Contemporary Architecture on a Sloped Lot in Mableton, GA
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Mableton, GA | Architecture by James Knight | Text by Jack Baldwin
I met with our client Jen in Metro Atlanta in the summer of 2022 to discuss her vision for a multi-level, contemporary custom home on a challenging, steeply graded .34 acre lot. A home she nicknamed "Outdoor Palatial Sexiness" was envisioned as a luxury home that also featured a subtle, sophisticated showroom for her branded products business.
What followed was an architectural journey of meticulous creative collaboration, problem-solving, and inspired design.
Contemporary Architecture Discovery & Schematic Design
Led by Lead Architect James Knight, the initial phase focused on understanding the specific lifestyle and ideals for contemporary architecture that this home needed to support. The steeply sloped Cobb County lot required creative site organization and retaining wall planning.
James laid out a multi-level floor plan to maximize upper-level views, incorporating several highly custom features:
An 18-foot ceiling volume at the entry and office to create an immediate sense of grandeur.
A dedicated home office designed with a "classy museum" showroom aesthetic for Jen's business.
A unique loft space accessible by a spiral staircase, complete with room for two indoor swings.
Large commercial-style front windows and a kitchen skylight for abundant natural light.
Design Development & Problem Solving
As the design came alive, the site's complexity revealed itself. Originally conceived as a standalone Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), the rear structure was expertly redesigned as a compliant 400-square-foot pool house to adhere to local zoning codes.
A true breakthrough moment occurred when the architectural team introduced a dramatic bridge connecting the main house to the vanishing-edge pool terrace. Jen was thrilled, noting:
"I am EXTREMELY excited about that Bridge!! I didn't even know I wanted it! But now... It adds more YES!! YES!! SO EXCITING."
When total site coverage calculations exceeded Cobb County's maximums, James creatively pivoted. By implementing permeable concrete pavers for the driveway, he was able to satisfy stormwater absorption requirements while delivering a distinct, high-end aesthetic.
Interior Details & Material Selections
When it came to interior design, James integrated her design concepts into the layout by collaborating closely with Jen who meticulously constructed the home's specifications.
Through initial shopping excursions, she established a timeless material palette that was thoughtfully curated but also enhanced the overall functionality and flow of the space.
A refined interior paint palette featuring Sherwin-Williams Drift of Mist and Gossamer Veil.
A master suite anchored by custom platform bed framing.
An office featuring sleek sliding glass doors and showroom-quality shelving.
Exterior Sagiper wood-look weatherproof paneling to warm up the angled roof soffits.
Engineering & Breaking Ground
The final phase demanded rigorous structural engineering. We successfully transitioned to highly durable steel framing for the decks and navigated complex retaining wall configurations.
Despite real-world construction challenges, the Reynard team—including Managing Partner Jack Baldwin and Lead Architect James Knight—remains actively engaged to ensure the smooth execution of Jen's dream home.
Project Feature | Specifications |
Heated Square Footage | ~4,564 sq ft (main house) |
Pool & Pool House | Vanishing-edge (max 5.5 ft depth) with a ~400 sq ft upper terrace pool house |
Signature Elements | Architectural bridge, 18 ft ceilings, steel-framed decks |
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