Builder's Notebook

In the season five premiere, Sarah and Bruce welcome construction engineering experts Harry Berlis and Tom Fennick of McPHAIL ASSOCIATES, LLC, who intrigue with their knowledge of the history of Back Bay. Before it became brownstones and boutiques, Back Bay was precisely that—a bay. In the 1800s, Boston launched a massive land-filling project that transformed water and marsh into one of the city's most iconic neighborhoods. This episode dives into the bold engineering, political will, and sheer volume of dirt that built Back Bay from the ground up and how it still stands today! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc.Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In the season 4 finale, Sarah and Bruce welcome Stephen Pompeo of Pompeo Insurance to discuss the ins and outs of insurance and how keeping your residence protected is one of the most important aspects of home ownership.Steve shares information on insurance types, rates, and how climate change, new technologies, and modern conveniences have affected what you pay to keep your abode safe and sound. Here is one conversation you won't want to miss!  For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz  Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

Sarah and Bruce welcome Jenna Talbott, editor-in-chief of New England Home Magazine, one of the most prominent and successful shelter publications in New England. Jenna shares with us how New England Home operates and the formula used to make the whole entity so successful. Then, Jenna gives an inside look on the operations of how a magazine is pulled together and what goes into producing a print publication.  For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠⁠⁠www.SHConstruction.com ⁠⁠⁠and ⁠⁠⁠www.BruceIrving.biz ⁠⁠⁠ Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode Sarah and Bruce welcome Robert Barmore of Therma-HEXX - the leading company in modular radiant heating and cooling systems. Robert shares his expertise on the alternative energy solutions available, the many benefits these systems offer, their long-term cost-effectiveness and their minimal impact  on the environment. Learn the history of radiant heating, the introduction of radiant cooling, and the innovative process used to install these panels into your home.  For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠⁠www.SHConstruction.com ⁠⁠and ⁠⁠www.BruceIrving.biz ⁠⁠ Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode of Builder's Notebook, we get to know our hosts a little better! It's been a while since we've checked in on Sarah and Bruce, and in this unique episode, they are not only the interviewer but the interviewee. Each gets to ask their burning questions for each other, divulging their backgrounds, how they got to where they are today, and sharing some fun facts. Hope you enjoy getting to know them a little better! For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠www.SHConstruction.com ⁠and ⁠www.BruceIrving.biz ⁠ Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode Sarah and Bruce welcome architect Carter Williams and interior designer Erin Tracey from  LDa Architecture & Interiors to discuss small space living. Carter and Erin provide insight on how to creatively and thoughtfully design more modest living spaces without feeling cramped. Plus, we get the scoop on whether items like built-ins, breakfast nooks, and mirrors help or hinder a smaller space.    For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz  Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

We're back for season 4!! It's been a while since Sarah and Bruce have seen each other, so they kick off this new season by catching up on all the new and exciting things they've been up to in the first half of 2024. Then roofing expert Garrett Laws, owner of the Copper & Slate Company, joins the conversation. Garrett shares with us the benefits of investing in a copper or slate roof, the importance of sustainability in roofing and roofing accessories, and answers Sarah and Bruce's questions on the impact of solar panels, jobsite safety and much more! Welcome back to Builder's Notebook!   Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.SHConstruction.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.BruceIrving.biz⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Eenie, meenie, minee, mo - so many ways to cook - which way do you go? In this season 3 Finale, Sarah and Bruce along with Ken Schaefer with Right Angle Kitchens, get to the bottom of all things kitchen.  What's the difference between standard electric and induction? Are gas ovens on their way out? What are the benefits and downside of each? What are the latest appliance trends?  From cooking time, to temperature control and safety and everything in-between, listen in to this well-informed and lively discussion, topped off with what's hot and what's not in kitchen colors! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.SHConstruction.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.BruceIrving.biz⁠⁠⁠⁠  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce welcome Ben Marshall of GreenStamp Co., who updates us on the latest when it comes to Stretch Codes. Ben explains in detail the significance of the "stretch code" and what it means for a homeowner looking to start a major addition or renovation. Plus, Ben divulges the 'gotcha' items that people run into that require you to bring your home to meet new construction standards, the federal and state benefits in doing so,  and small things you can do to make your space more airtight and efficient.  Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠⁠⁠www.SHConstruction.com⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠www.BruceIrving.biz⁠⁠⁠  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/buildersnotebook/message

