A Recap of this Year’s Home Tour

Even when a home is opened up for a party or just a small gathering, rarely is there an opportunity to really ask questions about where things come from, how they were created, why certain choices were made, and on and on… There are always too many distractions… Well that’s not the case with my annual Lifestyle Design Home Tours.

This year we got to explore the home of Katie and Ian Walker. As is the case every year, my goal with these tours is to share homes that reflect what I call the Lifestyle Priorities of its residents. Hearing first-hand about the design and construction and ten years of living in this home was a real treat.

The Walkers gave freely of their time and expertise, sharing the thinking that led to this creative blend of form and function. Distinctive elements like – more than a dozen sets of ten-foot-high French doors opening onto exquisite terraces, windowed backsplashes, custom-made bathroom hardware inspired by an Art Deco chandelier and, systems for organizing everything from kitchenware to fine art, and the importance of private spaces were part of our free-flowing discussion of how to blend modern day living with respect for beauty and the past.

A sense of fluidity is evidenced by the adaptability of the spaces, indoors and out for all types of gatherings and uses. Their fabulous collections of art, photography, paintings, glass and many other treasures are given places of honor throughout the house. Even so, they only enhance the living that takes place each day. Katie’s idea was that it be a family home, yet also one that was inspirational and as open as possible to nature.

It was also interesting to hear Ian describe how the home evolved after his marriage to Katie, five years ago. By focusing on how they wanted to live together, instead of how things should look, they created an environment that feels like home to both of them.

This home is a great example of how living spaces can be customized to reinforce a totally authentic lifestyle.

That said, with children grown and travels on the horizon, this gem of a home is for sale. Below are links for sales information as well as for the sixteen-page article that was appeared in the March ’09 issue of Atlanta Homes & Lifetyles. Though they won’t substitute for the private walk-through, it certainly will whet your appetite. See you next year??!!

Home Sale Website: www.howellmillestate.com
AH&L Link:

http://www.atlantahomesmag.com/Atlanta-Homes-and-Lifestyles/March-2009/Self-Portrait/

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