New House Gets a 19th-Century Makeover

When it comes to designing houses, architect Peter Block tries to avoid strict stylistic definitions. "First we go for feel," he says. "Style finds its way." Case in point is the new home of Marcia and Mark Miller, located on a rare expansive lot in Atlanta's Buckhead area. For its design, Peter looked to the English Country houses of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. "The roofline, beams, small-paned windows and sculpted chimneys are all specific references to this period," he says.

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Front Door: custom mahogany, Lighthouse Woodworks; 770/789-1273.

The custom mixture of lime, pigment, and water penetrates the brick facade, rather than forming a layer over it, resulting in a finish that has instant patina and can last hundreds of years.

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Paint: BioCalce Limewash; romabio.com

The variety of window shapes—vertical, horizontal, and round—all encase small glass panes. "That's what would have been used historically, before large sheets of glass were possible," says Peter.

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Front Windows: Heritage Series; kolbe-kolbe.com

"We created this curved, steel-framed window to give Marcia a window seat," says Peter. The copper roof, popular during the Middle Ages, will mellow over time.

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Roof: cedar shake

Peter designed the chimneys in the style of English architect Edwin Lutyens. The top half of the chimney, the flue, is rotated 45 degrees on the base for an added accent. Clay chimney caps top the spires.

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Walls: wood-molded brick; statesvillebrick.com

• I'm inspired by...those who think outside the box without being different just for the sake of being different, such as antiquarian and designer Axel Vervoordt.
• What makes a new house old? Crafting with real materials...and heart.
• Small upgrade that makes a big difference: Put all your lights on dimmers. Low lights create an intimate atmosphere.
• Best architectural detail: A plastered barrel-vault ceiling for dramatic volume.
• Favorite building product: Roma's lime-based paints and finishes. romabio.com
• Easiest way to add curb appeal: Plant a great tree!
• Worthy splurge: Mortise lock boxes on every door.
• No Southern home should be without...porches for entertaining and living outdoors.
• Favorite Southern building: That's a tough one—probably Drayton Hall just outside Charleston, South Carolina.