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Written By Megin Potter  |  Photos by Randall Perry Photography

LIVEABLE LUXURY

The major renovation of this 19th century home makes for a timeless modern farmhouse tailored to accommodate everyday family life.

 

Having children shaped how a young family lived in their 1892 residence. 

Located on a beautiful corner lot in a highly-desirable, walkable neighborhood, the house, purchased in 2016 by Michael and Valerie Napoli, was quaint and cozy but was not a comfortable fit for their quickly growing family. 

By retaining the framework of the original structure but adding 2200 sq. ft., the year-long construction project more than doubles their living space and won Runner-Up for Favorite Luxury Home in the 2022 Saratoga Springs Showcase of Homes.

Approachable Aspirations

This 3,800 sq. ft., three-floor, 4-bedroom, 4.5 bath house is far from cookie-cutter. 

To craft a home that fits their unique needs and lifestyle, the couple turned to architect Bob Flansburg, owner of Dreamscapes Unlimited, and worked hand-in-hand with Dave Gadomski of DSG Construction and Remodeling. 

“Mike and Val were very organized. They knew exactly what they wanted down to every detail,” said Dave. “It was a good partnership. We didn’t have to waste a bunch of time, and aesthetically, there were some moving components, but most were set in place, so that was a huge contributing factor to the project and getting it done. It was a miracle we did what we did, when we did.”

Valerie, a licensed real estate agent since 2008 and currently working for Julie & Co. Realty, was the interior designer and has gone on to work with DSG Construction on other projects since finishing her own home. 

Right at Ease

The open concept of this home’s floorplan easily adapts to life. 

It brings a cohesively flowing energy that feels less static than its predecessor’s walled-in rooms. 

“A big part of us building an open concept home is that we love entertaining and wanted to have more space to host our family and friends,” said Valerie. 

The exterior displays architectural elegance with timber frame gable accents and a foundation of antique tumbled brick (sourced from North Carolina) at the base of the home. 

In the backyard, the rectangular fiberglass in-ground pool is fenced off from the rest of the entertaining area, providing peace of mind when youngsters are around. The Italian porcelain patio, with its 11’ ceilings, surround sound system, and seating for 12, creates an outdoor area ideal for summertime gatherings. 

Hero of the Household

Often overlooked but essential for busy households, the mudroom is a handy catch-all entry, corral clutters, and features black walnut surfaces. This beautiful wood, salvaged on-site from a single tree, is also used upstairs in the stylish tiled laundry room.

In the powder room, the downstairs bathroom off the playroom, and in her daughter’s bedroom, Valerie took risks with wallpaper. Using a dark, moody grass cloth to contrast the light, airy feel of the rest of the house, and busy designs to counterbalance its otherwise clean aesthetic, wallpaper injects added interest into the space. 

Privacy, Please

The calm tranquility of the upper level is hinted at starting in the stairwell, where molding adds depth and an old-world charm to the walls. 

A welcome retreat is established with open ceilings and exposed rafters in the master bedroom. 

In addition to the relaxing tub, the sumptuous bathroom features dual vanities, water closet, and spacious shower with sliding barn glass door.

Valerie added that being so closely involved (while building their dream home) gave her a new appreciation for that builder / homeowner relationship and is looking forward to working with Dave on many projects to come!