The New Orleans 100

 

Developers Create Buzz With Open-Container Laws

Developments such as Parsons Alley in Duluth, Georgia, are encouraging a lively street atmosphere by loosening open-container ordinances. (Courtesy of Kronberg Wall)

When visiting my husband’s family in New Orleans, we take for granted how nice it is to walk down Magazine Street – wine in hand – while patronizing local shops. Sure, we could just be in a restaurant or bar, but we love to take in the neighborhood and have those chance encounters with friends that we get from walking down the street.

Property developers are now taking that vibe and implementing it into developments. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that developers are looking for relaxed open-container ordinances on their sites, and city councils have proved amenable to the change.

– Sarah Weston, The Atlanta 100

 

Designing a Storm Strong Home From an Architect’s Point of View: What Should Be Your Focus?

Is your home built to last from hurricane to hurricane? (Photo courtesy of Duplantier & Meric Architects, LLC)

You’ve decided to build a house in the Gulf South. What architectural elements do you need to consider before you break ground?

• Zoning requirements and base flood elevations, which will change based on location and proximity to water

• Soil conditions

• Type and depth of the foundation

• Base flood elevation

• Connections between each facet of the house, from the roof rafters to the wood columns and more

• Window glass, the thicker the better

• Shutters that are attractive and protective

Design is key from the beginning; build a sustainable house from the foundation to the shutters to be prepared for inclement weather.

– Tommy Meric, Duplantier & Meric, Architects, LLC

 

Tricentennial History: Algiers Point

Did you know Algiers Point was chosen as Curbed NOLA's neighborhood of the year? (Photo courtesy of @ThePreservationist)

You’ve heard of the Point, but how much do you really know about it?

Algiers Point has many unique and defining attributes that set it apart from New Orleans neighborhoods. It’s the second oldest neighborhood in NOLA, and its residents are fiercely loyal to their home. In fact, the neighborhood won Curbed NOLA’s Curbed Cup 2016, a reader-driven contest that celebrates the neighborhoods’ local pride and growth throughout the year.

The Point is extremely walkable and kid-friendly, with concerts and events in Confetti Park all year. But the best part? I’m proud to call it (my former) home.

– Scott Hutcheson, Senior Advisor to the Mayor on the Cultural Economy