Author: Stacy Thorson

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Summer Home Care Guide

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Summer is finally here and it’s time to enjoy those perfect summer days and nights. There is nothing quite like a summer cookout spent with family & friends or a long fun filled day at the beach. With all the excitement summer brings, it also can shine light on those projects around the house that may need attention. We’ve shared some helpful tips and reminders to help care for your home this summer.

  • Clean your dryer vent and exhaust duct to make sure there is no buildup of dust and lint.
  • Change the filter in your air conditioner and consider scheduling an HVAC professional to service your system.
  • Clean and consider re-sealing your tile grout.
  • Do a test of your smoke & carbon monoxide detectors – check your batteries!
  • Keep an eye on your irrigation system – a faulty sprinkler or irrigation hose that goes unnoticed can quickly cause larger problems for your lawn or even your basement.
  • Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans. If your fans spin counterclockwise, they will push air straight down and will help keep your home cool this summer!
  • Pay your attic a visit to check for any signs of mildew, leaks, holes, and even pests.
  • Clean the grill to prep for all the summer barbequing!
  • Take a look at your standby generator to make sure it is functioning properly.
  • Check your gutters and downspouts for any buildup of debris and have cleaned to allow for efficient water flow.
  • Your condenser has been outside all spring and winter long, make sure it is properly cleaned.
  • Inspect your foundation for any cracks or leaks.
  • Wash down your porch and give your deck a glace – check to see if any boards are rotting and may need replacement.
  • Wash the windows! Why not have a clean fresh start after all the pollen.
  • Check your outdoor faucets for any leaks.
  • Inspect the caulking around the windows and doors of your home, this will help keep any unwanted critters out.
  • Consider having your roof inspected by a professional.

Most importantly…don’t forget to enjoy your summer and indulge in a refreshing watermelon mint mojito! This tasty treat recipe can be found in our latest blog posts – Full Recipe Here!

Watermelon Mint Mojito

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

If your garden is in full swing and you’re looking for the perfect summer refresher, our watermelon mint mojito recipe is super delicious and refreshing! This recipe easily becomes a go to for when you are relaxing on the porch or even hosting a summer cookout with family and friends.

Ingredients: 

Grab your favorite cocktail glasses and a friend, as this recipe is enough to be enjoyed by two!      

  • 2 cups watermelon                                                                             
  • Handful of fresh mint leaves
  • 4 limes; freshly squeezed.
  • 1 oz simple syrup
  • 4-ounces white rum
  • chilled lime club soda water

Directions

  • Combine your watermelon, mint leaves, and lime juice in a shaker and muddle until watermelon and mint leaves are crushed.
  • Fill your shaker with lots of ice and add simple syrup and rum – Shake until ice cold!
  • Fill glasses halfway with ice and pour contents of shaker into glasses.
  • Top with chilled club soda and mix gently.
  • Add a slice of watermelon, lime, and mint for garnish – Enjoy!

Street Corn Craze

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 ears fresh corn, shucked (about 3 cups fresh corn kernels)
  • Kosher salt
  • 2 ounces feta or Cotija cheese, finely crumbled.
  • 1/2 cup finely sliced scallions.
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped.
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and steamed, finely chopped.
  • 1 to 2 medium cloves garlic pressed or minced.
  • 1tablespoon mayonnaise 
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Chili powder or hot Chili flakes, to taste. 

Directions:

  • Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet or work over high heat until simmering. Add corn kernels, season to taste with salt, toss once or twice, and cook without moving until charred on one side. Toss corn, stir, and repeat until charred on second side. Continue tossing and charring until corn is well charred all over, about 10minutes total. Transfer to a large bowl.
  • Add cheese, scallions, cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, mayonnaise, lime juice, and Chili powder. Combine ingredients, toss, and serve!

Christmas Charcuterie Cheer

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Christmas Charcuterie boards are a fun and festive way to display your holiday treats! Whether you are looking for something savory, sweet, or a little of both, these boards are sure to bring all the Christmas cheer to your Holiday table! Select your favorite holiday shape and let’s build a board! Here you’ll find lots of helpful ideas, tips, and tricks for the perfect Holiday board.

Christmas Tree Charcuterie 

Let’s start with a favorite Christmas staple, the tree!

While this tree does have several types of cheeses, it is also complimented by a few selections of meats and fruits. My favorite touch is the star of the tree, a rose sculpture made out of salami.

Salami roses are easy to prepare, delicious, and provide a unique way of making the charcuterie board stand out. All you’ll need is a few thin salami slices and a small glass for sculpting.

