Dencity's Modern Duplex is Breaking All the Rules

Duplexes, or twin homes, aren't very popular in the U.S. these days. (It's always seemed odd to me to share a house with only one other family.) Today lots of people are turning duplexes back into single family homes. However, the architects at Dencity, an Atlanta-based architecture and design firm, decided they could transform duplexes into something grand -- and they did.

Built in collaboration with green developer Concourse-e, Dencity created this uber-cool modern Atlanta duplex. Each town home unit is about 3,000 square feet and has three bedrooms. Homeowners will get their electric primarily from solar panels. Other green features include energy efficient appliances and bio-based insulation.

The structure is designed to look as though it's floating above the street, and the façade's concrete panels fold up underneath to allow parking. There are several outdoor deck spaces for outdoor living, but they're private enough that homeowners won't feel like they're out on display for the neighbors to see.

The exterior, although simple, includes staggered raised panels making it much more interesting. It adds a fun texture to the outside.

The sleek kitchen design of one unit features seamless cabinets, pendant lighting and stainless steel appliances. A concrete section is left exposed in the kitchen, as if dividing the kitchen from the living space.

The enormous living room showcases an open floor plan and an open staircase. The ceiling beam adds some fun and interest to the large living space. Natural light fills the space, allowing the home to use less energy.

The bathroom is my favorite because of the ginormous shower/bath area. The raised sinks make the countertop a bit exciting, and the sleek cabinets recall the ones in the kitchen. Dencity does a nice job of making these homes modern, but neutral enough for a homeowner's personal touch. Sorry, folks, these units are sold out!