516 - 518 Natchez Street

Originally built in the 1850s, the two adjoined brick rowhouses are classic examples of Greek Revival architecture in downtown New Orleans. This renovation adapted the three-story buildings to five high-end apartments and a ground floor office space.

The right hand building, in deteriorated condition after years of vacancy, required a complete replacement of the interior heavy timber structural framing. While this posed a profound challenge to reconstruct the interior primary structure, it also provided an opportunity for split level residential units separating living from sleeping areas. An existing fragmented masonry wall at the rear of the property allowed for an extension of glass clad dining spaces and views of the highly active Poydras Street.

Sensitive integration of modern architectural elements into the existing historic fabric highlight and bring a unique charm to the interiors. The palimpsest of exposed masonry, existing concrete, barrel vaults, and granite columns are celebrated within each of the individual units. Each apartment, accessed through a direct elevator, is intricately detailed to preserve historic elements where possible. An existing brick vaulted structure on the ground floor houses a custom bathroom with a walk-thru shower leading to a marble clad bathtub. Finishes throughout the five apartments include new white oak flooring, marble and porcelain at the bathrooms, stainless steel appliances, and new millwork in an achromatic palette.

Project Role: Design Team, Construction Documents, Construction Administration

Architect of Record: studioWTA

Project Type: Multi-Family, Business

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

Client: Vieux Nouveau Properties, LLC

Completed: 2014

Size: 8,200 sq. ft.

Cost: $1,700,000

Professional Photography: Jeffrey Johnston

Awards: 2015 AIA New Orleans Historic Preservation & Adaptive Reuse Award, 2015 Louisiana Landmark Society Excellence in Historic Preservation