The Inns of Aurora

The Inns of Aurora, located in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, is a group of properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Aurora Foundation, a partnership between Wells College and the Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation, began a renovation of the properties in 2001 to restore them to their former grandeur and make them appeal once again for lodging, dining, and special events.

Rowland House: Huffman Keel Partners completed the $6 million renovation of this 10-bedroom lake home in May 2014. The newly renovated 1900s-era estate now provides additional guest rooms for the Inns of Aurora. Updates to the building included the installation of a geothermal heating system. A new boat house was also built to enhance the property.

Fargo Bar and Grill: This $1 million renovation included an expansion of the kitchen, dining, and outdoor patio areas of this popular eating place. The construction schedule was compressed to minimize downtime – the restaurant was closed for just two months. It reopened for business in February 2015.

Wallcourt Hall: This 3-story brick structure, built in 1910, originally served as a dormitory for Miss Goldsmith’s School for Girls. After years of vacancy, the building had fallen into a state of extreme disrepair. The building was converted to a 17-room boutique hotel for the Inns of Aurora. A geothermal heating system provides operational cost savings and comfort. Cost of the renovation project was $4.5 million, and the project was completed in August 2015.

Dorie’s Bakery: This former flower and ice cream shop, built in 1920, was renovated to include a bakery production kitchen and retail sales outlet. It features a soda shop-style counter and a lakeside deck. Dorie’s Bakery reopened for business in October 2013.