With a landscape that rivals the most majestic sights in the world, Chattanooga is a city that treasures its scenic views. Whether residing in a house high atop a brow or a in a modern high-rise condominium in the city, many residents are afforded an awe-inspiring view of the downtown skyline as well as panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, rivers, and gorges.
Residents at The Pinnacle, a high-rise condominium high atop Stringer's Ridge, have a view of the Tennessee River, the downtown skyline and Frazier Avenue as though all are a part of their own back yard. Their view presents a perfect backdrop of alluring sunsets peeking over the horizon and occasionally fireworks extravaganzas from above AT&T Field. Folks can rest on their balconies on warm evenings, propping up their feet to bask in the light of a full moon or watch the stars illuminating the night sky.
Built in 1975, these once dated apartments turned ultra-hip condos were first known as the Whitehall Apartments and then The Grandview at Northside. According to Tony St. Charles, of RE/MAX Renaissance Realtors Marketing Team, the fifteen-story condominium, now known as The Pinnacle, has shed its local reputation as a residence for seniors. “Attractive amenities, parking, and affordable pricing make The Pinnacle a top choice for young professionals and those baby boomers wanting to downsize,” Tony remarks.
The Pinnacle experienced a rebirth after the Atlanta-based Wilkinson Real Estate Group acquired the property in 2005 and transformed the apartments into newly remodeled high-rise condominiums that are quickly becoming a hot spot for individuals of all ages. “It‘s so quiet and peaceful,” says Jay Toney, a four-year resident in his thirties. He lives on the fourteenth floor in a two-bedroom condominium that he renovated using modern design techniques. He happily embraces his unobstructed view of the city and surrounding mountains. “It’s beautiful in the morning when the fog is rising over the mountains,” he adds, pointing to Raccoon and Signal Mountains. The high vantage point offers a panoramic view of Chattanooga seen from few other locations.
Previously a renter in the same unit, Jay welcomed the opportunity to purchase. With help from friends, he turned his 1970’s-style traditional living space into a comfortable, chic, and sophisticated bachelor pad with a neutral palette of earth tones. Columns with exposed brick add a slick design and serve as a functional divider between the dining area and the living room both of which feature oak hardwood floors. A tent-style gray fabric drapes gracefully above the dining table, adding an element of elegance and sophistication to the space; a mirrored wall surrounding the dining table adds depth and gives the illusion of more living space. A unique dropped ceiling in the living room provides the perfect focal point with its tin squares, another innovative idea that came to life thanks to Jay’s friends.
Jay’s updated kitchen features ceramic tile floors and a breakfast bar that opens the small space, allowing another area for guests to gather. One of his favorite places in the condominium is his glad door shower that features gray tile and offers more space than before. Like the other décor and design elements in his home, the shower’s stamp of originality gives the space a feeling of individuality.
Dubbed “a jewel hiding in plain sight,” The Pinnacle boasts impeccable interior detail chosen by each homeowner. Modern amenities abound in the kitchens which feature ceramic tile flooring, solid surface ranges, and stainless steel double sinks, as well as stainless steel appliances. Residents can also choose between hardwood flooring or new freise carpet in their living areas. In addition to offering a more contemporary and trendy design, the complex also offers its residents more amenities than before, including a mini-theater/media room, state-of-the-art fitness room, clubroom with flat-screen TV and on-site Wi-Fi.
The Pinnacle is now selling one, two, and three-bedroom condominiums. “Come visit us and see for yourselves,” Tony says. “The most common reaction we get when our visitors step out onto the balcony of our model unit is ‘Wow!’”