Before + After: Inside a Baker's Beautiful Kitchen

Originally published April 2, 2019

If you love a good before and after as much as we do, you won’t want to miss these photos of Sandy Petracca’s dramatic (and gorgeous!) kitchen transformation. Sandy loves to bake and cook, so function was important. Equally significant, though, was creating a space that felt inviting and true to the period in which the home was built, and we happen to think she nailed it!

Read on to see and hear about her journey from this…

to this!

C’mon inside and enjoy…

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I am a mother of two grown children. Baking their birthday cakes through the years, I fell in love with cake decorating. That love of baking transformed into a career. I became the lead decorator for a well known bakery in Cleveland, The White Flower Cake Shop.

I then moved to Glens Falls in 2015 and fell in love with the area. I purchased an old home and threw myself into some serious DIY, transforming it into my own. Missing the creative process of cake decorating, I decided to start my own business. Juggling both was a challenge and thrilling at the same time. Unexpectedly, I found new love and began the journey of a beautiful relationship. Tony and I continued with passion to create our own special place. A home to share new memories, filled with laughter, good friends, good food and of course, good wine. A home to live life sweetly.

When did you buy your home? What attracted you to it and to your neighborhood?

I purchased my home in Glens Falls in 2015. Glens Falls has a downtown that echoes the charm of yesteryear, with beautiful parks and tree lined streets, sidewalks to stroll, and homes with friendly porches adorned with American Flags. It is the quintessential "Home Town USA." Each home seems to have its own unique personality that tells a story. I wanted to be a part of that story. With the help of my patient realtor, we finally found the perfect little gem built in 1939 with character and charm along with layers of wallpaper and old chipping paint. I realized that much of the house was a simple case of updating the interior using good ol' sweat equity. The house had good bones, except the kitchen which needed a major renovation, and the bathrooms which also needed modernizing. My love of baking and cooking made the kitchen renovation a top priority.

What were your goals when designing and decorating your kitchen?

My home was built in 1939 and I felt I had to maintain the integrity of the time period while also improving the layout of the kitchen. I chose to update the kitchen using items that upheld a vintage feel but also offered the convenience of modernizing the space. I love to cook, bake and entertain with family and friends, so it was imperative to create a kitchen that would act as the heart of my home.

Where did you draw your inspiration from?

Inspiration for the renovation came from numerous sources. I scoured design magazines, Pinterest, and other things that happened to catch my eye.

What’s your favorite thing about your kitchen?

I love my "Blue Star" stove!! I wanted one for many years. Some women dream of diamonds, designer clothes and status cars, but I dream of kitchen appliances and paraphernalia relating to all things kitchen, cooking and entertaining.

Anything you’d do differently?

I would not change anything about my kitchen. The renovation was truly a labor of love and I invested a lot of time in planning to assure I had no regrets.

Do you remember the first thing you cooked or baked once the kitchen was complete?

Meatballs with cheesy polenta.

What advice would you give to someone about to dive into a kitchen renovation?

Although I had done my homework and had a clear vision for my kitchen renovation, I would recommend working with a professional kitchen designer. When I found my designer we had an instant connection. I knew instinctively that we were a good match and would be a great team. Joël was instrumental in refining my vision and providing possibilities that I did not realize were conceivable. She was vigilant about my budget and offered creative ides to maintain the look without breaking the bank.

Describe your decor aesthetic in three words.

Only three!!! No fair, you're putting me in a box. I am a true believer in doing what you love when it come to your personal space. Now if I had to choose three words I would say: Functional, Stylish, Homey.

You have such great taste - where are some of your favorite places to shop for home decor? Any favorite local spots that you’d recommend?

Glenwood Manor Antiques & More: I am always on the hunt for unique, one of a kind items to display.

Homegoods, and TJ Maxx: I mean, do you know any woman who doesn't delight in the search of a good buy at a low price?

Online shopping: One Kings Lane, excellent source for curated furniture and decor; Williams Sonoma & Food52: These sites fed my addiction for kitchen paraphernalia.

I do wish our downtown had more boutique shopping for gifts and home decor. That would be amazing.

The item in your kitchen you couldn’t live without?

There are a few, but the one that I love and use everyday is my French Press for coffee. I love the ritual and the aromas of making my morning coffee and holding the warm mug in my hands as I contemplate the new day ahead of me.

A favorite meal in regular rotation?


I would have to say, my meatballs and cheesy polenta. This is Tony's favorite. I honestly think it was my meatballs that sparked his love for me!!

