Project Cloudline: A Sourcing Story in Three Parts - Part One: New Orleans

zpd+a and Hardy Construction joined forces to execute the interior build out of this sophisticated yet welcoming high-rise family residence. Combining the ethereal and the elemental, inspired by the airy views of Lake Michigan and the rigorous Chicago skyline, this 5500sf luxury home incorporates a subtle palette informed by the colors of the sunrise coordinating a multi-sensory experience with luminous paint, exquisite wallcovering, shimmering lighting, bespoke rugs, sumptuous fabrics, and art advisory. As each room opens to the next, color and material flow to create a true feast for the senses. Sourcing for a project of this scope is a rigorous exercise. The details are what capture the spirit of the homeowners persona. We began our odyssey with an art buying trip to the Crescent City, New Orleans, Louisiana.

Partnering with Jill McGaughy at Jillian Mac Fine Art, a New Orleans-based art gallery and advisory, presented a unique opportunity to blend curated artistic expertise with sophisticated urban living. Drawing from New Orleans' rich artistic heritage and international flair, Jillian Mac helped us identify and source distinctive works—ranging from contemporary Southern artists to significant vintage pieces—that infuse our client’s luxury high-rise home with a sense of depth, culture, and storytelling.

Callahan Contemporary

Jill’s keen eye for selecting art that complements architectural elements and bespoke furnishings ensured that every piece enhances the ambiance, whether through bold statement canvases or subtly integrated textures that echo the design palette.

This collaboration also brings an element of exclusivity and personalization to the project, as Jillian Mac Fine Art helped commission site-specific works that resonate with both the client’s vision and the aesthetic of the home. The fusion of New Orleans’ eclectic artistic influences with Chicago’s sleek, modern skyline creates a compelling dialogue between tradition and innovation. Through carefully curated selections, the project not only elevates the interior experience but also positions the residence as a showcase of refined taste, cultural appreciation, and investment-worthy art.

Working with Jillian Mac Fine art also presents a wonderful opportunity to escape Chicago and spend a few days visiting the ateliers of the southern artists! While visiting New Orleans for the art advisory collaboration, we were immersed in the city’s rich culture and history, adding depth to the creative process, and inspiring a deeper connection to the city’s artistic legacy and our client’s personal history.

Strolling through the historic French Quarter reveals a vibrant tapestry of Creole architecture and jazz-filled streets. The Garden District features gracious living and renowned galleries showcasing Southern and contemporary art. Visits to institutions like the City Garden provide insight into the region’s artistic evolution, while exploring Bywater’s Street murals and local artist studios offers a glimpse into the city’s thriving modern scene.

Even the culinary traditions, whether savoring beignets at Café du Monde or indulging in a Michelin-starred fine dining experience, becomes a sensory extension of the artistic exploration, infusing the project with the soulful essence of New Orleans.

Where to Art: Magazine Street, Uptown, Warehouse District, Bywater

Jillian Mac Fine Art features local and international artists

Cole Pratt Gallery highlights southern artists, with a strong focus on women artists

Alex Beard Studio features energetic wildlife in a mathematical lens – truly inspiring! 

Octavia Art Gallery showcases contemporary fine artwork by emerging & established global artists

Callan Contemporary is a sophisticated gallery featuring some of New Orleans’ finest artists.

 Where to Stay: New Orleans embraces eclectic design, and some of the finest hotels celebrate the quirks of the city’s architectural and social history.

St Peter and Paul in the Marigny is a historic church, rectory and elementary school turned refined yet charming hotel, restaurant and event space. The luminous hotel features perfectly plastered walls and vintage marble tile floors, paired with restored historical architectural elements and ecclesiastical accents, creating a perfectly patinaed and layered retreat.

Hotel St Vincent in the Lower Garden District is sensory overload in a stately refurbished orphanage. Entering through a covered verandah – a perfect spot for morning coffee or late night cocktails – the scent of Palo Santo envelops you. Lush colors and sassy artwork has a distinctly youthful energy, while the classic old bones of the building celebrate tradition. Complete with a lush central courtyard with pool, 2 excellent restaurants, a plush cocktail lounge and a late night dance club, you may be tempted to stay far longer than you intended!

Where to Eat: NOLA is a fine dining town as well as a grab and go kind of place and the options are endless. Informed by the international mix of regional flavors and European influence, the culinary scene is creative and legendary.

La Petite Grocery

Located on Magazine Street in the Uptown, la Petite Grocery takes its name from its history as a corner grocery store. Featuring market fresh ingredients, Chef Devillier takes a spin on classic New Orleans cuisine like Blue Crab Beignets while celebrating classic French and contemporary American exploration. A chalkboard menu features the specials and the wine list is outstanding.

Lilllette

Also in Uptown, Lillette features imaginative French and Italian inspired cuisine in a velvet lined dining room. We visited for lunch and were delighted in the casual yet sophisticated options.

Peche

Located in the Warehouse/Arts/Convention District, Peche is a great spot for afternoon oysters as well as a wide ranging dinner. Seafood focused, with shared plates and a robust wine list, it’s an easy refresh spot to visit between gallery hopping!