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CHAPTER IV
Between the Lines
For Those Who Prefer a Few Facts with Their Fairy Tales
Every old house has its mysteries.
But what lies behind the walls, beneath the floors, or above the ceilings shouldn't have to be among them.
Over 120 years, Roxy has undergone three particularly interesting periods of transformation. And rather wonderfully, each has left something behind.
The Art Deco Years
As the house adapted to accommodate separate households, several bathrooms were added, complete with the colorful period tilework that remains today.
Fashions change.
Fortunately, nobody thought to remove all that wonderful tile.
The Midcentury Years
Then came a different sort of modernity. The kitchen, with its unmistakably midcentury personality, is a particularly enthusiastic reminder.
We also suspect this was when the sleeping porches were enclosed, perhaps following the arrival of air conditioning. Also explaining the presence of some remaining acoustic tiles, dropped ceilings, and bulkheads. The precise timing remains one of Roxy's little mysteries.
The Latest Chapter
Roxy's current owners have turned their attention to some of the things that are considerably less exciting to photograph.
Including the HVAC systems. Much of their work has focused on securing the home and addressing the less visible concerns that can make purchasing a historic property feel intimidating.
And there's quite a bit to tell.
Improvements
FOUNDATION & FRAMING
Added structural supports and basement footings, repaired damaged framing and reinforced the solarium corner. The October 2026 inspection found no significant foundation movement compared with prior level readings.
MOISTURE & INTERIORS
Completed mold and mildew remediation, replaced affected wall and ceiling materials, installed moisture resistant drywall and primer, and adjusted HVAC ductwork. Mold identified in the October 2026 inspection has since been remediated, per the seller.
ELECTRICAL
Installed a new basement panel, completed junction box work, updated outlets, switches, lighting and surge protection. See Bill Schell's electrical quote for additional recommended work.
PLUMBING & BATHROOMS
Replaced most of galvanized pipes found during the sellers' work, updated valves, fixtures, toilets and shower components. The 2026 inspection identifies some remaining galvanized piping.
HEATING & COOLING
Repaired HVAC controls, installed smart thermostats, replaced filters, rerouted ductwork and added ventilation fans.
LAYOUT & FUNCTIONALITY
Restored original stair and doorway configurations, reworked closets and partitions, improved mechanical room access, updated the basement suite kitchen and bathroom, and added bookshelves.
KITCHEN & APPLIANCES
Installed two Bosch dishwashers, updated faucets, added disposals, kitchenette refrigerator and cabinetry, and installed a main kitchen backsplash. An upstairs electric stovetop has been purchased and awaits installation.
FLOORS & HISTORIC DETAILS
Removed upstairs carpeting, installed thresholds, restored millwork, cleaned original cabinet hinges and added picture molding and wainscoting.
LIGHTING & COMFORT
Installed and repaired ceiling fans, updated lighting, smart switches, motion sensors, chandeliers, recessed lighting and ceiling medallions.
BATHROOMS
Updated vanities, refinished tubs and original fixtures, replaced medicine cabinets and added hardware.
DOORS & SECURITY
Installed smart exterior locks and entry cameras, repaired screen doors and added insulation in selected areas.
INTERIOR FINISHES & LANDSCAPING
Smoothed wall and ceiling finishes, installed blinds and a projection screen, stained exposed joists, removed invasive vegetation and trimmed trees.
Contact
504-321-3194
cool@coolmurphy.com
coolmurphy.com
904 St. Ferdinand Street
New Orleans, LA 70114
Cool Murphy, LLC consists of licensed REALTORS® in the state of Louisiana. Our brokerage is modern and cloud-based with a mailing address at 904 St. Ferdinand Street, New Orleans, LA 70117. We serve the Greater New Orleans area and are happy to refer great agents in other places. Our office number is 504-321-3194.
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