The "Wedding Cake" House, New Orleans

One cannot visit New Orleans without seeing the historic and beautiful Wedding Cake House. This Victorian Gregorian mansion is located on Saint Charles Avenue, “the Jewel of America’s Grand Avenues.” Nicholas Burke, a grocer, hired William F. Krone to build it in 1896. The design firm Toleando and Rousch is responsible for the gorgeous look of the structure.

The residence, with its white exteriors and grandly decorated balconies, columns and cornices, resembles a cake covered in fondant and white frosting. Some of the decorations and embellishments resemble the piping that you would see on a cake. The house is particularly brilliant when viewed at night.

One of the most beautiful features is the beveled leaded glass front door. The abode was rebuilt after a fire in 1907 and recent restorative work improved the interiors and exteriors. The house remained the property of the Burke family until 1993 when it was sold to Rosalie and Nicholas Chisesi. Attorney Calvin Fayard, a major fund-raiser for the Democratic Party, is the current resident.

Although the dwelling is a private residence, and not available for tours, one can appreciate its beauty by viewing it as they walk by. This house takes the cake when it comes to exquisiteness and is, by far, one of the most beautiful homes in New Orleans.