New Orleans Style House Plans are design blueprints that embody the unique architectural characteristics of New Orleans, Louisiana. These plans encompass a blend of French colonial, Spanish colonial, and Creole influences, resulting in captivating and distinctive homes.
The core function of New Orleans style house plans is to provide a framework for constructing homes that reflect the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. They incorporate elements such as intricate wrought iron balconies, colorful stucco exteriors, and lush courtyards.
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In this article, we will delve into the defining features of New Orleans style house plans, exploring the various architectural styles, floor plans, and design elements that make these homes a captivating choice for homeowners and architects alike.
New Orleans style house plans are renowned for their captivating architectural features. Here are 9 important points to consider:
- Intricate wrought iron balconies
- Colorful stucco exteriors
- Lush courtyards
- High ceilings
- Large windows
- Open floor plans
- Wrap-around porches
- French doors
- Historic charm
These elements combine to create homes that are both visually stunning and functional, embodying the unique spirit of New Orleans.
Intricate wrought iron balconies
Wrought iron balconies are a defining feature of New Orleans style house plans, adding a touch of elegance and historic charm to any home. These balconies are typically made from hand-forged iron, which is shaped into intricate designs and patterns.
The designs of wrought iron balconies in New Orleans are as diverse as the city itself. Some balconies feature simple, geometric patterns, while others are adorned with elaborate scrollwork, flowers, and other decorative elements. The most common type of wrought iron balcony in New Orleans is the “gallery balcony,” which wraps around the front of the house and provides a perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, wrought iron balconies also serve a practical purpose. They provide a safe and secure way to enter and exit the home, and they can also be used to add extra living space. Many homeowners in New Orleans use their wrought iron balconies as outdoor dining areas or sitting rooms.
Wrought iron balconies are a beautiful and functional addition to any New Orleans style house plan. They add a touch of history and charm, and they can also be used to increase the living space of the home.
Colorful stucco exteriors
One of the most striking features of New Orleans style house plans is their colorful stucco exteriors. Stucco is a type of plaster that is made from a mixture of lime, sand, and water. It is applied to the exterior of the home in a thick layer, and then it is painted in a variety of bright and vibrant colors.
- Eye-catching and unique
The use of colorful stucco exteriors is a way to make New Orleans homes stand out from the crowd. The bright colors are eye-catching and unique, and they add a touch of personality to the home.
- Durable and long-lasting
Stucco is a very durable and long-lasting material. It is resistant to moisture, insects, and fire, and it can withstand the harsh weather conditions that are common in New Orleans.
- Energy-efficient
Stucco is also an energy-efficient material. It helps to insulate the home, which can reduce heating and cooling costs.
- Low-maintenance
Stucco is a low-maintenance material. It does not require painting or staining, and it can be easily cleaned with a hose.
Colorful stucco exteriors are a beautiful and functional addition to any New Orleans style house plan. They add a touch of color and personality to the home, and they are also durable, long-lasting, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance.
Lush courtyards
Lush courtyards are a defining feature of New Orleans style house plans. These outdoor spaces are typically enclosed by walls or fences, and they often feature lush vegetation, fountains, and seating areas.
Courtyards provide a private and secluded oasis in the heart of the city. They are a perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Courtyards can also be used for entertaining guests, dining al fresco, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
The design of a courtyard is an important part of any New Orleans style house plan. Courtyards should be designed to complement the architecture of the home, and they should also be functional and inviting.
Here are some tips for designing a lush courtyard:
- Choose the right location. The courtyard should be located in a private and secluded area of the property. It should also be easily accessible from the home.
- Design the courtyard to complement the architecture of the home. The style of the courtyard should match the style of the home. For example, a traditional New Orleans style home would have a courtyard with a wrought iron fence and a brick walkway.
- Use lush vegetation to create a private and inviting space. Plants can be used to create privacy screens, shade, and color. Courtyards often feature a variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and vines.
- Add a fountain or water feature to create a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere. The sound of running water can be very soothing and calming.
- Include seating areas so that you can enjoy the outdoors. Seating areas can be simple or elaborate, depending on your needs. Some popular seating options include benches, chairs, and swings.
Lush courtyards are a beautiful and functional addition to any New Orleans style house plan. They provide a private and secluded oasis in the heart of the city, and they are a perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
High ceilings
High ceilings are a defining feature of New Orleans style house plans. They create a sense of spaciousness and grandeur, and they can help to improve air circulation and natural lighting.
