Carpenter Spotlight: Chris Owens

June 24, 2024

Chris Owens (@oxdesignco) is a master carpenter that has put together many amazing custom furniture pieces, facades and finishes for homes across Southeast Louisiana. Here he's pictured with parts for the custom beds he built for The Syd.


The Satsuma House

This home is one of our favorites built to accommodate ten guests. Chris graced us with his talents and constructed beds with custom paint and slotted headboards and an 8-seater round outdoor table.

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The Syd

The Syd is our biggest project to date that Chris and John have taken on for us. They built almost all of the furniture including all the amazing custom beds with under storage for luggage, the wall hooks, huge 15+ seater conference style dining tables, and custom  bunk beds, that have been perfect for our bigger parties. Not to mention the unique, behind-the-couch bar tops for extra seating. All the wood in this project came from local lumber species, like 'sinker' Cypress (cypress debris fished out from rivers or swamps and repurposed), and Pecan.

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The Canopy

Here, Chris build the beds, kitchen island, floating desks and an amazing statement dining table. We have been loving the texture these half fluted round dowels have. Most of the wood in this house is White Oak which is known for it's sturdiness and good value. The wood was then stained with a mahogany finish to match the dining table top.

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The Zen House

For our Zen House, Chris did a more minimal design for the beds, headboards, and ledge desks. We even had Chris put together the trapezoidal wood panel for the art in the living room painted by artist @swietstuff.  His most notable piece in this house, however, has to be the dining table that dons a gorgeous live edge slab of oak for it's top.

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The Afro Future

In collaboration with the New Orleans African American Museum, Chris lent us his skill to create these stunning mahogany-stained white oak beds, custom frames for our curated pieces, floating desks and this sleek simple dining table.

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At The Waterline

Sam's favorite beds are the ones Chris built at this house. They're not just pretty but are the sturdiest beds he's ever built (maybe!). He also made a great indoor dining table and an equally great outdoor dining table, both stained a beautiful black walnut.

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Like what you see? You can catch up with Chris' work on his instagram page @oxdesignco!

May 21, 2025
We’re thrilled to announce our newest property: CastleDay (castledayretreats.com) - three stunning, purpose‑built villas that re-imagine what a group getaway can be. Whether you’re planning a milestone birthday, a corporate off‑site, or the wedding weekend of your dreams, CastleDay offers the freedom of a private estate with all the perks of a five‑star resort. The best of both worlds Each villa was sketched from the ground up for gatherings—12 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms and expansive indoor‑outdoor living spaces—so everyone in your party has room to breathe, mingle and celebrate. Resort‑style amenities—without the crowds Heated pool & hot tub Outdoor kitchen + covered dining pavilion with an 85" TV Basketball hoop (plus pool basketball hoop!) Chef’s kitchen stocked with top‑of‑the‑line appliances Super‑fast Wi‑Fi, two sets of washers & dryers, and gated on‑site parking Private tropical landscaping that makes you forget you’re minutes from downtown Curated in‑villa experiences We work with the city’s most sought‑after chefs, wellness pros and entertainers so you can keep the party “at home.” Picture a sunset crawfish boil, poolside hibachi, or a private mixology class—all without leaving your villa. Rooted in New Orleans artistry From the hand‑painted murals to the locally crafted furniture, CastleDay is a love letter to New Orleans’ creative soul. Every room features original pieces commissioned from neighborhood artists, so your stay directly supports our city’s cultural ecosystem. A neighborhood that feels like a secret Tucked in the Bywater, CastleDay places you in walking distance of great venues like Bacchanal, Parleaux, and just two miles from the French Quarter’s legendary music and nightlife. Why CastleDay is different Scale & privacy - Enough space for the grandest celebrations, yet never shared with strangers. Design - Purpose‑built in 2024; no awkward retrofits, just seamless flow. Local flavor - Art, music, food and experiences curated by New Orleans’ own. Incredible outdoor - the best private pool and backyard in the city. Ready to reign as you please? CastleDay is open for reservations now. Explore floor plans, gallery tours and availability at castledayretreats.com. We can’t wait to welcome you.
May 18, 2025
New Orleans is a city built for celebration—and when it comes to unforgettable bachelorette weekends, the setting matters as much as the itinerary. At Marais, we offer more than just a place to sleep. We provide immersive, locally rooted spaces where your group can connect, relax, and revel in the spirit of the Crescent City. Whether you’re planning a long weekend with your closest friends or an extended escape for a larger crew, here’s why Marais is the best place to host your bachelorette party in New Orleans. Curated for Connection: Homes That Feel Like Art Installations Every Marais property is a living gallery. Instead of cookie-cutter decor or generic furnishings, our homes feature art and design sourced directly from New Orleans creatives. Local artwork in every room: From hand-painted murals and mixed-media installations to custom lighting and furniture by local makers, your space will be layered with visual storytelling. Each piece was chosen not only to beautify the space, but to honor the culture and character of this city. Instagram-worthy vignettes: Our interiors are designed with both aesthetic and atmosphere in mind—ideal for capturing group photos, getting-ready moments, or just enjoying the view with a glass of bubbles. No two homes are alike: Whether you book a modern Bywater compound or a timeless Creole townhouse, the textures, tones, and ambiance of your space will reflect the unique history and soul of its neighborhood. Lush Outdoor Living, Designed for Celebration New Orleans’ climate invites you outside nearly year-round—and our homes make the most of it. Private courtyards, heated pools and spas, and tropical gardens give your group room to breathe, toast, and unwind between outings. Almost all of our homes include outdoor dining setups and heated pools, offering the perfect backdrop for sunset hangs or post-party chill time. With ample seating and ambient lighting, these spaces feel like your own private oasis in the city—intimate, beautiful, and perfect for celebrating milestones. Spacious Group Stays That Don’t Feel Like Group Stays We know bachelorette parties come in all sizes and styles. That’s why our properties are flexible by design: Sleep up to 30 guests comfortably in thoughtfully configured bedrooms and communal areas. Enjoy full kitchens, large dining tables, and open-plan living rooms ideal for hosting game nights, brunches, or pre-dinner drinks. Want separate spaces for different parts of the group? Ask us about adjacent homes or multi-unit options that offer privacy and togetherness. Planning Tips for Your Marais Bachelorette Weekend Book early, especially for spring and fall dates (festival season!). Explore our recommendations page for hidden gems, dining guides, and experiences tailored to your crew. Ready to Pop the Bubbly? Your bachelorette party deserves more than a basic Airbnb. It deserves a setting as inspired, joyful, and unique as the people you’re celebrating with. Explore our full collection of homes at staymarais.com and let the good times roll—with style, soul, and a whole lot of love from New Orleans.
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