Breathing New Life into History: The Story Behind the Villas at Spanish Court

Minden, LA is a town rich in history and Southern charm. One of the most rewarding endeavors for history enthusiasts and preservationists is restoring a historic property in this quaint community. The property in question? The Villas at Spanish Court.

Sara from Simply Southern Cottage took on the project of revitalizing a historic property in Minden, exploring the challenges, rewards, and the invaluable contribution to preserving the town’s heritage.

The Hidden Treasure

Minden boasts a wealth of historic homes, each with its own unique story to tell. Restoring a historic property often starts with discovering a hidden treasure, an old house with character and potential. Upon finding the property, Sara learned that the 1931 historic villas “had been vacant since the 1980s. And it was very evident the elements had about taken them over.”

Photograpy credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez

Research and Documentation

Before embarking on any restoration project, thorough research and documentation are essential. This process involves digging through archives, consulting local historians, and examining historical records to gather information about the property’s original design, architecture, and historical significance. This knowledge serves as the foundation for an authentic restoration. One of Sara’s partners, American Farmhouse Style outlines the history of the villas in one of their articles.

Planning and Budgeting

With a clear understanding of the property’s history, the next step was to create a detailed restoration plan and budget. Restoration projects often come with unexpected challenges, so it’s crucial to have a financial buffer in place. Working closely with preservation experts, architects, and contractors, you can create a roadmap for the restoration journey. For example, here’s an article outlining the ways Cherokee Brick helped bring this property back to life!  

Respect for Authenticity

Preserving the authentic character of the property was paramount for Sara. This means using period-appropriate materials, techniques, and craftsmanship to restore the building to its original glory. Salvaging and reusing original materials whenever possible adds authenticity and sustainability to the project.

Meeting Preservation Guidelines

Historic properties often come with preservation guidelines and regulations. It’s essential to work closely with local historic preservation boards and follow their recommendations to ensure your restoration project aligns with the town’s historical integrity. This collaborative effort ensures that the property remains a valuable part of Minden’s heritage.

Challenges and Rewards

Restoring a historic property is not without its challenges. You may encounter structural issues, the need for specialized artisans, or unexpected costs. However, the rewards are immeasurable. Bringing a piece of history back to life and witnessing the transformation of a once-neglected property into a shining example of preservation is a truly gratifying experience.

Community Engagement

Restoring a historic property in Minden is not just a personal journey; it’s a contribution to the community. Engaging with local residents, historians, and preservationists fosters a sense of shared heritage and pride. Previous tenants of the villas from before they were abandoned found joy in seeing their old homes being saved by Sara and her team!

Restoring a historic property in Minden is a labor of love that pays homage to the town’s rich history and heritage. It’s a testament to the power of preservation, community engagement, and dedication to maintaining the unique character of this charming Southern town. When you choose to book a short-term stay in Minden at The Villas at Spanish Court, you’re breathing new life into history and ensuring that Minden’s past continues to thrive for generations to come.

Book your next stay in Minden at The Villas at Spanish Court at www.mindenstays.com. You can use the code COTTAGE10 for 10% off your stay!