A family leaves Atlanta's Buckhead for the real Buckhead and transforms their log, hunting cabin into a sophisticated retreat.

story by jamie miles   |   photos by justin evans

Sometimes you have to risk offending even the best of friends to make room for something significantly bigger and better in life. When Atlanta residents, Diane and Will Pharr decided to make the Morgan County countryside their permanent residence, one casualty of that decision became Will's beloved hunting cabin. “It made all my hunting buddies mad,” he confesses with a smile. “Now they don't have a place to come hang out.”  Though Will's buddies lost their weekend hideaway, the traditional log cabin and surrounding forest evolved into a spectacular home site: a glorious new retreat for a wider audience of the Pharrs' family and friends.

The meandering drive to the residence cuts through tall Georgia pines and immaculately manicured horse pasture. About the time a visitor begins to wonder if a wrong turn was taken, a break in the trees reveals a large clearing and peaceful pond, which mirrors a spectacular house. Built of stone and wood, the structure blends seamlessly with the stunning landscape. The impressive home is both warm and inviting, much like its owners.

Through the mastery of Atlanta architect Steve Kemp, AIA of Kemp Hall Studio, Will's hunting spot has been transformed into a grand lodge. Kemp envisioned the transformation of the existing log cabin into a sophisticated rustic retreat that takes advantage of its incredible site and surroundings: a perfect marriage of living space with pristine rural landscape.

To continue reading about the Pharr family's hunting retreat in Buckhead, pick up the latest issue of Lake Oconee Living magazine from a newsstand near you. You can find it at the Morgan County Citizen office, Ingles, Madison Drug Store, Olde South Wine and Spirits, and Thrifty Mac.

To continue reading about the Pharr family's hunting retreat in Buckhead, pick up the latest issue of Lake Oconee Living magazine from a newsstand near you. You can find it at the Morgan County Citizen office, Ingles, Madison Drug Store, Olde South Wine and Spirits, and Thrifty Mac.

Printed in the January 6, 2011 edition.