PRELUDE Volume XI

A publication of Boston Design Guide 

Volume XI

KOULOPOULOS VONA & CO. 

From cozy spaces to staircases, 

details are what we do best. 

At KVC, we don’t leave room for improvement. We rely 

on decades of experience, the highest quality materials and 

top-tier craftsmanship to build it right from the start. 

METRO BOSTON CAPE COD & ISLANDS NH LAKES REGION 

kvcbuilders.com

Warren Patterson Photography 

(617) 593-3510 

20 Boylston St., Brookline, MA 02445 USA 

docabostonkitchens.com

Bespoke luxury kitchen design in Boston.

New Homes | Renovations | Historic Preservation 

Home Maintenance | Small Projects 

171 Reservoir St., Needham, MA 02494 | falloncustomhomes.com | 781.237.0505 

Architecture: Duckham Architecture & Interiors; Photography: Warren Patterson

Timeless. Beautiful. You. 

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

Architect: Shope Reno Wharton 

Builder: Parker Construction 

Photography: Read McKendree

From the Publisher 

In an increasingly digital world, our homes remind us of the importance of the 

physical worlds we build around us. Within the walls of our homes are the rooms 

that hold our dearest memories and conversations, inspire our creativity, and 

offer a peaceful retreat from our busy lives. With a bit of imagination, and the 

right professionals at hand, our homes can support an even deeper pursuit of our 

passions, hobbies, and goals. 

In this issue of PRELUDE, we explore a variety of homes repurposed for families with 

changing lifestyles and taste, with a strong focus on custom builders and designers 

with a vision. From a secondary home redesigned as a family sports complex, a 

historic Berkshires residence transformed into a musical getaway, to a reimagined 

penthouse in a coastal town, the homes featured within these pages represent a 

new level of customization. 

Whether you’re holding this issue in your hands in print form or flipping through a 

digital version, our hope is that the passion and care behind each project jump off 

of the page. As you follow your own inspiration, we encourage you to connect with 

these top notch professionals to carve out your own corner of the world as you’ve 

always imagined it to be. 

@BostonDesignGuide 

@BostonDesignGuide 

@BostonDesignMag 

CONTENTS 

Melanie Perillo, Publisher 

11 Modern Marvel 

A state-of-the-art family clubhouse redefines secondary spaces. 

22 Challenge Accepted 

The value-driven approach to home construction. 

32 The Hills Are Alive 

A Revival of a historic property in the Berkshires, featuring a music 

conservatory in the heart of the home. 

40 On the Town! 

A custom built coastal penthouse infused with details to impress. 

46 Luxury Beyond the Surface 

The stylish side of practicality. 

53 Mix & Match with M-Geough 

Using fabrics and wallcoverings to create distinctive style. 

58 Wonder Chamber 

The importance of personal collections in fostering wonder and 

intellectual growth. 

64 PREVIEW 

A sneak peak at a seaside escape to be featured in the upcoming issue 

of Cape & Islands Design Guide! 

Cover: Architect: Hutker Architects; Landscape Architect: Katherine Field and Associates; Landscape: R.P. 

Marzilli & Company; Builder: Evergreen Builders; Pool: Environmental Pools; Photography: Anthony Crisafulli 

PUBLISHER 

Melanie Perillo 

EDITOR 

Maddie Brisbane 

DESIGN DIRECTOR 

Rob Silsby 

MARKETING COORDINATOR 

Talia Padilla 

OPERATIONS MANAGER 

Ian Kaplan 

ACCOUNT MANAGERS 

Lisa Almquist 

Ian Kaplan 

Colleen Keelan 

Maureen Lampert 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

Anthony Crisafulli 

Dan Cutrona 

Rob Karosis 

Jared Kuzia 

Michael J. Lee 

Warren Patterson 

Greg Premru 

Nat Rea 

www.bostondesignguide.com 

BDG PRELUDE - Volume XI, 2024, prints biannually 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 

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have been accepted by Publisher on the condition that such 

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Publisher is not responsible for any infringement of the copyright 

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BDG PRELUDE is a pending licensed trademark of Boston 

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

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

8 

bostondesignguide.com

Landscape Architect: Gregory Lombardi Design; Photography: Warren Patterson 

LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION • HORTICULTURAL SERVICES • EXCAVATION • AGGREGATE & ORGANICS 

(978) 263-1185 | ONYXCORPORATION.NET

Bring Sustainability Home 

ECOLOGICAL LAND CARE | EDIBLE GARDENS | MEADOWS 

botanicalandcare.com 

A division of R. P. Marzilli & Company

MODERN 

MARVEL 

A state-of-the-art family clubhouse 

redefines secondary spaces. 

When a Weston family acquired their neighboring property, 

it was not long before they called on LDa Architects, 

Sanford Custom Builders, and Kate Coughlin Interiors 

to the scene. At that point, the client already “had the 

beginnings of a vision,” as Marc Kaplan, President/Owner 

of Sanford Custom Builders, describes. After discussing the 

feasibility of transforming the 1960’s-built home into an allencompassing 

family sports complex and retreat space, the 

project team put plans into motion. 

