A massive canvas—and a $30,000 payout—awaits the right artist in East Lake. 

A $35-million renovation project for Legacy at East Lake (formerly known as East Lake Highrise) recently wrapped at 380 Eva Davis Way.  

Neighboring Charles Yates Golf Course and Drew Charter School, just west of East Lake Golf Club, the eight-story, 1970s tower now offers 149 units for residents 55 and older, all at rates deemed affordable. 

But an important component of the project remains TBD. 

Project developer Columbia Residential has issued a call for artists capable of completing a mural with dimensions of nearly 60 by 72 feet—at least. It’s a $30,000 commission, with a goal of celebrating East Lake’s history and traditions (and seniors) through art.   

The roughly 4,200-square-foot brick canvas in question at the Legacy at East Lake project today. Courtesy of Columbia Residential

The mural’s themes—Family, Hope, Identity, and Community Unity—shouldn’t totally obscure the building’s original 1971 red-brick north face, according to Columbia reps. 

“Artists are encouraged to thoughtfully incorporate the building's original red brick masonry, allowing portions of the historic façade to remain visible as part of the artistic composition—a powerful blend of preservation and innovation,” reads a project description. 

To apply, and for full details, artists age 18 and older are asked to email murals@columbiares.com. Deadline for submissions is June 18, and the mural's unveiling will coincide with Legacy at East Lake's grand opening this fall. 

Columbia partnered on the tower renovation with Atlanta Housing, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, and Invest Atlanta, aiming to preserve affordable housing in the area while boosting the quality of life for the property’s tenants. (Of 121 residents temporarily relocated, Columbia officials say 74 are expected to return, with help from Dash & Dwell services.) 

The Legacy at East Lake project as construction entered final phases in January. Google Maps

All units are reserved for tenants earning between 30 and 60 percent of the area median income, and project-based vouchers ensure that no resident has to pay more than 30 percent of their income to rent, according to project officials.

Along with replacement of most major systems, refreshed apartment interiors, and energy-efficient additions, the renovation added and updated amenities, including a theater, a computer and business center, a wellness room, and a community garden, among other perks. 

According to Columbia, the East Lake venture marks the company’s 10th renovation and preservation project since 2020 focused on quality affordable housing. 

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