Crafting a Masterpiece: Sterling Park Properties Brings Cherrylion Studios to Life

At Sterling Park Properties, we pride ourselves on transforming visionary concepts into reality.

Our latest project, the construction of Cherrylion Studios, stands as a testament to our expertise and dedication in the realm of general commercial contracting. Located in the heart of Atlanta’s famed Beltline, Cherrylion Studios is now the largest custom sculpture studio in the region, thanks to our meticulous work and commitment to excellence.

The Blueprint for Success: Building Cherrylion Studios

The journey of creating Cherrylion Studios began with the erection of a prefabricated steel structure. This initial phase set the stage for a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to fine art sculpture.

Our team at Sterling Park Properties expertly managed each aspect of the build, ensuring that every detail was executed with precision.

To prepare the site, we first constructed a retaining wall to stabilize the terrain and prevent soil erosion. This foundational work was crucial for setting the stage for the subsequent construction phases. The delivery of retaining wall blocks marked the beginning of a solid groundwork for what would become a landmark studio.

With the foundation in place, including the installation of essential plumbing and electrical conduits, we proceeded to form the base structure using lumber. Our use of a telehandler machine allowed us to efficiently lift and position heavy metal pieces, facilitating the assembly of the steel framework. This careful assembly process was essential for creating the robust structure that now houses Cherrylion Studios on Atlanta’s Beltline.

A Studio Designed for Artistry

As construction progressed, our team focused on finishing touches that would enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the studio. The metal siding was installed, with a bold red color chosen to reflect the vibrant spirit of Cherrylion Studios.

Inside the studio, we selected Luan Board for the walls instead of traditional sheetrock. Owner of Cherrylion and Bronze Sculptor, Marty Dawe says, “This choice added a modern, wood-like texture to the interior, contributing to the studio’s unique design”. The Luan Board was cut into 4x4 sheets and installed in a striking checkerboard pattern, complementing the studio’s artistic atmosphere. Additionally, elongated windows along the top of the walls were strategically placed to maximize natural daylight, creating an inspiring workspace for sculptor Marty Dawes and his team.

A Legacy of Excellence

Project Manager, Riaan Garforth-Venter says, “The completion of Cherrylion Studios marks a significant achievement for Sterling Park Properties. With our extensive experience in managing complex builds, we are proud to have delivered a space that supports the creation of custom sculptures and large-scale public art installations”.

CEO at Sterling Park Properties, Emmanuel A. Baptiste says, “We are honored to have played a role in bringing this visionary project to life. The successful completion of Cherrylion Studios showcases our commitment to quality and our ability to turn ambitious dreams into tangible realities”.

If you’re interested in learning more about our general contracting services for the commercial sector or discussing a future project, we invite you to get in touch.

At Sterling Park Properties, we are dedicated to building not just structures, but lasting partnerships and exceptional spaces.

Transforming Your Home with a New Concrete Driveway

As a general contractor in Atlanta, we understand the importance of a well-crafted concrete driveway. It’s not just about enhancing your home's curb appeal; it’s about creating a durable, functional, and lasting addition to your property. In this blog, we'll walk you through the process of creating a new concrete driveway, from planning and preparation to the final touches.

Planning and Design

At Sterling Park Properties general contracting, we know that the first step in any successful project is thorough planning and design. Here's what we consider:

1. Assessment: We begin by assessing the existing site conditions. Checking for any drainage issues, existing landscaping, and the soil type.

2. Design: Once we understand the site, we move on to the design phase. With you, we determine the shape, size, and layout of your new driveway. Whether you prefer a straight path, a curved design, or something more intricate.

3. Permits and Regulations: Navigating local building codes and regulations is crucial. We handle all necessary permits and ensure compliance with Atlanta’s regulations to avoid any legal issues down the road.

CEO Emmanuel Baptiste says that “We have a customer-centric approach, in that we prioritize your vision and needs, working closely with you throughout the project to ensure your happiness and satisfaction”.

