There’s a beautiful building in Westfield that reminds me so much of the French Quarter in New Orleans. Can you guess which one I’m thinking of?

It’s the James Ward Mansion, of course, on East Broad Street in downtown Westfield, and it is a very special building inside and out.

You can’t help but look at the exterior of the mansion when you’re strolling downtown: stunning orange paint flanked by dark green shutters, white french doors, and intricate black cast-iron balconies set it apart from any other building. Eponymous owner James Ward purchased the building in 1997 and extensively renovated it into the majestic 10,000-square-foot mansion it is today.

If the exterior of the mansion piques your interest, the interior will take your breath away. The main ballroom–aka the Grand Salon–features soaring 24-foot-high ceilings, ornate gilded trim and artwork on the walls, and a three-story fireplace, not to mention several balconies. I can’t think of a more perfect room for a wedding.

But the mansion is so much more than a ballroom–it’s a delight to meander through the many different and equally gorgeous rooms.

There’s the Garden Atrium, lush with live plants and a hypnotizing water fountain, with a glass dome roof that lets the sunlight pour in. The pristine Chapel houses a 300-year-old gate and has seen many a couple profess their vows. The Library is a bibliophile’s dream, replete with shelves of first-edition books.

The mansion also has a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen that can accommodate all catering wishes (check out the incredible turquoise island!). An intimate dining room that seats twenty and two bedrooms straight out of history complete the layout.

For more information about the James Ward Mansion or to plan an event there, call 908-389-0014.