In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome award-winning landscape designer Greg Lombardi, of Gregory Lombardi Design, who reflects on how design preferences have shifted over the past few decades - from formal, overproduced gardens to more relaxed, ecologically conscious landscapes. He shares insights on the rise of native plantings, climate resilience, and the beauty of “messy on purpose” gardens. Then, Greg shares his insight on cultural perceptions, generational change, and the evolving relationship between people and their outdoor spaces. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters
In the season five premiere, Sarah and Bruce welcome construction engineering experts Harry Berlis and Tom Fennick of McPHAIL ASSOCIATES, LLC, who intrigue with their knowledge of the history of Back Bay. Before it became brownstones and boutiques, Back Bay was precisely that—a bay. In the 1800s, Boston launched a massive land-filling project that transformed water and marsh into one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. This episode dives into the bold engineering, political will, and sheer volume of dirt that built Back Bay from the ground up and how it still stands today! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters
In this episode Sarah and Bruce sit down with John Bigelow of Compass Real Estate and Bigelow/Irving to dive into the current state of the housing market and answer some of the most common questions from both buyers and sellers. From the age-old debate of whether it’s worth renovating before selling, to staging tips, first-time buyer pitfalls, and the ever-changing dynamics of bidding wars, John shares practical advice and sharp insights drawn from his years in the field including market conditions, pricing strategies, and even condo association vibes can make or break a deal. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, this episode offers an honest and informative look at the realities of real estate today.Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters
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 the latest appliance trends? From cooking time, to temperature control and safety and everything in-between, listen in to this well-informed and lively discussion, topped off with what's hot and what's not in kitchen colors! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 federal and state benefits in doing so, and small things you can do to make your space more airtight and efficient. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 - and pets - that might be regular visitors, are discussed in detail. If you're contemplating a getaway escape, you won't want to miss this episode! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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, upgrades, and programs give you the biggest bang for your buck. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 effortless! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 recently, modern media. The group then discusses the problem with the McMansion, and their take on how to beautifully craft affordable homes and avoid the look of mass production. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 you stay put as you age. Josh discusses ways to improve your home for better mobility and adaptability over time, and provides sound advice on everything from small improvements, to the bigger moves you can make to ensure comfortable, long-term livability without sacrificing style. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 you’re prepared for any additional snowfall this season –even though we’re all hoping for an early spring! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 up. This useful and informative topic will help prepare any young adults embarking on living on their own for the first time! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
In our season two finale, Sarah and Bruce welcome experts Jane Egge of MacLeod 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 he feels older windows should never be replaced. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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, Dee shares her advice on reworking your space without adding square footage. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 a 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 kitchen design, shares with Sarah and Bruce her expertise on the most important space in your home. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
Sarah and Bruce welcome Dee Tavares, Project Development Manager at YouthBuild Boston and Adjunct Instructor at Wentworth Institute of Technology. Dee, who is helping shape the future of the trade industry, shares with Sarah and Bruce the YouthBuild Boston mission and their programs that are helping diversify the building, construction, architecture and design industries. Plus, Dee talks about the different initiatives he is a part of at Wentworth. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
Sarah and Bruce welcome Brendan Driscoll from Driscoll Electric and Ed Sullivan from S+H Construction to take a close look at house disasters and how to prevent them! Brendan dives into how to head off typical and not-so-typical electrical issues that can happen in you home and S+H's Ed Sullivan is back to talk about all types of water disasters, from ice dams to groundwater, and the best methods to avoid a very costly situation. This is one you won't want to miss! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz
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 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 the worst and most expensive things she's seen and gives her honest opinion on why waiving home inspections is a recipe for disaster. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz