One question interior designers hear over and over is: “How do I personalize my house and make it truly a home?” So often we walk into a furniture showroom and want to buy the whole suite—sofa, rug, lighting, and all—only to get the furniture home to find we have just recreated the showroom floor. It might look pretty, but where is the personality? Where is your mark in the room? We asked local designers what they think makes a house into a welcoming home packed with your personality.

“I love to look through a client’s boxes filled with what they consider junk,” says interior designer Camille Garro. “Things they’ve collected over the years from various trips or gathered from rejected gifts they didn’t want to toss for fear of hurting someone’s feelings.” These misfit items can become the perfect treasures to display on bookshelves. Camille suggests each bookshelf has its own theme. For instance, the sentimental shelf displaying honeymoon mementos—the little ship in a bottle, the dancing hula skirt doll, and, don’t forget, the shot glass embossed with the word “Maui.” She also suggests displaying travel guides and books about particular vacation destinations. Place the books horizontally for a perfect resting spot for the travel trinkets.

Camille also believes no room is complete without photos of family and friends. Knowing a group of photos can look haphazard or messy, Camille suggests turning the photos all to a sepia tone and place them in similar frames. “Hung collectively, they can look stunning in any room,” notes Camille.

Camille even says the ugly old sofa from Aunt Gertrude can be transformed to make your living space special. By simply painting the carved legs with a high-gloss finish, such as silver metallic, and reupholstering the sofa with a contemporary fabric, such as a mohair, you can change the look from frumpy to fabulous. Wrap the pillows in a new fabric, such as a tapestry or an animal print, and you will have your own personalized piece.

Sue Adams agrees that incorporating your personal items into a space is important. She suggests the first thing you can do to personalize your space is to paint the walls of the house. “Choosing colors you love can really transform a room into your own,” Sue says. “And once the walls have your favorite hue, don’t forget to hang pictures up!” Most people are afraid to put holes in the walls once the paint job is done. “But incorporating your artwork that you have collected through the years is key to personalizing the space,” she notes.

Sue also says its important to create balance in a room to make it comfortable. “Don’t crowd all your furnishings around the TV and leave the rest of the room bare,” she says. Create different groupings of seating areas—one to watch the Red Sox game and one for relaxed conversation. Sue also believes it’s critical to give purpose to a room. If it’s an unused dining room, turn it into the kids’ crafts room. Or maybe the vacant space becomes a place to install a wet bar and pool table, transforming it into a game room. Don’t let the room remain an echo chamber—get creative and put your stamp on it.

Jeffrey Landry of Landry & Acari Rugs says rugs are simply art under foot. Whether you are looking for a favorite color or design pattern, a rug can be the foundation behind the rest of the room’s design. “A rug really can make the biggest statement in a room— they provide warmth, color, and comfort,” he notes. Jeffrey also suggests homeowners bring home a couple of rugs to try within a given room. “It’s important to see if the rug will be a good fit not just in terms of size, but also if it fits your personality.” Whatever the pieces are, make sure they are something you love and want to live with—then you will feel the space is truly your haven.

 

Lighting Designers offer their Top Three Tips 

Donna Christopolous, Design Lighting

1. Dimmers aren’t just for chandeliers. Fitting your outdoor fixtures with dimmer controls will give you full brightness where you need it and low levels of light where you only need a glow.

2. Outdoor lanterns are not just for the outdoors! Add them to your home’s interior for a distinct touch.

3. Layered lighting in any room gives you the right balance between function and mood. Wall sconces add ambience to a room’s décor, while the chandelier or ceiling light keeps the room classic and functional.

 

Lucy Dearborn, Lucia Lighting & Design 

1. Accent lighting: Architectural lighting that accents a special painting, sculpture, or architectural element in the environment draws your eye to that special piece so you can appreciate it day and night. Remember that architectural lighting can be utilized inside or out. Landscape lighting both extends the day and your view, especially during daylight savings.

2. Decorative lighting: Use decorative lighting as inspiration and decoration to enhance colors, shapes, and design elements. Decorative lighting can really make a space pop! Consider hanging custom color pendants in your kitchen to match your stone countertop, or using a signature color Murano glass chandelier to complement a favorite fabric or wall color in your dining room. Small entryway? Using a crystal ceiling-mounted light as “jewelry” in a tight space creates a dazzling effect.