Kaplan, alongside interior designer Kate Coughlin of Kate 

Coughlin Interiors, had worked on the client’s primary 

residence, which Coughlin describes as “more traditional” 

in its aesthetics compared to the contemporary, 

streamlined style the new space would express. Bringing 

the two back for this project was a no-brainer for the client, 

who enlisted the expertise of Treffle LaFleche, principal at 

LDa Architecture & Interiors, to formulate a state-of-the-art 

design for the complex. 

“They wanted something completely different from their 

home,” says LaFleche. Though the crisp, contemporary 

final product echoes that of a brand new build, LaFleche 

found that “there already were interesting spatial 

conditions within that original structure that we could 

take advantage of.” One of those elements was a classic 

bostondesignguide.com 11

“We try to find ways to adjust forms and spaces to 

accommodate the way we live in today’s world,” 

— Treffle LaFleche, LDa Architecture & Interiors 

12 


New England pitched roof, under which lay a footprint 

conducive to plans for a squash court, a kitchen and 

recreation lounge, a guest suite, a gym, plus an indoor 

putting green and golf simulator. 

Though structural changes were necessary to align 

with the new program, the property’s proximity to an 

environmentally-sensitive area made sustainability a 

driving force in the team’s approach. “By saving some 

percentage of that existing structure, we could be more 

sensitive and economical in how we disturbed the land, 

which was also highly compelling for the client,” says 

LaFleche. 

In turn, the overall concept for the design—both inside 

and out—honors the simplicity of the surrounding 

woodlands, with large windows and simple furnishings that 

let nature shine through. “With the nature of the house 

being open with great big windows looking outside, it was 

easy to allow for cleaner, more minimal interiors,” notes 

Coughlin. “As a whole it can really stand on its own.” The 

streamlined, contemporary interiors include light oak 

tones with black accents and natural wood built-ins, with a 

bold Garfield art piece that cleverly mirrors the vibrance of 

the adjacent putting green. 


It was only natural for the clean, minimalist approach 

to continue outdoors. “Conceptually, there was a real 

alignment in terms of simplicity for the exterior of the 

structure as well as the landscape,” says Doug Jones, 

principal at LeBlanc Jones Landscape Architects. “We 

wanted the landscape to be a quiet, enveloping moment 

that lives in harmony with the house.” By reintroducing 

native species to replace invasive plants, and seeding 

a new meadow that would grow with the home, the 

landscape design evokes an organic, undisturbed feel. 

“We are designing these secondary retreat spaces more 

and more,” says LaFleche, who notes that with this 

project, infusing the clubhouse-style space with “a 

personal, intimate quality” was key to manifesting the 

client’s vision. “That’s what designers do—we try to find 

ways to adjust those forms and spaces to accommodate 

the way we live in today’s world, and to meet the 

expectation of the client,” LaFleche reflects. “I think 

that’s the beauty of architecture.” 

14 


“In order to build out the squash court, we had 

to take out probably 20% of the foundation, and 

surgically insert steel beams to support taller ceilings 

where taller ceilings didn’t exist beforehand,” Kaplan 

recounts. “In new construction, you would normally 

have a crane. In this case, we surgically inserted the 

steel, which was a really fun challenge.” 

Architect: LDa Architecture & Interiors 

Builder: Sanford Custom Builders 

Interior Designer: CKate Coughlin Interiors 

Landscape Architect: LeBlanc Jones Landscape Architects 

Landscape: R.P. Marzilli Landscape Professionals 

Writer: Maddie Brisbane 

Photography: Dan Cutrona (exterior), Michael J. Lee (interior) 


Designer: Lisa Tharp Design 

Photographer: Jared Kuzia Photography

SEE US ON THE SPRING-2024 COVER OF BDG ON NEWSSTANDS! 

JGA 

JAN GLEYSTEEN ARCHITECTS 

W ELLESLEY, MASSACHUSETTS 

WWW.J ANG LEYSTEENI NC.COM 

Builder: Concept Building; Interiors: Sashya Thind; Photography: Warren Patterson

Anthony Crisafulli; Top-left: Michael J. Lee 

18 


AWARD WINNING 

LANDSCAPE 

Katherine Field and Associates presents Fen’s Edge, 

recipient of a 2023 RIASLA Honor Award. In collaboration 

with Hutker Architects, KFA envisioned a landscape that 

would harmonize the home’s contemporary architecture 

with the coastal beauty of the seaside community. 

Weaving patterns and colors inspired by the surrounding 

natural landscape, the design features carefully selected, 

low maintenance plant materials that reflect the context 

of the site. 

Wherever possible, reclaimed and locally-sourced 

materials were selected for the hardscape, including 

repurposed granite steps, posts, and paving, native 

fieldstone walls, boulders, rice stone, and locally 

fabricated corten steel. Corten steel serves as a unifying 

material throughout the project, including the pool 

enclosure fence, which was inspired by the wooden dune 

fencing on the beach across the street. From a new pool 

and integrated spa to a Zen Garden, custom outdoor 

features, and site lighting, every aspect reflects the fusion 

of traditional garden forms, contemporary design, and 

the natural allure of the coastal environment. 

For more about KFA, visit www.katherinefield.com. 


