Episode Description In the season 4 finale, Sarah and Bruce welcome Stephen Pompeo of Pompeo Insurance to discuss the ins and outs of insurance and how keeping your residence protected is one of the most important aspects of home ownership. Steve shares information on insurance types, rates, and how climate change, new technologies, and modern conveniences have affected what you pay to … [Read more...] about Episode 32: Protecting Your Home
Episode 31: Behind the Pages
Episode Description Sarah and Bruce welcome Jenna Talbott, editor-in-chief of New England Home Magazine, one of the most prominent and successful shelter publications in New England. Jenna shares with us how New England Home operates and the formula used to make the whole entity so successful. Then, Jenna gives an inside look on the operations of how a magazine is pulled together and what … [Read more...] about Episode 31: Behind the Pages
Episode 30: Heat It Up, Cool It Down
Episode Description In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Robert Barmore of Therma-HEXX - the leading modular radiant heating and cooling systems company. Robert shares his expertise on the alternative energy solutions available, the many benefits these systems offer, their long-term cost-effectiveness, and their minimal environmental impact. Learn the history of radiant heating, … [Read more...] about Episode 30: Heat It Up, Cool It Down
Episode 29: Getting To Know You
Episode Description In this episode of Builder's Notebook, we get to know our hosts a little better! It's been a while since we've checked in on Sarah and Bruce, and in this unique episode, they are not only the interviewer but the interviewee. Each gets to ask their burning questions for each other, divulging their backgrounds, how they got to where they are today, and sharing some fun facts. … [Read more...] about Episode 29: Getting To Know You
Episode 28: Maximizing Small Space Living
Episode Description In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome architect Carter Williams and interior designer Erin Tracey from LDa Architecture & Interiors to discuss small-space living. Carter and Erin provide insight on how to creatively and thoughtfully design more modest living spaces without feeling cramped. Plus, we get the scoop on whether … [Read more...] about Episode 28: Maximizing Small Space Living
Episode 27: Up on the Roof
Episode Description We're back for season 4!! It's been a while since Sarah and Bruce have seen each other, so they kick off this new season by catching up on all the new and exciting things they've been up to in the first half of 2024. Then, roofing expert Garrett Laws, the Copper & Slate Company owner, joins the conversation. Garrett shares with us the benefits of investing in a copper or … [Read more...] about Episode 27: Up on the Roof
Conversations With Lucy Dearborn: What Makes Good Lighting?
Sarah and Bruce welcome Lucy Dearborn, owner of Lucia Lighting in Lynn, MA to talk all things lighting! From proper layering in kitchens to creating the right ambiance outdoors to the evolution of LED lighting, this lively discussion provides tips on how lighting might just be one of the most important design decisions for your home. What makes for good lighting? A really good friend of … [Read more...] about Conversations With Lucy Dearborn: What Makes Good Lighting?
Going Up! High-Rise Renovations in Boston
S+H Construction is known for their craftsmanship and unparalleled transformations throughout greater Boston. Of all the different types of projects we work on, one of the most challenging types of projects is the renovation of a high-rise condo. However, the finished product is hard to beat! This month, we highlight a few of our favorite hi-rise projects. Millennium Tower A lively … [Read more...] about Going Up! High-Rise Renovations in Boston
Conversations with Alicia Serras: All About Kitchens
The kitchen, once hidden behind closed doors, has become the centerpiece of a home. It is not only where people gather to eat, but more times than not has multipurpose use. In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Alisha Serras, owner of Scavolini Showroom to talk about contemporary kitchens. From design aesthetics, to how to properly hide appliances, Alisha, who devotes her entire career to … [Read more...] about Conversations with Alicia Serras: All About Kitchens
Conversations with Chris Brown: A Getaway Home
In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Chris Brown, award-winning principal of b Architecture Studio and author of “Our Guide to Your Getaway Home.” Chris shares with Sarah and Bruce the steps in the “self discovery” process that is critical if you’re considering buying or building a second home. Everything from how to design the space based on typography of a location to the number of people – … [Read more...] about Conversations with Chris Brown: A Getaway Home
Victorian Home Renovation: A Project Showcase
As Spring arrives, it's the perfect moment to envision your outdoor sanctuary and how you want to embrace it. S+H collaborates with leading landscape architects and designers in the area to craft extraordinary exterior hardscapes and landscapes. One standout project is our Victorian Home renovation. The exterior was transformed with stainless steel railings, expansive open decks featuring … [Read more...] about Victorian Home Renovation: A Project Showcase
Conversations with Ben Marshall: Stretch Codes
Sarah and Bruce welcome Ben Marshall of GreenStamp Co., who updates us on the latest when it comes to Stretch Codes. Ben explains in detail the significance of the “stretch code” and what it means for a homeowner looking to start a major addition or renovation. Plus, Ben divulges the ‘gotcha’ items that people run into that require you to bring your home to meet new construction standards, the … [Read more...] about Conversations with Ben Marshall: Stretch Codes
Episode 26: How Do You Cook?
