The Makeover

(Click the photo above and scroll through the before and after images!)

Makeovers are fascinating. There are countless television programs, magazines, blogs, websites, and morning talk show segments dedicated to “the makeover.” Whether it is a weight loss story, wardrobe rejuvenation, new haircut, reorganization of a cluttered lifestyle, or a house that has been completely renovated, there is something about a makeover that never gets old. It seems that humans have an innate need to see the old become new, the wrong be made right, and defeat become triumph. Our fascination in “before and after” photos must be derived from the hope that they offer; hope that we can apply to our own story. My wish is that the following before and after makeover of this historic colonial home will inspire you in whatever it is, in your own life, that you endeavor to make new again.

Notes about the subject property:

The white clapboard portion of the house was built circa 1790. The brick portion was built in the 1800’s.

This historic colonial home in Queensbury, NY was renovated twice; once in 2004 and again in 2013. In 2004, all new systems were installed and the home was restored to have modern amenities, while preserving its historic value. The original wood floors were refinished, wallpaper was peeled, the home was freshly painted, new fixtures were installed, air conditioning and an automatic generator was installed, the three fireplaces were converted to gas, the garage was made automatic, and the floorplan was adjusted to make the house a three bedroom, three and a half bath private residence. The kitchen was completely gutted and remodeled with granite countertops and new cabinetry and appliances. The laundry room was gutted and remodeled. Outside additions included a new stone walk, picket and privacy fencing, sod, plantings, mulch beds, in-ground pool, and perennial gardens.

The home underwent a second renovation in 2013. It was converted from a private residence to a bed & breakfast with five guest rooms with en suite baths and a separate owners’ quarters. The previously renovated two car garage was extended six feet and remodeled into a two bedroom, two bath owners’ quarters with owners’ kitchen. The kitchen appliances from the original kitchen were moved to the owners’ kitchen and new appliances were added to the original kitchen for it to comply with code to operate as a bakery. A five space parking lot and drive to it, was annexed to the existing driveway for guests. System upgrades were made to accommodate bed & breakfast code. The unfinished attic was converted to a guest room and bath. The first floor family room was converted to a guest room by rearranging the adjacent half bath to become an en suite full bath. Additional fencing was added to the front yard to make it become fully enclosed and additional privacy fence was added to create an owners’ private yard. The latest project was replacing the front steps. The bricks were shipped from England where each one was hand painted to look like a classic novel. The colors and titles were specifically requested. If you are interested in ordering these bricks, visit the Etsy shop .

Voila! And there you have it; two makeovers in one; a makeover from a colonial historic home to an updated private residence and from a private residence to a bed & breakfast. Click on the slideshow, above, and scroll through the before and after photos. Enjoy!

This blog was originally posted on Roohan Realty's blog page.