PRELUDE Volume VII

Volume VI 

INTERIOR 

DESIGN 

ISSUE 

A publication of Boston Design Guide

flatten the climate curve | build to endure 

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Photography: Jeffrey S. Adams 

Architect: Patrick Ahearn; Photography: Jeff Adams 

WE HAVE ONE SIMPLE CONCEPT: 

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network of highly skilled subcontractors and clients will come… 

and come back. 

Photography: Shelly Harrison 

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781-703-5970 | 31 GREEN STREET, WALTHAM, MA 02451 | WWW.CONCEPTBUILDINGINC.COM

Interior Design: Heather Vaughan; Photography: Michael J. Lee 

Heartwood Cabinetmakers 

Building and installing high-end custom cabinetry in Greater Boston. 

Holliston, MA • heartwoodcabinetmakers.com

From the Publisher 

PRELUDE 

The Interior Design Issue 

Here in New England, great 

design is everywhere. We are 

fortunate to have some of the 

most talented interior designers 

around in our midst. This issue 

of PRELUDE focuses on some of 

those inspirational, imaginative, 

high-caliber designers and the 

spaces they’ve worked on. 

While they certainly set the 

aesthetics of space, it’s not just 

interior designers, however, who 

are responsible for creating a 

home. In fact, several designers 

we talked to for this issue— 

including Heather Vaughan 

whose project with architect 

Peter Sachs and Heartwood 

Cabinetmakers is the star of 

this issue’s main feature “True 

Blue,”—were quick to remind 

us that it takes a team of diverse 

professionals to do the job right. 

As always, in the following 

pages we spotlight many of 

these folks—construction firms, 

architects, specialty craftsmen, 

landscape firms, and more. Take 

your time perusing the issue, 

which can also be found on our 

website (bostondesignguide. 

com); additional snippets 

including outtakes that didn’t 

make it in print will be featured 

later on our blog and Instagram 

(@bostondesignguide). 

As this issue goes off to press, 

we’re embarking on our biggest 

endeavor yet: putting together 

the 25 th Anniversary Issue of our flagship magazine, Boston Design Guide, which publishes this summer. To commemorate this 

special occasion we’ll be doing a few exciting things, stay tuned to hear what’s coming up! 

Enjoy this issue and the upcoming months of warm weather! 

@BostonDesignGuide 

Melanie Perillo, Publisher 

Jaci Conry, Editorial Director 

@BostonDesignGuide 

@BostonDesignMag 

6 

bostondesignguide.com

CONTENTS 

38 

PUBLISHER 

Melanie Perillo 

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR 

Jaci Conry 

DESIGN DIRECTOR 

Rob Silsby 

ASSISTANT EDITOR 

MaryKate Forté 

11 

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER 

Cierra Dubinsky 

SALES/DISTRIBUTION MANAGER 

Ian Kaplan 

ACCOUNT MANAGERS 

Lisa Almquist 

Ian Kaplan 

Colleen Keelan 

Maureen Lampert 

52 

11 Exhibition Space 

LDa Architecture & Interiors approaches art with intention. 

18 Classic Revival 

Robin Gannon adds dimension with color, texture, and architectural details 

that honor the origins of this home. 

30 Colonial Revolution 

Jan Gleysteen revolutionizes the design of the traditional Colonial-style 

house for the modern sensibility. 

38 True Blue 

A cherished 19 th century residence is reimagined to suit the tastes of 

a young family. 

52 A Quest for Distinction 

Vani Sayeed creates a vivid scheme inspired by adventure. 

51 Detail Oriented 

Acampora Interiors shares its secret to establishing a unified home design. 

65 Forward Momentum 

The future looks bright for Kistler & Knapp Builders. 

Cover: Architecture: Peter Sachs Architect; Interior Design: Heather Vaughan Design; 

Cabinetry and Millwork: Heartwood Cabinetmakers; Photography: Michael J. Lee 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

Dan Cutrona Evelyn Dow 

Rob Karosis Jared Kuzia 

Michael J. Lee Warren Patterson 

Greg Premru Nat Rea 

Keitaro Yoshioka 

www.bostondesignguide.com 

BDG PRELUDE - Volume VII, 2021, prints triannually and is 

published by Boston Design Guide, Inc. 365 Boston Post Road, Box 

373, Sudbury, MA 01776. Boston Design Guide (“BDG”) provides 

information on luxury homes and lifestyles. Boston Design Guide, 

its affiliates, employees, contributors, writers, editors, (Publisher) 

accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors or omissions 

with information and/or advertisements contained herein. The 

publisher has neither investigated nor endorsed the companies 

and/or products that advertise within the publication or that are 

mentioned editorially. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the 

claims made by the Advertisers or the merits of their respective 

products or services advertised or mentioned editorially herein, 

and neither expressly nor implicitly endorses such Advertiser 

products, services or claims. Publisher expressly assumes no 

liability for any damages whatsoever that may be suffered by 

any purchaser or user for any products or services advertised or 

mentioned editorially herein and strongly recommends that any 

purchaser or user investigate such products, services, methods 

and/or claims made thereto. Opinions expressed in the magazine 

and/or its advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions 

of the Publisher. Neither the Publisher nor its staff, associates or 

affiliates are responsible for any errors, omissions or information 

whatsoever that have been misrepresented to Publisher. The 

information on products and services as advertised in BDG 

PRELUDE are shown by Publisher on an “as is” and “as available” 

basis. Publisher makes no representations or warranties of any 

kind, expressed or implied, as to the information, services, 

contents, trademarks, patents, materials or products included 

in this magazine. All pictures reproduced in BDG PRELUDE 

have been accepted by Publisher on the condition that such 

pictures are reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent 

of the photographer and any homeowner concerned. As such, 

Publisher is not responsible for any infringement of the copyright 

or otherwise arising out of any publication in BDG PRELUDE. 

BDG PRELUDE is a pending licensed trademark of Boston 

Design Guide, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication 

may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, 

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written permission of the Publisher. ADDRESS SUBSCRIPTION 

REQUESTS AND CORRESPONDENCE TO: Boston Design 

Guide, 365 Boston Post Road, Box 373, Sudbury, MA 01776. 

Email: Info@BostonDesignGuide.com or telephone 978-443-9886. 

8 


FOLEY FIORE ARCHITECTURE 

www.foleyfiore.com 617.547.8002 info@foleyfiore.com

Photography: George Gray (top); Warren Jagger (bottom) 

QUALITY CONSTRUCTION. 

DISTINCTIVE CRAFTSMANSHIP. 

TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS. 

401.619.3909 | WKPCONSTRUCTION.COM | BELLEVUE AVE., NEWPORT, RI 

WKPconstruction_PRELUDE-V7_Full.indd 1 

5/14/21 12:50 PM

Exhibition 

Space 

LDa Architecture & Interiors 

approaches art with intention. 

bostondesignguide.com 11

Photography: Greg Premru 

12 


“Art,” 

says John Day, interior design 

principal of LDa Architecture & 

Interiors, “is something we tackle 

more than anything else in our interior design projects.” 