Landscape Artisans 

New England’s oldest and most trusted name in 

landscape construction, maintenance, & irrigation. 

www.dschumacher.com

BUILDER 

MEMBER 

OF THE 

YEAR 

BRICC & PRISM 

13 AWARDS 

IN 2023 

Homebuilding that is distinctly personal. 

The only thing more personal than inviting someone into your home is inviting them to help you build it. As a familyowned 

construction firm we understand just how meaningful that invitation is. Working with us you will find a process 

that is client-focused and relationship-driven, an approach that is both highly professional and distinctly personal, 

craftsmanship that is second to none, and a team of talented people who genuinely care. 

Builders of Fine Custom Homes, Additions and Renovations 

www.vallegroup.com | 508-548-1450

Challenge 

Accepted 

22 


MCGEOUGH Custom Homes offers 

a value-driven approach to home 

construction. 

In the world of construction, where the balance 

between quality and cost often teeters on a delicate 

edge, John McGeough of MCGEOUGH Custom 

Homes stands out as a beacon of innovation and 

value-driven ethos. With a background steeped in 

real estate and a penchant for disrupting traditional 

models, McGeough has a knack for viewing 

challenges as opportunities for creativity and 

innovative solutions. 

“I’m not afraid to go toward the harder route,” 

says McGeough. With a portfolio of impressive site 

transformations and stunning builds, McGeough 

demonstrates a fearless approach to his work. 

“Funky lots create amazing living opportunities. 

On some sites, we have to see it as reimagining 

how people live in these spaces according to their 

lifestyles.” 


24 


In both spec and custom home building, McGeough 

has carved his own path, embracing a value-first 

mindset that refuses to compromise on quality. 

“I’ve always had an issue with overcharging for 

services,” says McGeough. “My philosophy revolves 

around offering high design on a budget.” Central 

to his approach is a steadfast commitment to value 

engineering. “I advocate for reasonable choices that 

don’t necessarily break the bank but ensure a highquality 

living experience,” McGeough explains. 

McGeough opposes a cost-plus model, rejecting 

the idea of charging more for the same work simply 

because the client opts for pricier materials. “I don’t 

believe you need to spend thousands per square foot 

to create an amazing house,” McGeough contends. 

Instead, he champions a low-cost-per-square-foot 

approach coupled with a fixed management fee. This 

ensures transparency and fairness to the consumer, 

allowing them the freedom to choose materials without 

affecting the builder’s fee. 

In a market where the cost of materials is unpredictable, 

and supply chain issues are prevalent, McGeough’s 

commitment to simplicity and fairness is a breath of 

fresh air. He emphasizes the importance of efficiency 


“I’ve always had an issue with overcharging for services,” 

says McGeough. “My philosophy revolves around offering 

high design on a budget.” 

in the building process and aims to create an amazing 

living experience without burdening the client with 

exorbitant costs. “The value engineering process can 

make a monster difference,” says McGeough. 

Across the realms of both spec and custom home 

building, McGeough’s well-honed skills in value 

engineering prove invaluable. “In spec building, you’re 

trained to value engineer,” McGeough notes. “That 

taught me how we could approach custom building in a 

similar way to provide a really great living experience, in 

a cost-effective way.” 

McGeough’s commitment to value-driven construction 

goes beyond the physical aspects of building. It 

extends to the business model itself, where he 

incentivizes efficiency and transparency. “We’re 

incentivizing ourselves to move efficiently through the 

process,” says McGeough. “Its about simplifying.” 

In a world where conformity might be the safer path, 

McGeough’s dedication to innovation and value-driven 

practices is a testament to his passion for building 

exceptional homes. Through his approach, he not only 

challenges the norms of the construction industry but 

also leaves a lasting impact on the way we perceive the 

balance between quality and cost in home building. 

26 


ostondesignguide.com 27

WE HAVE 

ONE SIMPLE CONCEPT: 

Build the best team of in-house staff, 

support them with a network of highly skilled 

subcontractors, and anything is possible. 

Architect: JGa | Jan Gleysteen Architects; Interiors: Sashya Thind; Photography: Warren Patterson 

NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION AND LARGE-SCALE RENOVATIONS THROUGHOUT MASSACHUSETTS 

781-412-1486 | WWW.CONCEPTBUILDINGINC.COM

Christian Phillips Photography

Landscape a Fresh Design Perspective - Installation Outdoor - Maintenance 

Spaces 

Taylor Ahern 

Photography: Sean Litchfield 

9 Old County Road Sudbury, MA 01776 abladeofgrass.com 508-358-4500

CUSTOM HOMES . RENOVATIONS . PROPERTY SERVICES 

Architecture: Steven Harris Architects 

Photography: Scott Frances/Otto 

Boston | Cape & Islands 

New York | Greenwich | The Hamptons 

SEADAR.COM

Kistler & Knapp Builders and D.W. Arthur 

Associates Architecture collaborate to 

revive a historic property in the Berkshires, 

featuring a music conservatory in the heart 

of the home. 

Landscape Architect: Stimson Studio 

Interior Designer: Christina Oliver, ASID, Oliver Interiors, LLC 

Photography: Jared Kuzia 

The 

32 


Hills Are Alive 

by Stella Tirone 


34 


Designed as a respite from the city, a rambling historic 

build in the foothills of the Berkshires has found new life 

under the care of its philanthropic owners. 