Step 1: For the first layer, fold one salami slice in half and place over the rim of the glass. Make sure half of the salami slice is inside the glass and the other half is outside the glass. Add another slice and overlap the first slice. Repeat the steps with 2 or more slices which should cover the rim of the glass.

Step 2: For the next few layers, place the salami layers so that more of the salami is inside the glass rather than outside.

Step 3: As you continue to add rows you will be left with a small hole in the center. Cover the glass with a small plate and turn the glass over. Push down on the salami flower while twisting the glass slightly to help set the rose.

Now you have a tree topper! Finish the tree with lots of herbs to give a lively Christmas tree feel.

Candy Cane Charcuterie 

Another festive favorite is the candy cane board – filled with savory and sweet treats. This board is super colorful and will catch anyone’s eye on your holiday table. 

For the white ingredients: you can you a Varity of cheeses such as feta cheese, baby bell cheese, mini brie, and mozzarella. Add in white chocolate pretzels and macadamia nuts and you have the perfect pairing. 

For the red ingredients: you can use raspberries, strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and sugared cranberries. Add in a touch of pepperoni or prosciutto for a salty balance. 

Tips & Tricks: You can use a toothpick to keep the folded meat in place. To keep the cheese from drying out, you’ll want to make the board right before serving. Fresh rosemary springs make a great decoration!

 

Christmas Wreath Charcuterie 

Filled with Christmas colors and delicious cheeses and meats – this holiday wreath is meant to be eaten!

Start by setting the wreath with a garnish of rosemary – this will tie everything together once complete.

Popular cheeses for this spread include cranberry goat cheese, garlic herb brie, and English cheddar cheese. These cheeses pair well with sliced apples, sugared cranberries, blueberries, and pomegranates – which also serve as great red berries for the wreath! And of course, you’ll want to add a variety of your favorite meats.

Add a decorative touch with a jellied brie – To make this festive, simply cut the brie in half and add in your favorite jam. Using the top layer of the brie, use a cookie cutter to make a cut out of the center!

A Versatile Focal Point

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Homeowners often juggle between design and practicality when it comes to finishing touches such as railings. Railings have the tendency to be a detail that is easily overlooked, but ultimately completes the space.  A design that remains sleek and inviting while also practical is cable railing. Cable railing offers an impressive visual impact but is much more than just an aesthetic benefit.

A challenge one may face while designing interior and exterior spaces is encompassing the view. Cable railing offers unobstructed views which in return makes the room feel larger and more inviting as your viewpoint goes beyond just the railing. This allows for natural light to shine through and creates a streamline design that is not usually considered a focal point in a home, but without effort, catches anyone’s eye. If you are viewing the space from a distance, the thin lines simply vanish, and the architectural details and/or breath-taking views become center of attention. 

Thanks to the design of cable railing, they are effortless to maintain, and their durability brings forth tremendous value to your home. Cable railing serves a variety as they pair well with traditional but also contemporary styled homes, blending well to every taste of design. They allow a homeowner to showcase their personality and the overall beauty of a space, inside or out.

Cranberry Harvest Butter

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Tart and savory crock pot cranberry butter is a fall staple in Olivia’s kitchen – what better timing than to share this delicious recipe before the holidays arrive. This treat pairs well with biscuits, scones, rich cheeses, and is even a great spread to have on the table during Thanksgiving dinner. 

You’ll want to bring a jar with you to every fall get together!

Ingredients:

  • Three 12 oz bags of cranberries (rinsed)
  • 2 Cups of brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • Dash of nutmeg
  • 2 cinnamon sticks 
  • Orange zest (half an orange)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup

Directions:

  • Wash the cranberries and pour them into the crock pot.
  • Next, peel the zest off the orange, add it to the slow cooker. Toss in the cinnamon sticks too. 
  • Add 1/4 cup maple syrup. The flavor combination of maple, orange, cinnamon and cranberry is too good! 
  • Add remaining ingredients: lemon juice, vanilla extract, nut meg, and brown sugar. 
  • Stir and cook on low for 4 – 6 hours. 
  • Now, use an immersion blender (or regular blender) to get the perfect consistency! If too thick, add in a touch of water. 

 

Rhubarb Zucchini Bread

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Everyone loves a recipe that is not only super easy but extremely delicious! Rhubarb Zucchini Bread has the perfect hint of tart and savory goodness. This is a favorite in the Thorson office – we’re sure it’ll be a favorite of yours!