To avoid scrambling at the end of a project to find art 

that works well in a home, Day and the firm’s design 

team addresses the type of art that will suit spaces at 

the beginning of a project. “We want homeowners to 

understand that artwork is very important, that it shouldn’t 

be left out until the end of a project,” says design 

associate Erin Tracey. 

Art is an essential component to make a room look and 

feel finished. “We want our clients to find pieces they 

love,” says Day, noting that finding art for some clients 

can be a complex process. “We try to encourage people 

not to just fill up a big empty space, but to gather art 

in phases.” 

Design associate Dean Sawyer recalls a younger couple 

who hadn’t had much experience purchasing art. “They 

were looking for a statement piece with color to hang over 

the fireplace in their great room,” says Sawyer. The couple 

discovered a colorful abstract painting at a gallery on 

Nantucket that spoke to them and seemed ideal for their 

neutralhued room. “They texted me photos from the 

gallery. It was a major purchase and they felt really excited 

about it.” Sawyer repeated colors from the painting in the 

throw pillows to unify the room. 

In some situations, a client has already cultivated an art 

collection and accommodating space to display the 

works is a focus early on in the project. “Scale can be the 

biggest challenge,” says Tracey. “We need to make sure 

we have enough walls to put massive canvases on.” To 

help visualize how art will look in a room, the designers 

are able to photoshop art into renderings, which also is 

helpful in educating homeowners about the size of art that 

is appropriate for a space. 

“Like fashion, art is one of those 

equalizers. You don’t have to buy 

all the Monets—all art doesn’t 

have to be super expensive.” 

—John Day 

A vintage Ralph Pucci table displays a sculpture depicting a 

serpentine. The built-in shelves provide the perfect backdrop 

for smaller pieces. 


Sometimes assimilating pieces that were in a client’s 

former home and making them work in a new space 

requires a bit of reconfiguration. “We take things that 

have strong visual and personal value and give them 

fresh life,” says Day, who often has paintings reframed or 

displayed in a grouping of similar pieces to revive them for 

a new home. 

Art isn’t just about wall-hangings, notes Day. “We incorporate 

sculptures and other 3D type pieces into homes as 

well.” Additionally, the design team often recommends 

incorporating retail pieces with higher end works to infuse 

character and color into a room on a budget. 

“Like fashion, art is one of those equalizers,” says Day. 

“You don’t have to buy all the Monets—all art doesn’t have 

be super expensive. Some of our projects with the best art 

have been the value-oriented ones, with a mixture of high 

and low pieces.” 

To see more of LDa Architecture & Interiors work, go to 

lda-architects.com. 

Right: A kaleidoscope of metallic, enamel painted 3D butterflies 

appears to float on the wall near a glass ceiling where light 

dances beautifully off the piece. Below: The homeowners 

convinced a painter to let them purchase his mixing board to 

hang in their kitchen. 

Photograph: Sean Litchfield. 

14 


STREAMLINING 

SELECTIONS 

Simplify the kitchen design process by 

selecting the appliances first. 

The Wolf Convection Steam Oven is Clarke’s big surprise. Homeowners add this to their wish list more often than any other appliance 

after a visit to Clarke’s Showroom. 

By Kelly McCoy 

For many, starting a kitchen project begins with the 

cabinets. While it’s helpful to clarify your personal style by 

browsing websites and magazines and talking to friends, 

great kitchen layouts actually start by researching appliances. 

“Once we discuss a homeowner’s vision and lifestyle, we 

recommend that they start researching appliances,” says 

Westborough Design Center’s Claudette Andrew. “Many 

times homeowners don’t realize all of the exciting options, 

and appliance selection will definitely impact the layout and 

design of the kitchen. Doing that research up front, which 

we can help with, saves time and helps to prevent redesigns 

when they realize they really want to add a steam oven or 

built-in coffee center or wine storage.” 

When you think about it, it makes sense. Your layout may 

be very different if you select a Wolf 48” Dual-Fuel Range 

than if you envision an induction cooktop and built-in 

wall ovens. Perhaps you’d like to incorporate Sub-Zero 

refrigerator drawers (rated by designers as their favorite 

appliance) or integrate wine storage into your kitchen 

design? In fact, the Wolf Convection Steam Oven is the 

top choice for visitors to Clarke, New England’s Official 

Sub-Zero, Wolf & Cove Showroom. “Once homeowners 

see the Convection Steam Oven in action at our 

showroom, they just have to have one, “says Clarke Boston 

showroom manager Jeremy McCulla. 

Ready to start dreaming about a new kitchen? You won’t 

buy anything at Clarke, so there’s no pressure. You’ll simply 

learn from the industry’s top appliance experts and, if you 

would like to purchase Sub-Zero or Wolf appliances, you’ll 

be referred to an authorized dealer in your area. 

To schedule an in-person or virtual appointment at 

Clarke in Boston Seaport or Milford, Massachusetts, visit 

clarkeliving.com. 

16 


Without Jeremy, it wouldn’t be Clarke. 

Spend an hour at a Clarke Showroom and one thing is clear: 

your time with a Clarke Consultant is the most valuable part 

of your kitchen journey. While they’re not designers, these 

are the people designers call on when it comes to appliance 

recommendations. You won’t buy anything at Clarke, so there’s 

simply no pressure. What you can do is compare more Sub-Zero, 

Wolf and Cove models than anywhere in New England. And 

explore a living portfolio of kitchens created by the region’s 

top designers. You’ll leave inspired with new knowledge to 

make your appliance selections with confidence. 

Showroom Manager 

Jeremy McCulla has 

been recognized by 

the design industry as 

Boston’s top customer 

service professional. 

His product knowledge 

and ability to understand 

the goals of discerning 

homeowners and 

designers makes your 

kitchen design journey 

a pleasure. 

New England’s Official Showroom and Test Kitchen 

Boston & Milford, MA • South Norwalk, CT • 800-845-8247 • clarkeliving.com

Classic Revival 

ROBIN GANNON ADDS DIMENSION WITH 

COLOR, TEXTURE, AND ARCHITECTURAL 

DETAILS THAT HONOR THE ORIGINS OF 

THIS HOME. 

18 


ostondesignguide.com 19

Photography: Michael J. Lee 

Though well-built and appealing from 

the exterior, this suburban Mission-style 

residence lacked character inside. The 

homeowners tapped designer Robin 

Gannon to give the interior a more 

distinctive vibe. “Right away, I realized that 

we needed to give the home some architectural details to 

make it feel special,” says Gannon. 

The main living spaces—kitchen, dining area, and family 

room—encompass one large room and “all I saw the 

first time I visited was a vast white plaster ceiling,” recalls 

Gannon. “There was nothing breaking up any of the area.” 