With a solid plan in place our capable project managers start removing the existing driveway, clearing vegetation, and excavating to the required depth, ensuring a stable base for the concrete pour. Proper grading is essential to prevent water pooling on the finished driveway. We create a slight slope to facilitate drainage, directing water away from your home and into appropriate drainage systems.

Homeowners should be made aware of the need for a strong sub-base which is critical for the durability of the driveway. We install a layer of compacted gravel or crushed stone, before pouring the concrete.

“Now comes the most exciting part—pouring the concrete!” Emmanuel unpacks for us that setting up wooden or metal forms to outline the shape of the driveway is important to act as a mold, holding the concrete in place until it sets. Building in steel rebar or wire mesh as reinforcement helps prevent cracking and ensures the concrete can withstand heavy loads driving on it.

Before the pour, we mix the concrete to the right consistency, and our team ensures the concrete is evenly distributed and properly leveled. “However, finishing the concrete is an art,” exclaims Emmanuel, “we use specialized tools to smooth the surface, add texture for slip resistance, and create expansion joints to control cracking.”

Curing and Final Touches

After pouring and finishing, the concrete needs time to cure:

1. Curing: is vital for the concrete to reach its full strength. We protect the freshly poured concrete from rapid drying by covering it with curing blankets or applying a curing compound. This process typically takes about a week.

2. Sealing: Once the concrete has cured, we apply a sealant to protect it from stains, chemicals, and the elements. Sealing also enhances the appearance of the driveway, giving it a clean and glossy finish.

3. Landscaping and Clean-Up: Finally, we restore any disturbed landscaping and ensure the site is clean and tidy. Your new driveway is ready to use and enjoy!

A new concrete driveway is an investment in your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

We'd love to hear your thoughts!

Have you been considering a new driveway for your home?

ROOM ADDITIONS FOR EASE OF LIVING

Sterling Park Properties has extensive experience in building room additions for Atlanta family homes. We know that as families grow, so do their housing needs. Room additions are a popular solution for homeowners to tailor their living spaces. Start your room addition by discussing with your family how the new room will enhance daily life. What are your daily needs? Your room addition should reflect your family's unique lifestyle.

Working with Professionals

Embark on your room addition journey with trusted professionals by your side. Collaborate with a contractor who understands your family's needs. Verify that the contractor is licensed and insured to protect you and your property during the construction process. Clear and open communication with your contractor is crucial.

Atlanta has specific building codes that must be followed when adding rooms to your home. Consult with your general contractor to obtain the necessary permits and ensure compliance.

Design Function

Whether it's a baby room for a new arrival, sunroom for relaxation, or a spacious kitchen for the aspiring chef, you have the freedom to design your ideal living space. Design and functionality are two key words our project managers at Sterling Park Properties use as their cornerstones to help create a plan which should also maximize space and light. Make sure the new addition seamlessly integrates with the existing structure to maintain the home's aesthetic appeal.

Budget with Love!

Seriously, creating a budget may seem like a practical task, but it's a labor of love. Consider your financial capabilities and be realistic. Don't forget to account for unexpected expenses. Create detailed plans, including floor plans, elevations, and structural details. Consider hiring an architect or engineer for complex projects.

Have a detailed written contract with your assigned general contractor that outlines the scope of work, materials, timelines, and payment schedules.

Call Sterling Park Properties for your Room Addition

With Atlanta's thriving real estate market and the potential for increasing your property's value, a room addition is a smart financial decision. Go ahead and embark on this exciting journey and expand your comfort and space in the heart of the South!

IT’S BLACK AND WHITE FOR KITCHEN REMODELS

By choosing a black and white color scheme, homeowners in Atlanta can create a stylish, functional kitchen that stands the test of time without breaking the bank.

Black and white kitchens, from white cabinetry to black backsplash tiles, and countertops are widely available, often leading to competitive pricing. This abundance in supply makes these monochromatic materials more affordable compared to niche, trendy colors, and patterns.

 Sterling Park Properties Project Manager, Riaan Garforth-Venter says that “Standard sizes for cabinetry available in the frequently stocked color of white or black, help you stay within budget. Plus, the broad appeal of a white palette is viewed by potential buyers as a neutral and clean aesthetic.”

