Magazine Street’s premier retail corridor will get a touch of French opulence this fall when Maison Ludeau opens its doors at 5517 Magazine St., taking over the space formerly occupied by the women’s boutique Babe New Orleans.
Maison Ludeau will specialize in luxury home décor, curated fragrances, and high-end textiles. Unlike traditional retail outlets, the shop will double as an active studio where Ludeau will produce the store’s signature decorative pillows and perform monogramming on-site.
The upcoming boutique is the passion project of owner Chase Ludeau, a classical pianist and vocalist who recently transitioned from a long career as a celebrity vocal coach and founder of The Chase Conservatory music school. After selling the school in January, Ludeau sought a new creative outlet that combined his French heritage with his sewing ability and love for local French aesthetics.
“All the decorative textiles are all handmade by me,” he told What Now New Orleans. “There will be a machine in the center of the store, and that’s going to be a part of the experience.”
Beyond its bespoke pillows and cashmere throws, the shop is set to be a community hub for local hobbyists. Ludeau, a lifelong Mahjong player, plans to host regular Mahjong pop-ups to create a social, interactive atmosphere within the boutique. Renovations are currently in the final stages and Ludeau said he is aiming for a soft opening by September 1st.
