The landmark site in Oakhurst is up for sale for the first time since it was restored and revived years ago.  Adams Realty sent this email around yesterday…

 This message is going out to absolutely everyone that I have ever emailed. It is just not possible to be any more excited about a new listing than I am about this one. The former Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital in Decatur was raised from the dead in 2001. It was an abandoned eyesore for the Oakhurst community for about 20 years. The roof was falling in by the time a creative developer took on the project (Progressive Redevelopment Inc).  Since then, the building has been lovingly restored and re-purposed as a mix of office, medical office, event space and restaurant.  The building was originally designed by notable Atlanta Architects Neel Reid and Hal Hentz. The renovation general contractor was Gay Construction with Smith Dalia as architects.  The property was restored in part with Historic Tax Credits, so the exterior has been preserved in every way possible, down to the clay tiles on the roof. It has on-site parking and an elevator.  If you have ever been to Oakhurst, you know that this building is the center piece and anchor for the whole neighborhood.

The property is well maintained and fully leased.  It is located in one of the hottest residential neighborhoods in Atlanta.  Vacant lots are selling like hot cakes at $250,000 for single family construction.  Appropriately marketed houses go under contract in 30 to 45 days.

Please tell your friends and colleagues about this rare opportunity to own a real trophy property.

From the Oakhurst Message Board…

Come join us for Oakhurst Jazz Nights Thursday nights in April (7th, 14th, 21st and 28th) from 7-9pm at the Historic Scottish Rite courtyard. Enjoy one of Oakhurst’s finest traditions – a candlelit spring evening under the stars and some great Jazz music with your neighbors, presented by the Oakhurst Neighborhood Association, Progressive Redevelopment Incorporated and the Community Center of South Decatur.

For table reservations and more detailed information, please visit our website at www.oakhurstjazznights.com

Allison writes in…

Hi, DM! I’m a frequent reader and sporadic poster on the blog, and I have a question.

The nonprofit for which I work here in Decatur is curious about what free or low-cost meeting space might be out there in the Decatur area. Occasionally, we have meetings with more people than our tine conference room can hold, and we don’t have the ability to pay a premium for a big meeting space.

Might some of your readers have some suggestions?

The Solarium at Scottish Rite is one option if your event is free and open to the public, has a minimal impact on the Solarium grounds, your event doesn’t conflict with any prescheduled events or booked rentals.  Where else?

Thinking about holding a community function or meeting, but can’t find enough space in your cramped bungalow living room for all your energetic guests?

Well, were you aware that as a Decatur resident you can reserve the Solarium for a Community Center event or program at Old Scottish Rite free of charge?

The Community Center’s Marketing Chair, Peter Martin, recently wrote in hoping to get the word out.

So here’s the lowdown, straight off the Community Center’s website…

Who is eligible to utilize The Solarium for a Community Center program or event?

Any person or group may use The Solarium as long as:

* It is for a public event, free of charge, and open to the entire Decatur community.

* The event has no or extremely low impact to The Solarium’s building and grounds.

* The event does not conflict with any prescheduled events or booked rentals.

What are the costs?

Read the rest of this entry »

Anne forwards a note from the neighborhood, reminding everyone that tomorrow night is the 6th Annual Patio Party at the Solarium from 5-8p.

We’re looking forward to seeing you at the Solarium Patio Party this Sunday from 5:00-8:00 PM. If you haven’t purchased tickets yet, don’t forget you can save $5/person if you buy in advance. ($15 now, $20 at the door, kids under 12 admitted free)

Get your tix at the Solarium office, or online via a link at www.thesolarium.com. Or contact me and I’ll come pick up your money and put your name on the ‘Will Call’ list.

It’s a bargain at twice the price-live music, terrific food, cold beer and wine, kids’ activities and refreshments, our best raffle ever, and an exciting live auction of one-of-a-kind rain barrels and birdhouses. Have a good time with your neighbors and friends, and support the Solarium