By Christopher Oquendo
For the AJC
The real estate slump set the stage for retiree Carl Espy to get exactly what he wanted when he moved last year to Vinings Main, a development of condos and townhouses in Cobb County. “I was able to get a great price for my condo and it allowed me to customize it exactly the way that I wanted,” he said. “I wanted my home to feel polished but also be cozy and inviting, and I wanted most if not all of the renovations completed before I moved in.” Lucky for Espy, his every wish was fulfilled.
Resident: Carl Espy, retired real estate developer
Location: Vinings Main
Size: 1,750 square feet; 2 bedrooms and 2 baths.
Year Built: 2008
Year Bought: 2010
Architectural Style: 5-story apartment building with Colonial accents
Renovations: A half bath was transformed into a wet bar, coffered ceilings were added to the den and a doorway between the library and hall was sealed. The tub was removed in the master bath and the shower was extended. Custom closets and built-in bookshelves were installed in the master bedroom; bookshelves were also built in the living room. The renovations were made by Bob Connelly Contractors, and it took three months to complete.
Favorite Architectural Feature: "The more time I spend here, the more I find different favorite spots," said Espy. "A good feature is the fireplace between the dinning room and living room. It is great because it adds warmth and a comfy feeling through the rooms." He also likes the archways and "the way I get ample natural light throughout the home."
Interior Design: Don Easterling and Nina Nash, staff decorators at Mathews Furniture, helped Espy furniture and decorate the space. "They came into my home and helped me with accessories, paint colors, wallpaper, paintings and different flourishes for the home," said Espy. "They did everything from bedding to utensils."