To help distinguish between the different spaces, Gannon 

designed vertical columns to visually separate the dining and 

family room. “We added classic architectural detailing. The 

new columns could have been original to the house,” says 

Gannon. “It’s important when adding elements to a house 

that you are respectful of the architecture. Anything you 

attach to the walls needs to feel like it belongs.” 

Millwork, including crown molding and mahogany ceiling 

beams, was also installed. To exude an enveloping appeal, 

Gannon called for the wood to be stained brown. “Typically, 

when you paint millwork you want it to recede, but in 

this case, I wanted the large space to feel cozier.” Inset 

20 


etween the ceiling beams, a Schumacher pattern based 

on a Moroccan tile motif draws the eye upward. Textural 

elements, including a woven Phillip Jeffries wallcovering, 

were introduced to add warmth to the space, along with 

antique brass light fixtures and kitchen hardware. 

The homeowner’s vibrant oriental rug was incorporated into 

the new scheme and the room’s palette centers upon its hues, 

including peach, which is repeated in the chairs and drapery. 

Mulberry, another one of the rug’s colors was incorporated 

into throw pillows and the kitchen stools are upholstered 

in a similar shade. Two sizeable painted canvases created 

specifically for the space pick up the rug’s blue tones. 

“Color is life. It makes people happy,” says Gannon, 

noting the powder room’s Benjamin Moore Habanero 

Pepper-painted vanity that seems to joyfully jump out 

against the high white wood paneled walls. The Galbraith 

and Paul wallcovering is equally upbeat with its vivid 

colorway featuring the mulberry hue that weaves through 

the adjacent room. 

“There has to be some a thread that winds its way 

throughout the space,” says Gannon. “That type of 

connection is integral to creating a cohesive space.” 

For more information, visit robingannoninteriors.com 


COUNTER 

STATEMENTS 

Cumar works with designers to 

source exotic stones. 

“There is an artisanship to what we do,” says 

Carlotta Cubi Mandra, vice president of Cumar, 

a family-owned business located in Everett that 

specializes in the custom fabrication of natural 

stone. With 29 years of industry experience, 

Cumar works closely with interior designers and 

architects on creative projects that continue to 

push boundaries and raise the bar. 

“What I love about working with tradespeople 

is their creativity and how they envision a space 

in a way only a professional can,” says Mandra. 

“Executing their ideas is exciting and challenging 

and makes us unique because we have the specific 

skillset required for these unusual projects.” 

When interior designer Barbara Kotzen brings 

clients to Cumar she understands the overall 

feeling of the room they are trying to create. 

“Starting with the finishes in the room, I navigate 

my client through different colors and tones that 

will work within the scheme we’ve begun to pull 

together,” says Kotzen. 

Photograph: Warren Patterson 

Working with Cumar for over 15 years, Kotzen 

and her clients choose from their variety of highquality 

stones sourced from quarries in Italy, 

including marble, quartzite, quartz, granite, and 

semi-precious slabs. For a recent project, Kotzen 

designed a bar with a cerused black oak finish 

wood base paired with a calcutta cielo marble top 

and backsplash. With charcoal undertones and 

different shades of gray running through, the stone 

is accentuated by overhanging Holly Hunt lights 

and collected antique glassware is displayed in the 

matching black oak cabinetry. 

Collaborating with designers motivates Cumar’s 

team to push the envelope as they navigate 

intricate residential projects. From discussing 

project design initiatives to establishing materials 

and conducting field evaluations and installations, 

Mandra emphasizes the value of working with 

tradespeople. “It makes the project run smoother 

since they have experience and also helps 

guide the homeowner throughout the decisionmaking 

process.” 

Photograph: Evelyn Dow 

For more information, visit www.cumar.com and 

kotzeninteriors.com. 


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Blaze to Glory 

AFTER A FIRE DESTROYS A BELOVED 

HOME, MEYER & MEYER REDESIGNS 

IT WITH REVERENCE. 

Photography: Warren Patterson 

26 bostondesignguide.com

After living in their dream home for seven years, the homeowners 

of this 1910 Charlestown townhouse in the Gaslight District were 

in the midst of a small renovation to expand the third floor when 

an electrical fire struck one night, all but destroying the home. 

The homeowners sought to rebuild while preserving as much 

of the original structure as possible. To draft plans for the 

renovation that would honor the home’s architectural origins and 

its place in the neighborhood, they contracted Meyer & Meyer 

Architecture and Interiors, a firm known for its work on classic 

homes and historic renovations. 

Smoke and fire damaged the roof and third floor of the brick 

structure, while flooding destroyed most aspects of the rest of 

the home. Throughout the renovation process, Meyer & Meyer 

also made adjustments to the floorplan that would enhance 

the home’s sightlines and usable space. By removing a kitchen 

wall, it was possible to open up the first floor and connect the 

formerly isolated kitchen to the rest of the home. The second 

floor was reconfigured to include a third bedroom, and a slate 

and copper Mansard roof added two front windows to the third 

floor, which create space for a bright and spacious master suite. 

In the living room, reclaimed eight-inch-wide hickory floors, 

custom-designed built-ins, and detailed moldings preserve 

the home’s original character. Certain moldings, doors, and 

wood managed to survive the fire, and the design team copied 

decorative corner pieces of the door trims and used reclaimed 

wood to recreate other original aspects of the home. 

Pocket doors between the living and dining rooms were salvaged, 

as were two original fireplaces replete with the original marble 

surrounds. The kitchen cabinets are painted blue, as a nod to the 

home’s nautical origins. 

The Gas Light District was originally surrounded by multiple 

waterways, and home to naval officers in the late 1800s. New 

exterior shutters feature carved anchors, as a nod to this nautical 

heritage; the freshly painted blue front door stands out against 

the white trim, a symbol of sorts that the family is back home. 

For more details, visit meyerandmeyerarchitects.com. 


FREE RANGETHE DESIGN CAPABILITIES ARE 

LIMITLESS FOR THE TEAM AT SV DESIGN. 

With offices on the North Shore and Cape Cod, SV Design— 

formerly referred to as Siemasko + Verbridge—has a stellar 

reputation amassed over three decades of experience as 

one of the region’s top architecture and interior design firms. 

Throughout the course of SV Design’s tenure, says principal 

Tobin Shulman, “we’ve become contextualists. Our design 

ability, our sense of proportion and flow, transcends any 

particular style.” 

The firm designs new construction residences from the 

ground up and renovates existing properties. From a 19 th - 

century Boston townhouse to a 1980s deck house to a 

new North Shore residence comprised of traditional New 

England forms, “All of our projects are very different from 

one another,” says Shulman. 

When the firm’s integrated suite of design services works 

together, SV Design is able to accomplish major changes 

in existing homes and develop distinct and cohesive new 

houses, says Leslie Schneeberger, an associate principal with 

the firm. “We’re able to create a wide variety of styles quite 

well. We take our clients tastes and transform them into 

something amazing.” 

To learn more about the firm, visit svdesign.com. 