Although the structure was initially in disarray, the property 

itself is picturesque. “It’s really just such a magical site,” 

says Reihl Mahoney, principal builder at Kistler & Knapp, 

of the 30 acres of rolling hills and birch groves located in 

Stockbridge, MA. Besides the main house, the property 

is home to a timber frame chapel, a guest house, and an 

apple orchard. 

“We really had to go back to the drawing board on this 

house because it’s a historic property, and they couldn’t 

tear it down,” notes Mahoney. “The clients wanted to take 

the time to do it right.” 

Mahoney worked in tandem with project architects Andy 

Hinterman and Dogan “Woodie” Arthur of D.W. Arthur 

Associates Architecture to design and carefully renovate 

the once run-down home deemed “historically significant” 

by the historic commission. 

The revamped home is a retreat for the couple––as 

well as their family and friends––who had worked with 

the architects previously on the design of many early 

education child centers, as well as the renovation of 

their Belmont home. Aside from their interest in local 

philanthropy, the clients are passionate about music which 

led to one very important aspect of the project: the design 

and construction of a double-height living room that also 

serves as a conservatory. 

“The conservatory was carefully designed to work within 

the existing roof heights and other restraints, but it is a 

new space that wasn’t in the original house,” notes Arthur. 

The space was created with good acoustics in mind, 

housing both a piano and percussion instruments that are 

often played while guests gather around an enormous 

stone fireplace. “There’s a lot of nuanced design that went 

into getting this to work for them while maintaining the 

historical integrity.” 

Sanctuary-like and peaceful––and built for multiple 

generations to gather––the home features guest rooms for 

the client’s adult children and their families on the second 

and third stories. An L-shaped addition, separated from 

the original home by a large, sliding barn door, houses the 

primary suite, the owner’s office, and a garage. 


In order to connect the three-story home 

efficiently, the architect and builder designed 

two new staircases. The first is the central 

staircase running from the basement to the attic 

which boasts stained pine steps and an elegant 

white banister. The second stair serves only the 

second and third floors, but at its top is a nook 

located between the two bedrooms that might 

just be the home’s best feature. “The landing, 

shared by the two daughters, has some builtin 

seating––and probably the best view in the 

whole house,” says Hinterman. “The idea was 

that the daughters could meet there, have a cup 

of coffee or tea, and have conversations.” 

Also a place for gathering, and new to the 

property, is a wraparound porch on the southfacing 

side of the home. Designed as the perfect 

place to take in the breathtaking view, one can 

see the mountains in the background with the 

naturalistic landscaping, swimming pool and 

chapel drawing attention in the foreground. 

“I think the whole fluidity of the interior to the 

exterior through the porches and out toward the 

pool and landscape beyond, to me, is one of the 

most rewarding parts of the home,” says Arthur. 

Thanks to the expertise of Kistler & Knapp 

and D.W. Arthur, both the conservatory and 

chapel will be a scenic venue for music practice, 

songwriting workshops and concerts. The 

beauty of this Stockbridge hideaway will not 

only be enjoyed by its permanent residents, 

but will be shared with friends, acquaintances 

and more. 

36 


THE HOUR 

WHEN 

ANYTHING 

IS POSSIBLE. 

Marking a new chapter in their thriving careers in architecture and interior design, John Day and Kyle 

Sheffield have launched their new firm, Blue Hour Design. With an extensive list of dynamic projects 

and collaborations under their belt, the duo have hit the ground running with this new venture, bringing 

decades of wisdom and experience along for the ride. 

What inspired you to found Blue Hour? 

Our passion for design and service has always been at 

the forefront of what we do. Now that we have created a 

boutique environment, we have more opportunity to actively 

participate as practicing principals, engaging with both our 

team and clients, and contributing to the design community. 

We remain future focused but have benefited from a solid 

foundation built with the mentorship from exceptional 

firms and individuals, who provided us with strong design 

DNA. We have been able to learn from those valuable past 

experiences, and continually build upon them, ensuring that 

we not only maintain but enhance the goal of excellence in 

design and service. 

How did you choose the name “Blue Hour” and what does 

it symbolize in your design philosophy and process? 

Blue hour is the hour before sunrise and the hour after 

sunset. It is often recognized as the most relaxing, 

revitalizing, and creative time of the day. It is the time when 

your home wakes you up and sends you out into the world, 

and the time when it brings you home and embraces you. In 

those coveted dusk shots of a designer’s work, which happen 

at the blue hour, you see the marriage of architecture and 

interior design coming together—it is holistic. Our process 

is purposefully holistic and approachable. To that end, we 

did not want to name the firm after ourselves because this 

new studio is about the team we work with and not just 

about us. We want others to join and collectively contribute 

to the design. 

How many years of combined experience do you have? 

50 years. We attended graduate school at RISD together. 

In the 20 years since, there has been a lot of knowledge 

gained, laughs had, and lessons learned that we have 

brought forward to our new studio. 

How big is your firm? 

We currently have twelve on the team, with plans to stay 

between 15 and 20 people – balancing evenly between 

architects and interior designers. 

38 


What are your visions for Blue Hour? 

