The story of the Elizardi family's home renovation in Old Metairie is a testament to the power of vision and the enduring appeal of timeless design. Nearly 50 years after their initial purchase, the house still stands as a shining example of how a little imagination and hard work can transform a neglected property into a cherished family home.
What makes this renovation particularly fascinating is the family's ability to see beyond the initial state of the house, which was described as a "dump" by their Realtor. In my opinion, this highlights a crucial aspect of successful home renovation: the ability to envision the potential in a property that others might overlook. It's a skill that can make all the difference in creating a space that truly suits the needs and tastes of its inhabitants.
The initial renovation, led by Jimmy Lagarde of Lagarde's Kitchen and Bath, focused on creating a functional and stylish kitchen. The design, with its natural dark cherry cabinets, old hard-tan Louisiana brick floors, and Calcutta marble-topped island, remains timeless even today. This is a great example of how a well-designed space can stand the test of time, and it's a detail that I find especially interesting given the ever-changing trends in home decor.
The transformation of the barroom into a powder room and laundry area, and the removal of the lattice wall to reunite the living and dining areas, were also significant changes. These alterations not only improved the functionality of the space but also enhanced the overall flow and connectivity of the house. It's a reminder that sometimes the most impactful renovations are those that improve the overall living experience rather than just focusing on individual rooms.
Twenty years later, the family's needs had evolved, and they embarked on another round of renovations. Collaborating with architect Steve Chauvin, they added a 17-foot extension to the southern side of the house, creating a spacious primary bedroom with en suite spa bathroom and walk-in closets. This expansion not only met the family's needs but also added significant value to the property. It's a testament to the importance of staying attuned to the changing demands of a growing family.
The outdoor spaces were also transformed, with the addition of a screened porch, fireplace, and outdoor kitchen. These features not only enhanced the family's enjoyment of the outdoors but also added to the overall appeal of the property. It's a reminder that outdoor living spaces are becoming increasingly important in modern home design, and the Elizardis have certainly embraced this trend.
The garden, designed by Mike McClung and further enhanced by Melinda Alfonso of Hillary Gardens, is a particular point of pride for the family. The addition of a stunning Italian fountain, built by Steve Deniz, has become a focal point of the garden, and the family has enjoyed many memorable moments there over the years. It's a beautiful example of how a well-designed outdoor space can become an integral part of family life.
Over the course of their nearly 50 years in the house, the Elizardi family has raised three children and now has four grandchildren. David Elizardi, a semi-retired cardiologist, has found a new passion in painting landscapes, while Jeanne Elizardi, a former development professional, has become heavily involved in civic and charitable endeavors associated with their schools. Their story is a reminder that a home is not just a physical space but also a place where memories are made and family traditions are nurtured.
In my opinion, the Elizardi family's renovation journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to one's vision and the enduring value of timeless design. It's a story that inspires and encourages homeowners to see the potential in their properties and to embrace the joy of creating a space that truly suits their needs and tastes. And who knows? Maybe one day, you'll stumble upon a "dump" in Old Metairie and fall in love with what it could be.
