Rivertop - Talking Rock, GA
Architecture
Best Residential Architecture
Completed / Professional
Architect / Designer:
Studio:
Design Team:
Kalyn Kight – photographer
Copyright:
Country:
Location: Talking Rock, Georgia
Status: Completed (2025)
Design Year: 2024
Completion Year: 2025
Site Area: 2.53 Acres
Primary Residence: 2,738 Heated Sq. Ft.
Attached ADU: 570 Heated Sq. Ft.
Total Heated Area: 3,308 Sq. Ft.
Executive Summary
Rivertop is a bespoke mountain residence situated on a dramatic 2.53-acre parcel in Talking Rock, Georgia. The structure overcomes the challenges of a steep mountain slope to provide immersive views of the surrounding topography and Talking Rock Creek below. Completed in 2025, the home balances a modern open-concept lifestyle with distinct zones for privacy and guests, featuring a fully integrated Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).
Site & Context
The project is defined by its verticality. Perched on a steep incline, the architecture engages directly with the landscape, creating a “treehouse” effect that maximizes sightlines. The site strategy utilizes the slope to create tiered outdoor living spaces, connecting the residence from the upper ridge down to the water’s edge.
Topography: Steep mountain slope requiring engineered cantilevered or tiered structural solutions.
Views: Panoramic vistas of the Blue Ridge foothills and direct visual connection to Talking Rock Creek.
Water Access: The property features a dedicated riverside gathering area at the base of the slope.
Architectural Program
Main Level (Primary Residence)
The entry level is designed for communal living and the primary owner’s retreat.
Social Core: An expansive open floor plan unites the living room, dining room, and kitchen into a single volume, facilitating flow and natural light.
Kitchen: Features a chef-driven layout anchored by a large walk-in pantry.
Primary Suite: The “Master on Main” includes a spacious bedroom, a generous walk-in closet, and a luxury full bathroom.
Support: A powder room serves guests on this level.
Lower Level & ADU
The basement level is programmed for flexibility, entertainment, and hospitality.
The Studio (ADU): A 570 sq. ft. attached accessory dwelling unit is integrated into this level. It functions as a self-contained studio apartment complete with a private kitchenette and bathroom, ideal for long-term guests or rental income.
Guest Quarters: Two additional bedrooms share a full bathroom.
Entertainment: A dedicated billiard room serves as the social anchor for the lower level.
Outdoor Living Features
The design prioritizes the transition between interior comfort and exterior exposure.
The Decks: A three-level deck system (covered and partially screened) extends the living space outward, offering year-round usability regardless of weather.
Viewing Platform: A detached viewing platform is situated onsite to capture specific vantage points of the creek gorge.
Riverside Connection: A curated gathering area at the water’s edge provides direct engagement with Talking Rock Creek.
Reynard Custom Homes
Studio Brief: Reynard Custom Homes
Established: 2020
Principal Architect: James Knight
Headquarters: Atlanta,Georgia, USA (Serving GA, TN, NC, FL)
1. Executive Summary
Reynard Custom Homes is an award winning architectural design firm specializing in “truly custom” custom home projects. Founded in 2020, the studio has rapidly established a reputation for designing distinctive, site-specific homes across the Southeastern United States. With over 50 of Reynard’s designed homes built, the firm is known for its client-centric approach, offering unlimited revisions to ensure the final design aligns perfectly with the homeowner’s vision, budget, and lifestyle.
Reynard’s truly custom full-service design approach allows for a collaborative and creative partnership from concept to construction.








