Homeland Estate
Bolton Landing, NY

The “Homeland” estate—the affectionate name for the summer home of the renowned opera singer Louise Homer and her husband Sydney—was built in the early twentieth century. The new owner wanted to maintain the historic character of the home while also cultivating a warm environment for family gatherings. Phinney Design Group utilized outdoor space to maximize lakefront views, incorporating a stone hot tub, outdoor kitchen, and screened solarium. The design team repurposed the carriage house into recreational space, including a gym, arcade area, and home theater large enough to bring the three generations of their family together. Because the owner plans to use this estate as a retirement home, the design team renovated a wing of the house into a first-floor master suite, allowing for single-floor living.

This renovation improved the home’s energy efficiency while restoring the historic windows and fixtures. A new solarium, furnished with a long table and chairs, is the primary gathering space in the home. Designed as a family meeting place, the new carriage house is home to the theater, gym, spa, and garage. Keeping with the color theme, a custom red door welcomes guests into the theater. The entry to the carriage house is crowned with the original bell, which was salvaged from the storage shed formerly at this location. The Master Suite addition focuses on the lake front view. A high vaulted ceiling, window seat, and large brick fireplace incorporate characteristics found throughout the original house. The lake view is on full display in the master bathroom where a large soaking tub is centered on a picture window. An automated screen lowers when privacy is desired.