What’s one essential every baker should have in their kitchen?

I would say a KitchenAid Mixer. I LOVE mine. I use it often and have a secret spot to hide it away so it doesn't clutter the counter.

We must know - what’s your favorite dessert?

Surprisingly it is not cake! I do love a good donut. Simple and plain. I don't make them but maybe I should teach myself. I do however make a delicious, perfectly boozy Tiramisu that is often requested by my friends, and I must say it is very good!

—————

Resources

Designer:  Joël Jackoski, Designers Studio, Saratoga

Contractor: Jason Petralia, Building Concepts, Saratoga

Realtor: DeMarsh Real Estate - Karen Levison

Kohler Sink and Faucet: Bath Expressions Showroom at Security Supply

White Subway Tiles: Glens Falls Tile

Blue Star Range & Hood, Bosch Dishwasher: Adirondack Appliance, Saratoga Springs

GE Monogram Refrigerator: Best Kitchen and Appliance Center, South Glens Falls

Cabinet & Ceiling Lighting and Electrical: Hills Electric, Glens Falls

Decorative Lighting: Rejuvenation

Hand block Printed Kitchen Curtains: Saffron Marigold

Cast Iron Cocotte: Staub

Mixer: KitchenAid

Thank you, Sandy! We’ll definitely be knocking on your door again for that Tiramisu recipe! :)

Have a before and after you’d like to share? We’d love to consider it for a future feature! Contact us here, or send a note to us at hello@glensfallsliving.com.

Inside A Restored Glens Falls Carriage House

We’ve always admired the sweet carriage house that sits behind the yellow Victorian on the corner of Glen and Sanford, and today we’re getting a peek inside with owners Becky and Brian Smith, who renovated the former horse barn while keeping its character in tact — stables, hoof marks, and all! Here, we chat with Becky about the renovation…

On the History of the Carriage House

The house next door, 481 Glen Street (on the corner of Glen and Sanford), was built in 1895 by the Viely family, from what I understand. The carriage house was built in 1905 as part of that property. The house was later sold to Genevieve and Dr. William Bronk, who ran their orthopedic practice there. We purchased the property from The Bronks in 2000, renovated the interior, rented apartments for a while, and later sold the house but kept the carriage house.

In 2006, we renovated the carriage house to start a photography business (Heritage Photography) where we took local school photos, senior portraits, business headshots, product photography, weddings and later added virtual tours. It soon became evident that virtual was a better avenue since that did not require a storefront and was a more cost effective alternative. At that point, we tried to sell the carriage house, and even though there was a great deal of interest, people could not make the numbers work to make it into a residence. With my husband Brian being a very talented woodworker and contractor, together we decided that we would convert the carriage house into what it is today, repurposing all that we could along the way to keep its unique character.

The Carriage House, back in the day

On the Renovation

Our priority was to keep the building as it was to the extent that we could, with updates to modernize the structure. The outside sliding barn doors were replaced with an entrance porch, and we added a deck above the porch where the hayloft doors used to be. The original doors were preserved and inlaid in the wall that we put up to separate what is now the dining room and living room. New custom doors and windows were made to replicate what was there previously.

The Living Room + Dining Room

The living room and dining room were originally one large room that was used for horse washing. There was a drain where the dining room table is, and they had tie ups and blanket rails for horse prep on the other side of the room.

We added a wall for separation between the two spaces, and new stairs were added in the living room to get upstairs to what was the hayloft. The original stairs connecting the stall area to the hay loft were left intact.

The Kitchen

We added a kitchen in what was the original Trophy Room, utilizing the original 1895 cast iron sink from the adjoining house and repurposing the trophy cases for dishes and kitchen supplies. The tack room, originally used to store horse tack and equipment, was converted to a half bath and laundry room.

The Stable Area

The stable area includes two tie and two box stalls for the horses, which we wanted to keep intact — including the hay chutes, which were fed from the loft above. The four stalls are now used as a mudroom, a reading nook, an office, and a spare room.

The Hayloft

Back in the day, hay, straw and grain were stored in the loft, which was one big room at the time, and fed down to the stall area through chutes which we left accessible upstairs. Everything was brought in through the double doors in the front of the barn. We redesigned this space to include two full baths, three bedrooms and a linen closet.

On the Challenges of Renovating Old Buildings

Plumbing and heating and electrical were the biggest challenges. The building is very structurally sound, built over four stone foundations, but with the help of excellent local contractors, we got it done. Two separate furnaces had to be installed, but we now have central heat and air, plumbing that doesn't freeze in the winter, and awesome electrical options. Plumbing and electricity existed in the original building, but it all had to be redone.

