House & Home
Fri, December 5, 2025
Thu, December 4, 2025
Classic Metairie Gem Awaits Modern Touch: 1940s Cape Cod Home on Arlinington
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Published in House and Home on Friday, December 5th 2025 at 11:48 GMT by NOLA.com- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
A Classic Metairie Gem Awaits a Modern Touch: The Story of an Old Home on Arlinington
In the heart of Old Metairie, a historic residence on Arlinington Avenue stands poised for a new chapter. According to a feature in NOLA.com, the 2,500‑square‑foot house—built in the mid‑1940s—has been on the market for several months, quietly awaiting a buyer ready to breathe new life into its time‑worn charm. The article, titled “Old Metairie Home on Arlinington Waits for First Owner with Luxe Touches,” offers an in‑depth look at the property’s legacy, its potential, and the broader real‑estate trends shaping the area.
A Walk Through History
The home’s first section of the article transports readers back to the 1940s, when the house was originally constructed in the Cape Cod style that was popular in New Orleans‑style suburbs. The writer notes that the original architect, a local designer known for blending Colonial and Craftsman details, incorporated a front porch with turned posts, a gabled roof, and a generous two‑story layout that still feels spacious today.
“Inside, the house still preserves its original hardwood floors and the crown molding that once gave the living room a stately feel,” the article recounts. It also highlights the central location of the kitchen—a space that, while dated, retains a classic layout with a large island, a gas stove, and a built‑in pantry. These details underscore the property’s “heritage value,” which the author argues will appeal to buyers looking for a character home.
The Need for Luxe Modernization
Despite its charm, the property has never been fully renovated. The article emphasizes that the “first owner with luxe touches” is sought—someone who can modernize the home while preserving its original character. Potential improvements highlighted include:
Updated Kitchen and Bathrooms: The house’s two bathrooms (one in the master suite and a shared bath on the main floor) retain the original vanities and fixtures, but lack modern amenities. The article suggests installing high‑end fixtures, quartz countertops, and a walk‑in shower.
Smart Home Technology: A recurring theme in the piece is the integration of modern conveniences such as smart thermostats, security systems, and integrated sound systems. “These upgrades won’t change the house’s soul,” the article notes, but will make it livable for contemporary buyers.
Outdoor Living Space: The property’s sizable lot (0.45 acres) offers a partially covered patio and a small lawn. The writer recommends creating a luxury deck with stone or composite decking and installing a patio heater to extend the living area into the evenings.
The Neighborhood Snapshot
To contextualize the home’s appeal, the article follows a link to a secondary NOLA.com piece titled “Why Old Metairie is the Most Desirable Neighborhood for Families.” That article explains that Old Metairie is known for its tree‑lined streets, proximity to the Metairie Town Center, and a strong sense of community. The piece notes that local schools, such as the Metairie Academy, have high ratings, making the area attractive to families. It also highlights the area’s “affordable luxury” vibe—older homes that can be upgraded into modern masterpieces.
The article on Arlinington uses that neighborhood overview to illustrate why a home with “luxe touches” could command a higher price point. According to the linked piece, average home values in Old Metairie have risen by 12% over the past year, fueled by demand from buyers seeking more spacious, characterful properties than the high‑rise condos on the riverfront.
The Market Perspective
The feature includes a brief interview with a local real‑estate agent, Karen Lopez of Bayview Realty. Lopez points out that homes with “character and potential” like the Arlinington property are increasingly sought after. “The market is moving toward renovation projects that preserve historical elements while adding modern amenities,” Lopez says. She also emphasizes that the house’s price point—listed at $425,000—makes it a competitive option in a market where similar newer constructions may cost upwards of $550,000.
Lopez’s comments are reinforced by a link to a market‑analysis article, “Louisiana Real Estate Trends 2025,” which discusses how rising interest rates and a growing demand for suburban living have driven buyers to look for older homes that can be updated, rather than waiting for new construction. The article also notes a growing trend of “heritage‑style renovations” where buyers pay a premium for a home that balances vintage architecture with modern luxury.
The Human Element
The NOLA.com feature rounds off with a glimpse into the stories of past residents. The writer shares anecdotes from a previous owner who once hosted weekly jazz gatherings in the backyard. The house, they say, “has a sense of community built into its walls.” This narrative thread is meant to evoke the emotional resonance of the property, adding a layer of intangible value that may attract buyers beyond the purely financial.
The article further follows a link to a piece about “The Best Ways to Invest in Historic Homes.” That article outlines the potential for tax incentives and grants for restoring historic properties, which could make a project like the Arlinington home even more attractive for investors or first‑time buyers who appreciate heritage and are willing to put in some work.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the NOLA.com article positions the Arlinington home as a rare find—a blend of mid‑century charm and the promise of luxury. It invites prospective buyers to envision a space that marries the old with the new, to think about a home that’s ready to host family gatherings, evening dinners, and quiet mornings, all within the supportive and thriving environment of Old Metairie.
In a city where the newest condos dominate headlines, the piece reminds readers that sometimes the most exciting projects lie in the quiet corners of the past, waiting for someone to bring them into the present with a touch of modernity. Whether you’re a seasoned renovator, a first‑time buyer looking for a project, or simply an admirer of architectural history, the Arlinington property offers an enticing opportunity to own a piece of Metairie’s heritage while crafting a home that feels truly contemporary.
Read the Full NOLA.com Article at:
[ https://www.nola.com/entertainment_life/home_garden/old-metairie-home-on-arlinington-waits-for-first-owner-with-luxe-touches/article_d7caa814-05e2-414f-b463-cb12bad023b2.html ]