Photography: Dan Cutrona (top); Ngoc X Doan (bottom left); Micheal J. Lee (bottom right) 

28 


Photographer: Jim Westphalen

Jan Gleysteen revolutionizes the design of the traditional 

Colonial-style house for the modern sensibility. 

For the first 14 years of his career, Wellesley based architect Jan 

Gleysteen only designed homes in the modern style. “But, eventually, 

to make a living in New England, I realized I need to focus on more 

traditional architecture,” says Gleysteen. 

Three decades later, Gleysteen’s modern roots have found resonance 

with a new generation. Recently, he designed a house he’s coined the 

Modern Colonial. Perhaps the most reinvented of home styles, there 

have been new interpretations of the Colonial for each century. 

Gleysteen builds on this tradition, developing the Modern Colonial. In 

Gleysteen’s version, he maintains the traditional Colonial floorplan. The 

first floor contains the living spaces, while bedrooms are upstairs. While 

the architectural grammar—how things are put together—of a Colonial 

are unchangeable, the vocabulary—the details—can be altered. And 

that’s when things get exciting with Gleysteen’s design. He added modern 

details that compliment the traditional massing of a Colonial including 

oversize clapboard siding, vertical shiplap siding on the gables, and 

canopied entry roofs that cantilever from the house. Inside, there is an 

absence of crown moldings and decorative millwork. “The interior is 

simplified,” says Gleysteen, noting that sustainable materials were also 

used in the project; including synthetic clapboards and PVC trim. 

Photography by Rob Karosis 

Colonial EVOLUTION 

30 


“There are certain elements that you just can’t change about a 

Colonial,” says Gleysteen. “You can’t put a metal roof on one or do 

board and batten siding.” Gable roof forms are necessary and the style 

also has to have a symmetrical arrangement of windows, a center entry 

is also key. “Double hung mullion windows have to be used, but you can 

use black around them,” he adds. 

The classic shape of the front façade ensures that home fits well into 

a neighborhood of mostly traditional homes. It’s only upon close 

inspection that the distinctive details become apparent, a signal that the 

house has something more to it. 

“It’s a house very much designed for the modern family,” says 

Gleysteen, noting that the three-car garage, which has bronze-tinted 

glass doors that exude a slightly mirrored reflection, has a double bay 

and a single one. “I thought mom could take the double bay because 

she needs extra space for unloading the SUV with the kids and all their 

stuff and dad can take the small signal one.” 

Photo by Richard Mandelkorn 

To learn more, visit jangleysteeninc.com. 


Architect Nicholas Stanos and his team create 

impressive graphite drawings to illustrate the mood and 

character of spaces his firm designs for their clients. 

“The drawings become a vehicle for representing not 

only our design intent but also bring form to what the 

clients are imagining,” says Stanos, whose architecture 

firm Nicholas Stanos Architect, is located in New York 

City with a new outpost in Osterville. “The drawings 

enable our clients to discover and embrace what the 

new place is going to be like before it’s built.” 

Stanos opened the Osterville location last fall after he 

and his family temporarily relocated due to COVID to 

West Yarmouth where his wife Valerie grew up. Nicholas 

recognized that his firm was quite effective working 

remotely during the pandemic, which motivated him 

to seize the opportunity to expand his firm’s reach 

along the East Coast by establishing a permanent 

office on Cape Cod. The firm specializes in custom 

luxury residential design with a focus on interpreting 

the regional architectural styles and contexts unique 

to each project’s location, in a range of traditional to 

modern ways. Stanos’s firm is already exploring the 

natural beauty and regional architectural style in new 

commissions on Nantucket and Chatham. 

Striking collaborations with other creative-minded individuals 

is of interest to Stanos, who sees his Osterville 

studio as an opportunity to feature the work of other 

designers, artisans, and artists. This summer, an exhibit 

of New York photographer Steve Pool’s portrait-like 

photographs of flowers and vegetables will showcase in 

an exhibit at the studio, the first of many to come. 

For more information, visit nstanos.com. 

INSPIRED 

Interior Design: 

Polly Lewis, Boston 

Kane O'Keefe, New York 

Walnut & Resin Table: 

Christian Borger, Boston 

Hoon Kim, New York 

EXPANSION 

An architectural firm broadens its reach. 

32 


Architect: Patrick Ahearn; Interior Design: Katie Rosenfeld; 

Builder: The Chelsea Company Photography: Warren PattersonWritten 

in Stone 

With its deep black background and striking white veining, 

the polished Skyfall granite topped island is a showstopper 

in this suburban kitchen. To source, fabricate, and install the 

counters in their new kitchen, the homeowners contracted 

Onyx Marble & Granite. 

The island features a dark wood base. Paired with the multifaceted 

dark granite top, the piece is the focal point of the 

room, which features white cabinetry, walls clad with subway 

tile, and brass hardware. The island’s bold stone top adds 

wow-factor and “gives that final touch” to the room, says Jose 

Moraes, president of Onyx Marble & Granite. “A lot of people 

tend to go with very simple colors and this particular stone 

goes beyond the usual.” 

Much more subtle in contrast to the granite island, are the 

kitchen’s surrounding calacatta retro marble counters. With a 

milky white background and deep gray veins running through, 

the counters seamlessly flow into the cabinetry and a honed 

finish leaves them matte and smooth. 

In addition to its stellar stonework, the communication the 

Onyx Marble & Granite team provides to their clients sets 

them apart from other companies, according to Moraes. “We 

try to be there for them at all times, answering questions as 

fast as we can and that makes us a little different.” 

Visit onyxgranite.com to see more examples of Onyx’s work. 


Photography: Dan Cutrona 

FBN worked with 

Platemark Design to 

complete this contemporary 

home located in Back Bay. 


HONEST WORK 

It’s all about being 

forthright and I really enjoy 

being able to do business 

that way. I’m proud I’ve 

had some level of success 

building a company that 

represents that. 

FBN Construction’s ethos is centered upon being upfront and on-point. 

Bob Ernst, president of FBN Construction, one of Boston’s 

premier residential construction and remodeling firms, 

values openness and transparency above all else. He 

believes in listening to his clients and conveying honest 

communication from the beginning to achieve success. 

Ernst started his business out of frustration after witnessing 

firsthand the competitive bids builders would submit for 

projects. He watched firms presenting unrealistically low 

budgets so they could secure jobs, without keeping in 

mind what was best for the clients. This inspired Ernst 

to take an alternate approach to providing high-end 

residential remodeling and custom home construction in 

Boston and the surrounding suburbs. 

“I thought if I can understand what people’s expectations 

are and then meet them, I will be very successful because 

nobody else is doing that,” says Ernst. “To be successful 

and to stick out in this business means setting expectations 

and meeting them and I still believe that to this day.” 

Twenty-six years later, Ernst has grown his business’s 

revenue to more than $10 million, with client satisfaction 

as his top priority. He now helms a team of 34 employees 

along with many trade partners they collaborate with 

often to provide comprehensive services to the client. 