On the Importance of Preservation

We loved the character of the building with the horse stalls still intact and hoof marks throughout. It’s a very unique space that just needed to be repurposed. There is so much history around horses in Glens Falls that many people don't realize. There were two race tracks, and a jockey hotel where Sanford Street School is now. It was important to us to preserve that history.

On the Rewards of Renovation

After six long years of hard work and dedication, seeing the completion of a vision we had for repurposing it is a great reward. It is a very special place, one which we would consider moving to if we didn't love the country as much as we do.

Editors Note: The Carriage House is currently available for rent through Airbnb - click here for details!

P.S. Would you like to see your renovation or home tour featured here on GFL? Email us at hello@glensfallsliving.com!

A Glens Falls Fixer Upper: Part 2

Last time we checked in with Meg Arney (catch Part 1 here!), the exterior of her 1914 Foursquare was stripped and waiting for a new porch and new siding, so we were excited to see the house beautifully buttoned up for winter, and all dressed up for the holiday, no less! We caught up with Meg to check in on the progress they’ve made on the exterior renovation over the last few months and of course, to find out what’s next!

Your exterior has come a long way since we last saw you - tell us what you've been up to!

We have made so much progress in the last 2 and a half months! Last time we talked we had stripped down the exterior to the basic frame of the house - removing several layers of siding. We also had to replace the front porch, remove an addition off of the back of the house and take down the garage that was at the very back of the property. Since then Bill Turner has been able to turn the house back into a stately foursquare that I had envisioned when I bought the house.

We love the color of the siding! Was that an easy choice?

I knew that I wanted blue for the exterior - but it took a while to figure out which siding to go with. I think I checked out every blue house within a 3 mile radius to try to narrow down a color. We went with midnight blue which was as close to navy as I could find. I have to say when it first started going up I was a little concerned that the blue was too bright - but as the white trim was added, it really made the navy stand out. I think it's the perfect color for the house!

Were there any special materials you wanted to be sure to incorporate into the exterior?

We knew we wanted the exterior to be as low maintenance as possible! (I'm used to apartment living, after all!) I did not want to have to repaint the siding or porch every couple of years. We chose vinyl siding and Trex decking to keep it low maintenance. We also chose a metal roof for the front porch so that I don’t have to worry about the snow building up.

Tell us a bit about the relocation of the garage - I bet you're happy to have it closer to the house!

The garage location has been quite a conversation starter! Everyone wants to know why we angled it at the back of the house. The main reason is I wanted it as close to the house as possible - but I also wanted a lot of light to come through the windows across the back of the house. The angled garage gives us both those things plus additional privacy in the back yard.

We've been hearing a lot about the impact of Covid on construction - were there any delays in materials for this part of the project?

We have had some delays - materials are definitely taking a bit longer than we had hoped. The garage roof took several weeks and we are still waiting on the garage door - hoping it arrives before the first real snow! We also knew we would have to wait for some items like the kitchen cabinets and appliances - so those were some of the first things we ordered.

You're probably thrilled to have the exterior buttoned up for winter! Any additional projects out here in the spring?

Yes! The focus for the spring is landscaping and a back deck and patio. I want to have a lot of green grass and a simple garden around the front and sides of the house with hydrangeas. We plan to start in early spring by installing a sprinkler system so that we can have grass as soon as feasibly possible. We are still trying to figure out the right plan for the back deck and patio - but have lots of ideas. It's a giant backyard - I’m thinking of putting in my own pickle ball court since that's so popular around here. ;) (just kidding)

How's the rest of the house coming along? Any idea when you'll be moving in?

We are making great progress on the interior - and getting to the fun part of choosing paint colors and furniture. I’m hoping to move in soon after the new year - can’t think of a better way to start 2021!

A Glens Falls Fixer Upper: Part 1

Ever wish you could peek into one of the home renovation projects happening around the city? Us too. We’re all in luck since Meg Arney, the new owner of a 1914 Foursquare home in Glens Falls, invited us in for a tour as she embarks on a renovation, and we can’t wait to watch as she brings back all of the traditional charm of this home, with a modern flair, of course. C’mon in and see the progress, and stay tuned as we follow her renovation over the next few months!

First off - why Glens Falls? What made you decide to purchase a home here (…and in the midst of a pandemic, no less!)? 

