Laurel House
Remodeling this 1980s suburban builder home presented both challenges and opportunities. The original structure, typical of many late-20th century developments, lacked the refinement and coherence often associated with authentic colonial-style homes. Our goals was to move beyond the 'cookie-cutter' footprint, introducing a timeless traditional aesthetic that feels both authentic and deeply personal to the homeowners.
Project Details
Location
Saratoga Springs, NY
Square footage
2360
Original build year
1980
Remodel completed
2025
Remodel architect
Dacha Office, Anton Keirsey
Project team
Kyle Keirsey, Ian Butcher, Kip Katich
Contractor
Whitbeck Construction
Cabinets
Columbia Cabinets
Custom door
Tom Williams
Photography
Kyle Keirsey
The original house loosely referenced colonial vernacular but lacked proportion, depth, and presence. Our approach reinterpreted these cues through a modern lens, refining the architectural language, sharpening the detailing, and giving the home a more grounded, timeless street presence.
The entry was completely reimagined. A bold wood-clad canopy now frames a custom front door designed and carved by a family artist, the symbolic centerpiece of the remodel and a deeply personal gesture that roots the house in the clients' own story.
Inside, we resolved a fragmented floor plan that had long isolated the living spaces. Opening key walls and reorienting rooms created intuitive flow between kitchen, dining, and living areas, allowing family life to unfold naturally across the main level. Open, but never without intimacy.
Upstairs, the primary suite was extended to include a new office nook with a larger window for morning light, balanced by built-in shelving for privacy. Secondary bedrooms were refreshed with better storage, new finishes, and improved natural light, lending the upper floor a cohesive, calm quality.
Materially, the project strikes a bold but sophisticated balance. Deep iron grey anchors the exterior, warmed by wood accents that add texture and scale. Inside, shades of teal blend with natural woods and soft neutrals, creating a grounded backdrop where colorful furnishings and collected objects feel curated rather than chaotic.
Uncovering the original structure revealed significant deficiencies: walls without sheathing, minimal insulation, and large areas left exposed altogether. Correcting these issues was essential for comfort, efficiency, and long-term durability. New insulated ZIP sheathing, robust insulation, and improved detailing were woven into the remodel, bringing the home up to a standard befitting its renewed design.
