This couple in Canton, GA designed their dream home with architect James Knight.

Vicky and Jun had a vision, but it was far from the cookie-cutter houses they saw on every street. They dreamed of a home that was both a quiet retreat and a place to enjoy time with family and friends. 

Their search for the right architectural design partner led them to Reynard Custom Homes. James Knight was able to connect with Vicky and Jun's concept for their home and bring a creative approach to design that allowed them to build their dream home within their budget.

Designing and building a dream home with an architect is a journey filled with decisions, and James Knight and the Reynard project team was there every step of the way. Vicky and Jun said of James' approach, that he was "supportive, perceptive, creative, knowledgeable, and so approachable." He listened intently to their ideas and translated them into a design that felt uniquely theirs.

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The result was a stunning modern home nestled on a 1.44-acre lot in Canton, Georgia. With 4,414 heated square feet, three bedrooms, and three-and-a-half bathrooms, the house was a perfect blend of space and intimacy.

From the initial renderings to the final product, the design prioritized clean lines, natural materials, and a seamless connection between the indoors and the beautiful, wooded landscape.

The home was more than just a building; it was the culmination of a collaborative effort, a shared vision brought to life.

For Vicky and Jun, designing their dream home with an architect was one of the first crucial steps toward making it a reality.

The careful planning that Reynard Custom Homes put into every project was evident in the comprehensive layout of Vicky and Jun's home. Their "design with" philosophy meant every inch was tailored to their lifestyle, not just a generic "design for" any homeowner.

The process had begun with a thorough consultation, where Reynard meticulously understood their unique vision, daily routines, and budget, ensuring that the final design was a true reflection of their desires.

On the main floor, the home flowed effortlessly. From the spacious garage

A), guests could enter directly or use the convenient powder room (B). The master suite (F) was a private oasis, complete with an expansive master closet (D), a luxurious master bathroom (E), and even a private sauna (C) for ultimate relaxation—a true indulgence Vicky and Jun had always envisioned.

The heart of the home, however, was in its communal spaces. The kitchen (G) was designed for both culinary exploration and lively gatherings, opening into a welcoming dining room (H) and a comfortable living room (I). For quieter moments, a serene library (J) offered a perfect escape with books. The guest bedroom (K) and its adjoining bathroom provided comfort for visitors. At the same time, the screened porch (L) and generous rear porch (M) extended the living space outdoors, blurring the lines between indoor comfort and natural beauty.

But the home's features didn't end there. The finished basement was a world unto itself. It boasted an additional bedroom (A) and bathroom (B), perfect for extended family or friends. The large living room (C) provided another versatile space for casual entertaining or a play area. A cleverly designed kitchenette (D) meant less running upstairs for snacks and drinks, while a covered deck (E) allowed for outdoor enjoyment regardless of the weather. For entertainment enthusiasts, a dedicated theater (F) promised countless movie nights, and ample storage (G) ensured everything had its place.

Every detail, from the placement of the sauna to the layout of the home theater, spoke of the collaborative journey Vicky, Jun, and Reynard had taken. It was a home designed not just for living, but for thriving, a testament to thoughtful architecture and a truly personalized approach.

The journey from a blank slate to a finished home was captured in the moments of construction. Standing on the red clay earth of their Canton, Georgia, lot, with the Georgia pines towering behind them, Vicky and architect James Knight (also known as Reynard) looked out over what would soon be their home. The large excavator in the background was a sign of the physical transformation underway. This moment, where they stood surveying the raw land, underscored the beginning of a grand project and the excitement of watching their vision take shape.

A Home Designed for a Wooded Landscape

The final design fully embraced the natural slope of the 1.44-acre lot. Instead of fighting the land, the home's clever architecture was built into it. This approach not only created a striking visual presence but also allowed for multiple levels that provided stunning views and a natural separation between living spaces. The result was a home with plenty of covered outdoor seating, which connected them to their lush, wooded backyard and the peaceful creek that ran through it.

The open-concept floor plan on the main level was the heart of the home's function and flow. The kitchen, living room, and dining room were a single, harmonious space, anchored by a gorgeous central fireplace that promised cozy evenings. This design fostered a sense of togetherness and made the home perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.

From Blueprint to Reality

The architectural renderings perfectly captured the modern, contemporary style they had envisioned. The designs featured expansive windows that brought the outdoors in, and clean lines that defined the home's sleek profile. The images showed a house with a mix of dark and natural wood finishes, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming aesthetic. The large screened porch and extended deck were prominent features, emphasizing the outdoor lifestyle they wanted to lead.

Looking at the finished home, it was clear that Reynard Custom Homes had delivered on their promise. The house was a true reflection of the unique, open brief Vicky and Jun had given them. The final structure, with its striking dark exterior and large windows, stood as a testament to a successful collaboration—a beautiful and functional masterpiece created from a shared vision and a commitment to quality.

The home was a harmonious blend of refined design and comfortable living, a concept beautifully illustrated in its interiors. Every room felt deliberately curated, yet entirely welcoming.

Designed for Living

The main living space was a testament to the home's open-concept design. Soaring ceilings with exposed dark wood beams added a rustic, warm element. At the same time, large windows filled the area with natural light, blurring the line between inside and out. A central fireplace, clad in a striking wood-grain stone veneer, served as the focal point, creating a cozy anchor for the living room. The dining area, with its elegant table and chairs, was ideally situated to host intimate dinners or large gatherings. A variety of unique light fixtures, from the sleek pendant lamps over the kitchen island to a dramatic spiral chandelier, added modern elegance and visual interest.

The kitchen itself was a masterpiece of both form and function. A large, white marble island provided a generous workspace and casual seating, while dark wood cabinetry created a rich contrast. A pot filler faucet over the stainless steel range was a thoughtful detail for the avid cook. The adjacent butler's pantry, with its black cabinetry, checkered floors, and ample counter space, offered a hidden but highly functional prep and storage area.

Spaces for Relaxation and Entertainment

Beyond the main living area, the home offered distinct zones for relaxation and entertainment. A cozy library with built-in bookshelves provided a quiet retreat for reading and conversation. In the basement, the home theater offered a completely different atmosphere. The bright, sunny yellow couch in one space created a cheerful, vibrant spot for casual lounging. At the same time, the downstairs theater with its large screen and plush white chairs was a minimalist haven designed for immersive movie nights.

Connecting to the Outdoors

The exterior spaces were just as carefully considered. An inviting covered deck offered a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. The multi-tiered terraces, with their clean concrete paths, integrated beautifully into the landscape, providing easy access to the wooded yard and the stunning rock formations Reynard's team had thoughtfully incorporated. An aerial view of the home revealed how the modern structure settled naturally into its surroundings, with the driveway and paths curving to follow the contours of the land.

The home was truly a dream realized. It was a place where modern design met natural beauty, where every detail, from the grand spiral chandelier to the simple stone steps, told a story of thoughtful collaboration and a deep understanding of what makes a house a true home.