Location: Skaneateles, New York
Building Type: Single-Family Residential
Architect: Space Architectural Studio, P.C.
Applicator: Gator’s Specialty Finishes
Distributor: Thermal Foams, Inc.
This 1880’s Tudor home had undergone multiple renovations over the decades, and had been most recently encapsulated in a pink metal exterior in the 1970’s. However, when new owners purchased the home in 2021, they were determined to bring back its historic charm while incorporating modern building materials for durability, energy efficiency and ease of maintenance.
The restoration process involved carefully stripping the exterior of the house down to its substrate by removing the stucco and lath. A sheet-applied air and water barrier was installed, and new windows were sealed with a high-performance sealant. A Dryvit® Outsulation® system with expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation was then mechanically fastened to the structure, followed by a reinforced base coat.
Freestyle® created the look of old-world stucco on the exterior walls and Sandpebble® Fine was used for the Tudor elements, corbels and soffits. To replicate the ornate details of the 19th century design, Scott Stachnik from Dryvit Distributor, Thermal Foams, Inc. was instrumental in fabricating 60 corbels out of EPS, with every line and button meticulously hand-cut.
Architect Laura Molloy of Space Architectural Studio, P.C. collaborated with Gator’s Specialty Finishes to ensure the final finish accurately reflected the character of the original architecture. By researching color schemes from the 1800’s, the owners selected historically-accurate shades to complete the façade renovation.
The careful planning and execution transformed the residence into a stunning fusion of historical authenticity and modern performance. Now restored to its former elegance, this residence is a source of pride within the community and an excellent example of successful historic preservation. The success of the design and final execution resulted in the home becoming a featured stop on the local historical society’s walking tour. The project was even the recipient of the 2025 EIMA Award of Merit in the Renovation/Retrofit category.