3. Repurposed lighting: Remember that beautiful table or floor lamp that’s in the attic? Bring it out and have it rewired. Top it with a fabulous new or customized lampshade that will update the lamp and make it your own. It will make you feel good and your home look great. Repurposing and customization are two popular trends that are both planet friendly and personal.

Have you ever fantasized about attending an auction, but thought you would be outbid on every piece that comes to the block? Think again. Sure, there is the one-of-a-kind Tiffany lamp or John Singer Sargent that might sell for millions, but there’s also loads of reasonably priced furnishings and decorative accessories that are sold at auction. We spoke to expert Diane Riva, marketing director of Kaminski Fine Art, Auctions, and Appraisals, as well as some of the folks at Boston’s famed Skinner auction house and PBS’s “Antiques Road Show” to lend us advice on buying at auction.

Q: Can you debunk some of the myths surrounding the idea of buying at auction?

A: Auctions are available to anyone—they are free and open to the public. You need not be a professional dealer or an expert to participate. Many fine art and antique items have sold at very affordable prices at auction.

We regularly sell things for a few hundred dollars all the way up to millions of dollars. Bargain-hunters don’t necessarily know about the opportunities available to them at auction. You don’t have to attend a sale in person; you may participate in the bidding online or by phone. —Stephen Fletcher, executive vice president and director of American Furniture & Decorative Arts at Skinner and Antiques Road Show appraiser 

You will not mistakingly wave your hand and own something you do not want. Everyone has a registered bidder card and number. You have to hold your number up at the end of the bidding to be recognized as the purchaser. —Diane Riva, Kaminski Auctions

Q: What are your most popular pieces that come to auction?

A: Popular items at auction can be anything from excellent bargains on Oriental rugs to furniture to great pieces of art. In the last sale, we sold a Tiffany enameled circus set for $26,000. There is something for every collector. —Diane Riva, Kaminski Auctions 

I think buying jewelry at auction is smart because the value that you get for the price at auction far exceeds anything you would buy at your typical high-end retail jewelry store. When you buy antique and estate jewelry, you choose from historical as well as current designs. In an average jewelry auction, you’ll find 18th-, 19th-, 20th-, and 21st-century jewelry—where else can you find that variety of jewelry to peruse? When you look at so many varieties of design, your tastes change and become richer and more sophisticated.  — Karen Keane, CEO of Skinner

The current auction market shows great strength in Asian art, American and European paintings, and fine jewelry, while other specific categories perform strongly but more selectively. —Stephen Fletcher, Skinner

Q: How does someone go about getting a piece appraised?

A: Prior to the auction, our appraisal department will research the item and put a low and high estimate on each item before it is listed in the catalog and on the Internet. This is a price that they feel the item will bring at auction. Things can sell for higher than the estimate or many times lower. —Diane Riva, Kaminski Auctions 

We offer free estimates of auction value. All you have to do is call and set up an appointment with any one of our experts. You can also send in an online form requesting an auction evaluation: www.skinnerinc.com/appraisals/form.asp. —Stephen Fletcher, Skinner

If you want to get one of your own items appraised, you would bring it to our “free appraisal day” every Tuesday from 10am to 4pm at our Cabot Street office, Athey feel your item will bring at auction. —Diane Riva, Kaminski Auctions 

Q: What are five tips for getting a piece appraised?

A: 1. Make sure you take clear and detailed pictures of the piece if you can’t bring it to us in person. 2. Take pictures of any marks, signatures, or condition issues. 3. Measure the piece carefully. 4. Include any provenance or history relating to the piece. 5. Include any relevant documents. —Stephen Fletcher, Skinner

Q: What are some tips when someone is bidding at auction?