Ingredients:

  • 1 Egg
  • 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon white sugar
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • 1 1/4 cup flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup shredded zucchini
  • 1/2 cup rhubarb (about 1 large stalk) finely chopped
  • 3 additional stalks rhubarb to top

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, add 1/3 cup white sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, yogurt, vanilla, fresh lemon zest, and whisk in egg.
  3. Add flour, baking powder, and baking soda and stir just until moistened. Don’t over mix. Gently fold in zucchini and chopped rhubarb until well combined.
  4. Transfer batter to your prepared pan and smooth evenly. Slice extra rhubarb stalks in half the long way, remove the backs, but keeping the front -facing part of the rhubarb intact. This takes some of the weight off and keep them from sinking. Lay across the top of your loaf and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon sugar.
  5. Bake 40-35 minutes or until a toothpick entered into the center comes out clean. Wet crumbs are okay if you like your moist. Let cool in the pan 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Finish Carpenter – Since 2020

Growing up with interests in drawing and woodworking prepared Payton for the start of his career in carpentry. For as long as he can remember he has always held a desire for art and expressing his talents through woodworking. Payton enjoys the daily tasks on the job but also enjoys making furniture and wood pieces in his spare time.

With classes taken at Wentworth Institute of Technology and completing a 4-year course through high school, Payton has engineering skills under his tool belt. Aside from carpentry, Payton has a love for sailing and even became a sailing instructor for the Plymouth Yacht Club at the age of sixteen. Teaching little ones the skill and passion for sailing means a lot to Payton as he ultimately grew up on a sailboat himself.

Baths

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

The bathroom is quite likely the second most used room in the home outside of the kitchen. Bathrooms today are not just utilitarian spaces; they more often emulate a relaxing spa-like retreat where you can escape the worries of the day and enjoy some solitude while you refresh & rejuvenate. More time spent in the bath means these spaces have to be beautiful in and of themselves, and that’s where we come in.

  • Private Residence
  • Private Residence
  • Private Residence
  • This image may not be used without permission and a written license from Damianos Photography.
  • This image may not be used without permission and a written license from Damianos Photography.
  • Private Residence
  • Private Residence

The Showcase of Style & Function

Posted on by Stacy Thorson 
One factor in home design that is here to stay is the concept of space and functionality. Floating shelving serves as a versatile way to add personal touches to your home all while keeping the ease of functionality a top priority.

Whether your functional needs stem from a well-organized pantry, convenient coffee bar, or a showcase of style - function is key. 

Apart of creating a functional space that remains functional is following the mantra "Anything that takes up physical space takes up mental space". Meaning, it's important to identify the "must-haves" to create a purposeful space. Floating shelving allows for endless opportunities to change up design if desired - This is one factor that you are limited to with full cabinetry. Let's face it, seasons change and so does nature of design!

It's also perfect for those "Odd" spaces. Floating shelving is easily customizable and can be a great way to make that awkward space functionable and used.

Blue Harbor Kitchens + Baths General Manager, Jill Muldoon, touches upon how floating shelving can be a great contrast in any space.
 “I love adding a pop of color that will serve as a contrast in an otherwise ‘all white’ kitchen. Floating shelves in a natural wood, such as Walnut are a great way to achieve a subtle contrast. They can create a sense of warmth, give the space some character, and provide an opportunity to add personal style.”                             
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            In many ways, floating shelves can uplift a home and create a statement that serves as a functional part of our everyday lives.
Private Residence

Blue Harbor Kitchens + Baths| A Collaboration of Style & Convenience

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

With lots of strategic planning and a great vision came a beautifully designed showroom and new Kitchen and Bath division.

Thorson Welcomes Blue Harbor Kitchens + Baths | A collaboration of style and convenience.

The Thorson team could not be more thrilled to share this extension of our company with our clients & family.

Blue Harbor Kitchens + Baths was a vision many had and hoped for – especially BHKB General Manager, Jill Muldoon. Jill has been in the kitchen and bath design/construction industry for over eighteen years. Specializing in high-end residential projects and top-notch customer service.

Get to know Jill Muldoon!

Our showroom serves as an opportunity for clients to be able to work closely with Thorson to plan their next home improvement project/new build and also work in-house to review and select design finishes. We hope to see many familiar and new faces at our Blue Harbor Kitchen + Bath showroom and trust the convenience + style of this “one stop shop” allows for a memorable and seamless experience.

Jill’s Fitness Fuel

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Searching for the perfect healthy balance of savory & sweet? Jill’s fitness fuel serves a delicious mixture of granola clusters giving just the right amount of energy you need.

