For those unfamiliar with it, Open House Worldwide is an organization founded in London, England in 1992 with the goal of developing an understanding of architecture to those outside of the profession. On these weekends in cities around the world a select few commercial buildings are open to the public. This past weekend there were over 40 buildings on the list for Open House Atlanta. I visited and photographed eight properties.

First Destination: The Goat Farm

Since it was the only destination in Westside Atlanta, I set out to visit The Goat Farm first. Upon approaching this former industrial site, I noticed goats grazing along Foster Street and knew I must have arrived at the correct address.

Unqualified to provide much background on the complex, follow the hyperlink for the history of The Goat Farm . In summary Edward Van Winkle built the E. Van Winkle Gin and Machinery Works in 1889. Although it originally began as a cotton gin manufacturing plant, it expanded into other cotton-related machinery, including cotton-seed mills and textile equipment. After changing ownership a few times, the factory eventually was re-purposed as art studios and office space by Hallister Development in 2009. As far as the goats are concerned, I learned those were brought in by Robert Hayward during his ownership to control kudzu—brilliant.

I had a nice visit and learned much about the complex and tenants from the gentleman who runs The Warhorse Coffee Shop. At first it all seems like an ill-conceived idea but after spending time there it makes sense. It has space, architecture, and history all in a peaceful, country-like setting.

Second Destination: Midtown – Ponce De Leon & Peachtree

The next stop, via MARTA this time, was the intersection of Ponce De Leon and Peachtree Street, the home of the Fox Theatre, The Georgian Terrace, and The Ponce Condominium. Only The Ponce Condominium was open for guests on Sunday, so the other properties were viewed from the exterior.

Final Destination: Midtown – 10th & Peachtree

For the final stop, I got off the train at the Midtown Station and walked around that part of town photographing the Margaret Mitchel house, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, 999 Peachtree, among other interesting buildings, including the Modera Midtown. This high-rise, residential development features all the luxury amenities one would want or what one’s pet would want, considering it is complete with a dog park and spa on the 26th floor. Also, it allowed for some great skyline photos from the rooftop.

That completes the 2018 Open House tour. I hope you enjoyed the photos and hope to see you this time next year out on the streets for the 2019 event.

Interactive map of places visited during the tour