The most charming building in Atlanta by Neel Reid and Hal Hentz

The Scottish Rite Convalescent Hospital for Crippled Children is now called "The Solariam at Old Scottish Rite." It's in the Oakhurst neighborhood in southwest Decatur. The Oakhurst commercial center is a gem that hasn't quite found it's modern legs yet. Residents probably like it that way.

Here is eastern solarium. There is another one to the west. It's just delightful. Is there anything like it in Atlanta? Think of all the children who must have gotten a bit of comfort there. You can rent it for a wedding or a party.


You won't find Oakhurst unless you are on the way from Druid Hills to East Lake Country Club. Architecture tourists who find their way once will find excuses to revisit, maybe the Pink mirror wall on Oakview, The biggest chair in Atlanta, or the wonderful Alston House, Meadow Nook.

It's on a 5-part Palladian site plan. Here is the central building decorated with brick coins and lentils, a red tile roof. My pictures don't capture the the warm feeling of the whole property.


An important but humane entrance.


The eastern detached building is modest and beautiful, single windows, triple windows, arches, coins, tile, little lanterns. It took a lot of design to resist fussiness.


There's no trouble finding the front door with rusticated surround and 2nd floor window in matching color.


Visit this great place to give your spirits a lift.