AMSURE Saratoga Springs, NY

Located at 31 Woodlawn, this historic building has been an integral part of Saratoga Springs’ fabric for nearly a century. Construction began in 1926, originally designed as a factory to produce fine ladies’ dresses. The building opened with a formal celebration on January 8, 1927, proudly bearing the name Helitzer Building. Its role evolved over the years, and by 1936, it was occupied by Saratoga County and the City of Saratoga Springs, serving as a vital civic resource for decades.

In the spring of 2021, Amsure purchased the property with the vision of transforming it into their new headquarters. Encompassing approximately 14,000 square feet, the project presented a unique challenge: to modernize the building for contemporary needs while preserving and stabilizing its historic exterior, which had begun to fall into disrepair. Sustainability was a guiding principle throughout the process, shaping decisions that balanced historic integrity with environmental responsibility.

The renovation introduced a series of thoughtful updates that respected the building’s character while bringing it into the 21st century. All-new mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems were installed to ensure efficiency and reliability. The thermal envelope was dramatically improved, complemented by energy-efficient windows that maintain the building’s historic appearance. Inside, the space was reconfigured to support a semi-open office plan, encouraging collaboration while preserving private work areas. Two new conference rooms were added, and the surrounding landscape and site design were completely refreshed to create an inviting exterior environment.

Every detail of the project reflected a commitment to preserving history while meeting modern standards of comfort, functionality, and sustainability. Phinney Design Group worked closely with Amsure and Adirondack Trust Company throughout the process to ensure the result honored the building’s legacy while securing its future. Saving an important piece of Saratoga Springs history was both a privilege and a responsibility, and Phinney Design Group is proud to have been part of this transformation. The firm is deeply grateful for the opportunity to collaborate on a project that celebrates the past while embracing the principles of sustainability and innovation for generations to come.