Historic New Orleans House Plans

Essential Aspects of Historic New Orleans House Plans

New Orleans, a city steeped in history and architectural charm, boasts a rich collection of historic houses. These houses, with their distinctive designs and adaptation to the city's unique environment, embody the spirit of New Orleans' past. Understanding the essential aspects of Historic New Orleans House Plans is crucial for preserving and appreciating these architectural gems.

Elevated Houses with Open Porches

To cope with the city's humid climate and frequent flooding, Historic New Orleans houses are typically elevated above street level. This elevation is achieved by constructing the house on a raised platform or brick piers, known as "poteaux sur solle." The raised foundation allows for air circulation beneath the house, reducing moisture and humidity levels inside. Additionally, open porches and balconies were essential for outdoor living and socializing in New Orleans' warm climate. These open spaces provided shaded areas for relaxing and enjoying the city's lively street life.

Courtyard Houses and Shotgun Houses

Courtyard houses, inspired by Spanish colonial architecture, were common in the French Quarter. These houses feature a central courtyard that serves as the focal point of the home. The courtyard provides natural light and ventilation to the surrounding rooms. Shotgun houses, on the other hand, are narrow and long, with all rooms arranged in a single row. This design is well-suited to the narrow lots found in New Orleans. Shotgun houses typically have a front porch and a central hallway that runs through the length of the house.

Materials and Construction Techniques

Historic New Orleans houses were primarily constructed using local materials. Bricks were used for foundations and exterior walls, while cypress wood was used for framing and siding. Balconies and railings were often made of wrought iron. The use of these materials reflects the city's location on the Mississippi River and the abundance of cypress forests in the surrounding area. The construction techniques employed in Historic New Orleans houses are indicative of the skilled craftsmanship of the time. Joinery techniques, such as dovetailing and mortise-and-tenon joints, were used to create strong and durable structures.

Ornate Architectural Details

Historic New Orleans houses are known for their ornate architectural details. Elaborate moldings, cornices, and pediments adorn the exteriors of these houses. Balconies and porches are often decorated with intricate ironwork and graceful columns. The use of these decorative elements reflects the city's multicultural heritage and the influence of various architectural styles, including French, Spanish, and Creole.

Adaptation to Environment

The design of Historic New Orleans houses reflects the city's unique environment. The raised foundations and open porches allowed for air circulation and reduced humidity. The use of local materials, such as brick and cypress wood, ensured that the houses were well-suited to the climate. The placement of windows and doors was carefully considered to maximize natural ventilation and minimize solar heat gain. These features demonstrate the adaptability and resilience of Historic New Orleans houses.

Conclusion

Historic New Orleans House Plans are a testament to the city's rich history, architectural heritage, and adaptation to its unique environment. Understanding the essential aspects of these plans, including elevated houses, open porches, courtyard houses, shotgun houses, materials and construction techniques, ornate architectural details, and environmental considerations, is crucial for preserving and appreciating the architectural gems that define the city of New Orleans.