I’m originally from Long Island – I grew up in Massapequa.  My family spent a week each summer at Canoe Island Lodge on Lake George, in fact we still do even though we’re local – and it’s now one of my favorite places in the world. When my parents retired, they moved to Glens Falls. My brother and sister-in-law were looking to buy a house in Glens Falls and my parents beat them to it, moving from an apartment in Manhattan to an adorable home on Pershing Road. I’ve spent a lot of time in Glens Falls for the holidays and visiting family and friends – there is so much to offer.  The proximity to the lake and skiing, the cute downtown area, balloon fests and holiday events – it really is right out of a movie. I always feel so welcome here by everyone I meet.  I’ve lived in Arlington, Virginia for the past 20 years where my job is based but I knew I always wanted to end up here eventually.  When the pandemic started, and my company moved to full telework, my condo in Arlington felt too small to live and work out of 24/7.  I needed more space! My brother and sister-in-law were kind enough to offer their guest room and I’ve been here ever since. 

Exterior of the home - before (Photo Courtesy of Meg Arney)

What was the home buying process like during these “COVID” times? 

Shortly after I arrived my sister-in-law and I started doing a daily walk around the neighborhood – trying to get outside and exercise more but also checking out all the beautiful houses. We put out feelers to see if anyone was selling soon and looked at all the online real estate sites on a regular basis. I found the house on Sheridan online and scheduled a tour – but I really had another house in mind that I was waiting to go up for sale. As soon as I walked into the house, I knew it was exactly what I was looking for – I loved the front porch and large windows. It has a great layout with large rooms on the first floor and big bedrooms with lots of light upstairs. I went back 3 times that day bringing all my family and friends. The housing market is hot right now – there were multiple offers on the house. I put in a bid that day and found out the next day it was accepted. I closed 2 weeks later.      

Dining Room and Living Room - Before (Photos courtesy of Meg Arney)

Tell us more about the home!

The house was built in 1914 – the owners kept the original deed that I got at the closing.  

It’s a Craftsman style American Foursquare – with a center hall stairway, great windows and decorative molding throughout.  My favorite part of the house is the front porch – I can see myself spending a lot of time there. 

Kitchen and Entry - Before (Photos courtesy of Meg Arney)

What made you decide to take on a fixer upper? 

My sister-in-law’s parents, Bill and Nancy Turner, convinced me! They own the Bell House Inn which they bought and completely renovated 5 years ago.  Bill was a home builder for 20+ years before they moved to Glens Falls to be closer to their grandkids. They helped me think through the project and all the different aspects to consider. Bill was able to show me how I could make some minor changes to give it the aesthetic I was dreaming about. This is a full family effort – everyone is pitching in – including my nieces Abby and Maggie who were excited to help with demo. Although their dreams of a pool in my backyard probably aren’t going to happen. 

Exterior - Mid-Renovation (Photo courtesy of Meg Arney)

You wasted no time getting started on demo - what have you done so far? 

We have a 20-week plan and started making progress the day we closed!  My goal is to highlight the traditional features of the house with a modern flair. We initially focused on the exterior – preparing the house for new siding. We are also updating the interior – for an open concept kitchen/dining area and reformatting the living room space to include an office.

Opening the Kitchen to the Dining Room (Photo courtesy of Meg Arney)

Having renovated an old city home ourselves, we know there are always surprises. Anything come up for you yet? 

With Bill helping drive the project we had a pretty good idea of what we were getting into – but there were some surprises. When we took down the siding, we found some water and ant damage which is probably to be expected with an older home. It also looks like a whole family of squirrels decided to make their home in the rafters above the front porch – they made quite a mess!

Tom wants to know - did you find anything interesting while you were tearing things apart? Any bars of gold or historical artifacts? 

There were several bars of gold and multiple diamonds in the house….just kidding. Nothing yet, but perhaps I should put a time capsule in one of the walls we’re building for future owners!

Adding a fireplace to the Living Room (Photos courtesy of Meg Arney)

And the big question - what's next? We'd love to hear your plans for the house. 

We are about 5 weeks into the project.  We plan to have the new siding up by mid-October and then work on all the interior projects – kitchen, bathrooms and all the fun stuff.  One of the things we are finding, is that many suppliers have significant delays on products and materials due to Covid.  We are trying to get things ordered as early as possible to keep our timelines. I’m hoping to be done with all the major projects before the holidays.  I can’t wait to host all my family and friends in my new home to thank them for helping me. These cooler temperatures have me dreaming about hanging lights and garland on my front porch!

