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

A Buckhead mid-century modern day home built by mentioned architect Cecil Alexander for his loved ones had been on the industry for far more than a yr in advance of a check out from Ted and Susan Pound. 

Even though potential customers saw a residence concluded in 1957 as a construction in have to have of updates, Susan envisioned this residence, affectionately identified as the Spherical Residence, as “a amazing put to elevate their relatives.”

Alexander, a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects who died at age 95 in 2013, launched the architectural company FABRAP (1958-1984) and was a very well-respected civil legal rights chief, who designed the 2001-2003 Ga point out flag.

Alexander extra his distinctive style and design sensibilities to the Spherical Residence, just as he did with notable Atlanta constructions like the former AT&T constructing, Ga Energy headquarters, and the now-demolished Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium.

A extraordinary atrium with a skylight, reminiscence of the oculus in the historic Pantheon, centered the rooms in the round home. Scenic sights of the 3.75-acre wooded residence from five bedrooms, 4.5 loos, and a mild-crammed dwelling space and the joyful vibe of the dwelling could imprint a resourceful attitude for their two little ones. As the son of a Columbus, GA-centered architect, Ted aspired to honor the one of a kind style of the dwelling highlighted in countrywide publications.

Due to the fact their 2006 order of the Round House, the Lbs have been thorough with renovation projects to protect the character of the house. Loos have been renovated. Added lights into the atrium have encouraged nighttime use of the room.  The roof, electrical wiring, and mechanical programs have been changed.  New exterior windows have transformed the basement into an inviting multi-reason home.

Till Alexander’s loss of life in 2013, the pair shaped a friendship with the architect and his wife Helen as they consulted with him about main dwelling advancement tasks.  

The Lbs also engaged proficient architects, contractors, and artists, this kind of as Noel Dent and Anne Terhokoski, for above a decade for modernization tasks at the Spherical Property.  The married artists enlivened the kitchen area a short while ago by changing a copper backsplash with their handcrafted artwork-tile. Clean up traces and straightforward shapes in the style mirror a Scandinavian-motivated style. A shared like for craftsmanship has developed admiration between the Lbs . and Dent and Terhokoski.

Latest exterior modernizations consist of a finely in-depth small addition to the property by architect Steve Robinson of Axios Architecture, LLC that resolves longstanding structural troubles from the deck. New walkways enable the homeowners to stroll close to the dwelling, to accessibility a new out of doors spa and hearth pit, and to take pleasure in the flora and fauna of the property.  

Although serious home makeovers appeal to notice and television viewers, the Lbs . display the benefit of restrained advancements and kindhearted stewardship of architecturally important homes.  For these exclusive landmarks, good renovations are assessed by how thoughtfully the property is enhanced and preserved.