Camelback House New Orleans, Louisiana residential property images, US real estate photos

Camelback House in New Orleans

December 8, 2024

Design: Nathan Fell Architecture

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

Photos by Jeremy Jachym

Camelback House, USA

This residential renovation and addition project in New Orleans blends modern functionality with respect for the city’s architectural heritage. It involves the transformation of an early 20th-century Shotgun Duplex Home, preserving its historic charm while adding a contemporary two-story extension at the rear. Known locally as a “Camelback,” the two-story addition is designed to contrast with, rather than mimic, the original structure. This careful balance maintains the integrity of the home’s history while providing the conveniences of modern living.

The addition was intentionally crafted to distinguish itself from the original form. Rather than blending or imitating the details of the early 20th-century structure, the design highlights the home’s evolution. The original Shotgun form remains intact, with its historic details thoughtfully restored, showcasing the craftsmanship of its time. Meanwhile, the new rear mass adopts a modern aesthetic, ensuring a clear delineation between the old and new. This contrast serves a functional purpose, framing a side entry to the house while adding a striking architectural feature.

The addition also incorporates a wraparound roof design that frames an exterior gate, leading to a reimagined rear yard. This outdoor space was raised to align with the height of the main home, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior. Unlike typical sunken yards, which can feel disconnected, this elevated space transforms into a vibrant extension of the home’s public areas. A large, multi-slide glass wall in the rear unit allows natural light to flood the interior while visually extending the living space into the yard, fostering a sense of openness and integration with the outdoors.

The renovation significantly expanded the home’s footprint, growing from 1,285 square feet to a total of 2,000 square feet. This includes 1,300 square feet on the first floor and 700 square feet on the second floor. Each unit retains its duplex functionality, featuring two bedrooms and a staircase leading to the upper level. Despite space constraints, the design successfully balances practicality with a spacious, light-filled interior.

The lower levels of both units benefit from the open-plan design, which enhances natural light and airflow. Preserved hardwood floors throughout the original structure honor the home’s heritage, while the new addition introduces modern materials and finishes that complement the historic elements. This thoughtful interplay of old and new creates a harmonious living environment that celebrates both history and progress.

The design emphasizes creating a functional, livable space while preserving the building’s historic use as a duplex. By reimagining traditional elements like the raised yard and embracing modern architectural features like expansive glass walls, the renovation breathes new life into the property. The project stands as an example of how contemporary additions can enhance historic homes without compromising their authenticity.

This renovation respects New Orleans’ architectural legacy while adapting to modern needs, resulting in a home that is as practical as it is beautiful—a residence that bridges the past and present, offering a space that feels timeless yet entirely of its time.

Camelback House in New Orleans, Louisiana – Building Information

Architect: Nathan Fell Architecture – https://www.nathanfellarchitecture.com/
Project size: 2000 ft2
Site size: 2420 ft2
Project budget USD 250,000
Completion date: 2023
Building levels: 2

Photography: Jeremy Jachym

Camelback House, New Orleans, Louisiana images / information received 081224

Location: New Orleans, USA

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