I fell in love with Key West and hope you love this Key West Architecture Redeux.
Key West Architecture Redeux
I first saw pale blue porch ceilings in Savannah and later in Charleston. I was a delighted to see the blue ceilings again in Key West last week. I have been told a number of reasons why the light blue color is used.
- Wasps and other insects will not nest in an area they think is the sky.
- Blue paint reflects more light and the front rooms of a house painted as such will appear brighter.
- Blue chases away evil spirits. (Haint blue is a popular shade in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.)
I loved the pale pink and aqua combination of this home but could do without the cars in front. I was reminded that people do actually live in the homes and have a right to park. But it would be so much better if they drove buggies.
Is there anyone else out there who wears rose-colored glasses and desires to take up a scraper and return this home to its former glory?
Sadly, this is what’s available in our price range.
Luckily, dreams are free.
Laura
TRay says
Hi, Laura!>>I love that pale blue color on porches, too! (go figure…) It is called “haint blue” in the South, and yes, it is to chase away evil spirits or “haints!”
Miss Sandy says
Cute post! I’d take the scrapper!
The Quintessential Magpie says
I have always loved Key West. We looked at property there years ago, but it was pricey even then! Plus, it’s at the opposite end of the state, not exactly practical for a weekend getaway when Florida is 40,000 miles long! 😉>>We opted instead for a getaway in St. Augustine, and I’ve never regretted it. I wish I could tell you my porch celings are blue. Alas, they are antique white (can’t remember the Benjamin Moore color), but the house in St. Augustine is blue and Victorian. 😉>>XO,>>Sheila
Blue Castle says
I do like that blue color too. Those houses are so beautiful. It always makes me a little sad to see neglected old homes. I just want to love them up a little. 🙂
Leigh says
My dream too! I LOVEd this post!
The Muse says
LOL yes…we can dream!>What a delightful post!
Coastal Sisters says
I am loving this post. Thank you for sharing all these wonderful pictures. I am also loving the Vintage Valentine’s bracelet in your Shoppe.>>Have a wonderful weekend 🙂>LuLu~*
The Blonde Duck says
I love the last line, “dreams are free.”
Shimmy Mom says
good luck in all your projects. I love the blue porches. And if it keeps insects from nesting I’m painting mine tomorrow!>*hugs*
Her Shabbiness says
I loved all the information about the blue ceilings and pictures to accompany it. I had never heard anything about the blue ceiling folklore. Very Fascinating.
Manuela@Pleasures of Homemaking says
Oh yes, those calculators are pricey but so useful. We had to buy my daughter one a few years ago and she finds it very useful.>>Love the houses and those blue ceiling are very popular here in the south.>>Manuela
Liz says
Your funny! I remember thinking it was funny the first time I read it! >>>Good luck with all of the work and the classes! I understand! : ) >>~Liz>>P.S. Can’t wait to see the finished project!
Jorgelina says
Hi Laura!!!>Cute post!!>Hugs
Kim @ Forever Wherever says
Oh, Key West! I love the houses there! That’s what I want mine to look like! I never knew about the blue chasing away evil spirts! 🙂>Thanks for the tour!>-Kim
Velvet and Linen says
I’m so glad you posted this again. As a relatively new blogger I’d never seen it.>I never knew the reasons behind the blue painted porch ceilings. They really are beautiful and functional!>>xo>Brooke
Miss Sandy says
I remember this post and loved it! A rerun is perfectly fine, I only wish I’d thought of it last week. We are in the middle of a family situation and posting was the last thing on my mind. I will be sending a little “knee” mail your way for your computer woes as well as your class and schedule, it sounds like you could use a little expanded time and energy. Blessings dear friend!
Musings From A French Cottage says
Ooohhhh…I just love those pale blue ceilings! Beautiful homes. Thanks for a great post.>>I just found your blog and would love to return – hope you don’t mind if I add you to my favorites. Have a wonderful Sunday!>>Hugs,>Kathleen
Maison Douce says
What a cool idea, to paint the porch ceilings blue… And what beautiful houses! Even the one in your price range…
gina says
Interesting. I to never knew the meaning behind the blue paint.>The houses are beautiful.
Marina Capano says
Hi, Laura! Cute post!>>Marina >xoxo
Linda says
Hey, I think that last house is our house, lol. >>I enjoy your posts.>~Linda
Kim G. says
Love, Love, Love pale blue paint on any surface, including southern porches!! Your price range fixer upper resembles mine, oh well, gotta start somewhere!
Shana says
I’ve also admired the pale blue porch ceilings as well. Husband hasn’t approved yet – but maybe, someday, when we have a home just like the ones shown in your post, he’ll agree. Sigh – one can dream. 🙂
Bella Casa says
Gorgeous! Do you live near there? >>Your necklace is a big hit at the Etsy Party, Laura!>>Thanks again!