Home Tour & Lectures, May 8-11

The public is invited to an opening reception and lecture as part of the kick-off events scheduled for the first-ever 2008 Modern Atlanta (MA) Design Festival. The reception and lecture will be hosted by contemporary furniture retailer, Domus.

The highlight of the four-day event is MA's Tour of Homes weekend. The theme for the event is "Design Is Human" and will feature Belgian design. Dirk Wynants, founder of and product designer for Extremis outdoor furniture will speak on how his company has solved manufacturing problems using environmentally conscious methods and chosen eco-friendly materials for durability and quality. Philippe Oorts, founder of Something Blue, will speak about his company's philosophy of manufacturing sustainable women and children's clothing while being mindful of reducing the impact on the environment.

The Modern Atlanta Home Tour provides design enthusiasts and the general public with an inside look into the world of cutting edge and distinctive residences in Atlanta. Beautiful homes and their designers are showcased here via an “open house” format, and tour participants have the opportunity to see some of the city’s latest residential projects from the inside out, meet with architects and interior designers, explore housing trends, and discover design solutions that inspire modern Atlanta living. The Modern Atlanta Home Tour focuses on showcasing exemplary examples for living modern through lifestyle, architecture, interior design, and landscaping. Homes range from the classic postmodern to the state-of-the-art contemporary.

Modern Atlanta does not provide transportation for the tour. The MA Guide book will provide a general map and addresses for the homes which can be picked up by ticket holders during the week of May 5 at the local Atlanta ticket purchase locations listed below, or at the MA Opening Night Kickoff and Social on Friday, May 9, 7pm, Mason Murer Gallery, 119 Armour Dr. Atlanta, GA. Ticket holders must show proof of ticket purchase to receive the MA Guide (bring a wristband or printed receipt). Homes are open both Sat. May 10 and Sun. May 11 from 11-4pm; homes located in Serenbe (Palmetto, GA) are open from 9am - 4pm both days. Tickets are $30 for one day, or $50 for two.

A free opening reception with lectures will be held Thursday, May 8, at 7 p.m. at Domus, 1919 Piedmont Rd. For more information about the events and home tour, visit www.modern-atlanta.org.