Episode Description Eenie, meenie, minee, mo - so many ways to cook - which way do you go? In this season 3 Finale, Sarah and Bruce along with Ken Schaefer with Right Angle Kitchens, get to the bottom of all things kitchen. What's the difference between standard electric and induction? Are gas ovens on their way out? What are the benefits and downside of each? What are … [Read more...] about Episode 26: How Do You Cook?
Basement Remodeling Ideas: Maximize Space
Sometimes, the best way to add additional livable space to your home is going down, instead of up. We are seeing a shift with many homeowners finishing or remodeling their basements to add extra square footage to their homes for their family needs. There are a few important aspects to consider when renovating a basement. The first is being aware of the zoning laws for where you live, … [Read more...] about Basement Remodeling Ideas: Maximize Space
Episode 25: Decoding the Stretch Code
Episode Description Sarah and Bruce welcome Ben Marshall of GreenStamp Co., who updates us on the latest when it comes to Stretch Codes. Ben explains in detail the significance of the "stretch code" and what it means for a homeowner looking to start a major addition or renovation. Plus, Ben divulges the 'gotcha' items that people run into that require you to bring your home to meet new … [Read more...] about Episode 25: Decoding the Stretch Code
Conversations with Mally Skok: Entertaining Tips
We are thrilled to welcome Mally Skok to talk to us about all things entertaining! Whether it’s a sit-down dinner or an open-house cocktail party, Mally shares her tips and tricks to make the effort of entertaining effortless! Bruce: You know this is way outside our normal subject matter I feel a little foofy in a good way. Sarah: It's so true. I mean builders aren't really known for their … [Read more...] about Conversations with Mally Skok: Entertaining Tips
Episode 24: Want to Getaway
Episode Description In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Chris Brown, award-winning principal of b Architecture studio and author of "Our Guide to your Getaway Home." Chris shares with Sarah and Bruce the steps in the "self discovery" process that is critical if you're considering buying or building a second home. Everything from how to design the space based on typography of a location to … [Read more...] about Episode 24: Want to Getaway
Episode 23: Rating your Energy
Episode Description In this highly-charged episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome energy efficiency gurus Mike and Gail Browne of Advanced Building Analysis. Mike and Gail dig deep on everything from what being a HERS Rater (Home Energy Rating System Rater) actually means to how to measure the energy performance and impact of a building correctly. Plus, Mike and Gail share tips on what products, … [Read more...] about Episode 23: Rating your Energy
Episode 22: Be Our Guest
Episode Description We're back for part two of Season Three!! With the holidays quickly approaching, Sarah and Bruce welcome award-winning designer and author, Mally Skok, who is here to teach us a thing or two about entertaining in our homes. Whether it's a intimate sit-down dinner or an open-house cocktail party, Mally shares her tips and tricks to make the effort of entertaining … [Read more...] about Episode 22: Be Our Guest
Conversations with Ed Sullivan: Home Winterization Tips
With Winter right around the corner, we welcome back our very own Ed Sullivan of S+H Construction to walk us through how to winterize your home. Sarah, Bruce and Ed share the many and things you should keep in mind as the colder months approach, so you’re not dealing with a disaster next spring! What is the first thing people should think about in the fall to winterize their home on the … [Read more...] about Conversations with Ed Sullivan: Home Winterization Tips
Prepare Your Home for Winter
Although it may be difficult to accept, Summer is coming to an end and Fall is rapidly approaching. As the weather changes, it's crucial to consider how it will affect your home and take steps to prepare for the colder temperatures. To assist you in ensuring that your home is in excellent condition, we have provided a checklist for you to follow. Clean Out Your Gutters Gutters are … [Read more...] about Prepare Your Home for Winter
