The house was designed by George Barber, an architect, most famous for his Queen Anne Victorian style house plans. During its early years, Mont Helena was one of the premier homes of the Delta.

Steep wooden stairs led from the base of the mound up to the wide front porch. Groupings of Ionic columns supported a balustrade porch roof. Bay windows with intricate tracery, a porte cochere, numerous dormers and tall brick chimneys all added to the imposing facade.

The first floor led into a hallway running the length of the house; opening from this were formal parlors, a dining room and a library. In the front parlor, a massive heart pine stairway led to a broad landing, then turned to rise to the second floor.

A Palladian window with Gothic arches in the panes was prominent on the second floor. Also located on the second floor was Dr. Harris’ private chapel. Dr. Harris performed many christenings and weddings in this room. Seven bedrooms, each with a coal burning fireplace and heavy wooden mantels also occupied this floor.

Mont Helena’s uppermost floor, a large attic space, was lit by a huge arched window and numerous dormers. A basement and a widow’s walk completed the house.