Héritage At Home with Junior League of New Orleans By Shanelle Joseph
Artist sketch submitted for Decorator's Show House.
Y
ears ago, as spring approached and citizens of New Orleans anticipated warmer weather, crawfish season and the blossoming of nature’s beauty, local interior designers, landscape architects and various artists anticipated partaking in the Junior League of New Orleans’ Decorator’s Show House. This marvelous event allowed both established and aspiring home designers to showcase their artistic skills and creative imagination among some of the most historical homes in the city. Each year, the Decorator’s Show House committee selected one home for artists and designers to showcase. Among the show house and artistry were events such as luncheons, sneak previews, and before and after parties tantalizing
guests with fine cuisine from local staples such as Commander’s Palace, Maurice French Pastries and Ristorante Bacco, to name a few. The Decorator’s Show House committee prepared for the main event, which occurred once every three years, by selecting a home and a number of designers and landscape architects. Each artist was assigned to a specific room at the home or within the yard, which essentially became the canvas from which to work. The year 1996 showcased 5411 St. Charles Avenue, which was identified as Decorators’ Show House VIII. Built in 1906, the 6 bedroom, 5 bathroom Mediterranean style structure has garnered its place among New Orleans’ historical homes. Interior designers and landscape
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