Conversations with Josh Safdie
Home is your comfort space, and for many of us, it’s where we plan to stay to the bitter end! While the layout of your home may serve your needs now, there is a strong possibility that adjustments will have to be made as you age. Sarah and Bruce welcome Josh Safdie, Managing Principal at KMA Architecture + Accessibility to share his expertise on how to make sure your home is safely equipped for … [Read more...] about Conversations with Josh Safdie
Staircases
Staircases are significant in your home as they can impact your interiors' appearance and practicality. We've gathered some of our past favorite staircase designs to inspire you. Stair #1 Historic Meets Modern S+H worked on a complete renovation of this gorgeous nineteenth-century home before being hired by the new homeowners and, again, starting from scratch. This time around, they … [Read more...] about Staircases
Conversations with Rob Russo
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Rob Russo and discussing the topic of all things you should know about living on your own for the first time. Specifically focused on 20 something’s moving into their first rental apartment or home and the “tools” they need, both literally and figuratively, to thrive. Rob discusses the importance of what to have in a proper toolbox, and also goes over what … [Read more...] about Conversations with Rob Russo
Episode 21: The History of Architecture
Episode Description In our season three mid-season finale, Sarah and Bruce along with Patrick Hickox of Hickox Williams Architects dig deep into the history of architecture and the evolution of “home.” From ancient Egypt to modern day living, hear how the design of a home has always been a reflection of the human family, shaped by the surrounding habitation, means of survival and, more … [Read more...] about Episode 21: The History of Architecture
Episode 20: Aging in Place
Episode Description Home is your comfort space, and for many of us it’s where we plan to stay to the bitter end! While the layout of your home may serve your needs now, there is a strong possibility that adjustments will have to be made as you age. Sarah and Bruce welcome Josh Safdie, Managing Principal at KMA Architecture + Accessibility to share his expertise on how to make sure your home … [Read more...] about Episode 20: Aging in Place
Site Work and Landscaping
The outside of your house is every bit as important as the inside. S+H Construction’s Site Work and Landscaping Division specializes in creating outdoor spaces that are beautiful and enhance the functionality of your home. We work in conjunction with landscape architects and designers to bring your yard vision to life. Looking for some inspiration? Here we highlight some top landscaping trends for … [Read more...] about Site Work and Landscaping
Going Behind the Walls
While usually not a concern to most homeowners, what lies behind your walls, and how everything works, is in fact a critical part of your home design and construction. The building science of homes is ever changing and complicated, which is why it’s important you work with a team who is vetted and knowledgeable about the process. When it comes time to open the walls of your home, what exactly … [Read more...] about Going Behind the Walls
Episode 19: What’s Snow Got To Do With It?
Episode Description The recent snow has us thinking – have you taken the necessary steps to winterize your home? Sarah and Bruce welcome back S+H’s Ed Sullivan to talk about the proper ways to winterize your home and why it’s so important. Everything from gutter maintenance, to preventing freezing pipes, proper snow removal, and managing those dreaded ice dams, this episode will make sure … [Read more...] about Episode 19: What’s Snow Got To Do With It?
Episode 18: Ain’t It Fun, Living In The Real World?
Episode Description Sarah and Bruce welcome Rob Russo to talk all things living on your own for the first time! Specifically focused on 20 something’s moving into their first rental apartment or home and the “tools” they need, both literally and figuratively, to thrive. Rob discusses the importance of what to have in a proper tool box, and also goes over what to tackle vs. when to call in back … [Read more...] about Episode 18: Ain’t It Fun, Living In The Real World?
