How to Decorate Your Home with a Creole Twist

The architecture of New Orleans is a fascinating and beautiful blend of many cultures. The French Creole style, which can be seen throughout the city in buildings, like Jackson Square or Magazine Street, are very different from anything else you will see while visiting this historic American territory.

Creole architecture is a unique style of home décor that brings to mind intricate wrought iron work and long shutter covers. Huge windows with shutters are typical, as well as balconies which are often found on the outside walls. These were designed larger than typical homes in other parts of our country because summers can get sweltering hot here. This way, the breezeways allow air to flow through them while you are inside!

This theme also has bright colors, uncommon for a million-dollar neighborhood, but common among Creoleans who love their cultural heritage.

The Creole style of home decorating is an open and creative approach to design, but there is no one identifiable feature that labels it as such. Lagniappe has been used by residents in New Orleans for years. This term means “a little something extra”, from donuts or freebies with purchases at checkout counters to all those lovely architectural details.

For those that need a little inspiration and love to incorporate some Creole spice into their living spaces, the following suggestions may prove helpful.

1. Red Peppers

Red is one that can be found all over the place, from kitchen appliances to wallpaper borders and jar toppers. There are even shades created just for this theme! With so many items available, you will have no trouble finding something perfect for your home.

Some consider this style gaudy, but locals appreciate its bright colors and Mardi Gras feel that can be found throughout all rooms. No matter how different it might seem at first glance, it is special because of its rich culture with a long history.

2. Music notes

It is hard to think about Cajun country without thinking of the music that makes this great place home.

Notes are a perfect way for us to remember what made New Orleans famous, their rich and expressive culture, which has been passed down through songs.

Music notes symbolize the music that made New Orleans famous.

3. Mardi Gras

The celebrations of Mardi Gras have their roots in the French tradition, yet it is now a ubiquitous American institution. In many ways, New Orleans captures this spirit, because it is home to some of the most extravagant parades and parties.

The Mardi Gras masks are an iconic part of New Orleans culture. With these decorations, you can bring home some Creole flair and decorate your house with its unique spirit.

4. Food is part of a creole home

The food is as much a part of the Creole home decorating style, so it is not surprising that many people who live in this type of house have French-style kitchens. The kitchen becomes an important room for Cajuns to cook and eat their meals with all these jars on display.

5. Antique furniture

Elegant French antiques can be seen in New Orleans homes, whether they were inherited from original settlers or an homage to the city’s French origins.

Settlers of New Orleans brought their French finery with them, but then they needed to furnish more houses as originally planned. That is why they started to make furniture locally. The Low Country items are from South Carolina, plus many other states also sent contributions.

Lighthearted Twists

The French Bergère chair is a classic piece of furniture that has been re-fashioned to be more modern. The bright pink linen fabric seats are just one way this traditional style became a trend, while still remaining true to its roots as an elegant seat for relaxation or reading.

Ironwork

Ironwork can be used in so many ways! You could hang a gate or fence section on the wall as art, use it for your headboard and top off any three-sided balcony piece with glass (or marble) to create an amazing console table.

Chandeliers

The French Empire style of architecture is often associated with New Orleans. It is no surprise because the city has an established history for importing goods from around the world, including chandeliers! These elegant fixtures add beauty to any room in your home by providing light while also creating atmosphere thanks to their beautifully carved designs.

Plaster and Millwork

If you are looking for an easy way to spruce up your home, try adding crown molding and elaborate plaster work. You can also fake intricate ceilings by putting several layers together with fancy pieces around each light fixture, this will help enhance its beauty instead.

Gilding and Tufting

In the city of Paris, one can find reminders that evidence their rich history with opulence. From gilding and tufting to sculptures on every corner. It is clear that there are many people who live in this beautiful area whose roots come from France’s oldest metropolis.

Religious artifacts

Catholicism and Voodoo are a fantastic blend of religious influence in the art.

Mardi Gras Memorabilia

For New Orleans residents, Mardi Gras is a part of their lives. It is not just about celebrating and getting together with friends for some good time, it is also an opportunity to show off your goodies from last year!

Conclusion: Creole style is about attitude

The Creole style of home design is more about attitude than anything else. With this in mind, you can bring an air of “no worries” into your own house by using some authentic elements from Louisiana’s signature architecture.