When the current proprietor of a 19th-century Vermont schoolhouse removed its cupola, local apprehension arose, evidenced by neighborhood correspondence and a story in the local gazette. The quaint community feared the worst. However, the owner, a versatile creative and visual artist helming Donkey Milk Studios, harbored no intention of erasing the cherished structure. Their aim was simply to restore the antique school bell to its former sonorous glory.
The homeowner was finalizing a degree in sustainable agriculture when the property entered the market. While enamored with the locale, they perceived the rural setting as potentially inhibiting for their friends, many of whom identified as queer, from fully expressing themselves. These friends often sought refuge in New York City. Nevertheless, the dilapidated building, listed at an accessible price, presented an opportunity to both revitalize a beloved landmark and cultivate a more inclusive sanctuary for their own community.
“I envisioned a space that felt a bit more unconventional within the town, while still honoring its historical roots,” they shared. This directive perfectly aligned with the vision of Pat Austin, the Portland, Oregon–based studio founded by Candace Cohu and Ally Hasche. Having recently launched their independent practice to challenge conventional interior design paradigms, they embraced the project. “We desired a more eccentric aesthetic, something with a touch of punk rock,” stated Cohu, articulating their rebellious design philosophy. The homeowner’s concept was an ideal canvas for their ambitions: unfettered self-expression within the venerable confines of a historic edifice. The Portland designers found this proposition exceptionally appealing.
Yet, the preservation of the structure’s integrity remained paramount for the homeowner. Practical modifications were thoughtfully curated, limited to essential additions such as a garage and a second bathroom. Simultaneously, key original architectural elements, including the expansive, light-filled classrooms and the picturesque exterior, were meticulously restored. The building itself, however, began to evolve into a unique new identity.
The whimsical transformation was executed with a delicate touch, evident in details such as an entryway painting depicting a bear balancing on a vibrant, bubblegum-pink ball, and antique rabbit sculptures subtly integrated throughout the space. More broadly, the interior embraces an ethos of radical inclusivity and playful abandon: ceramic spiders meticulously ascend a bathroom wall, and accent cushions are whimsically shaped like hands and feet.
Messermeister Acacia Magnetic Knife Block
Williams Sonoma
Aarke Stainless-Steel Electric Kettle
Amazon
Bloomingdale’s
The 19th-century schoolhouse, reimagined as a communal retreat rather than a private residence, offers expansive areas conducive to gathering. One of the former classrooms has been left intentionally open, creating a spacious environment that accommodates a partitioned guest suite, a dedicated art studio, and an inviting seating arrangement centered around a suspended fireplace.
Community is the cornerstone of this retreat; the owner has consistently hosted guests during every stay. Despite this communal spirit, the retreat unmistakably bears the imprint of the owner’s distinct personality.
Katavolos Littel & Kelley T Chairs (Set of 4)
1stDibs
Revival Omvial Vintage Moroccan Rug
Revival Rugs
The remarkable Studio LOHO bathtub, prominently situated within the primary bedroom, serves as a poignant, albeit unconventional, tribute to the homeowner’s late father. When the renovation phase commenced, they consistently recalled a piece of his enduring advice: “Whatever you’re doing, just make sure you put a bathtub in your room.” As a child, this singular fixation eluded comprehension. “But now, as an adult, I realize—you absolutely must have a bathtub in the room. It’s quite wonderful.”
Häpen Valet Mannequin by Ehlén Johansson for IKEA
1stDibs
Kartell Colonna Stool
Design Within Reach
These distinctive touches were meticulously curated by Pat Austin, who imbued the interiors with a thoughtful confluence of established and emerging artisan creations. Art-forward names such as Apparatus and Egg Collective lend an air of sophistication throughout, while Donkey Milk Studios guided the team toward collaborations with lesser-known talents. Cohu recalls their consistent inquiry: “Where are some of the people who aren’t receiving as much recognition yet? Let’s commission something unique with them, something avant-garde.” Consequently, playful design elements now adorn every facet of the residence, from hand-painted Roman shades by Lonesome Pictopia and serpentine clothing hooks crafted by metalsmith Hossly, to bespoke ceramics, including a striking piece with luminous eyes by artist Emily Counts.
French Antique Industrial Desk Lamp
Ebay
Sophie Lou Jacobsen Brass Calla Table Lamp
Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Moreover, the building’s historical significance has been consistently respected. A collection of paper airplanes, discovered beneath the floorboards and dating back to 1915, will be incorporated as a sentimental element. “We are having them professionally framed,” the homeowner states, “so they will always remain a part of this place.”
Should the town once have harbored concerns regarding the fate of its cherished landmark, the answer is now unequivocally clear: it stands as a testament to historical reverence and a beacon of inclusivity for all.
UNA Dining Chair by Estudio Persona
1stDibs
Contemporary Cooperage Stool by Fort Standard
1stDibs
Kotn Linen Duvet Cover & Pillow Sham Set
KOTN
Birch Lane Eske Glass Vase
Joss & Main
Kotn Linen Duvet Cover & Pillow Sham Set
KOTN
Birch Lane Eske Glass Vase
Joss & Main
Business Style Takeaway: This revitalized historic schoolhouse masterfully blends architectural preservation with bold, contemporary design, creating a unique environment that fosters community and personal expression. It demonstrates how thoughtful renovation can honor heritage while establishing a sophisticated and welcoming space that elevates the art of living and entertaining.
Information compiled from materials : www.architecturaldigest.com