Ernst stresses the importance of working toward a shared 

goal to accomplish the best results. Approaching every 

opportunity and communication with honesty, dignity, 

fairness, and respect makes it easy for the team to 

communicate and make decisions when problems arise. 

FBN prioritizes client satisfaction and works jointly with 

the client to bring their vision to life. Remaining open and 

upfront and maintaining a team that echoes those same 

sentiments has played an integral role in the company’s 

success. Doing so also fulfills Ernst’s desire to make people 

happy, which, he says, is all he was ever looking to achieve. 

For more information, visit fbnconstruction.com. 


(Clockwise from top) The 

bedrooms have distinctive 

flair: The master’s king bed is 

wrapped in velvet turquoise, 

and the room boasts a Phillip 

Jeffries wallcovering with panels 

that seamlessly blend together 

to create the illusion of clouds, 

mountains, and water; in a kid’s 

room, a lively Phillip Jeffries 

pattern on the wall is paired 

with a custom lavender rug; the 

main living area has a prime 

view of the harbor. 

36 


IN-TOWN OASIS 

A Seaport residence with a contemporary 

vibe serves as a family retreat. 

Photography: Jared Kuzia 

Privileged to have sweeping views of Boston Harbor from 

every room, the homeowners of this Seaport penthouse 

contacted Mark Haddad, who helms Interiology Design 

Co., to tailor the tone for the interiors. 

Among the driving forces that helped inspire the aesthetic 

included accentuating the view of the harbor, establishing 

a low maintenance vibe, and adhering to the homeowners’ 

contemporary taste. 

Playing off of turquoise and aqua instead of deeper blues 

and inserting subtle references to the ocean, the goal 

was to “give a gentle nod to quintessential coastal New 

England,” says Mark Haddad. 

As visitors to the home emerge from the neutralhued 

foyer, a celing papered with a blue-toned Romo 

wallcovering in the main living area creates an unexpected 

punch. The goal here, says Haddad, was for the inhabitants 

to feel enveloped in the space; to see an explosion of 

color, while continually playing off the water theme. A 

curved sofa and round chairs make the space feel less 

angular. “The furniture plays off of asymmetrical shapes 

and was specifically chosen for the space to feel softer, not 

traditionally rectangular or round,” says Haddad. 

“We’re fortunate to work with this specific client,” Haddad 

says. “We’ve done three homes for them and they’re all 

different. We meet their aesthetic but never duplicate. 

That’s what keeps our job interesting. We really strive to 

reflect the clients’ personality in every project.” 

To learn more, visit interiology.com. 


The beads on the foyer chandelier were dyed deep blue “to give the 

homeowners another shade of blue in a slightly different way,” says 

Vaughan. In the dining room beyond, drapes made of Schumacher 

fabric feature a shade of blue with a greenish tint. 

38 


True 

Blue 

A cherished 19 th century 

residence is reimagined 

to suit the tastes of a 

young family. 

Set on a verdant lot near Newton’s Waban Village, the 

homeowners loved the gracious Victorian they bought in 

2018. “Aesthetically, however, it wasn’t them,” says interior 

designer Heather Vaughan, who collaborated with architect 

Peter Sachs to renovate the home to suit the family. 

The project involved reconfiguring the floor plan on the 

main level. The original dining room, which overlooked the 

yard, became the site of the new kitchen and the dining 

room was relocated to the former family room. “The home 

has a very large backyard and the owners wanted to be able 

to sit in the kitchen and watch their daughter play,” explains 

Vaughan. 

A carriage house, complete with a three-car garage and 

second story man cave, was also constructed. “For the 

garage we reproduced the architecture of the house, 

which was built in the 1880s, so there is a seamless quality 

between the two structures,” says Peter Sachs. “When 

we’re planning for places like this we try to get into the 

mind of the original architects and envision a program that 

is similar to what they might have designed.” 

While a goal of the project was to create a less choppy, 

more open, airy layout with contemporary detailing, it was 

important to the homeowners that the original spirit of 

the home be honored. As such, the antique windows were 

restored and other era appropriate elements were created, 

including wainscotting, pocket doors, and leaded glass 

transom windows. 


“The homeowners have a strong love of blue,” says 

Vaughan. “When we came on board, everything was 

blue—all the walls, etc.” Vaughan sought to give the 

couple the blue they gravitated to in a different way. 

“Every room doesn’t have to be painted blue to make the 

color a big part of the overall scheme,” she says. Rather, 

various shades of blue are infused into spaces discretely. 

Blue can be found in many of the home’s vintage rugs 

which lend an eclectic, fun feel to the home, says Vaughan, 

“while offering a bit age and patina which sets a lovely 

tone,” as well as in the wallcoverings and fabrics. The 

pedestal base of the kitchen table, customized by Dunes 

& Duchess, is painted in blue lacquer and the banquette 

edges are painted another variation of the hue, while 

the upholstery features a blue pattern against a white 

background. 

A coffee and whiskey station for the kitchen was at the top 

of the homeowner’s wish list, and Vaughan collaborated 

with Heartwood Cabinetmakers to design one that fits into 

a nook next to the original fireplace. It’s crafted of walnut 

as is the rest of the cabinetry along that wall. Above the 

cabinetry, a large plastered soffit was also concealed with 

the wood, says Heartwood’s Chris Goddard. “While we 

had to cover the soffit, we didn’t want it to appear like 

a fixed mistake, we wanted it to look intentional.” The rest 

of the cabinets are painted Farrow & Ball Cornforth White. 

“It’s a wonderful warm, white grey. To have all of the cabinets 

painted white would have been too much,” says Vaughan. 

“The walnut evokes a sense of richness that balances the 

space.” Goddard’s team crafted the range hood out of 

wood, painted white, with a band of walnut for continuity. 

(Left) The built-in coffee station has a soapstone 

backsplash that mimics the fireplace surround. 

(Above) A white Ann Sacks tile backsplash 

sheaths the entire wall behind the stove; an 

Arteriors light fixture above the table “is a little 

funky and adds movement to the space,” says 

Vaughan. Heartwood Cabinetmakers worked 

closely with the upholsterer to ensure the 

banquette was crafted to specifications. 


“One of the best things about this house and all of 

the homes Peter renovates is that you never know 

what’s old and what’s new when he is finished.” 

—Heather Vaughan 


42 bostondesignguide.com 

The master bathroom vanity 

pairs rosewood with aged brass.

The vanity in the master bathroom, also created by Heartwood, 

is made of another rich timber: barrel cut rosewood. 

“This is a very customized piece,” says Goddard, noting 

the intricate process of integrating the lip pull hardware 

into the drawer fronts. “The wood grain is horizontal and 

after the sheet of veneer was cut into individual pieces we 

had to make sure that the grain of each piece matched up 

with the one next to it,” he says. Perched on lean brass 

legs with wall mounted brass faucets and hardware, the 

piece feels midcentury, yet current. 