 A: Attend the auction preview prior to the sale to view the piece in person. If you can’t attend in person, view the online catalogue where the piece is pictured and described. Ask questions in advance to get more detailed information about the piece—good auction houses make the effort to offer accurate information and condition reports about any object they are selling to assure
you that what you are bidding on is genuine. A lot of furniture is selling reasonably in the current market. —Stephen Fletcher, Skinner

If you’re a novice auction-goer, think about your budget – don’t get caught up in the excitement and bid more than you should. Talk to the auction staff and the preview staff, and ask about the condition of the object. Has it been restored? Does it have all its original parts? Do some reconnaissance before you actually bid – you can go online and research the price point so you’re not paying more than an object is worth. — Karen Keane, Skinner

Take time and examine each item you are interested in carefully. Measure it if necessary to make sure it fits your space. Sign up to telephone bid or live internet bid several days before the sale if you cannot attend.  You can even follow the sale on your phone and bid with many apps, such as Auctioneers.com. Set a price in your mind that you are willing to pay and perhaps establish a rule that you will go over the amount by only one bid. Be sure to calculate tax and buyer’s premium into your amount. It is so exciting to buy or sell live at an auction that I would highly recommend attending the sale if at all possible.

If the item you are interested in is passed at the auction, it is frequently because the consigner has set a reserve for the item. You can call after the auction and make an offer on the item, and the auction house will contact the consigner with your offer. If you have the time and patience, there are always bargains at the end of the auction. —Diane Riva, Kaminski Auctions 

We got a chance to catch up with the ultimate home enthusiast, Steve Thomas, who has recently been traveling the world with Habitat for Humanity International as a spokesperson to help raise awareness for the need for decent, affordable housing. The Emmy®-award winning TV personality and former host of “This Old House” and “Renovation Nation” shares his expertise on creating more sustainable, energy-efficient homes right here on the North Shore.

Q: How did you become involved in green building practices?

A: I have always been involved in green building practices. What has happened in the past six to eight years is that green building has become a term unto itself. Twenty years ago, we were building houses that were energy-efficient, but at that that point we called it sustainable, low-impact, or zero-energy building. “Green building” is a relatively recent term.

Q: How would you describe green building? 

A: I like to envision green building as six interlocking rings: The first is energy—the total energy usage of house. This can be broken down into energy “in” and energy “out.” The ideal situation in green building is a house that does not use a lot of energy and is able to produce its own energy using renewables such as photovoltaic [solar] and wind turbines, for instance. Most people see these aspects as the greenest moves. But if you look at energy in terms of a pyramid, conservation is at the base of the pyramid. Simply turning out the lights like your mother told you. After that, choosing the lowest energy consuming appliances as possible is also important.

The second ring is workmanship. Better workmanship means a well-built house, which is more efficient. Better workmanship means less maintenance. And because it is well built, the house will last longer—making it inherently green.

The third ring is choosing materials that are appropriate to the house and have the low as an impact to part of that building. Cities are inherently greener than suburbs because you use fewer house miles to get around in the city.

All of these things have been around for a long time. What green building methodology has done is connect all these rings into a comprehensive way of thinking about buildings—whether its new construction or renovating. And there are many rating systems, such as LEED for homes and Energy Star, that help quantify the greenness of a building.

Q: What is the biggest myth behind creating a greener home?

A: The greatest myth is that green design is more expensive. But it depends on how you do the math. Builders say green building practices are about 5 to 10 percent more expensive than standard building practices. But the payback, especially in energy savings, is huge, and you can earn your money back within 4 to 5 years. And if you look at the lifecycle of a building, such as the house I had in Salem that was built in the 1700s, it is more efficient because it has been in use for hundreds of years.

Q: What are some trends you are seeing in green home design?

A:  Downsizing is definitely a trend, especially in regard to the Baby Boomer generation—they want to live more simply. Energy efficiency and low maintenance come along with downsizing.  The house I am building at the moment is 1,000 square feet. I also see people wanting fewer items of higher quality.

Q: What are some tips for homeowners 

A: For older homes in New England, the first thing a homeowner should do is get the house tested for air leaks. There are a number of companies who do overall poor performance testing to figure out where the air leaks are, and then come up with an insulation and air sealing program to air seal the house. There are subsidies and tax incentives you can take advantage of—the average cost is anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000. But once sealed, a house is immediately more comfortable and it’s quieter. Sealing and insulating your home can give you a savings of save 30 to 50 percent on heating bills.

Q: What are some sustainable moves you can make to your home while on a budget?

A: Insulation and air sealing is so important! If there is only one thing you can do, insulation. I can’t stress how important this is.

Q: What are some things to consider in creating both a greener house as well as a healthy house? 

