Yesterday a group of us enjoyed attending the 2nd annual Preservation Piedmont Home Tour. It was the most perfect day of the year for a lazy day stroll around a historic downtown Charlottesville neighborhood. It was a good way to usher in the Fall season.
Most of the architecture selected for the tour was constructed in the early 1900's. There were some exceptions to the rule. One newer contemporary home was on the tour, a 50's Cape Cod, and also a high-end chicken coop!Many of the homes had been renovated but their exteriors were in keeping with the period leaving the historic charm and neighborhood character intact, preserving history while adding modern conveniences. Some homes were owned by artists, carpenters, or architects which certainly helps when you are going to tackle complex renovation projects.
One home had transformed a small garage nestled in the woods into a "secret" cabin complete with a large wood cook stove. It made you wish for a cold winter night with a good book and cup of tea.
We chatted with super nice guides and home owners. All eager to share the history of the architecture and their love of their special neighborhood. It is unanimous, we'll be back next year and can't wait to see what homes are open to visit!
- Rebecca
The chicken coup was shared by four families. One of those families, the Hoskins, lives in the last house you pictured. Another family was the Grimms, who lived in the house next to that one (blue with a red door, concrete kitchen countertops poured by the couple!).
ReplyDeleteThe Grimms just moved to NYC, but I think you'd love Gillian's blog: http://driedfigsandwoodenspools.blogspot.com/
Here are some more pictures from the houses on the tour:
http://www.smallchichome.com/2010/10/preservation-piedmont-house-tour-part-1.html
http://www.smallchichome.com/2010/10/preservation-piedmont-house-tour-part-2.html
http://www.smallchichome.com/2010/10/preservation-piedmont-house-tour-part-3.html
http://www.smallchichome.com/2010/10/preservation-piedmont-house-tour-part-4.html