Conversations with Chris Zizza
Chris Zizza of C+R Flooring has been in the business or over 35 years. A master of his craft, we recently had Chris on ‘Builder’s Notebook: The Podcast’ to share his expertise on all things flooring. Chris taught us a lot, below are some of the highlights from our conversation. To listen to the whole podcast, and make sure you check out all our episodes! All right, so let's start off with a … [Read more...] about Conversations with Chris Zizza
Episode 17: To the Floor!
Episode Description We’re back for season 3! In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome flooring expert Chris Zizza of C & R Flooring. Chris, recognized as one of the industry’s leading experts in hardwood flooring and refinishing, shares his expertise on all things flooring. From discussing the different wood species, to what flooring works best in a certain environment, to the pros and cons … [Read more...] about Episode 17: To the Floor!
Episode 16: Window of Opportunity
Episode Description In our season two finale, Sarah and Bruce welcome experts Jane Egge of MacCleod and Moynihan and Jeremy Kindall of New England Window Works to discuss all things windows. First, Jane breaks down replacement windows and the many options available to homeowners. Then, Jeremy talks about rehabbing windows and shares how he works to restore them, making his case on why … [Read more...] about Episode 16: Window of Opportunity
Episode 15: A New Perspective
Episode Description In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Clayton Schuller, President of Select Building Products who shares his new favorite green Sarah, and Bruce welcome Dee Elms, owner of Elms Interior Design, who gives a new perspective on the spaces you already have in your home. From color choices to millwork to the importance of furniture layout, furniture and rug sizing, and more, … [Read more...] about Episode 15: A New Perspective
Episode 14: It’s Easy Being Green
Episode Description In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Clayton Schuller, President of Select Building Products who shares his new favorite green and sustainable wood products. Then, Clayton provides insight on steps homeowners can take to make sure their homes are running as efficiently as possible. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by … [Read more...] about Episode 14: It’s Easy Being Green
Episode 13: All About Kitchens
Episode Description The kitchen, once hidden behind closed doors, has become the centerpiece of a home. It is not only where people gather to eat, but more times than not has multipurpose use. In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Alisha Serras, owner of Scavolini Showroom to talk about contemporary kitchens. From design aesthetics, to how to properly hide appliances, Alisha, who devotes her … [Read more...] about Episode 13: All About Kitchens
Episode 12: Diversifying the Future of the Trade
Episode Description Sarah and Bruce welcome Paul MacDougall, Principal of MacDougall Plumbing and Mechanical to talk all things heating and cooling. Paul shares some of the main things people want from their heating and cooling systems, along with some of the benefits, and drSarah and Bruce welcome Brendan Driscoll from Driscoll Electric and Ed Sullivan from S+H Construction to take a close … [Read more...] about Episode 12: Diversifying the Future of the Trade
Episode 11: What a Disaster
Episode Description Sarah and Bruce welcome Paul MacDougall, Principal of MacDougall Plumbing and Mechanical to talk all things heating and cooling. Paul shares some of the main things people want from their heating and cooling systems, along with some of the benefits, and drSarah and Bruce welcome Brendan Driscoll from Driscoll Electric and Ed Sullivan from S+H Construction to take a close … [Read more...] about Episode 11: What a Disaster
Episode 10: You’re Hot Then You’re Cold
Episode Description Sarah and Bruce welcome Paul MacDougall, Principal of MacDougall Plumbing and Mechanical to talk all things heating and cooling. Paul shares some of the main things people want from their heating and cooling systems, along with some of the benefits and drawbacks of various systems. Plus, Paul provides insider knowledge on automated systems. Builder's Notebook is recorded … [Read more...] about Episode 10: You’re Hot Then You’re Cold
Episode 9: Look Before You Leap
Episode Description Builder's Notebook is back! In the first episode of Season Two, Sarah and Bruce catch viewers up on what's kept them busy these past few months, then welcome Tracey Litt of Litt Home Inspection. Tracey de-mystifies the Home Inspection process, what she looks for, how she operates, and why a proper inspection is so important. Plus, Tracey divulges to Sarah and Bruce some of … [Read more...] about Episode 9: Look Before You Leap