A symphony of designs
By Allen Norwood
The Charlotte Observer

The Symphony Guild Designer House begins its three-week run today at the Metropolitan, the mixed-use development at midtown.

There are no backyards - unless you count Trader Joe's. The front yard isn't defined by lush turf and stately oaks. Instead, visitors will enjoy views across the Little Sugar Creek Greenway to the center city skyline.

The event returns after a two-year hiatus. It features interiors by 18 designers who are showhouse veterans, with legions of fans, as well as talented newcomers.

The three luxury units, priced from about $850,000 to more than $1.3 million, reflect three different themes: traditional for empty-nesters, transitional for the urban family, and contemporary for young professionals.

Despite the urban setting, there's a truly imposing outdoor space, too. All units have balconies and grills - and the patio of one showcase condo is 60 feet long and covers 1,900 square feet. Four landscape designers are featured on the terraces.

A gift shop will be open during tour hours, as in the past, but the Guild won't host a cafe. Instead, visitors can enjoy the handful of popular restaurants at the Metropolitan.

For tickets or more details, including a list of participating designers, visit www.symphonyguildcharlotte.org.