Internally, our goal is to foster a collaborative studio 

atmosphere where everyone can actively contribute. We 

want to create a learning culture that promotes growth 

and encourages individuals to embark on a fulfilling career 

journey with Blue Hour. We want every team member to feel 

the same sense of reward that motivates us. As we build our 

firm, empowerment is key. We want our team to adapt the 

company’s ethos and vision to their unique talents and skills, 

actively contributing to our collective improvement. 

Externally, we not only want to continue working in Boston 

and the surrounding regions but also work on projects 

throughout the country. We have many repeat clients, and 

those projects often take us to the outer reaches of New 

England, Florida, The Rockies and beyond. This growth 

broadens our geographical reach and enriches the diversity 

and complexity of our designs. 

How do you integrate interior design and architecture 

within the firm, and what role does collaboration play in the 

creative process? 

The synergy achieved by integrating architecture and 

interiors in-house has been a pivotal point in our overall 

design process. Through a more consolidated and deeper 

conversation, we really hit a stride in the services we could 

provide and the expression of both our design ability and 

our clients’ vision. We service many other architects’ work 

with interiors, and we design the architecture for other 

interior designers, and that is a wonderful thing. It keeps our 

eyes open to fresh ideas, and it further tunes a collaboration 

that is tailored for our clients. Within our office, we have both 

interior designers and architects who know the intricacies 

of each other’s needs. This allows us to navigate the design 

process from both perspectives, resulting in a holistic and 

well-informed approach. 

What type of projects inspire you the most? 

As designers, we are always seeking a design opportunity. 

We always say, “we have style, but not just one.” If you 

look at our portfolio, there is a wide range. The result 

is not predetermined, but rather the outcome of client 

conversations, client direction and the design process. Our 

clients are looking for something they did not find on the 

shelf or ready to buy at an open house. To that end, the 

more engaged the client is, the better the product and 

experience is going to be for them. Our goal is to find each 

client’s design goals and empower their design voice, and 

through a rigorous design process, deliver more than just a 

house, but deliver a home. That is the ultimate luxury. 

What are you most excited about in the design world? 

Creating timelessness in design. It does not mean it has 

to be the same every time, it means that it endures. When 

a design strikes the right chord, it stands the test of time. 

When a style is preset, the process is not as flexible or 

exploratory. As designers, we are always searching for 

a design opportunity. It starts with the client and how 

interested they are in participating in the design process. 

The best designs appear effortless and as if they naturally 

fell into place. It does not look labored, and it looks like it 

was inevitable. But good design is not inevitable - it takes a 

lot of work to leave a lasting impact. 

Youngblood Builders; Matthew Cunningham Landscape Design 

Michael S. Coffin Landscape; : Greg Premru Photography 

Completed While a Partner at LDa Architecture & Interiors 


On the Town! 

CM Ragusa Builders custom builds a 

detail-infused coastal penthouse. 

For this crisp coastal New Hampshire condo, the client’s 

vision was crystal clear from the beginning. They sought 

a home with spectacular views and easy access to local 

hot spots, and with the spaciousness and amenities of a 

custom-designed home. These prerequisites presented an 

opportunity for the team at CM Ragusa Builders to create 

something extraordinary, right in the heart of town. 

“A lot of times when you build a condo in a town like 

this one, you are forgoing square footage because you 

can’t find it,” notes Chris Ragusa, Owner/President of CM 

Ragusa. “In this project, however, the clients were able to 

find something with substantial square footage, plus the 

views and location.” 

The canvas for this project was a vast, 4,500-square-foot 

space with high ceilings overlooking a prominent river, 

where both commercial and recreational ships abound. 

“We had essentially a drywalled shell when it was 

purchased by the owners,” says Ragusa. Their mission was 

to transform this blank canvas into a work of art, installing 

finished flooring, millwork, paint, appliances, cabinets, 

and an array of custom details that elevate every inch of 

the space. 

Architect Scott Fiorentino, with whom Ragusa has 

collaborated on many projects over the years, introduced 

a plethora of intriguing design elements, including elegant 

curves throughout the home. “The curved features on 

the ceilings and throughout the space serve to create 

an inviting and fluid atmosphere, allowing for easy 

movement,” Ragusa notes. “The curves work really well 

not only aesthetically, but functionally.” 

The kitchen embodies these smooth transitions, with 

a curved kitchen island, dining cove, and cabinetry 

mirrored by ceiling moldings above. Accentuated by tile 

backsplash, a magnificent custom hood echoes the curves 

in the design. However, designing and executing curved 

woodwork and cabinetry of this caliber is no small feat. 

It involves laminating multiple pieces of wood to achieve 

the desired curve and panel, as Ragusa explains. “While it 

is undoubtedly more challenging and labor-intensive, the 

results speak for themselves.” 

Photography: Warren Patterson 

40 



42 


The kitchen flows effortlessly into a living room space 

fitted with matching cabinetry and crown molding finishes 

that create a harmonious and monolithic feel. Curvature 

continues on the custom-created dining room hutch, with 

a mirrored backsplash reflecting surrounding water views. 