A: Choose low-VOC paints. If buying new cabinets, make sure the cabinetmaker is using materials that are formaldehyde free. We can’t do the tracking on every piece of hardware and wood, but hiring a professional green consultant or an interior designer to source materials is a great idea.

Q: What sustainable practices are the Habitat for Humanity affiliates implementing on their projects?

A: I started doing stories about Habitat about 20 years ago with “This Old House” and more recently with “Renovation Nation” and have watched them over years. I have seen Habitat come to understand in a very central way that building green is the biggest favor you can do for the community. All of its houses are now built to some green standard, whether it is LEED certified or Energy Star rated or another sustainable rating system. Habitat services families who would not otherwise get a commercial mortgage. It is able to secure nonprofit loans, and part of that package is to build a house that is extremely efficient in terms of its energy use. Habit is the 6th largest builder in the nation right now. I’m very proud to be working with Habitat and spreading the word not only for affordable housing, but also green building. Each Habitat Regional Chapter selects projects they are going to build. And every Habitat project is very focused on green design. The projects will blend professionals—mason, carpenters, plumbers—with volunteers. And between the strength of knowledge and the strength of a volunteer labor base, Habitat is really focus on green building—which is better for the homeowner and the planet.

 

Builder’s Blitz

From June 4 to 10th, 2012 Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the country will build 250 homes in the span of one week as part of Habitat’s 2012 Home Builder’s Blitz.

The Merrimack Valley Habitat affiliate is building two houses in Lawrence as part of this nationwide event.  The labor and materials for these homes is being donated by local builders and vendors so that the homes can be built by a professional team in one week at little cost.

Builders Blitz Leadership Team: Blitz Chairs Steve & Susan Howell, Howell Custom Building Group; Team: Steve Cote & Bill Foster, Cote & Foster; John Rodenhizer & Sara Elmer, JSR Adaptive Energy Solutions; Dave West, Meadowview Construction; Ken Kumph, Premier Builders;  Marc Simon;Azimuth Construction; Bob Gosselin, Correct Temp.

For more information on how you can volunteer, visit www.merrimackvalleyhabitat.org

Don your work gloves, dust off garden furniture, and clean those paint brushes. ’Tis the season to make those home and garden improvements you haven’t been able to get to all winter—whether it’s adding a fresh coat of paint, planting the window boxes, or layinvg a new brick terrace. Northshore asked local builders and landscape designers what they suggest to spruce up our homes this spring. Here’s what the experts say:

“One great way to spruce up your home is to replace any rotting trim pieces—railings, porch newel posts, balusters—and add a fresh coat of paint,” says Chris Monaco, owner of Monaco Johnson Group. “Painting the front door in an accent color can make your house pop.” Chris also suggests other small fixes that can make a big impact, such as replacing your old storm door, updating your mailbox and house numbers, replacing old door hardware, installing a new entry light, and adding planters to the front porch.

“Pressure wash your walkways and steps,” says Tony Hurley of Artistic Landscapes. “Oftentimes, bluestone and concrete will discolor or become slippery from algae—pressure washing will bring back their natural look and make them safer to use.” Tony also suggests going through magazines and cutting out garden and plant photos you like. Then, you or your landscape designer can introduce them into your garden. He also says to incorporate elements that will help you enjoy the laid-back summer months once the spring planting is done, such as a new patio or fire pit.

Steve Howell, owner of Howell Custom Building Group, believes adding simple architectural elements, such as a wall-mounted trellis or window flower boxes painted to match your house trim color are great spruce-up moves. He is also an advocate for pressure washing brick and stone patios to bring back their original color and give them a fresh, clean look for the season. “Incorporating a pergola over an existing deck to grow climbing vines, such as wisteria, will provide partial shading and give structure to the outdoor space,” Steve notes.

“In anticipation of the warm New England weather, rely on design and construction professionals when considering the possibility of building outdoor living spaces. Your newly designed space should align well, both aesthetically and functionally, with your existing home to allow for easy outdoor entertaining,” says Tad Cunningham, director of custom homes at Windover Construction, Inc.

