HouseSmarts Episode 184 dives in to the architecture of Georgia by touring a William T. Baker & Associates property on scenic Lake Oconee. 

Award winning architect, William T. Baker appears on atl&co.

An interview with William T. Baker, winner of the 2013 Shutze Award, by Style Magazine.

Historical architectural styles are the most sought after in Atlanta. To maintain the true integrity of this desirable style, it’s often necessary to compromise on modern functionality. Not so with Woodland Hills Manor, which seamlessly combines the look and feel of an historic estate with a million dollar state-of-the-art technology system that controls everything from the sound system to security - even from your mobile phone. Set high on a hill with commanding views overlooking a forest of mature trees, Woodland Hills Manor evokes memories of estates from the grandest traditions. The home is constructed from Wissahickon Schist, a special stone imported from Pennsylvania, and is accented further with Indiana limestone and traditional English roof tiles. Some of the windows are filled with leaded sashes using hand-blown bottle glass, while the larger arched windows are steel frame with German Restoration Glass. The impressive limestone front door surround protects the heavy oak door and its leaded glass panels and hand-carved linen-fold panels. The entry hall welcomes you with thick quartersawn oak wainscoting panels. The centerpiece for this hall is the magnificent oak staircase with its 2-inch-thick panels in period style. On the other side of the foyer is the dining room which has a lofty cathedral ceiling banded by heavy timbering. Overlooking the room is a minstrel gallery, accessed by a hidden door from the second floor, which provides a place for musicians to perform while you and your guests dine. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra has provided musical ambiance here on several occasions. The house is designed for enjoyable outdoor living as well. The vaulted family room provides a comfortable family sitting area adjoining the kitchen and breakfast room. Its antique wooden beams add warmth and texture to the space. Immediately outside this family room is a covered open-air porch fitted with a fireplace and barbecue grill for more casual entertaining. Just outside the doors of the master bedroom suite are the formal gardens providing summer color that can be enjoyed from both the pool deck and the surrounding windows of the home. The landscape embraces subtle blends of textures and colors to complement the rich hues and materials of the home. So many of this home’s spectacular highlights simply cannot be represented in photos. Creative types will love the professional dark room in addition to the art studio. The elevator rises to the top floor “attic” where a fully stocked arts and crafts center brings wrapping holiday gifts to a whole new level. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the truly incredible 1500-bottle wine cellar while sharing only the finest with family and friends in the wine tasting room! Woodland Hills Manor exudes a warm elegance, offering its residents a private five acre estate with the added benefits of city living. No detail was overlooked in the home’s design; from the fine, hand selected materials to its functional floor plan, this home provides luxury, modern technology and comfortable living.