Reynard wins Bronze for "Architecture Best Residential Design"

Our custom home RIVERTOP has won Bronze for "Architecture Best Residential Design Completed / Professional"

A Custom Home Design on the Mountain Slopes of Talking Rock, Georgia

A modern residence that turns a challenging steep slope into a panoramic resort-style getaway.

When designing a home in the Blue Ridge foothills, the landscape dictates the architecture. Construction in 2025, Rivertop (Best Residential Design) is a prime example of how a skilled Talking Rock architect can transform a difficult, steep terrain into a distinct advantage.

Situated on a dramatic 2.53-acre parcel overlooking Talking Rock Creek, this 3,308-square-foot residence blends modern open-concept living with the rugged beauty of North Georgia.

Project at a Glance

• Location: Talking Rock, Georgia

• Status: Completed (2025)

• Site Area: 2.53 Acres

• Total Heated Area: 3,308 Sq. Ft.

• Configuration: Primary Residence (2,738 Sq. Ft.) + Attached ADU (570 Sq. Ft.)

  
  

Site & Context: Engineering the Vertical

The defining characteristic of the Rivertop project is its verticality. Perched on a steep mountain slope, the home required sophisticated custom home design strategies to ensure stability while maximizing the client's investment in the view.

Rather than fighting the topography, the design engages with it. The structure creates a "treehouse" effect, cantilevering and tiering down the mountain to provide immersive views of the foothills and the creek gorge below. This approach connects the home from the upper ridge all the way down to a dedicated riverside gathering area at the water's edge.

Architect’s Note: "Building on a steep slope requires distinct structural solutions. As a North Georgia architect, understanding the balance between geotechnical stability and aesthetic beauty is key to the success of a mountain home." - Architect, James Knight

Inside the Primary Residence

The interior program was developed to balance communal energy with private retreat zones.

The Main Level: Social & Serene

The entry level serves as the heart of the home. We utilized an expansive open floor plan to unite the living room, dining room, and kitchen into a single, light-filled volume.

• Social Core: The layout facilitates seamless flow, perfect for entertaining against a backdrop of mountain vistas.

• Chef’s Kitchen: Anchored by a large walk-in pantry, the kitchen is designed for functionality without sacrificing style.

• Master on Main: The primary suite is a true sanctuary, featuring a spacious bedroom, a generous walk-in closet, and a luxury full bathroom.
  

The Lower Level: Hospitality & Flexibility

A key trend in modern custom home design build projects is multi-generational flexibility. The basement level of Rivertop is programmed for entertainment and hospitality. It features a dedicated billiard room as the social anchor, flanked by two guest bedrooms and a shared full bath.

The ADU: Future-Proofing the Home

One of Rivertop’s standout features is "The Studio"—a fully integrated, 570 sq. ft. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) located on the lower level.

Acting as a self-contained apartment with a private kitchenette and bathroom, the ADU offers immense versatility. It is ideal for long-term guests, multi-generational living, or even potential rental income, adding significant value to the property.

Outdoor Living: Connecting Ridge to River

In Talking Rock, the outdoor space is just as important as the indoor footage. The design prioritizes the transition between interior comfort and the raw exterior environment.

1. Three-Level Deck System: A combination of covered and partially screened decks extends the living space outward, ensuring year-round usability regardless of the weather.

2. Viewing Platform: A detached platform was site-positioned to capture specific, curated vantage points of the creek gorge.

3. Riverside Connection: The experience concludes at the bottom of the slope with a curated gathering area, providing direct access to Talking Rock Creek.
   

Looking for a Custom Home Architect in North Georgia?

Rivertop demonstrates that even the most challenging sites can yield the most breathtaking results. Whether you are looking for a Talking Rock architect to navigate steep terrain or a partner for your next custom home design, we are ready to bring your vision to life.