Exploring ADAC: Atlanta Decorative Arts Center for Design Lovers

If you’re interested in interior design, architecture, or high-end home décor in Atlanta, Georgia, the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center (ADAC) in Buckhead is one of the city’s key destinations. It’s both a professional design hub and a place where curious homeowners and visitors can experience the world of luxury interiors up close.

This guide walks you through what ADAC is, how it works, who can visit, and how to make the most of a trip there.

What Is ADAC (Atlanta Decorative Arts Center)?

ADAC (Atlanta Decorative Arts Center) is a large design center in Buckhead that houses dozens of showrooms focused on:

• High-end furniture
• Fabrics and textiles
• Lighting
• Wallcoverings
• Flooring and rugs
• Art and accessories
• Kitchen, bath, and architectural finishes

It serves primarily as a trade resource for interior designers, architects, and builders, but many parts of ADAC are also open and welcoming to the public, especially homeowners and design-minded shoppers.

Location:

• Address: 351 Peachtree Hills Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
• Neighborhood: Buckhead, in the Peachtree Hills area

ADAC is a key stop in Atlanta’s design scene, alongside nearby galleries, design studios, and home décor shops spread throughout Buckhead, West Midtown, and the Westside.

Who Is ADAC For?

ADAC is designed to support professionals, but there is plenty of value for non‑professionals too.

For design professionals

If you’re an interior designer, architect, builder, or decorator in Atlanta, ADAC functions as:

• A materials library for sourcing fabrics, wallcoverings, flooring, and more
• A place to meet clients, review samples, and finalize selections
• A hub for trade-only events, educational programs, and industry networking

Many showrooms at ADAC are to-the-trade, meaning they primarily sell through licensed professionals rather than directly to retail customers.

For homeowners and the general public

If you’re a homeowner, renter, or design enthusiast in Atlanta, ADAC can still be very useful:

• You can browse showrooms for inspiration and ideas.
• Some showrooms are open to the public and may sell directly or help connect you with a designer.
• It’s a great place to understand what’s possible in terms of custom furniture, textiles, and finishes.

Key point: Even if a showroom doesn’t sell directly to consumers, staff can usually explain how to work with a local interior designer or trade professional to purchase items you like.

What You’ll Find Inside ADAC

ADAC is spread across multiple floors with a wide range of showrooms. The exact mix can change over time, but you can expect:

1. Furniture and upholstery

Showrooms dedicated to:

• Custom upholstery and sofas
• Dining tables, chairs, and storage pieces
• Bedroom furniture and casegoods
• Outdoor and patio furniture

You’ll see a level of craftsmanship and customization that often exceeds typical retail furniture stores in Atlanta.

2. Fabrics and wallcoverings

A major draw of ADAC is its extensive fabric and wallcovering offerings:

• Designer textiles for upholstery, drapery, and pillows
• Luxury wallpapers and wallcoverings
• Performance fabrics for family-friendly or outdoor use

If you’re working on a renovation in Atlanta and want something beyond standard big-box fabric options, ADAC’s textile showrooms are a strong resource.

3. Lighting and decorative accessories

Lighting showrooms offer:

• Chandeliers and pendants
• Sconces and lamps
• Architectural and specialty lighting

You’ll also find art, mirrors, decorative objects, and rugs that can finish out a space.

4. Kitchen, bath, and architectural elements

Some showrooms focus on:

• Cabinetry and hardware
• Countertop materials
• Plumbing fixtures and fittings
• Molding, trim, and architectural details

This is especially useful if you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel in Atlanta and want to see a broad range of higher-end options.

Visiting ADAC: What Atlanta Locals and Visitors Should Know

General access and hours

ADAC typically operates Monday through Friday during business hours. It functions much more like an office building and trade center than a mall:

• Weekends are often closed or limited, so weekday visits are best.
• Hours may vary by showroom, so it’s smart to check ahead if you’re targeting a specific space.

Because operating hours and visitor policies can change, calling ADAC’s main desk or checking recent info before heading over is recommended.

Parking and transportation

ADAC is located in Buckhead’s Peachtree Hills area, not far from Peachtree Road.

Common options include:

• On-site parking: ADAC typically offers parking for visitors.
• Rideshare / taxis: Easy option from anywhere in Buckhead, Midtown, or Downtown Atlanta.
• MARTA access: Peachtree Hills is closest to Buckhead and Lindbergh Center stations, but you’ll likely need a short rideshare or walk from there. MARTA is useful if you’re staying in Midtown or Downtown and want to avoid driving.

