Following Hurricane Katrina, we were asked to reimagine the downstairs of a raised basement home to reflect the client’s passion for travel. The basement had taken on water and, as an architect in New Orleans, I was tasked with designing a comfortable area in my client’s home that would not experience this again. The space was designed to function as a seamless indoor/outdoor retreat. Inspired by the client’s favorite destinations, we created a custom bar that mimics an airport lounge, offering a sophisticated place to unwind. The layout includes two guest ensuite bedrooms, laundry room, large sitting area for watching TV, an elevator serving all three (3) floors and a state-of-the art media room, enhancing the home’s versatility. The seating area and bar were done in tile with area rugs and serve to anchor the space. A dramatic wall of French doors opens to the exterior, flooding the interior with natural light and connecting the space to the outdoors with a large swimming pool and outdoor cabana. This project highlights the adaptability of architecture in New Orleans, blending personal style with functional design to transform the home into a private escape rooted in the client’s unique experiences.