There are several reasons why high ceilings are so popular in New Orleans. First, the city’s hot and humid climate makes high ceilings a necessity. High ceilings allow hot air to rise and escape, which helps to keep the home cooler. Second, the city’s historic architecture is characterized by high ceilings. Many of the homes in the French Quarter and other historic neighborhoods have ceilings that are 10 feet or higher.
There are several types of high ceilings that are commonly used in New Orleans style house plans. One popular type is the vaulted ceiling. Vaulted ceilings are sloped ceilings that create a dramatic and spacious feel. Another popular type is the cathedral ceiling. Cathedral ceilings are peaked ceilings that are typically found in churches and other large buildings. However, they can also be used in homes to create a sense of grandeur.
High ceilings can be used in any room of the house, but they are most commonly used in living rooms, dining rooms, and master bedrooms. They can also be used in kitchens and bathrooms to create a more luxurious feel.
If you are considering building a home in New Orleans, you should definitely consider incorporating high ceilings into your design. High ceilings can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any home, and they can also help to improve the comfort and livability of your home.
Large windows
Large windows are another defining feature of New Orleans style house plans. They allow natural light to flood into the home, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Large windows also provide views of the outdoors, which can help to create a sense of connection to the surrounding environment.
There are several reasons why large windows are so popular in New Orleans. First, the city’s warm climate means that natural light and ventilation are essential for comfort. Large windows allow sunlight to enter the home, which helps to warm the home during the winter months. They also allow air to circulate, which helps to keep the home cool during the summer months.
Second, the city’s historic architecture is characterized by large windows. Many of the homes in the French Quarter and other historic neighborhoods have large windows that open onto balconies or courtyards. This style of architecture helps to create a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.
There are several types of large windows that are commonly used in New Orleans style house plans. One popular type is the floor-to-ceiling window. Floor-to-ceiling windows extend from the floor to the ceiling, providing a panoramic view of the outdoors. Another popular type is the bay window. Bay windows are three-sided windows that project out from the wall of the house. They provide a wide view of the outdoors and can also be used to create a seating area.
Large windows can be used in any room of the house, but they are most commonly used in living rooms, dining rooms, and master bedrooms. They can also be used in kitchens and bathrooms to create a more spacious and inviting feel.
If you are considering building a home in New Orleans, you should definitely consider incorporating large windows into your design. Large windows can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any home, and they can also help to improve the comfort and livability of your home.
Open floor plans
Open floor plans are a defining feature of New Orleans style house plans. They create a sense of spaciousness and flow, and they allow for easy entertaining and family interaction.
Open floor plans are characterized by the absence of walls or other barriers between the living room, dining room, and kitchen. This creates a large, open space that is perfect for entertaining guests or spending time with family. Open floor plans also allow for natural light to flow throughout the home, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
There are several advantages to having an open floor plan. First, open floor plans make it easier to entertain guests. With no walls or barriers to obstruct the flow of conversation, guests can easily move from one area of the home to another. Second, open floor plans are great for families. They allow family members to interact with each other more easily, and they also make it easier to keep an eye on children.
However, there are also some disadvantages to having an open floor plan. First, open floor plans can be noisy. With no walls or barriers to absorb sound, noise can easily travel throughout the home. Second, open floor plans can be difficult to keep clean. With no walls or barriers to separate the kitchen from the living room and dining room, cooking smells and grease can easily spread throughout the home.
Overall, open floor plans are a great option for people who want a spacious and inviting home. However, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before deciding if an open floor plan is right for you.
Wrap-around porches
Wrap-around porches are a defining feature of New Orleans style house plans. They are typically wide and spacious, and they wrap around two or more sides of the house. Wrap-around porches provide a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and they can also be used for entertaining guests.
- Provide shade and protection from the elements
Wrap-around porches provide shade and protection from the sun, rain, and wind. This is especially important in New Orleans, where the weather can be hot and humid. Porches can also be screened in to keep out insects.
- Increase the living space of the home
Wrap-around porches can significantly increase the living space of a home. They can be used for a variety of purposes, such as dining, entertaining, or relaxing. Porches can also be furnished with comfortable seating and other amenities.
- Add curb appeal
Wrap-around porches add curb appeal to a home. They create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, and they can help to make a home stand out from the crowd.
