Building Cool

These images were hard won but there are from the historic James Gallier House in New Orleans. I did not get there again this trip but it will be on the agenda next....This images show the custom of "summer dress" when the temperature rises, slipcovers are put on chairs, drapery is taken down and light sheers are installed and carpets are stored and grass mats replace them. I vaguely remember my neighbor going through such motions but it must have felt nice to sit on cotton muslin rather than needlepoint or horse hair on a humid hot afternoon....makes so much sense. I am fascinated with this idea of passive solar decor.......