In the Muldoon household, this treat stays a fan favorite and is usually made around the holidays as gifts. Hints of nutty goodness & a coconut maple glaze will have you making this treat for every family gathering!

Need the perfect treat for your special Valentine? Simply mix in red & pink M&M’s for a sweet valentine’s touch!

Ingredients:
3 Cups rolled oats
1 heaping cup flaked unsweetened coconut
1 heaping cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts 
1/4 cup ground flax seeds
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup real maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raisins or craisins (sweetened with fruit juice)

Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.
Mix everything (except the raisins) in a large bowl. Spread the mixture on a large baking sheet in a thin layer.
Bake for 30 minutes, stirring mixture every 10 minutes. Stir in the golden raisins and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Let the Granola sit on the baking sheet for another 10-15 minutes so that clusters can form. - ENJOY!

The Perfect Pantry

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Nowadays, we are seeing the celebration of the pantry (and adaptations of it) and it is finally getting the accolades it deserves. With soapstone or marble shelving, beautiful soft-closing drawers, great lighting, and plenty of space to stock your spices, canned or dry goods, it is a highlight of many new or renovated homes.

Spring Refresher

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Living in New England, we always enjoy the Spring “wake-up”, the birds are returning and singing their songs each morning, the grass is greening and it’s time to throw open the windows and let in that crisp, clean air. It’s a great time to be thinking about some of the small home projects that will get your home in tip-top shape in no time.

Get outside and enjoy the nice days by power washing your patio and outdoor rugs, wiping down your outdoor furniture and inspecting your cushions for wear and tear. Consider washing your furniture covers if it’s a possibility or it may be time to retire them and purchase new ones.

Clean your gutters and scrub and inspect your grill – these are big projects but in the long-run can save you money and hassle. Keeping your gutters running smoothly, especially in anticipation of spring rain will help protect against larger issues and big home repair bills in the future. Be sure that your gutters are graded away from your house and be sure that they have a clear space to empty out. Having a clean grill with fully functioning parts will help it last for years to come and won’t let you down right in time for that 4th of July BBQ.

Fix any holes you might have in your screens and give them a good washing. This may sound like a difficult project but the big-box stores have kits that make this very easy. It will save you from having insects and potentially small pests making their way into your home. Keeping them clean will hinder any residue or mold from growing and will keep your views beautiful.

Paint or re-stain your front door. Your door is a welcoming site and is one of the first things visitors focus on when coming to your home. Hot summer heat, cold winters and salt air are just a few of the elements that can warp or damage your door. Keep it looking fresh and new with a touch up every year or so.

In need of larger projects? Be sure to give us a call at (508) 746-0656

We’d be happy to help!


Cookies for Wrigley

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Anyone who has had a dog knows that they are easy to please, a few belly-rubs here and there, a comfy couch and a good meal (it doesn’t seem to matter what kind of food) are always welcome. Anyone who knows Wrigley Thorson, our beloved office mascot, knows that food, treats, cookies, etc. are always top on his list. So, we thought we’d share with you a fun and easy recipe that Wrigley loves and we think your pooch might too.

This recipe calls for canned pumpkin (please use pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling), but it can also be used with mashed bananas.

Everything can get tossed into one bowl and you only need 5 ingredients. This way, you’ll know exactly what your dog is eating and you can feel good about giving him or her a few (ok, maybe more than a few) daily.

The recipe is easy:

Recipe courtesy of Mom on Timeout

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (please be sure to use pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling) OR you can swap out mashed bananas
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/3 cup peanut butter natural, (nothing with Xylitol or substitute sweeteners)
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour 
  • 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon (please check your pumpkin pie spice for nutmeg as it’s toxic to dogs)

If you really want to get crazy and blow your dog’s mind, add some mashed blueberries.

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350F. Line a large baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, eggs, and peanut butter. Stir until completely combined.
  • Add in flour and pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon) – stirring just until combined.
  • Lightly flour a flat surface and roll out dough to one quarter inch, using flour as needed to keep dough from sticking.
  • Cut shapes out of dough and place on prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 20 to 40 minutes – depending on desired level of crunchiness.
  • Remove treats from oven and let cool on a cooling rack. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month in the refrigerator or 6 months in the freezer.

Aging Gracefully

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Being in this business, we see a lot of different trends and “looks”; some aren’t able to hang around too long (remember shag carpets?) but others are deserving of the spotlight and should be given their due attention.  One of them is “living finishes” or “organic finishes”, for plumbing fixtures.

