Across its half-century existence in Buckhead, the Darlington apartment tower was known for several disparate things: The famous “Atlanta’s Population Now” sign out front. Being the longtime home of novelist Pat Conroy’s father—inspiration for The Great Santini. And its status as one of Buckhead's last bastions of true affordability, although more recently the tradeoff for cheaper rents was the building’s reputation for disrepair and seediness.

All of that’s changed now, as the 15-story cruciform complex of all brick has been rebranded The Lofts at Twenty25, a nod to its address on Peachtree Road.

Renovations continue at the 600-unit loft building, but leasing efforts have begun. The $40-million makeover is being developed and managed by Sandy Springs-based Varden Capital Properties, which controls 70 apartment communities with more than 20,000 units in the Southeast.

Earlier talk of converting the Darlington to condos that would simultaneously be luxury and affordable didn’t materialize. Instead, Lofts at Twenty25 is bringing rents that could seem affordable by Buckhead standards, but with floorplans that are relatively small for space-loving Atlanta.

Rents range from $843 to $1,700 monthly, with most landing in the $1,500 range. All options are listed as one-bedrooms with a single bathroom.

The sizes of available flats start at just 450 square feet and top out at 600.   

Interior perks, per marketing materials, include quartz countertops, new windows, plank-style flooring, subway tile, and interior barn doors. In terms of amenities, a roof deck with bar and lounge, grilling stations, club room, communal offices and conference spaces, a movie theater, 5,000-square-foot gym with yoga, a convenience store, and coffee shop are all on the docket.

The Darlington’s former residents—most paying rents less than $800 monthly—were removed in fall 2018, a year after VCP had bought the aging complex for $30 million. Have a closer look at the property’s current state and future in the gallery above.

• Recent Buckhead news, discussion (Urbanize Atlanta)