A Vision of Modern Transitional Architecture in Lawrenceville, GA

The architectural design journey for this home in Lawrenceville, GA, “Tapestry,” began in May 2022. Our clients approached Reynard Architectural Designs with a rich set of aspirations, setting the stage for a highly collaborative project. The result is a beautiful luxury custom family home that embodies modern transitional architecture.

A luxurious two-story home is set against a backdrop of lush greenery in Lawrenceville, GA. The home, features a grand entrance and an expansive circular driveway. The neatly manicured lawn and subtle landscaping enhance the elegant facade of this custom home outside of Atlanta. Architecture by James Knight Photography by Kalyn Kight (Reynard Architectural Designs)

Architect James Knight spearheaded the schematic design, deliberately introducing a “wow factor” through striking building shapes and grand central spaces.

The core architectural design requirements included:

• A double-height great room and a sweeping staircase overlooking the foyer.

• All upper-floor bedrooms designed as luxurious en-suites.

• A dedicated main suite inspired by curated social media references.

• A seamlessly connected kitchen and dining room for entertaining.

• A functional layout featuring an upstairs laundry and main-floor mudroom.
  

Through seven major revision cycles, the James was able to balance spatial grandeur with budget goals.

“I am surprised how you made the garage work and still look beautiful.”

Tapestry is a modern suburban home that features a black shingle roof next to a cream brick exterior. Architecture by James Knight Photography by Kalyn Kight (Reynard Architectural Designs)

Modern Transitional Architecture for A Complex Terrain

Before finalizing the architectural plans, the Tapestry site location presented unique environmental challenges. The lot featured converging slopes and an active creek, requiring strategic site planning.

To harmonize the home with its environment, the team proposed flipping the building’s orientation by placing the garages on the higher grade and orienting the entry toward the slope, so the house nestled perfectly into the terrain. Carefully engineered retaining walls preserved ample rear yard space for a future pool, turning a topographical challenge into a structural triumph.

From the backyard the spacious two-story house is seen overlooking the sloped backyard facing the dense woods. Architecture by James Knight Photography by Kalyn Kight (Reynard Architectural Designs)

The Parallel Process: Interiors and Permitting

While the structural shell was being refined, a dedicated interior design track ran in parallel. James worked closely with the clients to curate the home’s interior identity through multiple mood board iterations. Key decisions included large-scale, marble-effect epoxy floors and a stunning dark-tiled feature wall in the dining room.

A modern dining room features a striking dark-tiled feature wall and a sleek table centerpiece, harmonized by neutral-toned curtains and a plush rug, reflecting the curated interior design process led by James Knight. Photo by Kalyn Kight

A glimpse into the luxurious bathroom featuring a sleek freestanding bathtub, a chic black-tiled wall, and an elegant chandelier, all enhanced by natural light. Architecture by James Knight. Photography by Kalyn Kight

Modern entryway featuring elegant wainscoting, a sleek metal railing staircase, and cozy seating with warm accents, complemented by a tall potted plant and a decorative basket. Architecture by James Knight. Photography by Kalyn Kight

At the same time, the team navigated a complex, multi-agency permitting process in Gwinnett County. We brought in a local land planner who expertly managed the Residential Drainage Plan (RDP) and septic approvals. After months of coordination, structural engineering updates, and footprint adjustments, the final breakthrough arrived.

“I am excited to tell you that today we got the Build Permit. This took a while, but now we have it. Thank you, guys!”

Breaking Ground

With the permits secured, the selected general contractor mobilized the site. Despite a brief winter pause, the project maintained incredible momentum into 2024. Complex helical pile foundations were successfully engineered and poured, paving the way for the home’s framing in the summer of 2024. What began as a list of dreams and inspiration photos officially took shape in the real world.

A Vision Realized

By the summer of 2026, the vision for Tapestry had been fully realized. To capture the culmination of this four-year journey, Our photographer (and co-founder) Kalyn Kight visited the property for a final walk-through and a professional photo shoot.

Walking through the sunlit, double-height great room and admiring the meticulously executed interior details—from the striking epoxy floors to the dark-tiled feature wall—Kalyn documented the seamless blend of architectural grandeur and personalized design. The resulting images not only showcase a stunning modern transitional home but also celebrate a deeply rewarding collaboration between the clients and the entire design team.

A modern open-concept living area features a sleek kitchen with an island, stylish pendant lighting, and a cozy adjacent dining space. Neutral tones and elegant decor create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Architecture by James Knight. Photography by Kalyn Kight

A modern living room from an elevated perspective features a cozy beige sectional sofa adorned with soft pillows, a sleek wooden coffee table with decorative items, and a large TV mounted above a dark fireplace, all complemented by a view of a sun-lit balcony. Architecture by James Knight. Photography by Kalyn Kight