At Home: The Best Gardens are Planned in the Winter

While we’ve dabbled with growing a few vegetables in the past, we’re really hopeful to have a thriving backyard garden this spring and summer with even more vegetables and Bri’s dream - a cut flower garden. Since we have absolutely no experience whatsoever, we were so excited to discover Emily Gardner’s Instagram account last year. She just so happens to be a landscape designer, AND she also just so happens to have a dreamy backyard garden right here in the city. Read on for her tips on getting started - because the best gardens are planned in the winter!

Tell us a bit about yourself! 

Hi! My name is Emily Gardner, and my name fits - I love to garden!

I grew up along the Hudson River in Malden, a small hamlet of Saugerties in Ulster County. I seem to have slowly migrated northward, moving from Albany to Saratoga Springs before ultimately buying my first home in Glens Falls in February of 2019. I was extremely lucky to find a home with a sunny yard, a large porch (which my cat loves), and a two-car garage (one side of which functions as my garden shed for the summer). 

When I’m not working or gardening, you might find me in the kitchen, out at yard sales or flea markets, or adding things to an Etsy shop I share with my mom (Malden Mercantile).

Photo courtesy of Emily Gardner

We’d love to hear a bit more about your career in landscape design and what motivated you to get into it. 

I received my Bachelor’s in Landscape Architecture from Cornell University and my Masters in Urban and Regional Planning from UAlbany. I actually started college in Boston with an interest in neuroscience and psychology, but my interest in the outdoors ultimately won out!

Growing up in a small town, I spent lots of time outside– playing along the river, building forts in the woods, and gardening alongside my mom. When I realized that science might not be my ultimate career path, I looked into schools with interior design programs. I actually discovered landscape architecture by accident, when a transfer advisor asked me about my hobbies and, thankfully, suggested a major that combined science and plants with design.

Now I work as a landscape designer and community planner at Saratoga Associates in Saratoga Springs.  I’ve been able to work on dozens of projects, ranging from state parks to community waterfronts and downtown streetscapes. One of my favorite parts of a project is choosing the plants for each site. As my friends begin to buy homes, some have asked for ideas for their yards, which is a lot of fun for me.

Photo courtesy of Emily Gardner

What inspired you to plant your backyard garden?  

I’ve been in the garden for as long as I can remember – so over 30 years! When I was little, my mom would give me a small patch where I could grow whatever I wanted (which was usually a mix of wildflowers). Last year was the first time I truly had space that was all mine, and I was so excited to start digging! 

While renting in Saratoga, I had a community garden plot – but everything had to be pulled out at the end of the season, so I grew mostly veggies and some annual flowers. As soon as I’d purchased the house, I was drawing plans for what the yard might become, including trees and perennials. I was lucky that the house itself had been fully renovated, so I was able to head straight to the garden. 

It started out as just lawn, with a rusted wire fence hidden behind an overgrown hedge. As soon as the snow melted, my dad helped me remove all of the hedges (thanks to the DPW for picking all of that up!) and replace the fence with a wooden one. Then we built six raised beds and left a deep border along the fence for flowers. I was lucky enough to get quite a few perennials from family members who were eager to share. I filled the raised beds with veggies and herbs, which meant I had a mini farmers’ market right in my backyard.

Photo courtesy of Emily Gardner

You mentioned in a previous chat that the best gardens are planned in the winter. Tell us a bit more about your winter planning process!

Cold winter days are the perfect time to start daydreaming. When everything is covered in white, it’s like a blank canvas to imagine what could be when the color returns in spring. I start out with a list of all of the things I might want to plant, and decide which things I want to start as seeds and which I want to buy as plants. I definitely buy my tomatoes as plants – I don’t need an entire packet of seeds which I just want a few plants!

If you want to start things from seed, definitely plan early, and check the guidelines on the packet. Some plants (perennial flowers in particular) should be started up to 12 weeks before the last frost. Using mid- to late-May as a guide, that means starting seeds in late February or early March!

What are some things to keep in mind when planning a garden in a smaller footprint (like a Glens Falls backyard)? 

When it comes to vegetables, think about alternating what you grow. Space for early crops – like lettuce, peas, radishes – can then be used for late-season items like beans and squash. Also look for “bush” varieties – veggies like pumpkins, summer squash, and tomatoes can all be found in varieties where the plants stay compact, making them better suited to small spaces. Peas and pole beans, which grow on vines, can be trained to grow up a trellis or post and will save space on the ground. Also, take advantage of containers! Pots allow you to move things to where the sun is, if needed, and are a great option for renters.