Erik Swanson, project manager and designer of Corliss Landscape & Irrigation, suggests lining up your contractor early. “We get busy and if you book early, you can guarantee a completion date and also have the best selection of plant material. Hardscape projects are typically the slowest to complete, so if you can get those going early you can enjoy them sooner.” Erik also suggests addressing lawn issues: “Remove any debris left by the winter, apply a pre-emergence crabgrass preventer/fertilizer in early spring, and adjust your irrigation system to water efficiently and only as needed—a smart controller will do this. Don’t forget insects. Apply dormant oils to eliminate winter moths on trees and wooly adelgid on hemlocks.”

Bruce Comak, owner of Comak Brothers, agrees with assessing your lawn situation.  “One of the most important and least expensive things that people should consider in the spring is aerating their lawns. The benefits of aeration in the New England area are well documented. Just remember that spring aeration should be done early—no later than the second week in April. Although the benefits to the lawn are the same, punching holes in the turf surface too late in the spring opens the lawn to places that weed seeds can germinate.”

While we can’t stop the passage of time, most of us like a kitchen that doesn’t feel dated just a few years from upgrading the cabinets or countertops. And although kitchen trends and fads seem to last about as long as a high school crush, many of us continue to come back to the look of a period-inspired kitchen—a space with glass cupboards brimming with Grandmother’s dishes and a sturdy farm table taking center stage. Kitchens based on historical designs seem to transcend the ages and look appropriate even in the 21st-century. But what makes these kitchens timeless? The right proportions, materials, and design details hold the key to their success.

“A timeless kitchen is one that blends beauty and function and takes into consideration the style of the home and the tastes of the owner. Quality materials are utilized, from the cabinets to the appliances to the fixtures. A timeless design also serves many purposes and should reflect the needs of the cook as well as the rest of the family. There should be adequate workspace for cooking and food prep, eating or gathering, and thoughtful storage.” Leanne Smith, Owner of Family Kitchens

Materials 

Timeless kitchens abound with natural materials. Using wood flooring and cabinets is a great place to start. A well-worn reclaimed wide-board floor offers authenticity to the room and wood cabinets lend an ageless feel. Linoleum flooring is also an enduring alternative. Introduced to kitchens in the early part of the 20th century, it has regained popularity once again for its durable and sustainable qualities. Natural stone is also an important material when achieving a lasting look. While a scratched laminated surface quickly dates your countertops, the beauty of soapstone and marble—two great timeless materials—only look more beautiful when well worn. Tom Kelly, owner of TRK Designs, believes a mix of materials—wood, stone, even concrete—is key to creating a space that remains fresh for years to come. Frank McCormick of McCormick Kitchens agrees about keeping the look simple with an earth tone color palette. “There are some great manmade products on the market that offer a natural look—the Cambria line of countertops are durable and timeless.”

Cabinets 

Cabinets reproduced from old butler’s pantry designs of the late 1900s are a great alternative to today’s more elaborate designs that quickly date themselves. These well-proportioned Shaker-style (simple raised and flat paneled doors) profiles never go out of fashion. Instead of solid cabinets, mix open and glass-front cabinets to evoke a timeless feel, and incorporate freestanding dish hutches for an unfitted look. “Stay away from trendy cabinet looks that will label your kitchen to a specific timeframe years from now,” says Ken Dempsey, president and owner of Northshore Kitchens. “Choosing colors and details that don’t break the bank but give your kitchen a ‘wow’ factor is important for long-term consideration.” Cabinets painted white never seem to go out of fashion, and don’t be afraid to go with a dark stain on a wooden counter—the color contrast is striking. Kelly agrees, “Incorporating simple colors and designs will make the look last.”

Appliances 

One thing that is wonderful about kitchens based on these timeless principles is that the latest appliances always seem welcome—whether it’s a stainless steel Sub-Zero or an Aga cooker. The design doesn’t fall apart when they are introduced. “Choosing the right appliances that will hold up equally well to the quality and life expectancy of your kitchen cabinets is also important. The number one reason that most homeowners decide to remodel a kitchen is due to failed appliances,” says Dempsey.