Riaan unpacks for us that “White surfaces, when made from durable, high-quality materials, can withstand the test of time, not just for cabinets, but appliances too. A bright, white color scheme can make even a small kitchen feel more spacious.”

 Coordinating black and white fixtures is generally easier, reducing the time and potentially the cost spent on interior design services to ensure everything matches well.

Black and white color schemes, whether in a kitchen or bathroom, have a classic, timeless appeal that doesn't go out of style. Homeowners won't feel pressured to remodel soon again due to fast changing trends, ultimately, saving money in the long run.

 When it comes to selling a home, it has been known amongst homeowners for decades that a neutral palette, like black and white appeals to a broader range of potential buyers, speeding up the selling process. Realtors often hear buyer conversations about how they would need to repaint that accent wall, or the pink and blue in the kids’ bedrooms must be repainted before purchase.

 Furniture is a wonderful way to inject a little color, like bright blue vinyl covered barstools, or budget friendly roman blinds at the window, or easy to add pops of color with well-placed utensils, dishes, or fresh flowers. Just painting your kitchen island, a bright color is a great focal point — and it is easy to repaint if your design tastes change.

Remodeling kitchens with black and white fixtures is a cost-effective choice for homeowners in Atlanta. Call Sterling Park Properties for your free, no obligations kitchen remodel estimate.

Student Housing in Midtown Atlanta

Midtown Atlanta, a bustling hub of culture, education, and innovation, is a sought-after location for student housing. As home to several prestigious institutions such as Georgia Tech, SCAD Atlanta, and Emory University’s School of Medicine, the demand for quality student accommodations in this area is high. At Sterling Park Properties, we know that constructing a student housing complex involves more than just creating a space for living. It requires attention to the needs of students. For Sterling Park Properties CEO Emmanuel Baptiste, understanding these considerations is essential to delivering a successful project.

Emmanuel says that “I approach the student house design and build as if it were my kids living on the property and consider all the benefits, I would want them to be surrounded by. If not within walking distance to campus, then easy access to public transportation, or parking on site for safety reasons.” Living closer to the college the students attend provides more flexibility in their schedules as commute time is reduced. Think back to your college years and the early morning classes, or extracurricular activities that require late hours on campus.

Emmanuel specifies that “I've had the privilege of constructing a variety of projects, each with its unique challenges. However, few compared to the joy of building a student house designed specifically for cooperative living. This project allowed me to merge my passion for construction with a deep appreciation for community building.”

The open communal area of the house, with living room and kitchen, is where students gather for meals, study sessions, or just to unwind. The home is now beautifully decorated, and amenities like the laundry room and bike storage area cater to the needs of modern students. The five student bedrooms were designed to each include a study area, walk-in-closet, and a decently sized bathroom, offering privacy and personal space per student. “Fostering independence and responsibility in my own kids is close my heart,” explains Emmanuel. “I believe that living off-campus provides young adults with life skills like budgeting, cooking, and time management, preparing students for life beyond college.”

From grocery stores and cafes to gyms and libraries, Midtown Atlanta boasts numerous parks, and cultural attractions like the High Museum of Art, all within walking distance, providing a well-rounded lifestyle, and enhancing the overall student experience. Emmanuel sums it up, “Building this student house has been a reminder of why I love what I do. It's about constructing buildings, and creating spaces where people can live meaningful, connected lives. And in this case, providing students a home where they can succeed individually and collectively. This Sterling Park Properties project has been a testament to the power of cooperative living, and I am honored to have played a part in bringing this vision to life.

Visit our most recent student housing project - 991 Hampton St

General Contractors Guide to Best Wood Floor Options

Is your wooden floor at home or the office warping cracked or stained? Sterling Park Properties general contracting company is available to install a new floor to make your world a better, more hygienic place to live and work. CEO Emmanuel A. Baptiste says that “when I’m educating property owners on making the best wood floor choices, there are several factors to consider, including aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and cost.”

