By Paige Gurgainers
If anyone is looking for short-term or long-term rental space in Downtown Minden, there is a newly renovated space that can be found at 611 Main Street, also known as the Drake Building.
Rick Thomas, who also owns Under Dawgs Sports Grill, located right under this space, saw an opportunity to offer something unique to the community and even though it was a huge undertaking, he jumped on it.
“When we purchased the building, the level of repairs that needed to be made were astonishing. There had been water leaks and decay due to water damage in many areas of the second story. It was a sad building,” said Thomas. “We love antiques and old buildings and wanted to restore the beauty of the Drake Building and its history.”
According to Thomas, the original doors are still intact, and they were able to salvage much of the original baseboards, door facings and restroom tile floor. “Some of the wall paneling was falling apart. When it was removed, we discovered these beautiful bricks. Several walls now have exposed brick that were patched, cleaned, and sealed,” said Thomas.
But this was not a one-man project. Although Thomas had the vision, it took many to bring it to fruition including Mike Simmons and his grandson Dranan Simmons who sanded and varnished the original Louisiana Pecan hardwood floors, Gary Nunn was the carpenter who trimmed out all the windows, crown molding, baseboards, installed ceiling fans and hung and trimmed out the marble. Barry Knotts and his crew from A/C Services of Minden did the A/C work, along with Matt Mayfield with Mayfield Plumbing who upgraded the plumbing with new pipe, bathroom fixtures and a new water heater. Brian, Thurman and Larry brought the rooms back to life with a fresh coat of paint and Brad McEachern took care of patching the brick walls. Chris Broussard’s artwork can be found throughout and Rick’s friend, Randy Ward, also assisted with various projects.
Fleur-de-Lease on Main currently has four spaces available – The View on Main and the Magnolia Room for short-term rentals and offices available as long-term rentals. Krisit Morgan, CPA is leasing Suite A, which is the largest office suite in the Drake Building. And the community has already been taking advantage of the View on Main to host several bridal showers, baby showers, company Christmas parties, corporate planning sessions and even a small graduation dinner. The Magnolia Room has seen a few visitors for community meetings and corporate meetings.
If you have not already had a chance to check out this beautifully renovated space, you will have an opportunity on Thursday, May 30, when the Greater Minden Chamber will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony. It is set to begin at 11 a.m.
“Guests will be able to tour the second floor to see the restorations in person. Refreshments will be served. Brochures designed by Merry Milton will be available.”
If you are interested in renting out any of the rooms available, please contact Rick Thomas at (318) 465-3484.
