Two Days in New Orleans: An Artful Gathering of Philanthropists - Remodelista
If there’s one thing that makes our job worthwhile, it’s when we hear our friends and readers talk excitedly about their homes. Two days in the vibrant city found us meeting forward-thinking creatives and talking homes and design. Working next to like-minded people from all over the country, we were reminded of what motivates us at Remodelista: creating a home of one’s own. Photography by Stacey Lindsay for Remodelista, unless otherwise noted. On our first night in town, we chose to walk through the French Quarter to the Better with M kickoff party in the warehouse district, which allowed us to admire the city’s legendary architecture. Proving that everything is Better with M, the cocktail hour and dinner at The Foundry was decorated with the iconic candies (they were even present on the menu). Chef, cookbook author, and restaurateur John Besh prepared the evening’s menu of local vegetables, crawfish, and slow-roasted prime rib. Photo by Jonathan Bachman. The following day, we all gathered at the build site with the home’s future owner, Gloria Smith, and her daughter Quana. Smith partnered with New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity to build “her dream home.” A passionate cook, she’s most excited to use her new kitchen and will be leaving all the decorating decisions to her daughter. Near the day’s end, the structure was beginning to look like a house. A proven method of educating members on homeownership and maintenance, Pointer says it also builds self-esteem, empowerment, and a sense of community.