When looking to connect two neighboring properties, homeowners Tom Perrault and Sal Giambanco envisioned a creative solution that evolved into a stunning 48-foot glass hallway. This remarkable design was brought to life by the Mason Ros architecture firm, transforming what was once an alley into a centerpiece of their home.
The Journey Begins
Originally, Tom and Sal purchased a two-story, 1830s-era Creole Cottage in New Orleans, intending to use it as a vacation home. In 2019, they expanded their vision by acquiring an adjoining 700-square-foot shotgun home, aiming to renovate it into a guesthouse for their visitors.
To lead the renovation, they approached Kristen Klamer, who proposed not just a simple passage but a grand hallway that redefined their living space. The project evolved, emphasizing a glass corridor that would serve as an art gallery-like space.
Architectural Challenges
The renovation posed several challenges:
- Elevation Differences: The shotgun home was originally six inches lower than the cottage, requiring a detailed topographic survey to ensure proper alignment.
- Foundation Issues: Without a traditional foundation for the hallway, Klamer implemented rubber membranes and control joints to accommodate the movement of the aging homes.
- Custom Solutions: A unique pivot door was crafted to handle the local weather conditions, featuring an integrated drainage system to keep the interior dry.
The newly designed hallway is adorned with six sloping Velux skylights that flood the space with natural light, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere created with bold art pieces curated by Tom, including a Claes Oldenburg-inspired scissor sculpture.
A New Life
Today, the hallway not only connects the two homes but also creates a 4,003-square-foot residence that includes a new primary bedroom, library, and gym. This transformation has made New Orleans their primary residence, replacing their previous life in Silicon Valley. "I can’t imagine the scenario in which we’re ever going to sell it," Tom says, reflecting their deep connection to their reimagined home and city.
Project Credits:
Architect of Record: Mason Ros Architecture
Instagram: @masonros
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