Highly-customized details continue into the bunk room, 

where creative yet practical storage solutions enhance the 

utility of the space. “We designed a custom-built ladder 

with quick disconnects and latches to allow easy access 

to storage below,” Ragusa notes. The incorporation of 

transom windows illuminates the room, allowing natural 

light to pour in from the outside. 

It is clear that every aspect of this home was carefully 

considered, with details that thoughtfully elevate the space 

without overburdening it. “There was so much put into the 

design and execution,” says Ragusa, crediting his in-house 

carpentry team with playing a pivotal role in ensuring 

consistent quality and a cohesive look throughout the 

home. “It’s the same group of people building all of our 

projects, so the process is consistent and correct.” Their 

well-honed process, too, is designed to be enjoyable and 

efficient for all involved. “It all starts with great processes, 

organization, and customer service.” 


A R C H I T E C T & B U I L D E R 

SHOWROOMS 

CAPE COD BOSTON | SOUTH END SOUTH SHORE LINCOLN, NH 774 255-1709 LONGFELLOWDB.COM

85 Accord Park Dr. 

Norwell, MA 

781-878-3312 

snowandjones.com 

Instagram @SnowandJones 

167 White’s Path 

Yarmouth, MA 

508-394-0911

Photography: Keitaro Yoshioka 

46 


Luxury 

BEYOND 

THE SURFACE 

Divine Design Center shows the stylish 

side of practicality. 

Next-level luxury design is often more than meets the eye. 

Such is the case in this newly-built Newton home, where 

discreet storage emerges as a luxury in its own right. In 

collaboration with developers at Bravo & Partners and 

interior designer Kristen Conrad, Divine Design Center has 

woven functionality into every nook of this home’s finely 

finished kitchen, dry bar, and primary bath vanity. 

“One of the challenges of the project was to use every 

single inch of the space for storage as possible,” says 

Mariette Barsoum, owner & principal designer of Divine 

Design Center. To match the home’s elevated essence, 

“the developer also wanted something luxurious,” 

Mariette shares. With the goal of balancing elegance and 

functionality, Mariette set out to pair beautiful materials 

with intelligent design. 

Mariette’s definition of luxury materials is simple: “When 

you feel and touch the materials, it makes you feel 

special.” Cultivating this sensory experience, walnut, 

porcelain, natural stone, and champagne metal converge 

to form the foundation of the high-utility spaces. The 

open concept dining/living area boasts a bespoke dry bar, 

ensconced in rich dark walnut. This centerpiece features 

champagne metal-finished drawers, glass shelving, and 

abundant cabinetry, creating a blend of sophistication 

and functionality. Its bronze mirror softly reflects natural 

light from the foyer, offering double the views of the room’s 

expanse. 

In the kitchen, floor-to-ceiling storage frames an armoireinspired 

refrigeration area, where a custom walnut reeded 

pattern creates a 3D visual texture that adds a touch of 

sophistication to the everyday appliance. The tall cabinetry 

reveals stained walnut, LED-illuminated pull-out drawers 

that add an extra touch of glamour when opened. For special 

occasion kitchenware, overflow storage hails discretely 

above the refrigerator, easily accessible by footstool. 

“Because the home is quite linear, we wanted to bring a 

little softness into the space by introducing curves and 

organic shapes,” says Mariette. Curved edges on the 

kitchen island and range are enhanced by fluted details, 

champagne metal channels, and Neolith porcelain finishes. 


BDG EXCLUSIVE VIDEO 

Scan to tour the 

project! 

48 



It’s time 

for everyone 

to stretch 

Michael Price Architects | Trent Bell Photography 

We have been encouraging other 

builders to join us in crafting highperformance, 

healthy homes – the 

financially smart choice for clients 

and the environmentally smart 

choice for all of us – for years. Now 

we are happy to see the updated 

Energy Stretch Code and Specialized 

Opt-In code bring everyone along. 

Give us a call if you’d like to work 

with a team that is building the future. 

978.263.6019 | thoughtforms-corp.com

Photo by Chris Rucinski 

www.m-d-l-a.com | 203.592.4788 | Boston

CELEBRATING 

50 YEARS 

OF INNOVATION 

& SIMPLICITY 

Marking our 50th anniversary, simpleHome has evolved from a humble alarm company in 1973 into a full spectrum 

electronics integrator by 1989, and today leads the field in innovative technology design. We mark this occasion by 

thanking our valued partners in luxury residential design and construction for their unwavering support. 

At simpleHome, we keep it simple, offering reliable and top-notch smart home solutions. Whether it's basic gear like 

Bluesound or Sonos WiFi speakers and Ecobee or Nest thermostats, or a fully automated luxury home with 

Circadian lighting and motorized shades, our focus is on reliability and ease of use. 

For 50 years, simpleHome has dedicated itself to enhancing your quality of life through functional, reliable, and 

easy-to-use smart home technology. As industry veterans, we've learned what's needed and how to make it 

hassle-free. Proudly product agnostic, we provide access to proven designs, world-class integration, and 

unparalleled service. 

As we celebrate 50 years, our mission remains: bringing homes to life with simplicity. Join us at simpleHome and 

experience the next level of smart living! 

LIGHTING 

CONTROL 

WINDOW 

TREATMENTS 

WIFI 

AUDIO & 

VIDEO 

SMART 

SECURITY 

CLIMATE 

Technology Made Easy. 

