This second of the series on ASHEVILLE'S SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES, Montford might surprise you ! Some unusual 
"creatures" "live" in Montofrd--GRIFFINS... well, Griffins as architectural interest points for those restoring this sustainable neighborhood of Asheville, NC .
Much of the Montford neighborhood was designated as an Historic District and listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. Since that time, historic restoration has been on the rise. Today the Montford community is home to residential properties and even several businesses. This neighborhood has developed a new outlook centered around the historical restoration projects of a number of devoted stewards of a variety of architectural designs.
here is a photo of one of Montofrd's neighborhood parks..quality of life is important in this neighborhood
Even with the variety of designs throughout Montford, consistent patterns and use of materials like shingles, stucco, pebbledash and half-timbering comprise a cohesive Montford impression." . But, as you may surmise from the photo in the first post in this series,, it is the people in the neighborhood, through their vibrant sustainable community spirit, that make this neighborhood a great place to visit and an even greater place in which to live.
For many years, I've been keeping a close eye on homes being restored and looking for new stewards in Montford. Prices range from the low $200s (condo) to about $1.4M.
But, if you are curious and want to know how much an elegant, already restored home in the Montford Neighborhood costs...You may be surprised when I tell you! A residence e described as a "...stunning home adjacent to beautiful Montford Park (see photo) ... fully restored Queen Anne ..." winner of the Griffin Award from Asheville's Preservation Society. ...with handiwork of artisans known for their old-world methods of replicating woods, marbles, and distressed leather in such masterpieces. .. may sell for under $1M!
Just FYI: The Griffin Awards are named for the ancient Greek creature of mythology. You will remember that this character was endowed with the body of a lion and the wings of an eagle. Back in the day in Asheville, a griffin often was placed at the entrance of a building to protect those that entered and you can see them today at the entrance to the Grove Arcade in downtown.
There are numerous Griffin Award Winning restorations in Montford. Here's one from 2008.
The Gunn Residence... 2008 Griffin Award for Residential Rehabilitation
Designed by Richard Sharpe Smith in 1901, this building remained mostly uninhabited for 18 years until its purchase by Kate Gunn in 2006. Relying on the original architectural drawings, a restoration of the building has been recently finished.
You will find this neighborhood close to the downtown area of Asheville. Montford Road runs right into downtown which is within an easy walk or bike ride.
*Look for #3 in this series where I'll tell you about at least one cozy B&B ...also a Griffin Award Winner.
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