A new old house

Attention to architectural details and cultural accents gives this Baton Rouge residence old-world comfort, universal appeal, and global style.

Creating a comfortable living environment meant building a new house that feels distinctly old and understated, admit JiJi and Larry Jonas. Their warm, welcoming, and inspiring Louisiana residence is wrapped in an array of earthy tones and interesting characteristics. The couple's numerous works of art and artifacts are showcased amid intriguing architectural details. "We wanted an Italian villa with cultural accents from around the world," Larry says.

Dwayne and Trina Carruth designed and built the residence with a central, open living and dining space that offers access to both rear and side courtyards. "I was aware of the extensive collection of art objects JiJi and Larry have gathered from their travels to places such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Peru," Dwayne notes. "There was no doubt that these pieces would dictate and define the interior spaces they needed."

Increased Sense of Space

Through the use of exposed beams, arched entryways, tall ceilings, and built-ins, Dwayne and Trina were able to increase the sense of space. Interesting discoveries lie just around each corner of the home, including warm interior brick, cozy seating areas, and a number of niches.

"We like the depth and complexity present here," Larry says. "Originally, the recessed niches were only planned for the kitchen, but some were also added to the family and dining rooms. Because they provide interest and allow us to display more collections, it was the best mistake we ever made."

Impact of Neutral Walls and Floors

Another significant facet is the power of neutral elements. With such rich collections, the backdrop needed to be simple. The same is true for colors and textures. The overall interior palette is filled with earth tones that complement the artifacts, while the walls are actually a shade of white with a tan undertone. In the living areas, new brick was washed with a mortar additive in a process called sacking. "Everything seems to recess back and allow the furniture and accent pieces to stand out," JiJi says.

The same is true of the home's concrete flooring that looks like stone. "Larry scored and stained it a chocolate brown in order to get a consistent base throughout the open floor plan," JiJi adds. The combined natural hues provide contrast with the artifacts and wall hangings.

Because there are few windows, light comes through the French doors that punctuate the rooms. "The interior doors are old, salvaged from New Orleans and local shops. They are all differentnone of them matches. That's the beauty of it," Larry says.

"We like to bring home at least one unique piece from our travels," JiJi adds.The couple's eclectic and ever-growing art collection works together beautifully with the earth tone floors and neutral walls. The result is continuity and harmony as one moves through the home. MAJELLA CHUBE HAMILTON

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Nov 2003
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