Advertise on podcast: Builder's Notebook

In this episode, Sarah and Bruce sit down with Larry Powers of the renowned  Powers Gallery to demystify the process of incorporating art into your home. From sourcing affordable pieces and navigating consignment shops to tips on art placement, lighting, and even hanging techniques, Larry shares practical advice and stories from his decades of experience. You'll also learn how art can transform a space, why lighting matters, and how to start an art collection on any budget. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode, Sarah and Bruce welcome award-winning landscape designer Greg Lombardi, of Gregory Lombardi Design, who reflects on how design preferences have shifted over the past few decades - from formal, overproduced gardens to more relaxed, ecologically conscious landscapes. He shares insights on the rise of native plantings, climate resilience, and the beauty of “messy on purpose” gardens. Then, Greg shares his insight on cultural perceptions, generational change, and the evolving relationship between people and their outdoor spaces.  Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

In this episode Sarah and Bruce sit down with John Bigelow of Compass Real Estate and Bigelow/Irving to dive into the current state of the housing market and answer some of the most common questions from both buyers and sellers. From the age-old debate of whether it’s worth renovating before selling, to staging tips, first-time buyer pitfalls, and the ever-changing dynamics of bidding wars, John shares practical advice and sharp insights drawn from his years in the field including market conditions, pricing strategies, and even condo association vibes can make or break a deal. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, this episode offers an honest and informative look at the realities of real estate today. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

You'll never look at paint the same way after this episode! Sarah and Bruce welcome paint aficionado Nigel Costolloe, president of Catchlight Painting, and color consultant Sue O’Connell. Together, they bring us on an inspiring journey through the art and science of painting, exploring the transformative power of color and the vital choices that shape our environments. Nigel and Sue highlight the distinction between amateurs and professionals, emphasizing how high-quality materials and techniques enhance both durability and beauty. They remind us that selecting colors is not just about pigment; it’s a reflection of psychology and the interplay of light, inviting us to create spaces that resonate with our deepest feelings. Builder's Notebook is recorded and produced by JDCommunications, Inc. Theme music by Sean Ryan Peters

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

In 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 

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

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

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