Old Souls

Old houses have an allure with their soulful interiors hinting at the past inhabitants that lived happy, sad, and the days in-between within their walls.

Like many places, my town is undergoing great changes. Winter Park is experiencing a building boom at the moment. Sadly, many of the homes going up are spec homes built by builders without an owner’s input. Likewise, many of the custom homes being built also lack individuality and fine craftsmanship. Most of the houses are boxy and very plain. They are in stark contrast to the beautiful Villa de Figueiredo, whose soulful images are seen below.  Diane Dorrans Saeks featured this amazing palace on her blog, The Style Saloniste. This beautiful Portuguese-style villa in Goa, India has lingered in my mind since learning about it in July.

My notions of houses tend towards the romantic but especially so with older quirky architecture. Looking at the ballroom one can imagine the amazing parties that must have taken place or the beautiful young woman in a long white batiste dress who surely walked along the sweeping balcony. If our new homes had even a quarter of this charm and individuality I would be thrilled to see construction all around town.

 

Villa de Figueredo

(Photo: The Style Saloniste)

(Photo: Diane Dorrans Saeks, The Style Saloniste)

Exotic style is my personal favorite so this architecture in combination with the tropical landscaping is perfection.

(Photo: The Style Saloniste)

(Photo: Diane Dorrans Saeks, The Style Saloniste)

One might think brown floors with all brown wooden furniture could be dull and lifeless, but that is not the case here. The dramatic height of the ceiling, the mirrors, the bits of white in the linen and flowers, and the magnificent chandelier all combine to transport this room to the realm of magic.

(Photo: The Style Saloniste)

(Photo: Diane Dorrans Saeks, The Style Saloniste)

The crystal hurricane sconces are breathtaking.

(Photo: The Style Saloniste)

(Photo: Diane Dorrans Saeks, The Style Saloniste)

What a fantastic balustrade. Painted white flowers on black wood does not sound like it would look this good.

This soulful seating area looks as if someone might have just stepped away. Villa de Figueiredo, Goa, India. (Photo: The Style Saloniste)

This soulful seating area looks as if someone might have just stepped away. (Photo: Diane Dorrans Saeks, The Style Saloniste)

The transom over the doors reminds you that you are in an exotic locale. The recess is a subtle yet singular detail.

 

The open doors beckon one inside to join the festivities. (Photo: The Style Saloniste)

The open doors beckon one inside to join the festivities. (Photo: Diane Dorrans Saeks, The Style Saloniste)

This extravagant elevation is loaded with layers of intricate details.

Casa V Interiors can create a soulful new home just for you.