With a total of 16,700 square feet, 48 rooms, and 9 bathrooms, the house features walnut woodwork, leaded glass and an oriel window that are typical of the style. Originally built by Dexter and Jennie Belknap the home was purchased in 1893 by J. B. Speed. The home was reputed to be the first in Louisville with a telephone and includes several additions: the solarium and bird-cage elevator on the west side of the mansion were added in 1911 and the recital hall, designed by Arthur Loomis in 1916, joins the mansion to the carriage house. Hattie Bishop Speed, who prior to her marriage to J.B. Speed in 1906 had studied music, hosted concerts and lessons in the music room until her death in 1924. A photo hanging in the space that is now a library shows Hattie in the music room as it looked during her lifetime.
Kentucky College of Art + Design is the only four-year, independent art college in the commonwealth with a mission to "promote a creative and productive life through an undergraduate education in the contemporary arts." The mansion houses the administrative offices and some lecture classes, while student studios and studio classes are held at 849 S. Third Street. An exhibit of the work of Kara Walker, American artist, is hung in the first floor rooms.
Photo credit: Kentucky Select Properties
Photo credit: Kentucky Select Properties