The design and construction of a 1600 square foot home began with historical site analysis which revealed both the derivation of the irregularly shaped lot and a rich relevancy that has woven itself throughout the project. While the orthographic extents of the property align with the surrounding street grid, the lone obtuse edge acknowledges both the nearby historic Esplanade Ridge and the later thumbprint of New Orleans’ legendary Sam Zemurray.
The wedge that Zemurray proffered provides a site poised for a simple and sustainable solution. The narrow southern face is the threshold to the home and the obtuse angle that springs from this façade cleanly establishes both a public and private wing, with an outdoor jewel of a space nestled between, oriented towards the precious north in this hot and humid climate. The two-story wing to the east is quiet, understated and provides a wealth of shade to the ample northern porch. The single story-single volume western wing presents to both street-facing sides of the lot and protects them both from the south-western sun with a rich and sturdy material selection.