667 Billups Avenue

Description

The Echo House, built in 1919, is a rare find in Madison, GA. So many unique and interesting facts have been well- preserved and researched by its few stewards and ready to be passed on to its new owner. One of the most important facts is this property was designed by famed architect, Leila Ross Wilburn, one of Georgia's first female architects of any renown. This property is one of her earliest designs and is a good representation of her first period plan book-1911-1920. The former owner, Mr. James McManus, was a CBS news correspondent and the last steward of the property. He personally led the charge to have Ms. Wilburn posthumously recognized in 2003 as a Georgia Woman of Achievement. This design came from her original plan book and was the first house built on Billups Avenue. It is one of the only properties on the street to have its lot still intact. One of the many characteristics of the house is the 50 foot terrace that runs along the length of the front of the house. The unique design offers two front entrances- french doors off the front terrace and the actual front door that opens into the long room. The long room has remained unchanged for 113 years and accurately represents the vision of Ms. Wilburn. The long room has twin fireplaces, original hand painted sconces, original windows, original wood attached cabinets, original french doors. In the 1930s, the local Senior Prom was held in the long room. Thanks to Mr. McManus's extensive research, the history of this house has been well preserved. Now, it's ready for its next steward. Even though it's historically significant, it's a very livable house, with most of the living space on one floor. Beautiful original hardwood floors run throughout the house. The many windows offer warm natural light, with added plantation shutters for privacy. The kitchen has been remodeled with custom cabinets, a 5 top gas cooktop, all recently updated stainless appliances, and granite countertops. It's truly a gourmet kitchen-Wolfe 5 burner gas range; commercial range hood; Dacor gas convection oven; built-in cabinet baker's stand; new stainless steel Bosch dishwasher. The keeping area just off the kitchen can be used for dining purposes or additional living space. The owner's suite has two walk-in closets and a large attached room - office, home gym, or private den. The other large room on the main floor can serve as an additional bedroom. Each room on the main floor has an original mantle and fireplace, albeit decorative. Upstairs has hardwood floors, full bath, a bedroom, built-in bookcases, and a den which can serve as a bedroom. The almost one acre lot has beautiful original structures, one used as a carriage storage/ garage. The deck off the back of the house is perfect for entertaining and enjoying cool fall afternoons. Mr. McManus also made sure the great White Oak on the property gained the recognition it deserved as the 2nd largest of its kind in the state of Georgia. Important to note- the house has a brand new roof with 50 years architectural shingles with a transferable warranty, private well on property for additional water source, and a Rinnai gas hot water system (2019) This is such a unique opportunity to be a part of Madison, Georgia history. It is truly a treasure. --