In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Chris Brown, award-winning principal of b Architecture studio and author of "Our Guide to your Getaway Home." Chris shares with Sarah and Bruce the steps in the "self discovery" process that is critical if you're considering buying or building a second home. Everything from how to design the space based on typography of a location to the number of people - and pets - that might be regular visitors, are discussed in detail. If you're contemplating a getaway escape, you won't want to miss this episode!  Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠⁠www.SHConstruction.com⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠www.BruceIrving.biz⁠⁠  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/buildersnotebook/message

In this highly-charged episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome energy efficiency gurus Mike and Gail Browne of Advanced Building Analysis. Mike and Gail dig deep on everything from what being a HERS Rater (Home Energy Rating System Rater) actually means to how to measure the energy performance and impact of a building correctly. Plus, Mike and Gail share tips on what products, upgrades, and programs give you the biggest bang for your buck. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit ⁠www.SHConstruction.com⁠ and ⁠www.BruceIrving.biz⁠  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/buildersnotebook/message

We're back for part two of Season Three!! With the holidays quickly approaching, Sarah and Bruce welcome award-winning designer and author, Mally Skok, who is here to teach us a thing or two about entertaining in our homes. Whether it's a intimate sit-down dinner or an open-house cocktail party, Mally shares her tips and tricks to make the effort of entertaining effortless!  Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/buildersnotebook/message

In our season three mid-season finale, Sarah and Bruce along with Patrick Hickox of Hickox Williams Architects dig deep into the history of architecture and the evolution of “home.” From ancient Egypt to modern day living, hear how the design of a home has always been a reflection of the human family, shaped by the surrounding habitation, means of survival and, more recently, modern media. The group then discusses the problem with the McMansion, and their take on how to beautifully craft affordable homes and avoid the look of mass production. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/buildersnotebook/message

Home is your comfort space, and for many of us it's where we plan to stay to the bitter end! While the layout of your home may serve your needs now, there is a strong possibility that adjustments will have to be made as you age. Sarah and Bruce welcome Josh Safdie, Managing Principal at KMA Architecture + Accessibility to share his expertise on how to make sure your home is safely equipped for you  stay put as you age. Josh discusses ways to improve your home for better mobility and adaptability over time, and provides sound advice on everything from small improvements, to the bigger moves you can make to ensure comfortable, long-term livability without sacrificing style.  Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/buildersnotebook/message

The recent snow has us thinking – have you taken the necessary steps to winterize your home? Sarah and Bruce welcome back S+H's Ed Sullivan to talk about the proper ways to winterize your home and why it's so important. Everything from gutter maintenance, to preventing freezing pipes, proper snow removal, and managing those dreaded ice dams, this episode will make sure you're prepared for any additional snowfall this season –even though we're all hoping for an early spring! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce welcome Rob Russo to talk all things living on your own for the first time! Specifically focused on 20 something's moving into their first rental apartment or home and the “tools” they need, both literally and figuratively, to thrive. Rob discusses the importance of what to have in a proper tool box, and also goes over what to tackle vs. when to call in back up. This useful and informative topic will help prepare any young adults embarking on living on their own for the first time! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

We're back for season 3! In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome flooring expert Chris Zizza of C & R Flooring. Chris, recognized as one of the industry's leading experts in hardwood flooring and refinishing, shares his expertise on all things flooring. From discussing the different wood species, to what flooring works best in a certain environment, to the pros and cons of wood versus engineered, to sustainability and water retention, this episode will leave you feeling well informed about what flooring is right for you! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

In our season two finale, Sarah and Bruce welcome experts Jane Egge of MacLeod and Moynihan and Jeremy Kindall of New England Window Works to discuss all things windows. First, Jane breaks down replacement windows and the many options available to homeowners. Then, Jeremy talks about rehabbing windows and shares how he works to restore them, making his case on why he feels older windows should never be replaced. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce welcome Dee Elms, owner of Elms Interior Design, who gives a new perspective on the spaces you already have in your home. From color choices to millwork to the importance of furniture layout, furniture and rug sizing, and more, Dee shares her advice on reworking your space without adding square footage. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Clayton Schuller, President of Select Building Products who shares his new favorite green and sustainable wood products. Then, Clayton provides insight on steps homeowners can take to make sure their homes are running as efficiently as possible. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

