The past 12 months have seen a residential roller coaster of styles and sizes coming on and off the New Orleans market, whether for those upsizing, downsizing or just making a change.
And much like the culinary cornucopia here, the housing buffet has been filled with options, from new to vintage and just about everything in between.
But, just like in any memorable meal, there have been standouts for a number of reasons.
So here are five manses that piqued our interest, in no particular order. Read more about them on NOLA.com.
Tudor-style living in Old Metairie has a pool and plenty
Distinctive dining will be on the menu in this formal eating room with a custom gold-leaf ceiling by Keith Guy, found in the Tudor-style home in Old Metairie.
The old English style is not prevalent in the greater metropolitan area. Greek revival, Queen Anne and many French styles are generally more noticeable.
But this grand country-style manor home is a showplace that has six sitting areas, a yummy kitchen and a pool set in the parklike landscaping. And don’t forget about the gilded ceiling in the dining room.
Garden District corner mansion packs history, details
The Garden District home’s central island, cleverly fashioned to evoke a piece of furniture, is great for seating in the kitchen, loaded with professional-grade appliances and well-lit by the expanse of windows.
The classic center hall Italianate home fits perfectly in the historic district of Uptown, particularly since the home comes with its own historic marker bearing information on the Randolph Wing House.
But it is the inside, where gracious layout and timeless style meld with contemporary touches, that makes it a standout. That includes the glass-galore kitchen.
And the raised nature of the house offers a great space for entertaining and more below.
1950s boxy beauty conjures art deco, midcentury style
Al fresco entertaining is easy in the rear yard of the 1950s Old Metairie home, which includes a dining pad perfect for meals and a gazebo with intricate designs.
The unique qualities of this Old Metairie home make it a standout in the neighborhood. And because it is located on a quiet, dead-end street, it also offers a sequestered luxury.
Add to that a great backyard, which can be viewed from several spots on the back of the house throughout giant windows and doors, making it an almost al fresco experience.
A taste of Tuscany on a quiet Uptown street
The balcony of the Uptown Tuscany-style house provides a panoramic view of the extensive grounds, including the luxe pool and patio.
Imagine sitting on the balcony and overlooking a pool and landscaping that bring to mind images of a glorious Tuscan day. That’s the feeling that comes across in this house on Marquette Place near Loyola University.
The sunset-colored home is tucked on the two-block street and features several Italian-inspired elements throughout the home, including columns, ceiling details and marble-tiled floors.
Good, better and ‘Bestoff’
The foyer is a soaring space that alludes to the grandeur of the former home and grounds of Sydney and Walda Besthoff III.
There’s so much interesting about the former home of Sydney and Walda Besthoff III in the university section of the city. From the tiled circular drive to the roof and entrance details, just looking at the house from the street is a treat.
But inside, there are elements of fine European buildings, from the undulating stairs to the windows and doors that look out over the vast backyard, which includes parterre gardens and a pool, packed with patios and abundant balconies.
Big rooms with big style are part of this package.
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