@simplehomene - simplehome.net 

Copyright 2024 - simpleHome

Match 

& Match 

with M-Geough 

PAIRING A PRINTED WALLPAPER WITH ITS MATCHING FABRIC CAN INSTANTLY ELEVATE THE LOOK OF 

A ROOM. THIS TRADITIONAL DESIGN TECHNIQUE THAT HAD FALLEN OUT OF FAVOR IN RECENT YEARS 

IS NOW BEING REVIVED BY DESIGNERS IN A FRESH, AND POSSIBLY EVEN REBELLIOUS WAY. WE'VE 

ROUNDED UP SCHEMES THAT ARE GUARANTEED TO ADD A TOUCH OF SOPHISTICATION TO ANY ROOM. 

Interior Designer J Randall Powers went all-out in this custom 

retreat with Jasper Bouton in blue! Such a serene bedroom to 

rest your head. wallpaper and fabric, using it for walls, windows, 

upholstery, and even the pillows. A perfectly aligned repeat 

creates order from the visual chaos. 


Pheasant in Regiment Red 

Twigs Fabrics & Wallpaper 

Kashimir in Saffron 

Jasper 

Indian Flower in Saffron 

Jasper 

Primavera in Vermilion on White 


54 


Match & Match with M-Geough 

Les Palmeirs Collection 

Marvic Textiles 


Match & Match with M-Geough 

Bargello in Gray 

Waterhouse Wallhangings 

Ginkgo in Yellow on White 


Ferns in Gold Gray 


Little Havana in Henri 

Paper Mills 

St. Augustine in Surf 

Eric Haydel in collaboration with 


M-Geough’s commitment to client satisfaction, excellent service and quality products 

over the last 70 years have made them a staple in the world of interior design. 

They provide the New England design community with the best in fine furnishings, lighting, fabrics, 

wallcoverings and accents, representing a diverse group of exceptional manufacturers who offer a unique 

mix of contemporary and transitional styles, 18th and 19th century reproductions and antiques. 

Visit www.m-geough.com to learn more about the products and manufacturers available. 

56 


Shade When You Need It. 

Sun When You Want It. 

KVH Construction 

Awnings-Screens-Shutters 

AWNINGS • RETRACTABLE SCREENS • HURRICANE 

SHUTTERS • SOLAR SHADES • MOTORIZED SCREENS 

screensNshutters.com • 508-539-3307

antique dealer Keith Funston 

shares the importance of personal collections 

WonderRenowned 

in fostering wonder and intellectual growth. 

CHAMBER 

Photography by Jared Kuzia 

58 


T 

he once-revered tradition of curating 

the home with cherished objects and 

unique artifacts comes to life in this 

vibrant space dedicated to curious 

findings—also known as a Wunderkammer, 

or Wonder Chamber / Curiosity Cabinet. 

Keith Funston, Owner of Funston Antiques 

and designer and supplier of private collection 

displays, shares the rich history and evolution 

of the Wunderkammer, and how its 

essence can be integrated into the 

modern home. As he imparts his 

knowledge, it becomes clear 

that these cleverly juxtaposed 

objects hold a message 

much deeper than meets 

the eye. Whether in the 

form of a small cabinet 

or an entire room, these 

spaces serve to spark 

a sense of wonder, 

stimulate learning, 

and transcend 

the monotony of 

mass appeal by 

celebrating the 

diversity of our 

world. 

The concept of the 

Wunderkammer 

emerged just as the 

Age of Discovery 

was revealing the true 

vastness of the world 

to European collectors. 

A sign of nobility 

and intellect, the early 

Wunderkammern evolved 

during the Renaissance 

era, when explorers would 

return with boatloads of 

mysterious objects (from strange 

seashells and minerals, to ancient 

mummies and weapons) from faraway 

lands. As Funston explains, “noblemen and 

merchants would rush to buy these wondrous 

things and bring them home. They sought to 

create a microcosm of God’s world.” Artfully 

juxtaposed, these coveted artifacts were arranged 

Written by Maddie Brisbane 

as a dramatic visual display intended to inspire 

wonder, and in turn, push towards knowledge. 

Though unique to each owner, “all were 

motivated by the same idea: with a good enough 

Wunderkammer and library, and with diligence, 

a person could know everything,” says Funston. 

“Which in the 1600’s, they thought was possible.” 

Total omniscience might no longer be the goal 

in today’s world, but the message of the 

Wunderkammer holds a timeless 

sentiment: in displaying strange 

and unusual objects, art, and 

artifacts—and thus the 

stories and knowledge they 

hold–the home becomes 

an expression of the 

unique experiences 

and interests of the 

owner. It is perhaps 

the antithesis of 

home decor that is 

beautiful yet holds 

little meaning. 

“Your personal 

interests are valid. 

They deserved to be 

expressed,” Funston 

maintains. “Your 

objects and art can 

easily be devoted 

to that.” 

