Photos Cameron Flaisch
Hidden on an acre of land in a well-kept neighborhood off Mt. Alto Road, sits a beautiful four-sided brick home that boasts of stunning views and perfect privacy. But more than the property, the saltwater pool or the rocking chair front porch, you’re sure to fall in love with this custom home the minute you enter the front door and see the thoughtful design.
Upon entering the front doors and passing two stately white columns, you are met with the open-floor plan of the main living space, kitchen and breakfast area. The kitchen is a statement in and of itself; with custom, dark cabinetry built specifically around stainless steel, Thermador appliances. The formal dining room is stunning, with a vaulted ceiling and room for an extra-long table.
Within its two floors, the house contains six bedrooms and five bathrooms, making it spacious but surprisingly cozy. Besides the main living and eating spaces on the main floor, there are also two bedrooms with two full baths, as well as an office.
Also located on the main floor is the master suite, featuring double walk-in closets and a master bathroom. The bathroom is large; with a double vanity, jacuzzi tub and walk-in shower. Right outside the master suite is the laundry room and butler’s pantry, in addition to the stairs to the downstairs portion of the house.
First constructed from 2006 to 2007, Jody and Alethea Temple have been this home’s only owners. “We’re originally from this area, but we had transferred to Florida for a couple of years. When we decided to come home, we looked around in Rome. We came up here in the fall; and the view is just gorgeous, and well, we fell in love with it.” says Jody.
“And we wanted something that was quiet,” adds Alethea. “We wanted a place where you could feel close to town, but also away enough for it to be private. It feels like you’re secluded up here, even though you are a mile from Shorter Avenue.”
Downstairs, the basement is a recent renovation of only two years ago. With its high ceilings and ornate finishes, the space does not seem like a basement, but rather another house inside the house. In addition to the three bedrooms and two bathrooms, the downstairs houses a living room, full kitchen, dining room and several large storage rooms. There is even a storm cellar cleverly hidden behind a wooden barn door. Also downstairs is a large walk-in shower room and separate laundry room, making the saltwater pool just outside all that easier to enjoy.
“Growing up, my house was the “hang-out” place. It was the place where all my friends wanted to come,” says Jody. And that’s exactly what Jody explained that the Temple family found in their brick beauty on Alto Ridge Court. As their two kids grew up, Jody and Alethea hosted many pool parties, church functions and holiday gatherings.
One of the most important traditions the Temples have kept, even this year with their house on the market, is their tradition of ornate Christmas decoration. “It’s a production,” laughs Jody, describing his wife’s intricate Christmas décor. “But it’s beautiful to look at and a joy to experience.”
Alethea has decorated professionally, so she spares no expense or expertise in decorating for her favorite holiday. “Everything is custom crafted for this house,” she explains. With 19 Christmas trees, each matching the room in which it sits, there is no denying the special touch she brings with her holiday spirit.
Each detail is so unique to the home, that Alethea and Jody are even willing to negotiate the sell of the house with the inclusion of their Holiday decorations, as well as the furniture, since everything is oversized to fit the house’s large spaces.
As for the couple, there is a bittersweet feeling of moving on from so many happy memories their family has made during their time at 2 Alto Ridge Court.
“This was a great place for us to settle down as our kids grew up, but now it’s just too much house for the two of us. We really do not want to sell it, but we know we don’t need a house this size,” explains Alethea.
But with the home’s neutral pallet and custom design, the Temples believe it can easily become the next happy home of another family.
“You know, the house in a safe community with amazing neighbors,” says Alethea. “It’s ready for new tradition now.”
For additional information about the property or to schedule a showing, please contact Hardy Realty at 706-291-4321.
