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Reviving a Modernist Gem: The Renovation of 1 Rail Street in Lake Vista

  • Writer: Sorrell Brown
    Sorrell Brown
  • Apr 22
  • 4 min read

Updated: May 30

We are proud to unveil the transformation of 1 Rail Street, a mid-century modern marvel in the heart of Lake Vista, revitalized by local builder Sorrell Brown, owner of Rellestate Renovations. Originally built in 1956 and designed by renowned New Orleans architect George Saunders, this home shares striking architectural lineage with the legendary 15 Tern Street—one of the most historically and stylistically important homes in the Lakevista community.

While 15 Tern has long been celebrated for its architectural pedigree, 1 Rail Street, just three doors down, stands as a sister property, constructed by the same architect and once also lived in by members of the Shalett family. Its relevance was further cemented when it was featured in the Modernist Block Tour during the Mid Mod NOLA summer series on June 10, 2018, hosted by the Preservation Resource Center, showcasing the best remaining examples of International Style in New Orleans.



A Legacy Built in Concrete and Glass

Mid-century modernism, which emerged after World War II, emphasized clean lines, open floor plans, indoor-outdoor integration, and the use of modern materials like concrete, steel, and glass. In New Orleans, this movement found a unique expression through architects like George Saunders, who adapted International Style principles to the city’s climate and cultural landscape.

Saunders, a faculty member at the Tulane School of Architecture from 1951–1955, helped introduce and champion this design language in Louisiana. His firm, Lawrence, Saunders & Calongne, shaped several iconic structures—including Elysian Fields Methodist Church, Gretna Methodist Church, and the International Hotel—but few projects reflect his modernist vision as purely as the homes he designed in Lake Vista.

In a Preservation Resource Center article titled “Lake Vista Fab Four: 15 Tern”, writer Thomas J. “Beau” Bethune IV highlights four remaining examples of International Style in the neighborhood. These homes, including 15 Tern and 1 Rail, were featured during the PRC’s “Mid Mod NOLA” summer tour for their remarkable preservation and architectural impact.

15 Tern Street, commissioned by H.T. Shalett—former New Orleans Aviation Board chairman and designer of Lakefront Airport—remains in the Shalett family to this day. As documented in Dwell Magazine in the article “This $2.3M Midcentury Compound in New Orleans Just Listed for the First Time” by Will Allstetter, this home is a masterclass in mid-century elegance. Just steps away, 1 Rail Street mirrors its design, layout, and aesthetic—so much so that Monte Shalett, H.T.’s son, and his family lived there for some time.



The Renovation: A New Chapter by Rellestate Renovations

In February 2025, under the direction of Sorrell Brown, local builder and owner of Rellestate Renovations, the renovation of 1 Rail Street was completed. Brown, a Tulane Freeman School of Business graduate and football letterman (Class of 2022), approached the project not as a replica of architect George Saunders' original vision, but as an opportunity to celebrate and evolve midcentury modern design through a contemporary lens.

At the heart of this transformation is the current homeowner, whose creative vision and design selections spearheaded the home’s artistic expression. Their thoughtful curation and bold choices were the true driving force behind the project’s design integrity and its modern execution of midcentury style—a blend of historic influence and fresh individuality that sets this home apart.

Joining Sorrell was Michael Bosio, the project’s lead architect and a Tulane School of Architecture alumnus, along with Kevin Michniok, assisting architect and fellow Tulane architecture graduate. Their combined Tulane heritage echoes that of George Saunders, tying together past and present through shared academic lineage and architectural vision.

The renovation centered on key transformations in the kitchen, living room, and entryway, bringing a fresh yet faithful interpretation of mid-century modernism. The result is a bold, contemporary expression of Saunders’ original work—pushing the limits of the style with innovative finishes, open-flow spaces, and a minimalist palette that still respects the home’s historical roots.

As featured in NOLA.com, homes like these are rare. The article, written by R. Stephanie Bruno on June 14, 2018, profiles Monte and Merit Shalett’s life at 15 Tern, offering a glimpse into the enduring value of George Saunders' residential designs in Lake Vista.



See the Home Yourself: Open House May 18

We’re offering a rare opportunity to tour this fully renovated architectural treasure at 1 Rail st and learn about the design process behind this stunning transformation. Join us for a one-time Open House on:

🗓 Sunday, May 18th, 2025 from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM📍 1 Rail Street, New Orleans, LA.

This is your chance to see firsthand the meticulous work done by Sorrell Brown and his team. Sorrell will be on-site to share insights into the renovation process and the client's design intentions, offering a deeper understanding of how this mid-century modern masterpiece was brought back to life while staying true to its architectural roots.

All guests must RSVP to attend: Click here to reserve your spot


This event is an invitation for design enthusiasts, preservation advocates, and curious neighbors to experience a revived icon of New Orleans modernism—one of the three primary homes by George Saunders in Lake Vista, and perhaps the most exciting revival of its kind in the city.


For more information:

🌐 Website: www.rellestate.com



Referenced Articles & Sources:



 
 
 

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