A cursive sign on Chris Chadwick’s and Gavin George’s back deck simply says, “Relax.”
It’s easy for them to do so in Grant Park.
They often get together with neighbors for front porch-sitting or hanging out on their multi-level deck. The deck descends into their beloved backyard, which along with the century-old house, will be on the May 21-22 Historic Grant Park 42nd Annual Tour of Homes. The big, deep backyard gave them a blank canvas to add native, vibrant, unique and rare plants, which joined the existing rock path and pond.
“The previous owners had done an excellent job of doing renovations and still maintaining the layout. It had an old feel as well as (modern) plumbing, heating and wiring,” George said. “On top of all of it was the backyard.”
Snapshot
Residents: Chris Chadwick, senior event coordinator at the Georgia World Congress Center, and Gavin George, program management for Videa
Location: Grant Park
Size: More than 1,885 square feet, three bedrooms, two baths
Year built/year bought: 1911/2009
Architectural style: Transitional Victorian with Arts and Crafts influences
Favorite architectural elements: Their house has changed street numbers since it was built for $2,300. But despite the new address and renovations, original details include pocket doors, heart-of-pine floors, thick trim and moldings, coffered ceilings and the fireplace tile.
Renovations: The previous owners, Rob Smith and Carl Mattison, purchased the home in 2003 and restored it. In 2015, new owners Chadwick and George made cosmetic changes. In the kitchen, they installed Super White Quartzite countertops (by Stone Surface Design), tile backsplash, a wall of tile above the new sink/faucet and new lighting. They painted the cabinets and walls in the kitchen, as well as the living and dining room walls. The master bathroom has a new tile floor, tile wall and frameless glass shower. The exterior received new paint and gutters.
Design consultant: Jenn Ryan Designs
Interior design style: Organic modern
Favorite interior design elements: Custom furniture made from reclaimed wood by Tobin's House of Fab, along with Arts and Crafts style, contemporary and mid-century modern pieces.
Favorite outdoor features: The front porch and back deck. They spend casual weekends outside with their family and friends and host big gatherings. In 2011, more than 60 guests helped them celebrate the home's 100th birthday.
Resources: Tile from The Tile Co. Furniture from Room & Board, RH, Rove Concepts and Bed Down. Plants from Garden*Hood.