After hearing about faucets of this type a couple of times from clients, I wanted to know more about this product. What I’ve learned is that sinks or faucets with this finish are beautiful, wear well and add a lot of character to your space.

Unlike traditional plumbing fixtures, pieces with living finishes are un-sealed or un-lacquered and are allowed to change over the years and with use, allowing a gorgeous patina to be revealed (in other words, oxidation). When talking about these fixtures, it is referring to any metal, usually copper, brass, bronze or nickel silver (nickel is sometimes considered non-living but will actually patina over time). Stainless steel is typically considered non-living as well, though the surfaces can dull or change over time depending on how they are cared for.

So, what’s actually happening to the metal? Well, over time, the original layers of metal will show through, depending on the application and environment that it’s being used in. Everyday things like humidity, cleaning solutions, water hardness, salt air, etc can bring out the patina to your sink and faucet and really bring out its beauty over time. And since it’s “living”, it will continue to change through the years, bringing you different shades of patina and lots of character over its lifetime.

To care for a living finish is actually pretty simple: soap and water – a good scrubbing here and there will keep it looking great and will allow the patina process to continue. If you are finding that you aren’t crazy about the changes and you have a sink that is copper or brass, you can find a cleaner for those materials and revert the patina right back to its original state. Of course, you’ll need to do this every few months to fight the oxidation process.

Next time you are in the market for plumbing fixtures, give these a glance. Think of them like you see yourself, aging gracefully and only getting better over the years!

Ginger Crinkle Cookies

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Nothing says the holidays like a beautiful platter of freshly baked cookies. Every year, our Office Manager Jeni, kicks off the holiday season with a cookie party, a celebration of baking where her family and friends bring a few batches of their favorite confections, filling themselves with sweet treats. This year’s party was well attended and one cookie stood out from the rest…here’s more about it from Jeni:

This year was our 8th year holding the cookie swap and the same ladies come every year, looking forward to an afternoon without children or spouses and a time to enjoy a glass of champagne or a hot cup of coffee with friends who enjoy baking…and eating.

This Ginger Crinkle cookie this year was by far the crowd favorite – it was just sweet enough with a delicious bite of ginger, great with coffee, tea or a little spiked egg nog.

The coveted Ginger Crinkle Cookie

The recipe can be tweaked a little bit to add a little more or less ginger, cloves or molasses, depending on your taste. Also, we have used granulated sugar or sanding sugar rather than turbinado – either way is just delish.

We hope you enjoy these cookies as much as we do. You may want to make a double or triple batch because they go fast. Here’s how you can whip up a batch of your new favorite cookie:

Recipe courtesty of Jamie Deen.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/2 cup vegetable shortening

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup molasses

1 large egg

1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. 
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, salt, allspice and cloves. Add the shortening, butter and the brown and granulated sugars to the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes. Slip in the molasses and egg and beat until well incorporated. 
  3. Add the flour mixture by scoopfuls and beat until combined. 
  4. Add the turbinado sugar to a small plate or bowl. Roll the dough into balls that are 1 inch in diameter (1/2 ounce in weight), then roll in the sugar. Place 12 balls on a baking sheet 2 inches apart. Bake the cookies 9 to 11 minutes, rotating halfway through the baking time. Cool on the baking sheets for 4 minutes, then continue cooling on wire racks. Repeat with the second batch.

A Sweet and Simple Thanksgiving Day Cocktail

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

What better way to welcome your guests and ring in the holidays than with a beautiful cocktail? Whether you are hosting at home or bringing a little something to share in the Thanksgiving feast, this cocktail is sure to please. 

With the sweetness of roasted black grapes and the earthy tones of sage, this drink hits all the right notes and is a great accompaniment to turkey or even pork loin or chicken to make those weekday meals a little more special. 

We hope that you enjoy this cocktail and add it to your holiday meals for years to come.

Off the Vine: Recipe and photos courtesy of Olive Jude

Here’s how to make it:
Prep Time 2 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 32 mins

Ingredients:

  • 5-6 sage leaves
  • 12-15 black grapes
  • 2 ounces vodka
  • ginger ale

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. 
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scatter the grapes on it. 
  3. Roast for 30 minutes until the grapes begin to shrivel a bit but not burst. 
  4. Remove from the oven and let cool. 
  5. To a cocktail shaker, add the sage leaves and the roasted grapes, reserving at least one grape for garnish.  
  6. Muddle to release the grape juices and break up the sage. 
  7. Add ice and your favorite vodka. 
  8. Give it a good shake. 
  9. Add ice to a glass and strain the mix over it. 
  10. Top with ginger ale and garnish with a sage leaf and a roasted grape. 

