Local Artist’s Unique Home Open for Viewing This Weekend

By Mia Freneaux, photos by Michael Spangler
    Everyone remembers the giant dragon peering out from the castle gate that used to rule the corner of Greenwell Springs Road and Magnolia Bridge Road.

    Don McCorkle, creator of the landmark, is an incredibly talented self-taught artist who ran a sign business for many years. A local physician wanted a barrel ceiling in his home, and called Don to see if he could create one. Don did in such grand style, it led to many other “faux” painting opportunities in everything from country clubs to casinos. One of his sculpted tigers can be seen leaping over the doors of Extra Innings Sports Bar and Grill.

    Don found, however, that the 3 foot square sample pieces of faux stonework, brickwork, marbling, and other techniques he created to show prospective customers weren’t enough to help them visualize what they wanted, so he turned to his own home in Bellingrath Subdivision. He turned his typical 80’s style ranch into an amazing and unique artistic expression that has been featured in the Advocate and several magazines and television shows.

    The living room is a triumph of trompe l’oeil, with faux stone columns and murals that seem to lead to other parts of a medieval castle.  A bedroom is painted after a Chinese theme, with red walls and black “lacquer” inset cabinetry. The “window” is a mural painted to look like a view of the Yangtze River.

    Another bedroom boasts a Caribbean theme with a mural of a tropical beach. The kitchen favors a Tuscan vibe, with warm earth tones, exposed “brickwork” (it even FEELS like brick!), and sculpted grape crown molding. A beaten copper hood gives glamour to the stove, and touches of stained glass add flickers of color here and there.

    The dining room features the highly prized Venetian plaster technique, along with built-in cabinetry. The bathrooms have faux marble counters and cabinetry painted to look like they’ve been carved. Even the laundry room is decorated, in a Swedish stencil in primary colors. It just has to be seen to be believed.

    Don is putting the house on the market. He is moving to Tennessee with his girlfriend Sheila, where they have bought a two story house. Don can’t wait to get his hands (and brush!) on it.  Meanwhile, the house here will be open for viewing by prospective buyers and those with artistic appreciation this Saturday and Sunday from 1-4. Come by 6413 Narcissus Drive and see this 3 bedroom, 3 ½ bath tribute to the artist’s talent and imagination!

     Ask to see his artwork as well, for sale in the 600 square foot shop behind the house, and take home an original McCorkle!