In this elegant educational conversion, the highly regarded and
well-loved former Waldorf School space is successfully transformed into an upscale residential townhome that makes the grade.
Photos by Megan Mumford
When Bonacio Construction assigned Interior Designs Atelier with an adaptive reuse project, they were poised for excellence.
“It’s always a great challenge to work with a space that’s a little unique, and to make it feel as large, and be as functional, as it possibly can be,” said Interior Designs Atelier’s owner Linda Gerace Skinner.
By integrating the ease of modern, open-concept living with the incredible bones of a grand Tudor style building, Interior Designs Atelier has created a home that’s charming and rich in character.
Flowers are all in bloom, the blue skies glisten until 9 p.m. and the nights fade with a cool New York evening by the firepit! It’s days like these that we wish they’d never end! I know the time you’ve spent preparing your homes and gardens for these prized days was well worth the effort as you now sit back and take in the view! But there’s always room to add just one more touch of Saratoga to the mix! My travels to catch up with our local shops and boutiques paid off…and I can’t wait to share them with you! Come along with me for a stroll!
A Distinctive School of Thought
While preserving the historic exterior architecture of an iconic downtown Saratoga Springs gem, Project Manager Gianna Bonacio’s thoughtful design started with a blank slate inside this former school house, reimagining the 9760 sq. foot building into five high-end residential units with upgraded appliance packages, quartz countertops, and stunning hardwood flooring.
When you first walk into the 1800 sq. ft., 3-bedroom, 3-bath model condo, the kitchen’s bold red stove (and tile wrapping around the wall above it) beckons masterful meals to be made here by positioning soft banquette seating into the space under the stairs, Linda has created an ideal spot for dining, doing homework, or watching tv.
Dynamic straight lines and angles in this space are balanced with gently curving furnishings, supple fabrics, and the clever fluidity of uneven glass pendant lights that dangle like jewelry from the rich, dark coffered ceilings. “For us, it’s one of the best elements in the space,” said Linda.
In an unexpected twist, cinched curtains hang high on the wall and kiss the floor between the windows, adding depth and intrigue to the great room.
On the Honor Roll
In the primary suite, an immersive wallcovering, inspired by the foliage painted in the ancient Roman Villa of Empress Livia, wife of Augustus, preserves a glorious moment within the natural world.
A television that looks like art is cleverly disguised within the opposing gallery wall, a hot trend in technology that exists effortlessly, as an organic chandelier fearlessly announces its presence from above.
In the master bath, greens from the bedroom are brought in to complement the gold hardware and fun, freeform lighting.
A Quick Study
Interior Designs Atelier earns extra credit for their use of a murphy bed that does double duty as a second reading or working space.
The gorgeous patio, with its grandiose outdoor kitchen and seating areas, extends the enjoyment of the summer season just steps from Congress Park and the Saratoga Race Course.
Nothing says “Saratoga” more however, than the custom red Saratoga Toile wallpaper in the first-floor powder room. Available in a variety of colors, this custom product is a collaboration between Interior Design Atelier’s Senior Designer, Diane Meyer, and local artist Lauren Mangina, that plays off the reds in the kitchen. It features a dozen illustrations of Saratoga landmarks (of the client’s choosing) in a classic repeating pattern that showcases this home’s place among Saratoga’s admirable architectural lineage.
