Showstopper on Cherokee Road

This one is just stunning. I had a chance to tour it several years ago when I was still a die-hard bungalow gal, and I never forgot it. I think it helped me realize how comfortable a "modern" house could be. Yes, it's pricy at $875K, but it's in Mountain Brook, and it's . . . it's . . . well, just take a look:





http://tiny.cc/CherokeeRd

Please, please buy this place and then invite me over for a visit. I might not ever leave, but then I might just start cleaning it for you so you won't throw me out.

Lakeshore Estates (Homewood)

Lakeshore is a main east/west drag that takes you from Bessemer to Homewood (where it becomes Shades Creek Parkway) and on into Mtn. Brook (where it becomes Mtn. Brook Parkway). Yes, our roads have a lot of names. I attribute that to each municipality not wanting to play second fiddle to the next. Unfortunately, a lot of first fiddles does not an orchestra make. But that is a political discussion for another day. And probably for another blog. But, none of our street names start with the word "Peachtree" followed by a hyphen, so we're good.

Nestled just off Lakeshore, and accessible from Green Springs Highway/Old Columbiana Road (South Lakeshore Dr., Murray Hill, Lakeridge, etc.) is Lakeshore Estates. For those still puzzling on the naming conventions in the Magic City, the answer is no: there is no longer a lake. This is where imagination comes into play, much like in the "Lakeview" district near Highland Park and the "Lakewood" district near East Lake. We Birminghamians are an imaginative people when it comes to water. Just watch how we convince ourselves that railroad tracks are a river as we redevelop downtown. But I digress.

Back to Lakeshore Estates. These are some great homes on large lots, and can be had reasonably considering their highly coveted location:

Trippin' in the Tiny Kingdom

That's Mountain Brook -- "The Bubble" -- for those of you who aren't local. One typically thinks of stately manors, guest houses, circular drives, debutantes . . . but there are mods there, too. Unfortunately, many are on secluded lots and therefore unobservable by yours truly. But there are some that can be seen without a Land Rover and a native guide. Just head toward Mt. Brook Jr. High and you will find them on Mountain Park, Hillsdale, Montevallo Lane, Richmar and thereabouts. Here's a sample:





























Here's a close-up of the detail on the shingles -- Greene & Greene go atomic!









Happy exploring!

Mountain Brook Office Park

This isn't really a place you go by accident, but you probably drive past all the time without really thinking about it. Below are some shots of buildings on the east side of the park (the west side is more 1970s utilitarian). It's just off Highway 280, between Hollywood Blvd. and Lakeshore.













Here is a close-up of the elevated walkway from above. I have no idea where it goes -- into the woods, it appears. Anyone game for a hike?

Two amazing new Magic City Mod listings - city views!

They're out there folks. They really are. It's just that you can't see them from the road. Fortunately, you have me to help you on your mission.

The first is a personal favorite: a great Redmont-area "urban cabin" if I've ever seen one. $325K seems steep for a 2/1, but you're paying for the view and the in-town location. And, of course, for the ca. 1955 fabulousness of it all.

http://tiny.cc/Smolian





This one is also in Forest Park/Redmont. It is bigger with 3/3, and the price tag ($675K) is larger accordingly. From 1973, it has a bit more funk to it, and similar amazing views.

http://tiny.cc/altamont







So, I need somebody to go buy these places and then invite me to a cocktail party so I can be part of the splendor, if only for a few hours.

Cheers!

New mods on the market - winter edition

One typically doesn't expect to see a lot of new listings going into the holiday season. But apparently the Magic City is bucking that trend in 2009, as I have found some great mods in search of loving new owners. So, whether your leanings are for entry-level, posh estate or a quirky rural property, there is something for you.

First, something quite grand on 9 acres(!) in Mountain Brook. $2.5 million, but it is quite the place, and you could sell off the two extra lots. Some nice updating by local architect Bill Ingram.

http://tiny.cc/3KaoP




Now for the quirky. This one is in Jacksonville, which is between Gadsden and Anniston. Built in 1966 by someone who must have been the swinging-est rancher in town. Just think Dean Martin-meets-Gunsmoke. $299,999.

http://tiny.cc/KKwi3




A time capsule in Vestavia. I love this one. I think I would make my offer contingent on all furnishings remaining in the house (thanks to Tracy for finding this one for me!). A mere $199,500.

http://tiny.cc/o4YIt




For $259,000, an option in that little pocket of Birmingham that is snugged up next to Mt. Brook. A great location.

http://tiny.cc/XQQuA


And one truly can be modestly mod: some sub-$200K options. . .

In Crestline Gardens:
http://tiny.cc/2T178


and west Homewood:
http://tiny.cc/A62vs


and old Hoover (this is an REO, and I can't vouch for the neighborhood, but it would be worth a look for the price alone):
http://tiny.cc/y4QYW


Happy hunting!