Look for inspiration around town - your neighbors might have similar growing conditions and challenges. Don’t be afraid to try something new – if it doesn’t work out, there’s always next season!

Photo courtesy of Emily Gardner

There are so many options - how do you decide what to plant? 

At the end of the season, I make a note of what did well, and what didn’t do so great - what got hit by disease or pests? and what seemed resistant? I replant the top performers, tweaking my choices based on what I might want more or less of – I ended up supplying my office with fresh mixed greens well into October last year! I always leave space for “experiments” – a few new things I want to try. This year I'm planning to add strawberries and sweet corn, along with a few ornamental grasses and red-twig dogwood shrubs for future winter interest.

What flowers or vegetables would you recommend for beginners? What has worked well for you (or not so well)? 

Flowers like zinnias and cosmos are really reliable from seed, attract pollinators, and are great for cut arrangements. I always add in some snapdragons too, but find them easier to buy as plants. Lettuce, peas, carrots, radishes, and green beans are must-haves for me in my veggie garden and have always done well. I always plant cucumbers, too, but they can come out a little strange if watering isn’t consistent (think baseball-bat shapes)! Don't be afraid to add some perennials: Hosta, astilbe, and coral bells for shady spots; echinacea, coreopsis, sedum, salvia, irises, and ornamental grasses if you've got sun. Butterfly bushes are great if you've got a sunny spot for a shrub - they're very tolerant, fast-growing, fragrant, and butterflies really do love them.

Photo courtesy of Emily Gardner

Do you have a favorite place to shop for seeds? 

Browsing through seed catalogs is a lot of fun, but I also pick some up at Dollar Tree! They have a lot of the standby plants (sunflowers, green beans, zinnias, marigolds, radishes) for $0.25 per packet! When I’m looking for something new, I check out the local garden centers. They’re more likely than the big-box stores to have an unusual or heirloom variety of something and it’s great to support a local business at the same time. I'm looking forward to exploring the local nurseries this year.

Photos courtesy of Emily Gardner

Any must-have supplies to prepare for starting seeds? 

I began with seed starting kits (a plastic tray with a cover and Jiffy soil pellets), and I still use them. Now I have a small indoor greenhouse – wire shelves with a plastic cover – which gives me the space I need when it’s time to start the seeds, but is small enough to pack away for the rest of the year. 

I’ve started adding to my supplies: Last year I bought a heating mat, which really helps with germination by keeping the soil at a steady, gently warm temperature. I also ordered some grow lights online and really noticed the difference they make. Without them, the little seedlings reach toward the sunlight coming in through the window, and the grow lights allow you to make sure they get light every day, while also encouraging them to grow straighter, a win-win!

Emily Gardner

The At Home series is made possible by The Julie Snyder Team - Howard Hanna Real Estate Services.

For 15 years Julie Snyder has been an experienced top producing Realtor serving buyers and sellers in and around the Glens Falls and greater Adirondack Region. She is recognized as being in the Top 5% of Realtors in the Nation.

Whether clients are selling their home, looking for a home for the very first time or they're seasoned investors, her team works tirelessly to accommodate their needs and exceed their expectations. The Team is incredibly well-versed in the area's housing market and always manages to find their clients those hidden gems. 

Speaking of gems, check out this sweet home for sale at 10 Caroline Street in Queensbury. Get the details here!  

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Before and After: A Craftsman Kitchen

We love a good before and after almost as much as we love the sweet Craftsman style homes sprinkled throughout our city, so we’re doubly excited to share this kitchen transformation! Lorinda and Brandon did an amazing job creating a warm, inviting space that also stayed true to the character and charm of the home.

And so without further ado, read on to see how they went from this:

to this!

C’mon in…

Tell us a bit about yourselves!

We’re Brandon Neddo and Lorinda Huntington. We both grew up in the area, Queensbury and Kingsbury to be exact. Although we lived only 5 miles apart, it wasn’t until we were home from college our senior year that we met. In 2015, after a year of traveling back and forth to see one another on the weekends, Lorinda made her way out to Syracuse where Brandon had been living since 2009. There we continued our careers as an Engineer and Physical Education Teacher. 

It was in Syracuse living in our 1920s home that we started on our journey of house renovations. Besides scheming house projects, we love spending time with our two crazy pups, Jax and Miley. We also love to escape to the stillness of the Adirondacks. We are thankfully so much closer to them now than we were in Syracuse!