The couple’s five-year-old daughter had considerable input 

in designing her dreamy room. “She wanted it to be pink 

and we gave her a pink space that would grow with her,” 

recalls Vaughan. “You can swap out the comforter and a 

few things and the room can go boho in a few years.” The 

adjacent bathroom has a custom blue vanity and rose gold 

fixtures that the kindergartener adores. 

As one steps through the front door into the foyer, the 

aesthetic balance of the home is immediately apparent: 

wainscotting and an antique table Vaughan found on 

1stdibs.com nod to the structure’s Victorian heritage, 

while a contemporary beaded Ro Sham Beaux chandelier 

hangs above. 

“One of the best things about this house and all of the 

homes Peter renovates is that you never know what’s old 

and what’s new when he is finished,” says Vaughan. “He 

melds the historic and modern aspects so well that the 

house feels fresh but like it’s always been that way.” 

Sachs is quick to point out that the renovation was a collaborative 

effort of several talented individuals, including 

Vaughan and the contractor, Dick Gallerani. He says, “This 

project is one of the best examples of a group of highly 

skilled, creative people getting together to do a great job.” 

An arrangement of ceramic blossoms affixed to the wall add flair in the daughter’s bedroom. In adjacent bathroom, a Cole & Son 

wallcovering features a cloud motif with an ombre affect that fades from pink to blue. 


(Clockwise from top left) 

A new patio designed by 

Sallie Hill features a firepit 

and hot tub; the man cave 

includes a golf simulator, 

office, and wet bar; on the 

exterior, a thin strip around 

the windows and doors is 

painted blue. 

Architecture: 

Peter Sachs Architect 

petersachsarchitect.com 

Interior Design: 

Heather Vaughan Design 

heathervaughandesign.com 

Cabinetry and Millwork: 

Heartwood Cabinetmakers 

heartwoodcabinetmakers.com 


“This project is one of the best 

examples of a group of highly 

skilled, creative people getting 

together to do a great job.” 

—Peter Sachs 

44 


Inspired by the waters that bring us together 

Introducing the Eric Haydel collection 

for Waterhouse Wallhangings 

W 

www.waterhousewallhangings 


Landscape Architecture 

Interior Design 

Design + Build 

Boston | Washington DC zenassociates.com 

800.834.6654

Photography: Greg Premru Photography 

BOSTON - CAPE COD | 781.934.9100 | WWW.ARCHWRIGHT.COM

Outer Limits 

Custom outdoor living areas, nourishing kitchen 

gardens, urban rooftops, and expansive public spaces 

are made possible by R. P. Marzilli & Company. 

The global pandemic brought the safety and enjoyment of 

outdoor environments to the forefront for us all. This time 

in our lives has renewed interest in everything outdoors: 

gardening, dining, gathering, recreation, and relaxation. 

The team at R.P. Marzilli & Company has been grateful for 

the ability to work safely to build these outdoor extensions 

of “home.” Every season brings more delight with spring 

flowering bulbs from a cutting garden, cooling off in a pool, 

reading a book while lounging on the terrace, harvesting 

vegetables and herbs from the garden, or warming up by an 

outdoor fireplace. 

There is so much to learn and enjoy in your own backyard! 

Marzilli’s team includes certified professionals in organic 

practices and horticulture. The company recently added a 

Young Gardeners Program geared for families that is tailored 

to specific interests right at their own homes. 

People ask us all the time, “How do you do it?” says owner 

Bob Marzilli. “We start each day guided by our core values 

of integrity, resourcefulness, passion, and hard work. Our 

years of experience combined with our youthful energy are 

applied from the early planning stages all the way through 

to project completion, continuing with the long-term care of 

every space.” The company has the resources for accurate 

estimating, efficient mobilization, lots of heavy equipment, 

and a highly skilled labor force to work through the inevitable 

challenges and changes that come with each project. 

See more examples of R.P. Marzilli’s work at rpmarzilli.com. 

48 


Stephen Stimson Associates Landscape Architects; Rosemary Fletcher Photography 

Horiuchi Solien Landscape Architects 

Dan Gordon Landscape Architects; Neil Landino Photography 

Gregory Lombardi Design; Warren Patterson Photography 



50 


SHOWROOMStyle 

BETSY BASSETT DESIGNS A GARAGE THAT SHOWCASES 

MORE THAN JUST EXCLUSIVE AUTOMOBILES. 

Six mahogany bay doors signal the gateway to a stunning 

carriage house that encompasses a coveted car collection, 

pool table, and a bar that exudes a youthful, edgy vibe. 

Initially decorated in traditional Scottish plaid, with gold, 

green, and burgundy, the homeowners contracted interior 

designer Betsy Bassett to freshen up the space, which is 

adjacent to the main home. Bassett added the bar and 

used polished chrome, metallic gold, and matte black to 

compliment the dark colors of the Bentley, Rolls-Royce, 

and Dodge Demon housed in the space. 

The space is designed to showcase the homeowner’s car 

collection and entertain guests. In the bar area, Tom Dixon 

matte black and brass pendant lights hang over a customdesigned 

grey pool table. A metallic and matte Phillip 

Jeffries wallcovering provides a textured and dramatic look 

while a black and brown tile floor with a metallic copper 

wash pays tribute to the sports car collector theme. A 

car repair area is also included, along with a second-floor 

living space above. 

“The space has such a specific theme that it allowed us to 

take fun liberties with choosing materials,” says Bassett. 

“We customized everything and got to create a strong 

theme as we completely redesigned the whole space.” 

For more information, visit betsybassettinteriors.com. 


Photography: Nat Rea 

nterior designer Vani Sayeed was tasked 

by the current homeowners, a young 

family, with creating a distinct and cohesive 

palette throughout this spacious Colonial. 

The homeowners are avid travelers who 

wanted their home to reflect their global 

journeys and a vibrant aesthetic while providing a 

comfortable environment for their laid-back lifestyle. 

“My clients were inspired by the geometry and mosaics of 

the Hagia Sophia Mosque in Turkey, by the bold images 

of Cy Twombly’s art and the jewel tones and classicism of 

a Vermeer painting,” says Sayeed, who also upgraded 

the home’s finishes, lighting, and flooring. “So, I used that 

52 


A QUEST FOR 

Vani Sayeed creates a vivid 

scheme inspired by adventure. 

Distinction 

to understand what brings them joy.” She also worked 

with the homeowners to enhance their art collection with 

contemporary pieces inspired by their travels depicting 

bold colors and textures. Rich jewel tones and geometric 

patterns are incorporated throughout the family room, 

where they spend much time together. 

The coffee, end and sofa table was custom designed by 

Sayeed and locally fabricated with steel bases and stone 

tops are solid pieces that will wear the test of time. The 

dark blue sectional sofa is upholstered in Holly Hunt fabric 

that is forgiving with stains. Lively pink and orange tones on 

the throw pillows compliment the art displayed throughout 

the house and flecks of turquoise on the pillows tie into 

the Zoffany wallcovering in the adjacent powder room. A 

custom wool rug is inspired by a Richard Ginori dinnerware 

pattern connects with the jeweled palette. 