Design Details

Lighting, hardware, plumbing fixtures, and sinks can also make or break the timeless look you’re trying to achieve. Reproduction cupboard catches and bin pulls offer perfect alternatives to more contemporary hardware. Light fixtures should be kept simple such as pendant and wall-mounted lighting fixtures with white bell shades. White porcelain farmhouse sinks and wall-mounted faucets were ubiquitous in old-house kitchens and are as timeless today as they were back then. “My advice to customers and friends is first, buy what you like and what fits your lifestyle,” says Chris Velonis, CEO of Peabody Supply. “Second, if you want to include a look that is based on a recent fad, do it in the form of an accessory—that way, it’s easily changed without spending a lot of time and money. As an example, if you find a funky faucet that you love, but come to the realization a few years from now that you no longer love it, the faucet can be easily changed. A bad selection in flooring, cabinets, or kitchen sinks can be with you for a lifetime.” The true success to a timeless kitchen is to keep it simple and let understated traditional details keep your kitchen relevant for generations to come.

 

 Three Timeless Picks from Yvonne Blacker,  Salem Plumbing/ Designer Bath

Add character and charm to a modern-day kitchen with these accessories.

1. An apron-front Copper Farmhouse Sink from Stone Forest 

Combines timeless beauty and natural patina

Old World-style antique dark copper finish

Hammered or smooth finish on apron-front

2. A deck-mounted bridge faucet from the Country Collection by Rohl 

Rich, exquisite detailing with functional design

Available in polished chrome, polished nickel, or Tuscan brass

3. Sinle-lever, single-hole Perrin & Rowe kitchen faucet 

Classic and ornate English styling

Available in Inca brass, polished chrome, English bronze

 

AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES

Andrew Spindler Antiques 163 Main St., Essex, MA 01929, (978) 768-6045

Kaminski Auctions 564 Cabot St. Beverly, MA 01915, (978) 927-2223

Sedler’s Antique Village 51  West Main St., Georgetown, MA 01833, (978) 352 – 8282

 

BUILDERS, ARCHITECTS & CONTRACTORS

Doucet Remodeling & Design One Central St. Stoneham, MA 02180 (781) 438-6225

Gleysteen Design LLC 129 Kingston St. Boston, MA  02111, (617) 542-6060

Howell Custom Building Group 360 Merrimack St., Bldg. 5, Lawrence, MA 01843, (978) 989-9440

LI Designs 6 Tolland Rd., N. Andover, MA 01845, (978) 314-9219

Monaco Johnson Group 8 Proctor St., Salem, MA 01970, (978) 745-0606

S + H Construction Inc. 26 New St., Cambridge, MA 02138, (617) 876-8286

Windover Construction 13 Elm St., Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA 01944, (978) 525-6038

 

CREDIT UNION

NWTW Community Credit Union 40 Market St., Lowell, MA 01850, (800) 942-9575

 

FLOORING

Esposito Carpet 380 Middlesex Ave., Wilmington, MA 01887, (978) 658-7878

First Rugs 342 Great Rd., Rte. 2A, Acton, MA 01720, (978) 263-0100; 301 Newbury St., Rte. 1, Danvers, MA 01923, (866) 784-7178

Floor Coverings International 400 West Cummings Park, #1675, Woburn, MA 01801, (781) 281-8279

Landry & Arcari 63 Flint St., Salem, MA 01970, (978) 744-5909; 333 Stuart St., Boston, MA 02116, (617) 399-6500

Magarian Rug Cleaning 155 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead, MA 01945, (781) 631-3321

 

HOME FURNISHINGS

Ashley’s Hallmark 100 Macy St., Amesbury, MA 01913, (978) 388-8002

Nightingale Arts of Salem 124 Boston St., Salem, MA 01970, (978) 744-2606

Timeless Interiors 52 Railroad Ave., S. Hamilton, MA 01982, (978) 468-1141

Urban Elements 83 Washington St., Salem, MA 01970, (978) 666-4408

 

HOME SHOWS & EVENTS

Montserrat College of Art 23 Essex St., Beverly, MA 01915, (978) 921-4242

The Music Hall Kitchen Tour 104 Congress St., Portsmouth, NH 03801, (603) 433-3100

Insulation The Green Cocoon 141 Bridge Rd., Salisbury, MA 01952, (978) 462-0082

 

INSURANCE PUBLIC ADJUSTORS

Seltser & Goldstein 900 Cummings Center, Ste. 302T, Beverly, MA 01915, (978) 921-9481

 

INTERIOR DESIGN

Camille Garro Interiors 350 North St., Unit 303, Boston, MA 02113, (617) 391-0508