 Here is Emmanuel’s detailed guide to help you make an informed decision on best wood flooring options for your living space:

 1. Solid Hardwood Floors are made from a single piece of wood, typically 3/4 inch thick. The pros are that these installations are long-lasting, can be refinished multiple times, and we feel adds excellent value to your home. The negatives are that true wood is prone to moisture damage, can be expensive, and as the wood is harder to install, it most certainly requires an expert team of floor installers.

2. Engineered Hardwood Flooring is composed of a top layer of real hardwood veneer bonded to multiple layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard. The pros with this selection is that the material is more resistant to moisture and temperature changes, can be installed over concrete, and is generally less expensive than solid hardwood. However, keep in mind that your finishing options are more limited, and can be less durable than solid hardwood.

3. Laminate Wood Flooring is made from composite wood that is pressed together at elevated temperatures, with a photographic image of wood on top and a clear protective layer. Always a good option due to being exceptionally durable, scratch-resistant, easy to install and maintain, and budget-friendly. But laminate wood flooring lowers your resale value on the home, cannot be refinished, and watch out, as laminate is known to be slippery.

4. Bamboo Flooring is the crème de la crème of sustainable living options, if you choose to tread lightly on planet. Bamboo is a type of grass which grows amazingly fast and requires little water. Highly durable, this eco-friendly option is resistant to moisture, and has the most striking, modern style and look. There are no real cons to choosing bamboo flooring, unless one notes that bamboo flooring is inconsistent in quality and color selections are limited.

2. Design and Layout - Choose a cohesive style that reflects your taste, whether it’s modern, rustic, traditional, or eclectic. Optimize the layout to improve traffic flow and functionality. Consider open floor plans for a more spacious feel.

 Emmanuel smiles saying, “by considering these flooring factors, you will create a beautiful, functional, and durable living space that meets your budget allocation.”

When you are ready to renovate and plan for a new living space, Sterling Park Properties general contracting is here for you.

Residential Water Damage? We Can Help!

Water damage is a pervasive issue for homeowners in Atlanta due to a combination of weather, aging infrastructure, and sometimes inadequate construction practices. At Sterling Park Properties, our role is to address these issues effectively, providing solutions that repair damage and prevent future problems.

Let’s first understand why homes in Atlanta are affected so frequently by water damage. It starts with the climate factor. Atlantans experience a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and wet winters. This combination creates the perfect conditions for moisture and condensation to creep inside homes via crawlspaces and basements, contributing to mold growth and structural damage over time.

Adding to the problem is the fact homes in Atlanta tend to be older and may not have been constructed with the latest water-resistant materials and techniques. As homes age, their roofs, foundations, and plumbing systems deteriorate, and aging pipes corrode, leak, or even burst!

CEO of Sterling Park Properties, Emmanuel A. Baptiste says all is not lost, there are solutions. “Some alarm companies, like Vivint - https://www.vivint.com/get?exid=207763&refCode=73mi22ea&v=300 (also you can save $300.00 using this code 😎) -  have water sensors that can be installed in water damage potential areas - under sinks, laundry room, and kids’ bathrooms. Homeowners receive alerts before the damage becomes significant”.

Emmanuel states that “as a general contractor constructing new homes, we have learned that it is a good idea for us to add sensors to protect the homeowners HVAC pan, sump pump, and boiler. And before we complete the build, we prefer to place the water sensor alarms underneath pertinent pipes, next to the toilet, or underneath the sink to catch any clogs or water leaks from burst pipes and definitely in kids bathrooms with tubs present.”

Water alert sensors are relatively inexpensive, detection devices that shut off the water supply in the event of a leak, bringing peace of mind to homeowners, especially if you are away from home for extended periods.

If you’re a homeowner in Atlanta facing water damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to Sterling Park Properties. Our experienced general contracting team is equipped with the expertise and tools to address and mitigate water damage, ensuring your home remains safe and dry.

How General Contractors in Atlanta are Meeting Buyer Costs

With increased cost of materials, and not wanting to price out buyers, homes have been shrinking in size. For these smaller homes to make sense, general contractors like Sterling Park Properties, are including more value-added items. Better quality appliances, better details, better layouts, better overall simple things that don’t cost more.

