Kirk Williamson of New Orleans-based Chester Development breaths new life into historic home.
This bracket style home featuring symmetrical windows, a gabled roof, and balcony dates back to some time between 1900 and 1915, though the exact year is not on record. However, Kirk Williamson of New Orleans-based Chester Development says it is a mirror copy of a home that sits just across the street and was built during this period.
The goal of this project in the Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans was to restore it to its original glory while adding modern amenities to appeal to homebuyers. Williamson achieved this by reusing much of the existing materials and infusing them into the design. In addition to saving the wood flooring plank by plank, the staircase also was refurbished.
The ceiling at the top of the stairs features reclaimed bead board that was taken from various places inside the home. It was then stripped and left exposed to give it a distressed look. A Victorian-style chandelier with brushed nickel offers a modern vibe while still reflecting on the past.
Original lath wood recovered from various interior walls of the house was stripped of its plaster, bound with horsehair, and reused as a unique design element where the fireplace once was placed.
The reclaimed bead board used for the ceiling also adds historic flair to the side panel of the kitchen island. The cabinet across the way was hand built on site using cedar wood mostly found in the attic cabinets.
One of the 3 full bathrooms in the home, the suite features a vaulted ceiling and standalone tub for an historic feel, while the open plan and light colors provide a modern aesthetic.