Finn-Martens Design 1 Bridle Path Ln., Beverly Farms, MA 01915, (978) 927-9959

Landry Home Decorating 53 Lowell St., Peabody, MA 01960, (978) 532-0907

Sue Adams Interiors 89 N. Main St., Andover, MA 01810, (978) 475-3567

Wilson Kelsey Design 37 Dearborn St., Salem, MA 01970, (978) 741-4234

 

KITCHEN & BATH 

Beach Sales, Inc. 80 VFW Pkwy., Revere, MA 02151, (781) 284-0130

Designer Bath & Salem Plumbing Supply 97 River St., Beverly, MA 01915, (877) 361-BATH

Family Kitchens 262 Highland Ave., Salem, MA 01970, (978) 745-7700

Heartwood Kitchen & Bath Cabinetry 75 Newbury St., Danvers, MA 01923, (978) 762-7472

McCormick Kitchens 1161 Broadway, Rte. 1 South, Saugus, MA 01906, (781) 231-4200

Newbury Kitchens 113 Main Street, Byfield, MA 01922, (978) 500-3521

Peabody Supply Co., Inc. 25 Commerce Way, North Andover, MA 01845, (978) 682-5634

Tri-City Sales 272 Highland Ave., Salem, MA 01970, (978) 744-6100; 77 Turnpike Rd., Ipswich, MA 01913, (978) 412-0033

TRK Design Company 183 Tedesco St., Marblehead, MA 01945, (781) 631-9200

Village Woodworking Shop, Inc. 55 Main St., Topsfield, MA 01983, (978) 887-2893

Northshore Kitchens Plus 100 Cummings Center- Suite 108D, Beverly, MA 01915, 781-631-1060

 

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

Artistic Landscapes One Sawmill Way, Georgetown, MA 01833, (978) 317-9875

Comak Bros. 647 Lowell St., Peabody, MA 01960, (978) 535-1227

Corliss Landscape & Irrigation 31 Essex Rd., Ipswish, MA 01938, (978) 356-4224

Downer Brothers Landscaping, Inc. 21 Main St., North Andover, MA 01845, (978) 975-5106

Essex County Landscape Associates 7 Pond Rd. Bay 7, Gloucester, MA 01930, (888) 900-3252

J and R Fine Landscaping 23 Vine St., Andover, MA 01810, (978) 475-1193

Lifetyme Exteriors 1 Braintree St., Allston, MA 02134, (617) 987-2011

Mara Landscape Design 13 Withington St., Newbury, MA 01951; 50 Greensboro Rd., Ste. 101, Hanover, NH 03755, (603) 632-1230

ND Landscape, Inc. 2 Martel Way, Georgetown, MA 01833, (978) 852-1073

Northern Lights Landscape Contractor 395 Elm St., Milford, NH 03055, (603) 654-2004

Sava Tree 2 Dix Way, Beverly Farms, MA 01915, (978)927-5252

Stefano’s Landscaping Company, Inc. 35 Munroe St., Georgetown, MA 01833, (978) 352-8834

Susan’s Interior Plantscaping, Inc. Rte. 1 Bridge Rd., Salisbury, MA 01952, (978) 462-4126

Wolf Hill Home & Garden Center 60 Turnpike Rd., Ipswich, MA 01938, (978) 356-6342; 104 Eastern Ave., Gloucester, MA 01930, (978) 281-4480

 

LIGHTING

Delande Lighting 22 New Derby St., Salem, MA 01970, (978) 744-2609

Design Lighting 350 Winthrop Ave., Rte. 114, North Andover, MA 01845, (978) 794-1650

The Lighting Center at Rockingham Electric 437 Shattuck Way, Newington, NH 03801, (603) 436-2310

Lucia Lighting & Design 311 Western Ave., Lynn, MA 01904, (781) 595-0026

Newburyport Lighting Company 38R Merrimac St., Newburyport, MA 01950, (978) 499-9777

 

OUTDOOR LIVING

Danver 1 Grand St., Wallingford, CT 06492, (800) 441-0537

Yankee Fireplace & Grill City 140 South Main St., Middleton, MA 01949, (978) 744-1621

 

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL HEATING

Stadium Oil 525 Lowell St. #2, Peabody, MA 01960, (978) 535-5200