On Moving Back to Glens Falls

After living together in Syracuse for 3 years, we had the opportunity to move back to the Glens Falls area and to be closer to our families. It took us about 30 seconds to make that decision! We were excited to be back in the area, closer to the mountains and in the communities that we loved. When deciding where to live we knew that Glens Falls would be the perfect fit. You’re close to everything and each neighborhood has its own unique character and charm.

We stumbled upon our 1930s Craftsman Bungalow in the Summer of 2018. To be honest, after seeing it online we really didn’t give it much of a second thought until Lorinda’s dad, Nat, did a drive by and told us that we should come home the next weekend to take a look. When we saw the house it was oozing with potential. We loved the character and knew we wanted to give this little house a second chance. 

What started out as a kitchen renovation quickly turned into a 10 month renovation that included everything from new plumbing, heating and electrical to stairs and an additional bathroom. We owe a huge thank you to our family and friends who did 90% of the work alongside us. We couldn’t have done it without them! Thankfully throughout the process, we were able to stay with our parents - perks of living close to family. The day finally came this past April when we were able to move in, although the to do list is still very long!

On the Renovation

We knew right away that the kitchen would be one of our first projects. We wanted to take down the wall between the kitchen and dining room to open up the space and make it more conducive to entertaining.

We thankfully have very similar styles so we were aiming for an open and airy kitchen while still maintaining timeless elements and a warm inviting feel. 

Pinterest was honestly our best friend during this renovation. Lorinda would spend hours upon hours scouring kitchen designs trying to find bits and pieces of inspiration that we could meld into the kitchen we were dreaming of. We were also incredibly lucky that our good friend and cabinet maker, Bob Cenate, had a wealth of knowledge and experience to help us fine tune the details and bring our plan to life. 

Our favorite thing about our kitchen is the peninsula. It adds so much counter space and when it’s just the two of us it’s our go to spot for meals. Plus when one of us is cooking the other can be close by! 

A bit of Advice

Without a doubt there were two things we did that helped immensely with the planning of the kitchen! One, we sketched out a drawing of all of the cabinets. Then we labeled every drawer and cabinet with what we would put in it. We were able to find areas where we thought we needed drawers instead of doors and vice versa. It may have seemed like overkill, but it worked for us! Plus when we finally moved in, we already knew where everything went. 

Secondly and if you have the time, when all of the previous cabinets are removed, tape off the floor where you think your cabinets will be. We realized pretty quickly that we had more room for a peninsula than we thought and actually switched where the refrigerator would be to help with the flow.

It’s a lot of planning, but don’t be afraid! There are so many great resources out there and in our community.  

Resources

White Subway Tile - Glens Falls Tile

Paint - Colorize (Benjamin Moore)

Ceiling Light and Pendants - Hill Electric Supply 

Cabinets - Bob Cenate (Family Friend)

Cabinet Hardware - Amerock 

Counters - LivingStone Solid Surface

Before + After | Inside a Baker's Beautiful Kitchen

If you love a good before and after as much as we do, you won’t want to miss these photos of Sandy Petracca’s dramatic (and gorgeous!) kitchen transformation. Sandy loves to bake and cook, so function was important. Equally significant, though, was creating a space that felt inviting and true to the period in which the home was built, and we happen to think she nailed it!

Read on to see and hear about her journey from this…

to this!

C’mon inside and enjoy…

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I am a mother of two grown children. Baking their birthday cakes through the years, I fell in love with cake decorating. That love of baking transformed into a career. I became the lead decorator for a well known bakery in Cleveland, The White Flower Cake Shop.

I then moved to Glens Falls in 2015 and fell in love with the area. I purchased an old home and threw myself into some serious DIY, transforming it into my own. Missing the creative process of cake decorating, I decided to start my own business. Juggling both was a challenge and thrilling at the same time. Unexpectedly, I found new love and began the journey of a beautiful relationship. Tony and I continued with passion to create our own special place. A home to share new memories, filled with laughter, good friends, good food and of course, good wine. A home to live life sweetly.

When did you buy your home? What attracted you to it and to your neighborhood?