The sheer drapes in Kravet fabric is combined with 

a large 36” wide embroidered border at the base in 

Schumacher’s Cordoba Indigo fabric, it grounds the room 

while letting light into the space. “None of the patterns 

are repeated but have similar shapes and colors which 

brings the space together,” says Sayeed. 

See more of Vani’s work at vanisayeedstudios.com. 


Immersive 

Environments 

EUROPEAN CULTURE AND NATURE INSPIRE 

THE SPACES OF ELZA B. DESIGN. 

Micheal J. Lee Photography 

From left: a cleanlined 

bathroom has a 

floating wood vanity 

that contrasts with the 

rest of the soothing 

light-filled space; the 

fireplace surround 

in this living area is 

painted a vivd shade of 

teal blue that pairs well 

with the spring green 

chairs and patterned 

roman window shade. 

Jared Kuzia Photography 

54 


“I’m not afraid of color,” says Barbara Elza Hirsch, owner 

and principal designer of Elza B. Design. Refusing to be 

defined by one single style, Hirsch designs spaces that 

reflect her eclectic and whimsical taste, drawing inspiration 

from nature and her European background. Combining 

different colors and textural elements, Hirsch and her team 

create clean, crisp, and organic interiors. 

Spending time in Europe growing up exposed Hirsch 

to the beauty of merging styles. It was there that she 

found modern bathrooms inside 17 th -century buildings. 

Witnessing the dismissal of restrictive design rules in 

Europe enlightened Hirsch. “Italy and France are very 

eclectic and they’re not afraid to blend an antique next to 

a modern lamp and that’s how I proceed,” says Hirsch. “I 

don’t like to feel bound by rules and I think it’s a lot more 

fun when you can mix and blend pieces with shapes from 

other eras.” 

In addition to drawing inspiration from European style, 

Hirsch is influenced by her surroundings in nature. Picking 

up on nature’s inherent beauty helps her select colors, 

fabrics, and rugs to achieve an organic vibe. 

“I’m very attuned to my surroundings and I find walking in 

nature and being near the ocean refreshing and inspiring,” 

says Hirsch. “Being close to nature infuses me, so I always 

have that in the back of my mind.” 

For more information, visit elzabdesign.com. 


Photo: Jessica Delaney. 

Timeless. Beautiful. You. 

acamporainteriors.com | hello@acamporainteriors.com | +1 (781) 361-7082

DETAIL ORIENTED 

ACAMPORA INTERIORS SHARES ITS SECRETS TO ESTABLISHING A UNIFIED HOME DESIGN. 

Kitchen photograph: Joyelle West; Portrait photograph: Jessica Delaney 

Corinne Acampora, founder and principal designer of Acampora 

Interiors, a full-service interior design firm, is often asked by 

her clients for help “bringing it all together” when designing a 

cohesive home without making every room look the same. 

To achieve this, Acampora Interiors weaves together hues and 

textures that complement each other, while avoiding being 

too matchy-matchy. “We bring in colors through accessories or 

artwork so that there are different visual clues throughout the 

house that create this rhythm of color, patterns, and textures,” 

says Acampora. 

With a focus on client satisfaction, Acampora believes the 

design process for clients should be as enjoyable as the spaces 

themselves and keeping an open dialogue between designer and 

homeowner throughout the project ensures that this happens. 

“We want to help our clients feel like the best versions of 

themselves in their homes,” says Acampora. “It’s about helping 

them find their personal aesthetic and making sure the spaces we 

create align with their needs and lifestyle.” 

For more information, visit acamporainteriors.com. 


KEITARO YOSHIOKA PHOTOGRAPHY

BUTLER’S OF FAR HILLS, INC. 

INTERIOR DESIGN AND DECORATION 

FAR HILLS, NJ 

THE 

J. BUTLER COLLECTION 

NANTUCKET, MA 

THE 

J. BUTLER COLLECTION 

NANTUCKET, MA 

Architecture: Shope Reno Wharton; Photography: Durston Saylor 

JEFFREY BUTLER HAINES 

INTERIOR DESIGN AND DECORATION 

Coastal - Metro - Country 

New Jersey - 908-234-1764 www.butlersoffarhills.com Nantucket Island - 508-228-8429

HOME 

PATTERN 

TEXTURE 

IMAGINATION 

MODERN 

COLOR 

FRESH 

ENDURING 

INTERIOR DESIGN 

DRAMATIC 

TRADITIONAL 

UNEXPECTED 

CRAFT 

JOY 

Photography - Clockwise From Top Left: 

Greg Premru, Greg Premru, Sean Litchfield, 

Sean Litchfield, Greg Premru, Sean Litchfield.

CAMBRIDGE | CAPE & ISLANDS 

617 621-1455 

www.LDa-Architects.com

Landscape Architecture 

LombardiDesign.com

Photograph: Evelyn Dow 

+1 (774) 392-5318 • @haddadmodicateam 

HADDAD MODICA TEAM IS A TEAM OF REAL ESTATE AGENTS AFFILIATED WITH COMPASS, A LICENSED REAL ESTATE BROKER AND ABIDES BY EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY LAWS. 

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources 

deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square 

footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

FORWARD MOMENTUM 

The future looks bright for Kistler & Knapp Builders. 

One of the region’s most venerable construction firms, 

Kistler & Knapp (KKB) has been building architecturally designed 

custom homes and renovating storied antique estates 

for over 40 years. The firm’s success can be attributed 

largely to the strong team-minded, collaborative approach 

its founders, Dennis Kistler and Doug Knapp, ingrained in 

the business. Since the founders’ retirement, the business 

has been shepherded by Renee West and Doug Stevenson. 

Now West is passing her ownership share on to 

longtime KKB managers Reihl Mahoney and Ken Frommer 

as she heads into her own well-earned retirement. 

Teamwork is at the core of Kistler & Knapp and West is 

enthusiastic to note that the firms’ two most seasoned 

managers are taking over as principals. “Reihl and Ken have 

been running day-to-day construction operations for KKB 

for over 15 years now and have always cared for the business 

as if it was their own,” says West. “In a sense, this is really 

just a formality. Retirement was an easy decision to make… 

I knew I was leaving the company in capable hands.” 

Mahoney, a 35+ year-veteran of custom architecturally 

designed residential construction is considered the team’s 

‘Old House Guru’ but is also equally comfortable guiding 

the team through the demands of innovative, modern 

construction designs. “Renee has played an integral role 

as CFO, and an equally important role as ‘mama bear’ to 

each and every employee here at KKB. Those are some 

difficult shoes to fill,” says Mahoney. 

