Rêve Agent Scott James and His Carriage House Renovation
Rêve Agent Scott James and his partner came to New Orleans in 2012 by way of New York City – not knowing that they’d fall in love with the city and start a new chapter here. After extending their stay six months, they decided to put down roots.
A beautiful house they’d walked by several times on Felicity Street in the Lower Garden District caught their eye, and a friend told them it would be on the market soon. Well maintained with beautiful landscaping, it was in good shape, and they were lucky enough to snag it when it came up for sale. After tenting, painting, and then refinishing the wood floors, they prioritized the projects that would allow them to put their own personal stamp on the home.
A Former Recording Studio Turns Into a Guest Space
A practicing architect in NYC for over 30 years, Scott was eager to renovate the primary bathroom and the kitchen during their first few years there. Then, they decided the next big project would be the two-story carriage house adjacent to the main home. The former owners had used the space as a recording studio, so it had a sound booth and acoustical tiles. Having used it mostly for storage for five years, they decided it was time to make good use of the space.
“Friends wanted to come visit, and with the carriage house being right off of the pool, we knew it would make a great guest space – allowing for a separate entrance and privacy, so that friends could come and go as they please,” explains Scott.
1100 Square Feet, Reinvented
The 1100 square foot carriage house already had a bathroom on the 1st floor, but there was no kitchen. And according to Scott, the stairs were massive, taking up too much space and rendering the 1st floor useless. “So we upgraded the bathroom downstairs, added a kitchenette, and designed the stairs around it, which helped open up the space,” explains Scott. That revealed termite damage in the rafters and moisture in the exposed brick that needed to be resolved. A new ceiling was installed with recessed lighting, as well as a dehumidifier and HVAC system, and a half bath was added upstairs.
With reupholstered furniture and artwork they’ve collected over the years, the downstairs now features a charming sitting area, desk space, a kitchenette, and a full bath, while the upstairs has a bedroom with two queen-sized beds and a half bath. Scott says, “It’s still a work in progress, but friends who’ve visited have really enjoyed the space.” It took about six months from the start of the design process until the space was livable.
Putting Architectural Skills + Real Estate Know-How to Work for Clients
Scott has spent much of the past year designing a Kentucky lake house for his sister, and he loves when he can combine his architectural skills with his real estate business. By working with clients who are interested in renovating and personalizing a new home, he’s able to consult and offer insights on any additions, layout, design options, and pricing. Having just closed on a property in the French Quarter with his latest client, he’s now looking forward to working with more clients and taking on future renovation projects. Contact Scott James to learn more.
Categories
Recent Posts