Though this 

particular collection, 

designed and built 

by Funston for a 

private client, is of a 

grander scale, it is more 

than possible to start 

small— think bookshelves, 

a small cabinet, or even a 

dedicated corner in the living 

room. “Start putting weird stuff 

in there…any weird stuff you want,” 

Funston advises. “But it has to be something 

you’re truly interested in.” In arranging objects, 

juxtaposing unlike items creates drama, sparking 

interest and conversation. “Each object will 

become much more interesting to the eye 


“Your personal 

interests are valid. 

They deserved to be 

expressed. Your objects 

and art can easily be 

devoted to that.” 

Funston holds an early 14th century 

two-handed sword from the Battle 

of Bannockburn, designed to cut through 

armor. A delicate butterfly collection 

provides a perfectly juxtaposed backdrop. 

60 


for being next to something so dramatically 

different.” Funston contends that too many 

collectors obsess about completing the set. “A 

single item can constitute a complete set, and 

having one of each category lets you juxtapose - 

one fossil dinosaur egg, next to a delicate Meissen 

porcelain figure, next to a fist sized meteorite, for 

example.” 

As a longtime private collector prior to full-time 

antique dealing and Wunderkammer design/ 

build, Funston is no stranger to the thrill of the 

hunt. “It’s adventurous,” says Funston. “It’s 

very gratifying to hunt and find something 

wonderful.” Funston helps individuals 

source Wunderkammer-like collections, and 

his expertise extends to advising on proper 

infrastructure, heating, lighting, and display. 

To those inspired to get started, Funston offers 

sound advice: 

I. Be broad versus narrow in your collecting 

and in your interests and in your outlook. 

II. Be proud of your travels and interests 

and heritage, and have your objects and 

art mirror these. Thus, the collection is 

meaningful to you and not just your 

decorator. 

III. Be inspired by the endless variety in nature 

and bring it into your home—but bring home 

the real thing, not something fake. If you like 

coral or minerals, use the authentic specimen, 

not something formed of plaster or plastic. 

IV. Learn from your collections. Let them guide 

you into research that in turn teaches you 

something new, and leads you to ask more 

questions. 

V. Think outside the box because outside of the 

box is where really cool stuff happens. 

There’s more to discover at: funstonantiques.com, where his book A Guide to Cabinets of Curiosities or 

Wunderkammern is available for download. Reach out directly at keithfunstonjr@gmail.com. 


Nat Rea Photography 

BAYSIDE BUILDING, INC 

“Quality To Live By” 

1645 ROUTE 28, BAYBERRY PLAZA, CENTERVILLE, MA 02632 

508-771-1040 | BAYSIDEBUILDING.COM

LIVE OUTDOORS. 

1-877-DP-BY-MKE • DISTINCTIVEPERGOLAS.COM 

Specializing in the Design & Installation of Custom bioclimatic motorized Aluminum Louvered Roof Pergolas 

by Pratic (Made in Italy) and Sundance (Made in the USA).

P R E V I E W 

A sneak peek of a seaside escape 

in the upcoming issue of 

Cape & Islands Design Guide. 

T 

hough updated to serve as a modern New England 

summer home, this oceanfront property maintains its 19th 

century integrity. Initially planned as a comprehensive 

interior remodeling, regulatory hurdles guided Jimmy 

Bowes, President of Bayside Building, in a different direction. 

Plans for a breezeway, pool, patio, and three-car garage required 

that the build team lift and reposition the home. Though no easy 

feat, the result is a dreamy ocean-front retreat complete with 

contemporary updates and preserved details. 

Historic architectural details were a source of inspiration for the 

whole team, which includes Bowes, interior designer Jocelyn 

Chiappone of Digs Design, and architect Jim Golden of James 

Phillip Golden Architects. “We kept the entire structure intact,” 

says Bowes. “For the most part, the house was still structurally 

bullet-proof, so we kept approximately 80% of the framing.” 

An original three-story staircase, diamond fretwork windows, 

chimney, and flooring are among other structural elements that 

were preserved. Added features include a three-car garage 

fitted with guest quarters above, plus a full height basement with 

contemporary amenities such as a golf simulator room, media 

room, and bar. Accessible from the 

basement is a brand new pool area 

and lounge with a full bath, laundry 

room, and changing rooms. 

64 


Photography: Greg Premru 

In the main home, four floors of living space were reimagined to reflect a 

quintessential coastal New England flair, with surrounding ocean views providing 

plenty of inspiration. The client’s desire for a clean, beachy, and casual aesthetic 

inspired Chiappone to incorporate a classic blue and white scheme, but with 

a creative twist. “Their main residence in Southern California is what the client 

calls an ‘all beige house’ so they were excited to have more fun in this summer 

house,” says Chiappone. Infused with details that bring summertime to life, the 

property was completed just in time for the family to enjoy the summer season. 


DON’T MISS THE IN-DEPTH FEATURE OF THIS SEASIDE ESCAPE IN 

THE UPCOMING ISSUE OF CAPE & ISLANDS DESIGN GUIDE! 

66 



Est. 1989 

Jared Kuzia Photography 

SLC INTERIORS 

NEW ENGLAND • WORLDWIDE 

WWW.SLCINTERIORS.COM

Landscape Architecture 

LombardiDesign.com

8000SF Luxury Design Showroom 

Kitchens | Closets | Furniture | Interior Design 

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

PRELUDE Volume XI

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