Livable Luxury

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS BY RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

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 yearlong 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.

Calling Card Entry

The timeless nobility and durability of exposed brick (which reminds the couple of their time in New York City) can be found throughout the house. Used in both fireplace backsplashes and behind the master bath’s soaker tub, its use in the archway that divides the foyer from the dining room is truly mighty.

“Brick has been used in accent walls for a long time but people don’t do it in modern homes (because of the cost) so it was interesting to see how it’s been incorporated into the interior,” said Dave.

In the living room, the tones of the couple’s existing camel leather furniture play off the brick nicely in a color scheme accentuated by a vibrant Italian painting that evokes memories of the couple’s overseas travels.

Polish & Practicality

The relaxed host knows the kitchen will stand-up to whatever comes its way.

A place to cook and connect, here, an oversized 8’ island with quartz countertops sits comfortably among the sleek white cabinetry and soft honey bronze hardware.

Tucked into the corner, across from the pantry with its built-in wine cooler, natural light pours into the breakfast nook from the easternfacing windows. One of Valerie’s favorite places, the window bench seating in this bright and inviting spot is fun for family mealtime.

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!