
When residents of the 9th ward were forced to flee their homes, I doubt many imagined they would eventually be moving back into houses designed by esteemed architects. Actor Brad Pitt has made this possible through his Make It Right Foundation, which is not only building these homes according to post-flood standards (such as elevated height); it is also making sure all the homes are as "green" as possible, with extremely affordable financing as a plus. (To learn more about the designs and financing, visit Nola.com.)
Volunteers, government officials and well-wishers gathered here on the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina to celebrate the completion of the foundation's 14th house. Black Voices spoke briefly with the owner of the house above about his experiences:
Volunteers, government officials and well-wishers gathered here on the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina to celebrate the completion of the foundation's 14th house. Black Voices spoke briefly with the owner of the house above about his experiences:


The commemoration of Katrina's fourth anniversary here was a very friendly affair. The outside of this house, decorated for the occasion, is crisp and simple in design:

And we can see from the inside how spacious and airy it is:

This home also has a personal Katrina family memorial in its front yard:

Make It Right made great efforts to make each home sustainable, affordable and beautiful. The residents who applied for this program, many of whom are elderly, had their choice of style of home, height, color -- all the design details. They also worked very closely with the design team and builders. Thus, each house is a perfect match for each resident, leading to very satisfied customers in this revitalized district.
All these homes are now occupied with original area residents. Please note the astounding variety of colors and the high-end level of design:





Here we can see more building in progress:


What do you think of these unusual, new 9th ward houses?
More BV Katrina Anniversary Coverage
+Habitat For Humanity Dedicates 100th Home in 9th Ward's Musicians' Village
+New Orleans: Four Years Later, Coming Back to Vibrant Black Life
+The Ladies of Louisiana Spirit Minister to Katrina Sufferers
+Mayor Nagin Commemorates Katrina Anniversay at Make It Right Foundation New Homes Site
+Katrina Anniversary: New Orleans Residents Play Mayor on the Radio
More BV Katrina Anniversary Coverage
+Habitat For Humanity Dedicates 100th Home in 9th Ward's Musicians' Village
+New Orleans: Four Years Later, Coming Back to Vibrant Black Life
+The Ladies of Louisiana Spirit Minister to Katrina Sufferers
+Mayor Nagin Commemorates Katrina Anniversay at Make It Right Foundation New Homes Site
+Katrina Anniversary: New Orleans Residents Play Mayor on the Radio


Comments: (5)
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By: Sally on 8/29/2009 8:47PM
I wouldn't mind living in one of those homes. I hope they can withstand any kind of weather that comes a knocking. I am glad that Brad is doing something with his time and money.
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By: James Harris on 8/29/2009 10:04PM
Much respect to Brad Pitt, I’m glad to see that people are returning to New Orleans, especially with the help of people like Mr. Pitt. I saw the 2 part special on HGTV where Mike Holmes and crew built the house for the grandmother that is taking care of her grand’s. The show was very informative and touching. God bless you Brad Pitt.
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By: Ann Hartfield on 8/30/2009 4:58PM
Kudos to Brad. His efforts are to be commended, however, he can't make it right by himself. I hope others who can afford it will join him.
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By: Lea Winfrey-Young on 8/31/2009 2:14PM
Here in Atlanta, we're about to launch a "BRAD PITT FOR NEW ORLEANS MAYOR" campaign to support the efforts of Pitts' organization, spread the good news to displaced N'Orlean's natives who live here in Georgia, and keep national attention on the Ninth Ward!
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By: daniel on 9/19/2009 4:39AM
Great! nice homes i would be great if i would get a chance to live in this home. its really a fantastic view...
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Daniel
mls listings
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