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Boasting an all-white exterior and a welcoming bright orange door, this home’s distinctive style is evident from the moment you approach the contemporary dwelling and walk through its surrounding gardens. In 1968, Birmingham-based architect Robert P. Byram designed the home as his personal residence in the heart of Crestline, applying a modern aesthetic through clean lines, large windows that welcome natural light and give nod to nature, and warmth in color and materials. For half a century, the home has held court on a private cul-de-sac, and its design-focused interiors remain intact. Currently occupied by only its second owner, a creative couple with two kids, the home has received quality updates to help it accommodate its residents throughout the years.
“For me, the home has been great in all phases of life — as a single young professional, married, and now, with kids,” the homeowner shares of his 18 years in the home. “I felt a sense of responsibility in being the second owner of an iconic home such as this, and we have only enhanced its livability while maintaining the integrity and original footprint.”
Let’s take a tour of this intriguing residence, which is now officially on the market!
A contemporary home on a private lot in Crestline was designed and built by local architect Robert P. Byram as his personal residence. Today, it awaits its new owners!
This home has only had two owners in its 52 years. The second owner completed renovations to enhance the style and function of the property.
A floating staircase leads from the lower-level foyer and atrium to the main floor that houses living space, a kitchen and two bedrooms.
Floor-to-ceiling windows that create a flood of natural light makes this home an oasis.
Those invited into the home gravitate towards the atrium, with skylights and windows that reach the height of the house. Natural light plays a central role in the overall design, and you’ll discover a connection to nature (a theme that runs throughout the home) in the atrium’s sunken garden oasis filled with vibrant plant life. Visible from the main-level living spaces, kitchen and master bedroom, the atrium remains a focal point as you move throughout the various areas. “My wife is a gardener, so there has been an evolution of plants within and around the home,” says the homeowner. Right now, inside, there is even a stock of bananas growing. Over the years, too, all of the glass has been replaced, and a catwalk with metal and wire railings and glass doors to the main floor living spaces were added.
The configuration of the main floor includes a gathering spot for family and friends with two adjacent sitting areas that overlook the atrium, plus a renovated kitchen, master bedroom and bathroom, and an additional bedroom. A functional hub of the home, the kitchen has minimalist cabinetry, high-end appliances and a crisp, timeless color palette. The space received renovations in 2012, and the homeowners chose top-of-the-line German Alno cabinets to define the linear design. Carrara marble, Corian countertops, and walnut shelving round out the look.
Part living room, part art gallery, the central living space overlooks the atrium.
Sliding doors open to reveal the atrium and clear views of the home’s surrounding gardens.
Bright, open and airy, this living space showcases playful art that hangs above two separate seating areas.
Living proof that contemporary design is not stark or cold, this kitchen features an updated design with minimalist cabinetry as its defining feature.
The homeowner removed the wall between the kitchen and dining space to create an open area in the kitchen.
Now, the two spaces coexist, and the kitchen is a favorite room in the home.
The two upstairs bedrooms, and particularly their bathrooms, are incredibly inviting with contemporary elements, including vibrant colors, simplistic layouts, tile flooring and clean lines. An upstairs room with an attached, renovated bathroom is presently used as the master suite, but the first-floor suite is a smart alternative. The first floor was originally designed as Byram’s architecture offices, but it was gutted and replaced with a den and guest suite with a walk-in steam shower. Located off the foyer, a concrete-floored den, with central wet bar and sliding glass doors that open to the front deck, leads to a third bedroom. Concrete carries the floors into the bedroom and bathroom, delivering a cool, contemporary vibe.
Two bedrooms occupy the main level of the home. This one stands out for its playful wallpaper.
The bathrooms both received updates, which include tile in lively colors. Here, an orange penny tile covers the wall behind the vanity.
Currently being used as the master bedroom, this room opens to the atrium and sliding doors allow natural light to flood the space.
In the master suite, find a fun and funky master bathroom with a soaking tub, concrete vanity and teal tile.
On the lower level, a den is located off the foyer. A seating area, wet bar and dining area (on the other side of the wet bar) were added as additional living space.
The lower level leaves a lasting impression.
Consider the option of using the lower level bathroom and bedroom as a master suite. We guarantee that you’ll never want to leave this spacious shower.
The always-visible landscape enhances the overall feel of the home, which is contemporary and warm. In addition to the verdant indoor oasis in the atrium, the surrounding gardens deliver a retreat-like atmosphere to the home. Described by the homeowner as “meditative” and “feng shui,” the outdoor garden is ideal for yoga and relaxation. A deck, designed for grilling and enjoying the outdoors, was added to the back of the house to increase outdoor living space and provide additional opportunities for entertaining.
The homeowner is quick to celebrate this home for its one-of-a-kind architecture uncommon in this area, but he does not overlook the benefits of the neighborhood when praising the property. The house sits within walking distance to Crestline Elementary School, the Tot Lot playground, library and Crestline Village, where you’ll find shopping and restaurants. It’s also close to Mountain Brook Village and downtown. Despite their steadfast love of the home, the homeowner and his family have outgrown the space. “It is rare to find a gem of this nature that does not require a lot — or any — work,” he says. “I hope a cool couple finds the home and can enjoy the neighborhood and school systems as we have.”
The homeowner was wise to add a deck to the back of the home. Since the house is located on a cul-de-sac, the property is private and quiet.
A zen garden overflows with beautiful plant life and provides a place for total relaxation.
Fenced-in and private, the backyard is a safe area for children and pets to play.
As you approach the home, you’ll cross over a stream that enhances the tranquil atmosphere of the property.
This three-bedroom home, with a rear deck, two-car garage, fenced backyard and exceptional design, is on the market. If you are interested in becoming the third owner of this iconic property, please contact listing agent Stephanie Robinson with RealtySouth at (205) 229-6247 (cell) or (205) 870-5420 (office), or email [email protected].
You can learn more about the property and its history here.
This article is sponsored by Stephanie Robinson with RealtySouth Mountain Brook Village Office.
(205) 229-6247 • License #813554
