Tag: Holden MA

Stone, Glass, Wood / 1888-2026

The Gale Free Library of Holden, Massachusetts exemplifies adaptive reuse architecture, where old buildings are updated for modern uses while still preserving their historic character.

Built in 1888, the library was originally a high school.
Historic stained glass windows are being restored.
The original stone exterior melds with a modern interior extension.
An enlarged historic photograph greets visitors to the second floor.
Wood beams and lighting soften the stone, while the rooflighting above floods the space with light.

The Children’s Room is currently being updated, but a peek through the door hints at learning and fun to come.
In the reading room room traditional statuary and stained glass windows are enhanced with tiny golden lights.

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¡Delicioso!

Third Generation farmers from Nicaragua roast and sell coffee from around the world in this delightful Holden, Massachusetts coffee shop.

Wall murals help customers visualize coffee beans on the vine.
Brilla means “shine” in Spanish.
Learn more about the farms and coffee here.
A coffee bean ceiling!

Roasted coffee can be purchased in-store or online.
The on-site roastery.
French Toast and Huevos Rancheros on a bagel.
Traditional style furnishings.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

To refresh and renew the front yard, combine seeds and plant cuttings collected last fall with duct tape and spray paint.

Duct tape strengthens the old resin chair, while “spring green” spray paint lends a pop of color to the furniture.
Last fall’s coleus cuttings have taken off in the recent wet weather.
Inside or outside, the succulent green kalanchoe flourishes.
Six cosmos seeds saved from last year go a long way to enliven this year’s flower bed!
Scarlet Runner bean seeds are easy to dry, and never fail in succeeding years.
Bright bean flowers are magnets for a variety of birds and insects.
Last year’s nasturtium seeds have bloomed yet again.
The “outdoor living room” under the hemlocks is a cool and breezy place to chat with friends and neighbors.