Northcrest is a neighborhood with a distinct personality that sets it apart in metro Atlanta. Living here gives you that “neighborhood feel” that is hard to find these days. Tucked away just north of the I-285 and only eleven miles from downtown Atlanta makes an it an ideal location.
Northcrest came to life in 1959 after World War II. We can thank the baby boomers for creating a population explosion causing a high demand for affordable housing. Dekalb county worked with developers to build the first and largest housing tract in suburban Atlanta and the Northcrest neighborhood was born. It was constructed in a prime area to help accommodate workers at the Doraville General Motors Plant and other new industries in the area. The subdivision was designed to feature single-family homes, a multi-family apartment complex, a park, Pleasantdale Elementary School, and a swim/tennis club.
Most of the land prior to the Northcrest development was farmland, primarily used as grazing pastures for dairy cattle, with one section serving as a pig farm. Remnants of the old farm road can still be seen in the backyards of houses along Regalwoods and Northcrest Road towards the northern end.
Architectural Eye Candy
P&H Realty who developed the neighborhood, enlisted Ernest Mastin, an architect who graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology, to create several model floor plans. Mastin was influenced by California contemporary designs crafted by Frank Lloyd Wright and Joseph Eichler. His mission was to adapt these styles to modest homes to give more people a chance to own one. These homes feature the characteristics of the era honing in on simplicity. A unique split level floor plan was used to accommodate the hilly terrain. The large windows and open rooms connects nature into the living space. The exterior is a mix of wood, stone and steel. Low-pitched, flat hip roofs are the most common. The neighborhood’s architectural integrity has been meticulously maintained, allowing residents and visitors to step back in time and experience the charm of a bygone era.
Stepping inside you will find the space very open and airy creating a serene atmosphere. Beautiful tongue and groove ceilings with exposed beams shows their natural beauty and adds an elegant touch. There may also be a skylight with an atrium that brings nature inside the home.
A Community with Character
What truly sets Northcrest apart is its vibrant and welcoming community. The neighborhood is home to a diverse mix of residents, from longtime homeowners who have witnessed the area’s evolution, to new families and young professionals drawn by the retro charm. You will find people walking their dogs, jogging and biking through the neighborhood at all hours. Community events are put together by the Northcrest Neighborhood Association that is not a mandatory membership. The Association hosts parades, block parties, and other activities that gives a strong sense of camaraderie, making Northcrest not just a place to live, but a place to belong.
There is also an optional swim and tennis club. Membership at the Northcrest Swim and Tennis Club offers something for everyone. The 108,000-gallon trapezoid-shaped pool is perfect for swimmers of all ages, and the smaller wading pool is ideal for young children. If you’re into tennis or pickle ball, the club offers weekly lessons and drills for kids, along with regular matches for adults. What sets this club apart is the expansive six-acre property, offering plenty of space for your favorite sports and outdoor activities. Essentially, it’s a private park where members can play, relax, socialize, and enjoy the area as an extension of their own backyards.
The Hoe ‘N Hope Garden Club has been a constant presence in Northcrest since October 22, 1963, bringing together women residents who share a passion for gardening and landscape beautification. Some original homeowners are still active members.
While Northcrest’s architectural style harks back to the mid-20th century, the neighborhood offers all the conveniences of modern living. Trendy cafes, eclectic boutiques, and local eateries provide a vibrant social scene, while parks and recreational facilities ensure plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The proximity to major highways and public transportation also makes Northcrest an ideal location for those who commute to downtown Atlanta or other parts of the city.
Northcrest stands as a beacon of retro-chic ambience in Atlanta, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern convenience. Its mid-century modern homes, strong community spirit, and vibrant amenities make it a desirable destination for those looking to experience the best of both worlds. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado or simply seeking a neighborhood with character and charm, Northcrest is a place where the past and present harmoniously coexist.