I purchased my home in Glens Falls in 2015. Glens Falls has a downtown that echoes the charm of yesteryear, with beautiful parks and tree lined streets, sidewalks to stroll, and homes with friendly porches adorned with American Flags. It is the quintessential "Home Town USA." Each home seems to have its own unique personality that tells a story. I wanted to be a part of that story. With the help of my patient realtor, we finally found the perfect little gem built in 1939 with character and charm along with layers of wallpaper and old chipping paint. I realized that much of the house was a simple case of updating the interior using good ol' sweat equity. The house had good bones, except the kitchen which needed a major renovation, and the bathrooms which also needed modernizing. My love of baking and cooking made the kitchen renovation a top priority.

What were your goals when designing and decorating your kitchen?

My home was built in 1939 and I felt I had to maintain the integrity of the time period while also improving the layout of the kitchen. I chose to update the kitchen using items that upheld a vintage feel but also offered the convenience of modernizing the space. I love to cook, bake and entertain with family and friends, so it was imperative to create a kitchen that would act as the heart of my home.

Where did you draw your inspiration from?

Inspiration for the renovation came from numerous sources. I scoured design magazines, Pinterest, and other things that happened to catch my eye.

What’s your favorite thing about your kitchen?

I love my "Blue Star" stove!! I wanted one for many years. Some women dream of diamonds, designer clothes and status cars, but I dream of kitchen appliances and paraphernalia relating to all things kitchen, cooking and entertaining.

Anything you’d do differently?

I would not change anything about my kitchen. The renovation was truly a labor of love and I invested a lot of time in planning to assure I had no regrets.

Do you remember the first thing you cooked or baked once the kitchen was complete?

Meatballs with cheesy polenta.

What advice would you give to someone about to dive into a kitchen renovation?

Although I had done my homework and had a clear vision for my kitchen renovation, I would recommend working with a professional kitchen designer. When I found my designer we had an instant connection. I knew instinctively that we were a good match and would be a great team. Joël was instrumental in refining my vision and providing possibilities that I did not realize were conceivable. She was vigilant about my budget and offered creative ides to maintain the look without breaking the bank.

Describe your decor aesthetic in three words.

Only three!!! No fair, you're putting me in a box. I am a true believer in doing what you love when it come to your personal space. Now if I had to choose three words I would say: Functional, Stylish, Homey.

You have such great taste - where are some of your favorite places to shop for home decor? Any favorite local spots that you’d recommend?

Glenwood Manor Antiques & More: I am always on the hunt for unique, one of a kind items to display.

Homegoods, and TJ Maxx: I mean, do you know any woman who doesn't delight in the search of a good buy at a low price?

Online shopping: One Kings Lane, excellent source for curated furniture and decor; Williams Sonoma & Food52: These sites fed my addiction for kitchen paraphernalia.

I do wish our downtown had more boutique shopping for gifts and home decor. That would be amazing.

The item in your kitchen you couldn’t live without?

There are a few, but the one that I love and use everyday is my French Press for coffee. I love the ritual and the aromas of making my morning coffee and holding the warm mug in my hands as I contemplate the new day ahead of me.

A favorite meal in regular rotation?


I would have to say, my meatballs and cheesy polenta. This is Tony's favorite. I honestly think it was my meatballs that sparked his love for me!!

What’s one essential every baker should have in their kitchen?

I would say a KitchenAid Mixer. I LOVE mine. I use it often and have a secret spot to hide it away so it doesn't clutter the counter.

We must know - what’s your favorite dessert?

Surprisingly it is not cake! I do love a good donut. Simple and plain. I don't make them but maybe I should teach myself. I do however make a delicious, perfectly boozy Tiramisu that is often requested by my friends, and I must say it is very good!

—————

Resources

Designer:  Joël Jackoski, Designers Studio, Saratoga

Contractor: Jason Petralia, Building Concepts, Saratoga

Realtor: DeMarsh Real Estate - Karen Levison

Kohler Sink and Faucet: Bath Expressions Showroom at Security Supply

White Subway Tiles: Glens Falls Tile

Blue Star Range & Hood, Bosch Dishwasher: Adirondack Appliance, Saratoga Springs

GE Monogram Refrigerator: Best Kitchen and Appliance Center, South Glens Falls

Cabinet & Ceiling Lighting and Electrical: Hills Electric, Glens Falls

Decorative Lighting: Rejuvenation

Hand block Printed Kitchen Curtains: Saffron Marigold

Cast Iron Cocotte: Staub

Mixer: KitchenAid

Thank you, Sandy! We’ll definitely be knocking on your door again for that Tiramisu recipe! :)

Have a before and after you’d like to share? We’d love to consider it for a future feature! Contact us here, or send a note to us at hello@glensfallsliving.com.