Oak Alley Estate

Lowcountry House 3

A popular and extremely common feature of a Lowcountry porch is the blue ceiling, often referred to as Wasp blue. According to B J Wasp blue is a shade of blue-Teal  that was once believed to war...

Property Description

A popular and extremely common feature of a Lowcountry porch is the blue ceiling, often referred to as Wasp blue. According to B J Wasp blue is a shade of blue-Teal  that was once believed to ward off evil spirits or “haints.” Many Southerners painted their porch ceilings blue to protect the house and its occupants from evil. Others believed the blue ceiling served as an insect repellent and some simply enjoyed the light blue because it appeared to extend daylight. No matter the reasoning behind it, this color tradition has continued in the Lowcountry, B J Stampley says.

Shutters have also long been associated with picturesque “Lowcountry” homes. They were once necessary to control light and ventilation and also provided additional protection against the blustering coastal winds. Today, shutters are usually decorative rather than functional, but they continue to be a staple on many “Lowcountry” homes providing ideal curb appeal.

According to B.J. , a common practice of Lowcountry construction over the years has been the use of local materials. He says this tradition is echoed by the use of brick Hardie siding and Pine Beaded Ceiling, and Gas lamps on their custom homes.