During the 2006-2007 school year, the LSU School of Architecture was engaged in the design and construction of the first two new homes in the post-Katrina Lower Ninth Ward neighborhood of New Orleans. The project was spearheaded by communityworks, formerly the LSU Office of Community Design and Development, an interdisciplinary community research center housed within the School of Architecture that provides technical assistance to communities in need.

During the Fall 2006 semester, one section of fourth year architecture students participated in the construction of the houses by driving the hour and a half to New Orleans three days a week. The project team consisted of communityworks, the School of Architecture, residents of New Orleans substance abuse rehab facilities, and ACORN Housing Corporation. The homes were completed in mid-February 2006 and two families became the first to move into newly constructed homes in the Lower Ninth Ward.

Video credit goes to Loren Brouillette, a member of the fourth year studio (currently a 5th year student) who participated in the project. The video was sent to us by ADPSR board member and architect/participant Melissa Hill Threatt. Thank you, Melissa and Loren!