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
Podcast
The Builder’s Notebook Podcast shares practical advice to help listeners make informed and intelligent decisions about renovating or building a home. Hosted by Sarah Lawson and Bruce Irving, this informative, nuts and bolts series on home design, construction, and renovation will welcome industry experts and touch on a variety of topics.
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
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?
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
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
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
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?
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
Episode 8: Not Just The Curtains
Episode Description Sarah and Bruce welcome Michael Ferzoco, principal of Eleven Interiors, an award-winning Boston-based interior design firm, in our Season One finale. Sarah, Bruce, and Michael dive into the world of interior design, touching on the difference between hiring a designer for a decoration project vs. a design/build project. Michael explains the stages of the design process and … [Read more...] about Episode 8: Not Just The Curtains
Episode 7: Fusing Old and New
Episode Description ew England has one of the richest and most extensive collections of historic residential homes in the country. And while we love our old homes, renovating one of these masterpieces can often be an overwhelming undertaking. For this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Treff LaFleche, Principal of LDa Architecture & Interiors and expert on renovating historic homes. Treff … [Read more...] about Episode 7: Fusing Old and New
Episode 6: The Snowball Effect
Episode Description Sarah and Bruce welcome award-winning architect and principal of Zero Energy Design, Stephanie Horowitz. Learn the difference between a high-performance home, a zero energy or net-zero home, and a passive home, and what it takes to design them. Stephanie, Sarah, and Bruce also share their knowledge on updating an older home to make it more enSarah and Bruce are joined by … [Read more...] about Episode 6: The Snowball Effect
Episode 5: Our House is Sealed
Episode Description Sarah and Bruce welcome award-winning architect and principal of Zero Energy Design, Stephanie Horowitz. Learn the difference between a high-performance home, a zero energy or net-zero home, and a passive home, and what it takes to design them. Stephanie, Sarah, and Bruce also share their knowledge on updating an older home to make it more energy-efficient, and why windows … [Read more...] about Episode 5: Our House is Sealed
Episode 4: Let There Be Light!
Episode Description 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. Builder's Notebook … [Read more...] about Episode 4: Let There Be Light!
Episode 3: Trusting your Senses
Episode Description Wood gutters, uneven flooring, cracking in the walls – should you be concerned? If you're considering buying an older home, what clues should you look for to help determine how well the home was cared for and what should make you run? Sarah and Bruce discuss how your eyes, nose, and feet can tell you a lot more than you think.. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced … [Read more...] about Episode 3: Trusting your Senses
Episode 2: Basement Water
Episode Description Meet Our Hosts! Sarah Lawson, owner of S+H Construction and Bruce Irving, Water, water everywhere!! This year has seen an unprecedented number of rain storms, taking a toll on our homes. S+H's Field Director Ed Sullivan, joins Sarah and Bruce to tackle the topic of water in the basement– a homeowners' nightmare. Learn how it happens, why it happens, and what you can do to … [Read more...] about Episode 2: Basement Water
Episode 1: The Humble Brag
Episode Description Meet Our Hosts! Sarah Lawson, owner of S+H Construction and Bruce Irving, renovation and real estate expert, share how they started in the business, their bumps-in-the-road, their successes, and lessons learned along the way. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters. The podcast is available on the … [Read more...] about Episode 1: The Humble Brag