Design Profile: Schoolhaus

This former 1860s schoolhouse has undergone several renovations during its conversion to a private residence. After a series of mid-century additions, it was purchased by a family who wanted to expand the home’s footprint and unify its design, while maintaining the character and materials of the original structure. 

Hinged around the original stone structure, the renovation approach provides necessary updates to portions of the existing building and features a new wing of the home for additional spaces and modern amenities. The new wing is extended out from the existing gable form and separated from the stone structure via a glass connector, allowing the new and old to be expressed independently. The gable is further extended to provide cover for exterior living spaces on the first and second floors. 

Integrating a modern addition with the original 1860s schoolhouse offered many opportunities to blend historic features with modern function, but also posed several challenges. Scale, massing, materiality, energy consumption, landscape design, and well-being within the space were discussions held early in the design process. Despite the two very distinct sides of the home, the owners were adamant that the spaces flow together, creating a sense of unity, both inside the house and out into the landscape. 

As an example of adaptive reuse, the Schoolhaus renovation blends the historic stone structure, details, and character with modern forms, functions, and aesthetics. This re-imagined school building is now a stunning four bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home that embraces its new role as an inspiring space for the family to live, entertain, and grow. 

Project: Schoolhaus  

Location: Newtown, PA  

Client: Private homeowner 

Project Size: 5,400 sq ft 

Project Team:  
Gnome Architects (Design/Architect)  

Poulson & Associates LLC (Structural Engineer) 

Hutec Engineering (Electrical / Mechanical Engineer) 

Point Builders & Design Concepts (General Contractor) 

Mid Atlantic Timberframes (Heavy Timber Framing)

Photos: Round Three Photography