Frommer spent years in commercial construction in 

Boston managing very large commercial projects before 

transitioning to the custom residential market. A part of 

the Kistler & Knapp team for the past 17 years, Frommer 

says that he never imagined he’d become such an integral 

part of the business and he couldn’t be happier to be 

where he is today. “The people here at Kistler & Knapp 

make this a special place to work and I am truly honored to 

be a part of what the future brings.” 

It’s full steam ahead for Kistler & Knapp. “There is a lot 

of great work out there and KKB is poised to embrace 

another four decades,” says Mahoney. “The team has 

performed impressively throughout Covid and we are 

ready to expand as the market opens up. We embrace a 

regional approach and can build anywhere – from Boston, 

Cambridge and the suburbs, to the Cape & Islands, to 

Newport, to the Berkshires and Vermont - or even PEI, 

Canada! - Anywhere there is a great project, we’ll go!” 

To learn more about Kistler & Knapp’s work, go to 

kistlerandknapp.com. 

Ken Frommer and Reihl Mahoney along 

with black labs, Minnie and Mooch. 

Photography: Evelyn Dow 


50% Sold (Phase I) 

Milton, Massachusetts 

Single and Duplex Townhomes • Two and Three Bedroom Designs • First Floor Owner’s Suites 

Fireplaced Great Rooms • Open Kitchens • 55+ Community • 47-Acre Estate • 10 Miles to Boston 

FALL OCCUPANCY 

Prices starting at $1,475,000 

By appointment 

Greta Gustafson, Realtor® 

617-686-6258 | ggustafson@landvest.com 

DEVELOPED BY PRESENTED BY wolcottwoods.com 

*Renderings are for illustrative purposes only. Approximate 

layouts, dimensions and pricing are subject to change.

Tischler WindoWs and doors. Uncommon. Uncompromising. 

Tischler und sohn (Usa) ltd. six suburban avenue, stamford, cT 06901 • Telephone 203/674/0600 • Telefax 203/674/0601 

design center of The americas (dcoTa), 1855 griffin road a-370, dania Beach, Fl 33004 Telephone 954/920/8800 Telefax 954/920/8007

For Sale 

1 Franklin Street Street, Unit 3605 

2 BD 2 BA 1 Half BA 1,609 SF 

$2,995,000 

For Sale 

Brett DeRocker specializes in luxury properties throughout 

Downtown, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, South End, Seaport, 

and the Waterfront district. Additionally, he handles 

listings in the suburbs and helps facilitate deals in New 

York. He has cultivated a vast network of referral agents 

both nationally and internationally and traveled abroad 

to promote new Boston developments to potential buyers. 

Brett is methodical and analytical, relying on perceptions 

and information shared by his colleagues—both in his 

own office and at other firms—to help him provide his 

clients with the most up-to-date market insights. He 

takes a hands-on, individually tailored approach with 

each of his clients. “How I work with one client might be 

different from how I work with another,” he says. “Buying 

and selling property is one of the biggest decisions 

people make in life. To understand their long-term goals, I 

become very involved with my clients.” Through this tenet, 

Brett focuses on developing enduring client relationships. 

“I think not just of the moment, instead, I operate with a 

long-term vision in mind,” he says. 

Check out his new website at www.brettderocker.com for 

insights on all Boston Luxury Properties! 

For Sale 

For Rent 

1 Franklin Street Street, Unit 3408 


$2,675,000 

65 Lewis Street, Unit 314 

2 BD 2 BA 1,082 SF 

$1,225,000 

500 Atlantic Avenue, #20K 


$25,000/month 

COMPASS.COM 

Brett DeRocker 

Brett DeRocker & Team 

Managing Director 

617.947.6210 

brett.derocker@compass.com 

brettderocker.com 

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, 

condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting 

or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

Maryann Thompson Architects, Scott Norsworthy Photography 

96 SWAMPSCOTT ROAD, SALEM, MA 01970 | 781-592-3135 | GROOMCO.COM/BDG

LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION • HORTICULTURAL SERVICES • EXCAVATION • AGGREGATE & ORGANICS 

(978) 263-1185 | ONYXCORPORATION.NET 

Architecture: Hutker Architects; Photography: Michael J. Lee

PERSEVERANCE 

PREVAILS 

Jon Wardwell of JW Construction 

is back and on top! 

Jon Wardwell, president and owner of JW Construction, 

a Boston-based full-service residential home builder and 

remodeler, understands the importance of resilience. 

After undergoing a major stomach surgery in March 

2020, Wardwell contracted COVID during his recovery 

and was re-hospitalized. As he struggled with the health 

setback, Wardwell was unable to operate at full capacity 

and he relied on the strong team he had built, people he 

considers family. 

“The team I’ve surrounded myself with is my family,” says 

Wardwell. “When I was out, they stepped up and now that 

I’m back I will do what I need to do for my team to keep 

them busy and excited.” 

Currently, Wardwell is back and so is business, 

experiencing an influx starting in February after having 

to shut down his offices and work remotely. With clients 

not wanting workers in their homes due to COVID, 

the company responded by reorganizing and having 

employees take on multiple roles to carry the weight. 

Established in 1993 with offices in Burlington and Hyannis, 

the company works on a variety of unique projects located 

in downtown Boston, the Cape and Islands, and the 

suburbs. The company had a fantastic year in 2019 and 

heading into 2020 with an optimistic outlook before we 

were all hit with unprecidented times. 

“Every day I enjoy being able to get up and go to 

work knowing there will be some sort of challenge I 

can take on,” says Wardwell. “We do very unique and 

multifaceted projects where the work is never the same 

and I enjoy that.” 

As a company, JW Construction’s goal is to always 

leave its customers satisfied, a concept reflected in the 

company’s core values and displayed in all of its work. 

“We are in a service business and are invited into people’s 

homes and around their families,” says Wardwell. “So, it’s 

our responsibility to treat them with the utmost trust and 

respect, something our values emphasize.” 

While Wardwell still struggles with respiratory issues, he 

credits his staff for supporting him during his recovery 

and is eager to tackle new projects. The range of complex 

projects he and his team work on keeps him motivated 

after being in the industry for over 30 years. 

“In life, we get knocked down, and you have to get back 

up and continue on,” says Wardwell. “I’m fortunate to 

have a good support staff within my own company and 

in the whole construction community with architects and 

designers who have supported our comeback.” 

For more information, visit jwconstructioninc.com. 


western 

window systems 

Carol Kurth, principal 

Carol Kurth Architecture + Interiors

westernwindowsystems.com

Welcome Home... 

to the place for creating a modern home. 

Our 8000 square-foot showroom at Battery Wharf is New England’s largest Modern Kitchen & Living showroom 

offering Europe’s top brands, including TEAM 7, LEICHT, MisuraEmme, Arketipo, Altamarea, Gaggenau, 

Thermador, Rolf Benz and Miele, for kitchens, bathrooms, furniture, and wardrobes. 

2 Battery Wharf, Boston, MA 02109 | 617-443-0700 | www.divinedesignbuild.com

PRELUDE Volume VII

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