BALA 2006 Home of the Year:
Some houses are just plain beautiful, and others are all of that plus something more. The judges of the Best in American Living Awards (BALA) instantly recognized the Tuscan-inspired beauty of the Rivera Stone House, but they struggled to put into words why it was worthy of Home of the Year designation.

The house captured perfectly three of the major trends judges identified in this year's competition: the success of highly executed smaller homes; the further entrenchment of the blurring between outdoor and indoor living spaces; and the use of natural materials in both interior and exterior environments. Read More


Regional Winner :
Set within Warwick Grove, an active-adult neighborhood, this plan follows traditional neighborhood design to match up with the historic village of Warwick. A flared gambrel roof and natural cedar siding mirror the traditional detailing of the neighborhood as well as offer a sense of history and permanence.

This plan represents the perfect transitions of rooms with open and flowing spaces. Specifically designed to serve the active adult, the master bedroom appears on the first floor. The outdoor room offers a private retreat area and the ability to easily modify an entry for a resident with a wheelchair. Read More


Platinum Winner :
This four-sided brick house with terra cotta roof tiles reclaimed from France blends in with the mixed-use community of Vickery in Cumming, Ga. Designed for glamour and entertaining, this floor plan mimics Paris glamour with its calming interior colors and classic lines. Ebony-stained custom furniture and cabinetry reflects the design sensitivities of the mid-1900s adding to interior's French style.

The floor plan accommodates maximum entertaining options. A butler's pantry with serving bar connects the kitchen and formal dining room. The great room opens to the kitchen on one side and a sunroom on the opposite side, which leads to outdoor entertainment space in the courtyard. Read More

Information for BALA 2006:

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