double sinks that are separated by a sitting area. The dark cabinetry runs floor to ceiling along one wall, framing mirrors and sconces. French doors lead out from the master suite to a patio and pool area that will feel more like a resort than one’s backyard pool. It is impossible not to relax by the sparkling water.

Living Room

The property will not disappoint with extras either. The finished terrace level has all the things needed for indoor entertainment. There is a state-of-the-art media room, wet bar and recreation area. A well-equipped fitness room will make it easy to get in a workout whenever it fits into your day.

This home on Wieuca is extremely easy to live in and with all the resort-like extras it will be a pleasure for years. Now if you just had a concierge living with you, every detail of your life would be taken care of!

Offered at $1,795,000

3962 Wieuca Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30342

Five Bedrooms, Four Full Baths and One Half Bath

Please click here for more photos of this sophisticated home

Susan Fron

Susan Fron
Atlanta Fine Homes and Sotheby’s International Realty
Mobile: 678.464.7899
Office: 404.835.9600