Known for its vibrant storefronts and unique residential architecture, Virginia-Highland is your walkable destination to live, work and play outside Atlanta.

Here are five key considerations to keep in mind before building in the neighborhood:

1. Understand Its Historic Charm

Virginia-Highland is renowned for its eclectic mix of architectural aesthetics. Over the years, the neighborhood has shifted its focus to preserving the timeless character of older homes through restoration and revitalization.

Colonial Revival is characterized by its symmetrical style, featuring balanced windows and an accentuated, centrally located door. Homes are typically constructed with brick or wood clapboard siding, as well as a side-gable roof and decorative cornices.

One of the most predominant styles in Virginia-Highland, the Craftsman design emphasizes craftsmanship with a focus on woodwork and stone masonry. Exposed rafters, square columns and low-pitched roofing are a few defining characteristics of Craftsman architecture.

The ranch-style bungalows in this neighborhood exemplify a return to simple exteriors and open, outdoor living. Bungalows are often one- or one-and-a-half-story with wide overhangs and low-pitched bracket roofs. In contrast, popular cottage homes are compact and stylish, characterized by cross-gabled massing, asymmetrical front façades and front chimneys. Cottage homes are practical but also stand out from more simplistic forms. Other significant designs include Tudor Revival, Victorian and Mediterranean Revival.

As residents continue to renovate and expand these historic homes, Virginia-Highland continues to preserve its architectural heritage with modern techniques.

2. Blending Old & New

While the neighborhood is often associated with its distinctive structural styles, it also features many modern and contemporary homes. In Virginia-Highland, it is not uncommon to see a bungalow next door to a Colonial Revival home or a renovated cottage home with modern amenities. These homes coexist well, adding character that transcends generations. Visitors can take a closer look at Virginia-Highland's diverse architecture during the yearly Tour of Homes.

3. An Eye on Landscaping

The front of your home is often just as important as what is inside. The Virginia-Highland Civic Association is very specific about its landscaping guidelines, including fencing, greenery, driveways and more.

Reclaim your green space and create a serene barrier between your home and the city’s hustle and bustle. Many historic homes feature retaining walls, which are ideal for creating a boundary between a house and the street, complemented by lush shrubbery and vibrant flowers. Stone and stucco are commonly used to refresh the wall with a traditional aesthetic. Stone walkways are also a popular choice for various architectural designs, providing a clean, natural look. As mentioned before, with pedestrian-friendly living at the forefront of the neighborhood, residents often include walkways made of stone, brick or stylish pavers.

4. Get Your Home Project Approved

Ready to take your first step toward living in Virginia-Highland? Before you break ground on your dream homesite, schedule an appointment with the Virginia-Highland Civic Association (VHCA) planning committee. Every home project must be approved by VHCA before construction can begin. VHCA has guidelines for every element of your home, whether it’s a restoration or new build, to ensure that it maintains the integrity of the neighborhood.

5. Embrace Walkable Living

Virginia-Highland residents enjoy engaging entertainment, as well as delicious bites and one-of-a-kind shopping, just minutes from home. Walk along Highland Avenue and Virginia Avenue and explore boutiques full of home goods, clothing, accessories, gifts and more. Delicious dining awaits at local favorites, such as Doc Chey’s Noodle House and European-inspired Murphy’s. You will also want to check out mouth-watering dishes at Mellow Mushroom, La Tavola Trattoria, Atkins Park and Dark Horse Tavern. As summer rolls around, Summerfest will showcase live music, food vendors and an artisan market to celebrate the neighborhood’s spirit of unity.

To learn more about the Virginia-Highland neighborhood, including upcoming events and places to check out, visit https://virginiahighlanddistrict.com/.

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