In the winter of 2024-2025, DDD and GNO Inc. facilitated the execution of the French Doors Project alongside architecture and design practice Studio West, which worked with staff to complete a comprehensive assessment of the 100 blocks of Decatur, Chartres, Royal, Bourbon, and Dauphine Streets to identify improvements to lighting, safety, and sense of arrival to the French Quarter. Initial phases of the project included outreach to over 40 properties regarding basic repairs for lighting. From there, DDD worked with targeted properties on various projects such as new lighting installation, trash and debris removal, and façade restoration.
In addition to these property-based projects, DDD collaborated with Arts New Orleans to produce two new murals and three street art installations on the various blocks. GNO, Inc. separately worked with the New Orleans Mariott to deliver the astounding “Harmonious Elements” mural by world-renowned artist Shepard Fairey. Additional project partners included: The Ritz-Carlton, Hyatt Centric French Quarter New Orleans, P.M.G. LLC, the McEnery Company, Hustler Hollywood, Astor Crowne Plaza, Krystal, and the City of New Orleans.
“The French Quarter is the heart of the New Orleans experience—our city’s most iconic and visited neighborhood,” said Greater New Orleans, Inc. President & CEO Michael Hecht. “Project French Doors is a visionary step toward enhancing both the beauty and functionality of this historic district, ensuring it remains a world-class destination for residents and visitors alike. By elevating the visual appeal, safety, and artistic elements across the main arterial entrances into the neighborhood, this project not only improved the Super Bowl [LIX] experience but also commences a positive path for investment, business development, residential growth, and beautification.”