Shrinking Home Sizes to Meet Costs

CEO of Sterling Park Properties, Emmanuel Baptiste states that, “As home prices soar and urban density increases in Atlanta, buyers are gravitating toward smaller, more affordable living spaces. In response to these trends, we are adapting our strategies to accommodate shrinking home sizes while still delivering high-quality, functional, and aesthetically pleasing homes.”

The first place to start is by embracing efficient architectural design. This means maximizing square footage to ensure no space is wasted. Open floor plans, multi-functional rooms, and built-in storage solutions are becoming standard. Combining kitchen, dining, and living areas into a single, open space creates a sense of spaciousness while reducing the overall footprint.

Emmanuel says, “Atlanta is now trending towards the European architectural style of living in smaller spaces.”

Smaller homes require less energy to heat and cool, and at Sterling Park Properties, we are going a step further by incorporating energy-efficient windows, and insulation, reducing utility costs for homeowners, and making homes more affordable to live in over time.

“Smart home technology is another trend our project managers are embracing,” smiles Emmanuel. “By integrating technology like smart thermostats, lighting systems, and security features we build smaller homes that are energy efficient.”

To compensate for smaller interior spaces, enhancing outdoor living areas is a must. Patios, balconies, and rooftop gardens are the perfect additions for relaxation and entertainment. We can expand the usable living area without increasing the home's footprint.

Emmanuel sums it up for home buyers, “Ultimately, the push towards smaller homes is driven by affordability. Sterling Park Properties have found ways to reduce construction costs without compromising on quality. Through innovative design, technological integration, and a focus on efficiency, we are now creating homes that meet the budgets of today's buyers.”

As the Atlanta housing market continues to evolve for this vibrant and accessible city, Sterling Park Properties is with you every step of the way.

Build RAIN GARDENS – It is critical to Atlanta, Georgia

Hey there, home renovators and aspiring builders! Ready to dive into the exciting world of home rehab and new construction? If you're planning to expand your home's footprint with an addition or brand-new build, there's a secret side quest you need to tackle: rainwater runoff management.

In the beautiful (and sometimes rainy) state of Georgia, managing stormwater isn't just a good idea—it's the law! And in Atlanta, our very own DEPARTMENT OF WATERSHED MANAGEMENT is the grand overseer of this crucial task. Think of them as the mighty Ludwig von Koopa, that second-to-last boss before you get to Bowser in Super Mario. You can't skip past this level!

Before you can celebrate your home's transformation with a Certificate of Completion (CC) or Certificate of Occupancy (CO), you'll need the thumbs-up from one of these inspectors. So, gear up, channel your inner Mario, and make sure your rainwater runoff game is strong. After all, even the best home makeover needs a solid foundation—literally!

This next except is taken from Green Infrastructure from the Single Family Residences - City Of Atlanta Stormwater Guidelines. - Land development permanently alters the way in which stormwater flows across a site due to grading compaction, and the installation of impervious cover. In order to mitigate these impacts, the City of Atlanta requires, in accordance with Chapter 74, Article X. Post Development Stormwater Management, that stormwater management measures be utilized when constructing a new home or an addition that is greater than 1,000 square feet of impervious surface (hard surfaces that allow little to no water penetration).

Lately it seems like it rains more as climate change becomes more evident, or maybe the clouds are just heavier. Atlanta experiences significant rainfall, which leads to soil erosion and other negative factors. Building a rain garden at your home helps manage runoff by absorbing and filtering rainwater, reducing the load on stormwater systems, and decreasing the risk of flooding.

Emmanuel A. Baptiste, the Founder of Sterling Park Properties, is a conservationist at heart, which leads his construction thinking. “I spent time pondering why rain gardens are critical to the well-being of our Atlanta communities. It’s a simple concept, as extensive rain flows over surfaces like roads and lawns, the water gathers pollutants like oil, pesticides, and fertilizers. Rain gardens filter these pollutants through soil, rocks, and plant roots, improving the quality of water that eventually reaches local streams and rivers. The whole concept just makes sense and you can add beauty to your outdoor spaces if designed well”.

