Architect Robert Norris’ House in the October Issue of Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles
Artwork by Lynn Sanders (L) & Thomasa Seymour (R) | Photography by Emily Followill
Great architecture and extraordinary art are a natural pairing, and the home of Robert Norris is a wonderful example. Featured in the October issue of Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, the residence of the celebrated Spitzmiller & Norris architect showcases a remarkable collection of artwork, including several treasured original paintings that Norris has collected through Gregg Irby Gallery over the years. It’s always a joy to see art find its perfect place, and Robert’s home is an inspiring example of how a thoughtfully built collection can make a space truly personal.
WRITTEN BY: KATE STRICKLAND | PUBLISHED: OCTOBER 2026
The year was 1993 when architect Robert Norris of acclaimed Atlanta firm Spitzmiller & Norris first stumbled across his soon-to-be home. A vernacular cape-style abode tucked into a lush neighborhood complete with a duck pond and park, Norris was instantly charmed.
Although it’s hard to imagine anyone other than Norris in the home now, it was originally built in 1939 for a reverend. Physical evidence of its first owner can be found in the home’s winter den, which still possesses a side door to privately meet with members of the congregation. Since Norris took over stewardship, he’s leaned into the home’s quirkness and worked hard to honor its integrity and history. This meant stripping years of paint layers, implementing thoughtful architectural details like additional trim and board-and-batten shutters, and even adding a second story to the home in the late 90s, which allowed for a breakfast nook—a favorite room of the designer’s faithful golden retriever companions—and the expansion of the family room downstairs. “It was never my intent to stay in the home forever, however, as time went on, I became very attached,” says Norris.
Artwork by Sara Cameli | Photography by Emily Followill
In the decades since, the architect has infused the interiors with his impeccable personal style. Entrance into the home reveals a welcoming living room, which Norris states he uses as a greeting room. With no detail overlooked, delicate wallpaper wraps both the ceiling and walls enhancing the coziness. Nearby, the intimate dining room is defined by texture with its grasscloth-covered walls, carved buffet, and velvet upholstered antique chairs. Each room exhibits its own personality, including the kitchen, with its pops of blue and oval window. “I often contemplated opening the kitchen up to the family room, but I prefer to have delineation of spaces,” says Norris. “The kitchen goes hand-in-hand with the cottage feel of the home.”
A satisfying mix of furnishings and patterns exists throughout, proving the homeowner’s keen eye for style and aversion of fleeting trends. “Being sentimental about my family heirlooms, I wanted to mix more contemporary pieces and artwork into the design,” says Norris. “As a designer I am always looking to improve things and keep my creative juices flowing.”
Extra meaningful items include a still life watercolor from the designer’s great-great-grandmother in a guest bedroom and a throw from the 1850s—crafted by Norris’ ancestors—that is draped over the stair railing. “After losing my dad at a young age, I have always been fascinated with genealogy and family history,” says Norris in regard to his penchant for family heirlooms and interest in preservation.
Artworks by Thomasa Seymour | Photography by Emily Followill
Artworks by April Riley (L) and Thomasa Seymour (R) | Photography by Emily Followill
Although undeniably charming year-round, it’s the special occasions and holidays when the home truly comes to life. Norris recalls many fond memories with family, including Christmastime when his mom would spend the night. “A very special moment—the Christmas after my mother passed—my two oldest brothers traveled to Atlanta to surprise me,” says Norris. “We had all six siblings together for the holidays.” The love inside the home can also be seen through the raising of six generations of happy-go-lucky golden retrievers over the years, fondly called the Norris Girls by all who know the designer. It’s a home that has lived, loved, and will continue to for many years to come.
The Norris Girls | Photography by Emily Followill
41×41 | mixed-media on canvas, framed in natural wood