The kitchen, once hidden behind closed doors, has become the centerpiece of a home. It is not only where people gather to eat, but more times than not, has a multipurpose use. In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Alisha Serras, owner of Scavolini Showroom to talk about contemporary kitchens. From design aesthetics, to how to properly hide appliances, Alisha, who devotes her entire career to kitchen design, shares with Sarah and Bruce her expertise on the most important space in your home. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce welcome Dee Tavares, Project Development Manager at YouthBuild Boston and Adjunct Instructor at Wentworth Institute of Technology. Dee, who is helping shape the future of the trade industry, shares with Sarah and Bruce the YouthBuild Boston mission and their programs that are helping diversify the building, construction, architecture and design industries. Plus, Dee talks about the different initiatives he is a part of at Wentworth. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce welcome Brendan Driscoll from Driscoll Electric and Ed Sullivan from S+H Construction to take a close look at house disasters and how to prevent them! Brendan dives into how to head off typical and not-so-typical electrical issues that can happen in you home and S+H's Ed Sullivan is back to talk about all types of water disasters, from ice dams to groundwater, and the best methods to avoid a very costly situation. This is one you won't want to miss! Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce welcome Paul MacDougall, Principal of MacDougall Plumbing and Mechanical to talk all things heating and cooling. Paul shares some of the main things people want from their heating and cooling systems, along with some of the benefits and drawbacks of various systems. Plus, Paul provides insider knowledge on automated systems. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Builder's Notebook is back! In the first episode of Season Two, Sarah and Bruce catch viewers up on what's kept them busy these past few months, then welcome Tracey Litt of Litt Home Inspection. Tracey de-mystifies the Home Inspection process, what she looks for, how she operates, and why a proper inspection is so important. Plus, Tracey divulges to Sarah and Bruce some of the worst and most expensive things she's seen and gives her honest opinion on why waiving home inspections is a recipe for disaster. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce welcome Michael Ferzoco, principal of Eleven Interiors, an award-winning Boston-based interior design firm, in our Season One finale. Sarah, Bruce, and Michael dive into the world of interior design, touching on the difference between hiring a designer for a decoration project vs. a design/build project. Michael explains the stages of the design process and how a designer helps clients navigate through the plethora of choices available to fine-tune their style, turning a concept into reality. Finally, the team discusses the invaluable collaboration between a builder and designer and how this ultimately saves time, money, and your sanity! Have questions for our next season? Reach out to us at BuildersNotebookPodcast@gmail.com. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

New England has one of the richest and most extensive collections of historic residential homes in the country. And while we love our old homes, renovating one of these masterpieces can often be an overwhelming undertaking. For this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome Treff LaFleche, Principal of LDa Architecture & Interiors and expert on renovating historic homes. Treff shares advice on how to be a good steward to an old house and how to lead with sustainability and comfort. Sarah, Bruce, and Treff also dive into the pros and cons of tackling this type of renovation,and how to remain true to the home's original glory while making it functional for modern living. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce are joined by Pete Ferrero, a Job Supervisor at S+H Construction, to discuss the process of a project and the age-old question of what exactly is taking so long! From the early stages of electric, plumbing and drywall to the later stages of flooring, tile work and finishes, Pete weighs in on where exactly all of these items fall within a timeline, how it happens, what the homeowner can do to make sure the process goes smoothly, and how one change can cause a snowball effect. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce welcome award-winning architect and principal of Zero Energy Design, Stephanie Horowitz. Learn the difference between a high-performance home, a zero energy or net zero home, and a passive home, and what it takes to design them. Stephanie, Sarah and Bruce also share their knowledge on updating an older home to make it more energy efficient, and why windows can make a world of a difference. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Sarah and Bruce welcome Lucy Dearborn, owner of Lucia Lighting in Lynn, MA to talk all things lighting! From proper layering in kitchens to creating the right ambiance outdoors to the evolution of LED lighting, this lively discussion provides tips on how lighting might just be one of the most important design decisions for your home. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Wood gutters, uneven flooring, cracking in the walls – should you be concerned? If you're considering buying an older home, what clues should you look for to help determine how well the home was cared for and what should make you run? Sarah and Bruce discuss how your eyes, nose, and feet can tell you a lot more than you think. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information on Sarah and Bruce visit www.SHConstruction.com and www.BruceIrving.biz --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Water, water everywhere!! This year has seen an unprecedented number of rain storms, taking a toll on our homes. S+H's Field Director Ed Sullivan, joins Sarah and Bruce to tackle the topic of water in the basement– a homeowners' nightmare. Learn how it happens, why it happens, and what you can do to prevent it from happening in the future. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information visit www.SHConstruction.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message

Meet Our Hosts! Sarah Lawson, owner of S+H Construction and Bruce Irving, renovation and real estate expert, share how they started in the business, their bumps-in-the-road, their successes, and lessons learned along the way. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters For more information visit www.SHConstruction.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/buildersnotebook/message