Hunt Slonem's Lakeside in Louisiana

In researching Mr. Slonem's Louisiana restoration projects, I came across this 2007 NY Times article on his work at an 1832 plantation house called Lakeside. What a beautiful property and I like that this was more of rehabilitation than restoration in some of the details.

I have a distant relative involved in Charleston restoration. A big theme I took away from listening to him was the significance of restoration v. rehabilitation v. preservation. I know it is a contentious debate. But when I come across an interior that has been saved but not entirely finished, it captures the imagination a bit. 

Hunt Slonem at Home in Louisiana

Maybe this is just on my mind because Easter is coming but Hunt Slonem might be known for his bunnies, but he is a man of many talents.

Did you know he collects Victoriana? Did you know he restored a few houses in Louisiana, including his Albania Plantation, and filled it with his collections and his own works?

nottoway plantation

Nottoway was completed in 1859 for John Hampden Randolph and his family, which included eleven children. No wonder he needed the 53,000 square feet! The 64-room house originally sat on a plantation of 400 acres of highland and 620 acres of swamp. It was designed by architect Henry Howard of New Orleans in Greek revival and Italianate style. The house survived the Civil War with very little damage and can still be seen in White Castle, Louisiana today.
The beautiful side facade.

Nottaway is most known for the White Ballroom. Supposedly Mr. Randolph had it painted completely white so it would not compete with the natural beauty of the ladies of the house, included his seven daughters. I think this room still looks very fresh and current. Take note, bloggers who have expressed interest in whitewashed floorboards...

More of the interior.

Some stunning details captured by Cristen at Sharp and Keen.

And one last vintage photo, date unknown.

Mr. Randolph, himself.

Images from National Park Service, Nottaway, Kermit Murray, NewOrleans.com, Sharp and Keen, and New Orleans Local