Most homeowners seek the intervention of rain gardens due to soil erosion from their front or back yards. Rain gardens control soil erosion. This is crucial in Atlanta, where hilly landscapes can exacerbate erosion problems.

There’s nothing more enjoyable than sitting in your yard, watching the kids play, and enjoying the ecosystem that a rain garden provides for butterfly’s and birds, increasing urban biodiversity. These manmade created gardens support native plants and create microhabitats for pollinators, and other beneficial organisms. Emmanuel is quick to point out that “A rain garden is not a water garden. Nor is it a pond or a wetland. Conversely, a rain garden is dry most of the time. It typically holds water only during and following a rainfall event. Because rain gardens will drain within 12-48 hours, they prevent the breeding of mosquitoes.”

These small but super valuable zones of native plants supporting natural filtration methods contribute to the resilience of urban areas by mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events. Rain gardens help buffer against droughts by retaining moisture in the soil and cool urban areas through evapotranspiration, reducing the urban heat island effect.

What Plants Should You Use?

Selecting plants for your rain garden is quite straightforward, based on your style and landscaping options there’s a lot of choices. Numerous native plants, readily available at your local nursery, are perfect for your rain garden. Here are some recommended native plants:

Trees

- Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

- Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica)

- Willow Oak (Quercus phellos)

- Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

- River Birch (Betula nigra)

- Musclewood / American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana)

- Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)

- Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)

Shrubs

- Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica)

- Summersweet Clethra (Clethra alnifolia)

- Common Winterberry/Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata)

- Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

- American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)

- St. John’s Wort (Hypericum)

Perennials, Grasses and Groundcovers

- New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae)

- Broadleaf Uniola/Indian Woodoats (Chasmanthium latifolium)

- Joe-Pye Weed (Eupatorium fistulosum)

- Swamp Sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius)

- Scarlet Rosemallow/Swamp Hibiscus (Hibiscus coccineus)

- Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

- Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnamomea)

- Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis)

- Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)

- Golden Ragwort (Packera aurea)

- Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis)

- Yellow Stargrass (Hypoxis spp.)

- Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

- Asters (Aster spp)

- Violets (Viola spp)

- Broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus)

- Narrowleaf Dragonhead (Physotegia angustifolia)

- Blackeyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

- Loosestrife (Lythrum spp)

- Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

- Clubed Begonia (Begonia cucullata)

Overall, rain gardens are a valuable addition to Atlanta's urban infrastructure, promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Do you feel compelled to create your own special, unique rain garden in your yard? Don’t hesitate, call us at Sterling Park Properties, and we will assist you with building a rain garden Mother Nature would be proud of.

Atlanta’s Residential Builds – Trending Modern Architecture

Each new build completed by Sterling Park Properties, is an exquisite presentation of high-quality craftsmanship, and attention to detail - all hallmarks of an experienced general contractor’s work.

Sterling Park Properties CEO Emmanuel Baptiste takes us through his latest offering.

“This home in midtown Atlanta, was inspired by the architectural principles of Frank Lloyd Wright, which we see in the clean lines, and geometric shapes.”

Emmanuel unpacks that “the 2024 trends in Atlanta’s new construction residential builds, is that homeowners are choosing a modern architectural style, characterized by simplicity, and functionality.”

He smiles and says, “The industry is taking note that homeowners have a deep connection with the natural environment and are asking us to build spaces that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor areas.”

To achieve this integration with nature, modern homes feature large windows, and natural materials like wood, stone, and glass. Modern residential architecture favors open floor plans which enhance the flow of space and light. Rooms are designed to be flexible, accommodating various functions and activities while maintaining a sense of continuity throughout the home.

Emmanuel sums it up, “More folks are working from home after COVID, and looking to us as construction teams to build spaces which have an overall sense of openness and tranquility. The sharp angles and straight lines of a Frank Loyd Wright inspired blueprint drawing gives these modern homes a sense of order and precision, often juxtaposed with natural surroundings for dramatic effect.”

When you are ready to build your dream house, give us a call at Sterling Park Properties. We are a full-service general contractor, providing design, engineering, and build services to homeowners, including labor, equipment and machines, carpentry, masonry, plumbing and electrical.