784 Highway 29

Only a select few properties present themselves with such incomparable detail and artisanal craftsmanship that they can truly be called “one-of-a-kind”; however, Bankshaven holds its place in this rarified air with resolute distinction and impeccable execution as those involved in its architecture, construction, landscaping, and restoration are illustrious perfectionists that parlayed their craft and put it on full display throughout this world class demesne. Originally designed by architect Daniel Pratt, who’s signature embellishments include faux finishes, and constructed in Haddock, Ga in 1827 the home was moved to its present location in Newnan, Ga around the 1960’s where it began its new life among the surrounding gardens and grounds designed and implemented by distinguished landscape architect William C. Pauley. These include a plethora of fauna of which some heirloom species can be found. Many strains of boxwoods, holly, gardenias, magnolia, and roses dot the landscape and bloom throughout the seasons. Enchanted sitting areas and walkways lined with slate mined from the local quarry beckon for you to explore its winding paths as you drink in the peace and solitude they provide. Once you have meandered up the winding driveway you will find the Manor proper in all its 6,000+ square foot glory and marvel at the 25ft fluted columns capped with Doric accents and the primary exterior entrance that is still home to original wooden-chained posts. As you enter through the main door and gaze down the hallway you will be enlightened by the view out of a parallel back entrance which highlights Pearl Lake and is framed with boxwoods and the exterior columns on the back sitting area. Owned prior by the Gordon-Banks family, this view was how Mr. Williams Banks Jr. loved to welcome his guests and was usually accompanied by a chilled bottle of Pouilly-Fuisse and requisite cheese straws handmade by his chef. Cast your eyes upward and you will be enthralled with the three-story cantilevered staircase accented with original wooden balusters and banister. Venture to the left to enter the Grand Suite as it includes its own living room with fireplace, one and one-half bathrooms, walk-in closet, and an impeccably renovated main bathroom with stepless marble shower featuring a multi-jet Bluetooth shower system, custom vanities, and sitting area. The main bedroom is also graced with natural light through large windows that surrender your attention to the lake of which two are Dutch doors that lead to a covered porch area on the right as well as an ancillary garden on the left that is home to a triple-tiered marble fountain from Barnsley Gardens which pre-dates the Civil War. Saunter back out to the main hallway and further down you will encounter the large formal parlor with hand-lathed inset alcoves that was surely home to many philosophical conversations about writing and world affairs as Mr. Banks Jr. included published playwright and penned articles for Antiques Magazine among his accomplishments. Trek back across the main hallway and you will encounter the formal dining room with fireplace that is large enough to engulf a table that seats at least twelve to fifteen persons as well as the accompanying buffets and settings you require. Attached to the dining room is a separate library/law office with floor to ceiling bookshelves, fireplace, and separate half bathroom with a marble topped custom vanity. Continuing through the dining room you will first find a breakfast room with dual plaster alcoves which leads to an astoundingly renovated kitchen/bar/food prep area accented with its own sitting nook, multiple prep areas, industrial pipe shelving, ice maker, separate island with motion activated sink, six-burner gas stovetop with pot-filler spout, custom tile backsplashes and tiled hood, generous cabinet space with brushed-brass hardware and MORE….Don’t miss extra details in the full write-up in Associated Documents!!