Enchanting historic homes, tempting restaurants and delightful stores line the streets of Pittsboro in North Carolina. This small town, established in 1787, is the county seat for Chatham County in the piedmont area of the state. In Pittsboro, all roads lead to the infamous traffic circle and rebuilt county court house. As an interior designer, I am always fascinated by the history and growth of small towns, especially Pittsboro since I live and work in the area.
Arriving in Pittsboro
When you drive south on Hwy 15/501 and pass Allen and Son Bar-B Que with its long line of hungry people on the left, you know that you have almost reached the town. Pittsboro residents gauge local rainfall amounts by viewing how high and how fast the water is flowing in the Haw River as they cross the bridge heading into town.
Five minutes later, you know the town is just ahead because the trees become dense and antique homes can be seen in the distance. The town has several restored homes listed on the National Register of Historic Homes some dating back to the founding of the town. One of my favorites is the Hall-Landon House and its infamous Gothic Revival front porch.
Downtown Pittsboro Attractions
Also throughout the town are historical markers like the one pictured above. Chatham County honored George Horton by naming a school for him which still educates middle school kids today.
As you approach the town center, quaint stores and eateries line the road within site of the courthouse. A lovely afternoon can be spent touring the courthouse which is home to the Chatham County Historical Association. This museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving and sharing the county’s history. Stop and visit Circle City Books & Music, New Horizons for vintage clothing, shoes and gift items or French Connection for their antiques and African art. If the kids are with you, check out S & T’s Soda Shoppe which has been around for over 100 years serving ice cream and malts. Next door is Vino Wine Shop for the adults interested in a wine tasting or cigars. And don’t forget Virlie’s Grill across the street or Postal Fish Company down the road for a great relaxing dinner in the old Post Office building.
Exciting New Pittsboro Neighborhoods
New housing neighborhoods are exploding in Pittsboro due to its close proximity to Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area. Chatham Park has single family and townhomes now available from 25 unique home builders in the 7,000-acre development which will have housing, commercial developments, schools, medical buildings plus parks and extensive trails.
Next, smaller neighborhoods like Seaforth Preserve and Riverstone Estates are popping up which offer larger custom homes and homesites that are close to the Haw River and Lake Jordan.
Many of the new homes are designed in the Prairie Style of architecture which was made famous by Frank Lloyd Wright. The building exteriors are a mix of wood, brick and stone in harmony with the natural surroundings often with brighter colors highlighted.
If you are looking for a new interior for a new build, a renovation or you are simply ready for a design new look in the Pittsboro area contact me for help.
Julie
First Impressions by Julie Wagner
Chapel Hill, NC
(919) 578-7313
https://www.impressionsbyjulie.com/
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