abode-ab, llc

Since 2017 we have happily lived in the Reynoldstown neighborhood of Atlanta. We would walk our dog every day past a little run down corner house with an unusual Victorian era roofline with a little “witch’s cap” in the middle. The very first weekend of Covid lockdown we saw it was listed for sale and bought it right away without even stepping inside, acting on an emotional impulse to preserve something that had been around for a while. Our plan was make modest improvements to continue it as a rental. But a structural engineer inspection revealed that basically everything built after the turn of the last century was unsound (a kitchen, bath, utility hallway and back deck all had to be torn down). At that point we had uncovered the original heart pine board walls, coal burning fireplace, high bead board ceilings and well-worn heart pine floors. It was clearly a sturdy, modest workers house, likely built by the railroads between 1890 and 1900. We couldn’t bear to bulldoze all that that history and old heart pine, so we decided to try to preserve the soul of the little house in basically a new build design. We were so fortunate that our neighbor/ architect /builder Christopher Leerssen https://abode-ab.com/info/ quickly agreed to undertake the project. Christopher came up with a sunny, open plan that preserved and repurposed the original rooms of the house and added on 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths plus a powder room and separate laundry. We retained the cement block, steel roofed workshop/garage with its heart pine rafters and heavy steel roof and added an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) that presents as its own little house to the side of the garage. The ADU has a kitchenette, laundry area, full bath and sleeping loft as well as its own covered porch. Christopher was amazing to work with on this project. Designing and building during the thick of the “Covid times” of course had plenty of challenges. But Christopher calmly managed the challenges, some of which were us and our offbeat requests, and ensured that we ended up with a really great house that we could all be very proud of. Christopher approached this project (and I assume all of his work) with great commitment, a sense of fun, curiosity and openness and it really shows in the end product- a house that is unique, beautiful, practical and built extremely well. It will last another 120 years, easily.

Christopher did an incredible job with our duplex in reynoldstown. He is a perfectionist and treats his new builds like he is going to be the one living in it. Abode was always easy to communicate with, honest, and helpful throughout the new construction process. Additionally, Christopher & Abode were quick to answer the call with anything we needed help with after the house was done. If you are a building a new house in the atlanta area, I would highly recommend going with Abode and Christopher!

We had Abode-ab design and build a dream home for my parents next door to our home. From day one it was evident that Christopher has a true love and passion for his craft. He patiently listened to our ideas on what we wanted in a home and thoughtfully drafted concrete examples on how our ideas could manifest into a home that would fit well on the piece of property and into the community around it. It was a unique build on the Atlanta Beltline on a tiny lot so there was definitely some creative thinking involved as to how to best utilize the space. He was always available when we needed to discuss anything about the project. He also listened to our concerns and accommodated the design to our likings but was not afraid to voice his opinion if he thought an aspect we wanted may not be the best fit in the long run. These points were always no pressure conversations but allowed us to benefit from his expertise in building/design and how to fit into the neighborhood we are in. In the end he wanted the finished product to not only be something we could love and enjoy throughout the years but a work of art that would be enjoyed after we one day decide to move on. The most stunning aspect of the home is a two story window he designed on the side facing the Beltline Stumpery Garden. It catches everyone's eye as they stroll on the Beltline Trail. When my parents are not staying at the home we are fortunate enough to rent it on Airbnb. We had the great pleasure of hosting the founder and CEO of Airbnb at the home and his reviews of the design of the house were 5 stars all around. If Abode-ab can attract the eyes of the CEO of a company like Airbnb, you know they are doing top notch work. If you are considering using them to design your next home, look no further because you have found the best company in Atlanta to tackle your next project.

173 Gibson St (Backyard Addition) Christopher throughout both the architecture and construction phases was truly a great partner which created a positive experience. In 2019, we collaborated with abode-ab to design and build our detached carriage-house/carport. Throughout is project, Christopher's communication, attention to budget, schedule and flexibility really made the end to end process exciting to be a part of. Rodney / Buzz (Note: similar experience as when building our main home. review posted 10/28/14).

I have years of experience partnering with Christopher Leerssen and Abode A-B. He has built a house from the ground up for my partner and I. His design was spectacular and the house stands as a testament to that. (See pics of the Manigault Street house). Several years later, i asked him to design a second floor addition and completely renovate another house just blocks away. Nine months and tons of construction challenges later, I'm pleased as punch with what ends up to be almost a completely new 1927 brick bungalow with slight industrial touches. Another job well done. If you ever have the chance to buy a Abode A-B house or you are able to use Mr. Leerssen's design skills to renovate an older structure, jump at the chance. You won't be sorry. This has me thinking... maybe my next project is just around the corner.

Christopher’s vision and attention to details, big and small, is impeccable and is what sets his craftsmanship apart. He doesn’t just build houses; Christopher creates homes. He’s been very responsive to many of our requests and questions and was quick to address any issues we may have had. We’re hugely happy with our home and that’s in large part due to the livability and quality of Christopher’s designs and his ability to implement them with high quality materials and finishes. Highly recommend.

Christopher built us a great house. It’s a joy to come home every day. We continue to be impressed by how well thought out every room is.

Christopher did a great job with my townhouse. He was always at the job site overseeing the buildout. Close attention was paid to detail. All of the budgets and deadlines were met, and he has been very responsive to things that have needed taking care of afterwards.

Abode is great! We just bought a new construction town home and are very happy with it. Christopher worked with us to make sure we got exactly what we wanted. He has a great vision for the communities that he creates with modern homes that still have warm personality.

I've lived in an abode-ab home for the last 3 years and loved the thoughtfulness that went into the house as well as its connection to the community. abode-ab is responsive and committed to the neighborhoods in which they build. The homes have a sweet, unique style that don't compromise aesthetics for budget. Also, the home is eco-conscious in a way that I don't see many builders doing in Atlanta for entry level purchase homes. It really has been a pleasure to live in an abode-ab community. Even though not everything was perfect, they always put in full effort to make sure things got fixed and kept up well. I definitely recommend them as a builder.

Abode / Christopher Leerssen are outstanding. I purchased a new construction townhouse built by Christopher in March 2018. He is a great builder, honest, very responsive, and very reasonable to work with. I would recommend him to anyone. Project was on-time and on budget for what we agreed to. After 2++ months in the place I haven't had any issues.

Christopher is a true artist amd takes pride in the homes he creates. Lots of attention to design detail. We really love our home and the community he intricately designed. He is very quick to communicate, respond, and is present on the job-site. Also, his follow through on problems that arise are quickly discussed/addressed. We hope to stay in this home for years to come; Abode has a vision that is community-driven in the city landscape. The best of both worlds.