Do You Need an Interior Designer to Visit ADAC?

You do not always need a designer to walk around ADAC. Many Atlanta residents visit just to look, learn, and gather ideas.

However, there are a few important distinctions:

If you’re planning a major renovation or new build anywhere in Metro Atlanta, partnering with a local interior designer can make ADAC much easier to use, from sourcing to installation.

How to Make the Most of a Visit to ADAC

Whether you’re an Atlanta local or in town on a design-focused trip, a little planning goes a long way.

1. Define your goals

Before you go, think about:

• Are you just browsing for inspiration?
• Do you have a specific project (kitchen reno, living room update, whole-house furnishings)?
• What’s your budget range for major items?

Knowing your priorities helps showroom staff guide you toward appropriate lines and options.

2. Bring useful information

To get the best help from showroom associates, come prepared with:

• Room dimensions or a floor plan
• Photos of your current space
• Any inspiration images (saved on your phone is fine)
• Notes on existing finishes (flooring color, cabinet style, wall colors)

This is especially important for Atlanta homeowners working with older homes, condos, or townhomes that have specific layout and lighting challenges.

3. Wear comfortable shoes and plan enough time

ADAC is a large complex. It’s easy to spend several hours walking:

• Plan for at least 1–2 hours for a quick overview.
• For serious project sourcing, a half day or full day is more realistic.

If you’re visiting from out of town and staying in Buckhead or Midtown, consider dedicating a chunk of your day just to ADAC and nearby design shops.

4. Ask how each showroom works

Showrooms differ in how they handle:

• Public vs. trade-only sales
• Pricing structure
• Sample borrowing or purchase
• Lead times and delivery to Metro Atlanta addresses

You can simply ask:

• “Are you open to the public?”
• “If I’m not working with a designer, how would I purchase from you?”

Staff are used to these questions and can explain the best path for your situation.

ADAC Events, Programs, and Design Culture

ADAC is more than just showrooms; it often functions as a design community hub for Atlanta and the Southeast.

Design events and lectures

ADAC regularly hosts:

• Lectures and panel discussions featuring designers, architects, and industry experts
• Seasonal design events or markets that draw professionals from across the region
• Occasional open houses, showroom launches, and special exhibits

These events are sometimes targeted at trade professionals, but select programs may be open to the public or by registration. If you live in Atlanta and love design, it’s worth checking what’s on the calendar before your visit.

Educational opportunities

Some events at ADAC are designed to:

• Introduce homeowners to design concepts and trends
• Show professionals new products and techniques
• Offer continuing education credits for licensed designers and architects

If you’re considering a career in interior design in Atlanta, visiting ADAC during an event can give you a feel for the local industry and its expectations.

Tips for Different Types of Visitors

Atlanta homeowners planning a renovation

If you’re remodeling a home in neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, Decatur, Brookhaven, or Smyrna, ADAC can help you:

• See higher-end options than typical retail
• Understand the difference between custom and ready-made products
• Get a sense of quality, scale, and finishes in person instead of online only

Consider:

• Visiting ADAC early in the planning process to refine your vision
• Following up with a professional designer or contractor who is familiar with ADAC resources

Renters and condo owners

Even if you’re in an apartment or condo in Midtown, Old Fourth Ward, or Buckhead:

• You can still gather ideas for portable items like rugs, lighting (where allowed by your lease), and furniture.
• You may find modular or flexible solutions well-suited to smaller urban spaces common in central Atlanta.

Out-of-town visitors

If you’re visiting Atlanta and love design:

• ADAC can be paired with a day exploring Buckhead’s galleries, high-end retail, and nearby restaurants.
• It offers a different experience than typical shopping malls, focusing more on design process and trade-level resources.

Practical Contacts and Next Steps

When planning a visit to ADAC:

• Address: 351 Peachtree Hills Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
• Area: Buckhead – Peachtree Hills neighborhood

Before you go, it’s wise to:

• Confirm current hours and any visitor guidelines.
• Check whether there are any public events or programs happening during your visit.
• If you already have an interior designer, let them know you’re going—they may recommend specific showrooms or even join you.

For Atlanta residents, ADAC can become a long-term resource. You might visit first for inspiration, then return with a contractor or designer once your project moves forward.

In Atlanta, the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center (ADAC) is the city’s primary destination for trade-level interior design resources, but it’s also an inspiring and educational place for homeowners and visitors. Whether you’re planning a full renovation, furnishing a new home, or just curious about the design world, a well-planned visit to ADAC can give you a clearer sense of what’s possible for your space.