Embracing The Charm Of New Orleans’ Architectural Heritage In Real Estate Choices
*517 Olivier Street Listed By Michelle LaBanca
New Orleans is a city brimming with beautiful music and exquisite cuisine, but one of the best things about this corner of Louisiana is the architecture. Stepping onto the streets and taking in the design and feel of the buildings is like taking a trip into a different era.
Some people believe it’s time to move to more modern and boxy structures, but that doesn’t have to be the case. There is so much charm behind New Orleans' architectural heritage. The buildings’ presence and influence are evident in the options available in the real estate market.
The Importance of Architectural Heritage
Some people look past properties despite their links to the city’s history. Architectural heritage is a beautiful concept, a secret language of imagery, color, patterns and designs unique to a place. Be aware of these connections. Recognize them as you look for real estate and discover a depth to these homes and establishments.
Many properties have deep historic value. For example, the Dew Drop Inn Hotel was recently renovated through a passion project. According to local developer and New Orleans native Curtis Doucette Jr., the venue is a family business encompassing Black economic resilience during the 1940s. It was also seen as an inclusive space for people of all races and identities.
Owning Properties With Architectural Significance
If you’re looking for a house, consider one with architectural significance. There are many in New Orleans, and owning a historic home provides various benefits.
Aesthetic appeal is always a big part of picking out a property. If you’ve found yourself walking along St. Charles Avenue or Royal Street and found it appealing, you’re in luck. New Orleans’ architectural heritage offers various styles. Find one that matches your tastes. You can always renovate and revitalize the place to make it feel more like home.
2. Cultural and Historic Value
There’s a story in every piece of architectural heritage. Many people hold high regard for spaces with cultural and historical significance. Owning real estate in New Orleans would be like having a piece of the past you can cherish and call yours. With how vibrant the city is, you’re guaranteed a few great tales when you search for property.
3. Potential Financial Advantages
Architectural heritage homes can have some monetary benefits to buyers. Here are some instances:
Architectural Heritage Examples in New Orleans
New Orleans’ architectural heritage isn’t limited to just one specific kind of structure. There is so much diversity, which speaks to the core of the city's uniqueness.
Creole mainly refers to a cultural fusion of French, Black and Native American influence. Creole cottages are a staple in Southern architecture. You can find the structures in the French Quarter. They’re relatively easy to spot with their gabled roof and cozy porch front.
Most cottages feature neutral colors, while others have been painted more vibrantly over the years. The main themes of these homes are simplicity and congeniality. Don’t be fooled by their size, as they have a comprehensive floor plan inside.
Imagine the Parthenon or temples to Greek gods. Greek revival-style households appeared in the 1820s and are characterized by striking entryways with beams and molding. New Orleans was one of the first cities to adopt this style.
The structures are pretty big in comparison to other options. Most Greek revival architecture features white, cream and brown color palettes. Scholars and literature lovers would enjoy the attention to detail.
Victorian-era mansions match the grandeur of Greek revival homes. These houses had more intricate fronts thanks to railings on the balcony and unconventional roofing.
Some of the most common architectural heritage properties in this style have octagonal shapes. The floor plans are complex, and each space offers charm. These houses get a fair amount of sunlight from the windows, too.
Shotgun houses are a straightforward piece of architecture. They have narrow dimensions and rectangular domains. Consider them the vintage tiny homes that overtook New Orleans communities and hearts.
These 12-foot wide homes can accommodate small families, but even larger ones can squeeze through the rooms. That said, if you’re a fan of solo living, there’s more than enough space to feel comfortable.
Double gallery houses are two-story buildings that mix practicality and elegance. Both floors have porches where residents can lounge. The verandas on these homes also lessen their solar heat gain in the long run, allowing you to leave the summer warmth outdoors.
American townhouses are present in every U.S. state, and Louisiana is no exception. Some variations incorporate Creole details like distinguished trim work and columns. Either way, residents all share the same charming front, separated by tall walls to give each home a little privacy. Living in such a property provides a sense of community.
The bungalow is another charming type of New Orleans architectural heritage home. They are similar to Creole cottages as they are single-story and snug compared to other houses. They differ most in their interior, with rooms asymmetrical to one another. Some people prefer this uniqueness to customize design and treatment.
Upholding Architectural Heritage
New Orleans’ architectural heritage contains so much life and beauty. It deserves to be treasured and preserved by the people who appreciate it. Whatever home you choose, it’s sure to be as unique and individualistic as the city itself.
*Written by Rose Morrison of renovated.com
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