If you are looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city to a more tranquil lifestyle, then look to the heart of historic Vinings Village, where within walking distance you can now find old-world elegance at the charming community of Avignon at Vinings. As you enter through a boulevard flanked by stone walls and accented by cobblestones to a sanctuary where balconies open to warm, beautiful streets with wrought-iron framed gardens and arches and columns, your senses are flooded by an old-world ambiance.

The 18-acre private, gated community with single-family villas, village townhomes and village condominium units is modeled on centuries-old European hillside villages with a grand chateau as the focal point. A perfect blend of timeless architecture and modern-day sophistication, plus stylish design features such as castle-entry doors, breezy outdoor living areas, and brick and stone exteriors, captures the elegance of Renaissance living.

Only 25 French Provincial-style single-family villas will be available, with starting prices at $1.2 million and with 4,000 to 5,000 square feet. They are designed by award-winning Harrison Design Associates and exhibit a timeless elegance, replete with wrought-iron railings and balustrades, 10- foot ceilings and expansive outdoor living areas. The homes also feature basements, and marble, granite and limestone are used throughout. There will be 85 village townhomes available starting from the $700s, with rich chateau-inspired four-sided brick and stone exteriors. The spacious living plans feature radius staircases and optional fourth-level loggias that overlook the Atlanta skyline. Custom cabinetry, travertine tile and outdoor fireplaces add to the elegance. The 60 condominiums, priced from the mid-$300s, with nearly endless options and 13 floor plans, feature European-inspired timbered ceilings, garden spa tub and separate shower, outdoor living spaces great for entertaining and a concierge service in the grand lobby.

Kairos Development Corporation, winner of the 2005 Development of Excellence Award presented by the Atlanta Regional Commission for multiuse urban development, has developed this one-of-a-kind neighborhood consisting of 170 units. The community is designed to connect every home to the parks and green spaces through stone walkways and sidewalks. Life at Avignon revolves around the unmatched amenities, including a resort-caliber clubhouse. Residents can sample wine in the wine cellar, complete with wine-tasting room and lockers. An outdoor gathering spot boasts a kitchen, grill area, sink, fireplace, lounge area and flat-screen TV, while the beautiful terrace balcony affords stunning views of the city skyline from Buckhead to downtown. At the clubhouse’s state-of-the-art Wellness Center, Avignon residents can enjoy a swim in the sparkling pool, work out in the gym and wind down in the sauna. In addition, pet-friendly Avignon offers its residents a private fenced dog park.