- Provide a connection to the outdoors
Wrap-around porches provide a connection to the outdoors. They allow residents to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, and they can also be used for gardening or other outdoor activities.
Overall, wrap-around porches are a beautiful and functional addition to any New Orleans style house plan. They provide shade and protection from the elements, increase the living space of the home, add curb appeal, and provide a connection to the outdoors.
French doors
French doors are another defining feature of New Orleans style house plans. They are typically tall and narrow, and they open onto a balcony or patio. French doors allow natural light to flood into the home, and they also provide a sense of indoor-outdoor living.
- Provide natural light and ventilation
French doors allow natural light to flood into the home, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. They also allow for ventilation, which helps to keep the home cool and comfortable.
- Create a sense of indoor-outdoor living
French doors open onto a balcony or patio, creating a sense of indoor-outdoor living. This is especially important in New Orleans, where the weather is warm and humid for much of the year. French doors allow residents to enjoy the outdoors without having to leave the comfort of their home.
- Add a touch of elegance
French doors add a touch of elegance to any home. They are typically made from wood or metal, and they often feature intricate detailing. French doors can be painted any color, but they are most commonly painted white or black.
- Increase the value of the home
French doors can increase the value of a home. They are a desirable feature for many buyers, and they can help to make a home stand out from the crowd.
Overall, French doors are a beautiful and functional addition to any New Orleans style house plan. They provide natural light and ventilation, create a sense of indoor-outdoor living, add a touch of elegance, and increase the value of the home.
Historic charm
New Orleans style house plans are renowned for their historic charm. This charm is derived from the city’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. New Orleans was founded by the French in the 18th century, and the city’s architecture reflects this French colonial heritage. Many New Orleans style house plans incorporate elements of French colonial architecture, such as wrought iron balconies, arched doorways, and hipped roofs.
In addition to its French colonial influences, New Orleans architecture also reflects the city’s Spanish and Creole heritage. Spanish colonial architecture is characterized by its use of stucco walls, tile roofs, and courtyards. Creole architecture is a unique blend of French and Spanish influences. Creole homes often feature bright colors, intricate woodwork, and wrap-around porches.
The historic charm of New Orleans style house plans is not limited to their architectural details. It is also found in the city’s overall ambiance. New Orleans is a city with a vibrant culture and a rich history. This is reflected in the city’s architecture, which is full of character and charm.
If you are looking for a home with historic charm, a New Orleans style house plan is a great option. These homes are beautiful, unique, and full of character. They are also a great way to connect with the city’s rich history and culture.
Here are some specific examples of how historic charm is incorporated into New Orleans style house plans:
- Wrought iron balconies: Wrought iron balconies are a defining feature of New Orleans architecture. They are typically made from hand-forged iron, and they often feature intricate designs. Wrought iron balconies add a touch of elegance and charm to any home.
- Arched doorways: Arched doorways are another common feature of New Orleans architecture. They are typically made from wood or brick, and they often feature a keystone at the top of the arch. Arched doorways add a touch of grandeur to any home.
- Hipped roofs: Hipped roofs are a type of roof that is characterized by its four sloping sides. Hipped roofs are common in New Orleans architecture, and they help to give homes a distinctive look.
- Stucco walls: Stucco walls are a type of wall that is made from a mixture of lime, sand, and water. Stucco walls are common in Spanish colonial architecture, and they give homes a unique texture and appearance.
- Tile roofs: Tile roofs are a type of roof that is made from clay or ceramic tiles. Tile roofs are common in Spanish colonial architecture, and they help to keep homes cool in the hot New Orleans climate.
- Courtyards: Courtyards are a type of outdoor space that is enclosed by walls or fences. Courtyards are common in Spanish colonial architecture, and they provide a private and secluded space for relaxation.
- Bright colors: Bright colors are a common feature of Creole architecture. Creole homes are often painted in bright colors, such as yellow, pink, or blue. Bright colors add a touch of cheerfulness and vibrancy to any home.
- Intricate woodwork: Intricate woodwork is a common feature of Creole architecture. Creole homes often feature intricate woodwork, such as carvings, moldings, and fretwork. Intricate woodwork adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any home.
- Wrap-around porches: Wrap-around porches are a common feature of Creole architecture. Creole homes often feature wrap-around porches, which provide a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Wrap-around porches add a touch of charm and character to any home.
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