Creole Architecture Notes Some things we already know! Some things we can learn!

Raised Creole Plantation Houses-Exterior  House raised 6 to 8 feet on brick piers  2 stories high –1 st floor used for storage –attic not used –2nd floor living space  Gallery- covered porch  Gable or pitched roof  Columns support roof  Central chimney

Creole Cottages-Exterior  House raised on brick piers  1 or 1 1/2 stories high –Attic not used  Gallery- covered porch  Gable or pitched roof  Columns support roof  Central chimney Image courtesy of Magnolia Mound Plantation, Baton Rouge, LA.

Creole Houses-Interior  Rectangular floor plan  No hallways  No stairs inside  Cabinets beside rear gallery  French Doors  At least 2 rooms wide

Creole Houses-Interior Walls  Walls made of bousillage, a mixture of Spanish moss and mud placed between the timbers to create a wall

Creole Townhouses  No hallways  Rear courtyard  No stairs inside  Narrow front balcony with wrought iron banisters  Carriageway  At least 2 stories –1 st floor for commercial use –2 nd floor living area

Pigeonniers  Common on Creole plantations  Contained nesting boxes for pigeons  Provided meat and fertilizer  1 or 1 ½ stories –1 st level storage/office –2nd level pigeon coop