Cheers and Happy Thanksgiving! 

Picking the Perfect Plumbing Fixtures

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

While building or remodeling a home there are countless decisions to be made, some more fun than others. Picking out a roof shingle for instance isn’t very glamorous, but plumbing fixtures are a different story altogether. You can equate selecting plumbing fixtures to picking out that perfect necklace or earrings to go with your outfit or better yet, a watch, which can be both functional and attractive. Plumbing fixtures can have the same effect on a room that jewelry and accessories can have on your wardrobe, they add the finishing touch that can tie everything together or bring just the right amount of sparkle.

Truth be told though, there is more to plumbing fixtures than their looks, they are hard working, permanent fixtures in a home that have lots of moving parts, plenty of code restrictions and a long list of other factors to consider when selecting them. With styles forever changing, technology forever evolving and codes always updating how can you make choices that meet your needs, follow the latest trend, and stay code compliant? We’ll help you find all of the answers you need to make all the right choices for your next project.

Step 1 – Determine your needs & budget

Whether you’re new to the remodeling game or you’re a seasoned veteran you no doubt have had past experiences that will help you to know what you like (or don’t like) about how you currently use fixtures. For instance, I’m a single handle kitchen faucet kind of homeowner -although I can’t argue that an antique cross handle faucet like the one pictured below is gorgeous, in this case, function beats out looks for me hands down.

When my hands are gooped up with a sticky mess, the last thing I want is to have to use both hands to turn on my faucet. Most likely it will be my elbow or wrist so a simple one handle lever faucet will work best or better yet, manufacturers are coming up with new innovations everyday to meet these day to day life challenges. Take the Sensate Faucet from Kohler that operates with the wave of your hand keeping germs at bay and your faucet clean.

Keeping in mind how you use your fixtures will help you to select the right ones. In a shower there are several different ways to set up and install your fixtures based on how you use them. For example, some choose to have multiple fixtures and shower heads but you can set up those heads to operate simultaneously or only one at a time depending if you are a self admitted water hog or prefer to conserve water, energy & money.

In the case of handheld shower heads, there are a few ways to mount them depending on how they will be used. Some opt to use a handshower as their main shower head or a main secondary shower head when more than one person is showering at once. Some mounts are stationary while others allow for the head to be adjusted up or down based on the height of the person showering -a real plus if you are in a household with children or people of varying heights that all share the same shower.

Budget is also a factor when making choices, if you have a fixture allowance from your builder or remodeler you can consult with the plumbing fixture sales associate to guide you towards fixtures that will stay close to or at your budget number. A variety of factors can add to costs including the product finish; Chrome finish is generally the most affordable with other more custom finishes like oil rubbed bronze, polished nickel, matte brass or certain “live” (like raw, unsealed brass or copper) finishes coming in significantly higher.

Step 2: Consult with your Pros

While making your choices you’ll want to consult with both your building and design professionals as well as a qualified and reputable plumbing fixture sales associate. These professionals will be able to guide you toward choices that factor in not just your personal style but also any conflicts or limitations based on your project’s specific circumstances and any code compliance concerns. Remember that these fixtures although they are a design element they have to be able to function properly and safely.

It is tempting in an age when anything can be sourced online for a fraction of the cost of brick & mortar stores to just price shop everything. The risk with the need to find the best deal is that sometimes the best price is NOT always the best value. Online retailers can not always verify the authenticity of their products nor do they have the same level of support or warranties to back them up.

You sometimes even have to be weary of quality of the products sourced from some big box store retailers (who will go nameless). At times these retailers will will have amazing prices on what seem to be the same product you saw at that certified plumbing fixture store your builder recommended. The unfortunate reality however is that some product manufacturers will create a “big box store” version of their products that is of lesser quality ( like plastic interior fittings vs. solid brass) just to bring their products in line with the big box store’s discount pricing structure, while leaving the model numbers and names of the products the same so you the consumer would never know the difference at first glance.

We were personally made aware of this unfortunate reality on one of our projects a few years back when we sourced a bathroom faucet from our reputable certified plumbing fixture dealer and our client opted to add one more sink & faucet and just decided to grab what seemed to be the same faucet at the local “big box store”. When both arrived on site side by side we were amazed at the first major difference; the two boxes with the same manufacturer, same product name and model number felt very different in the boxes. A full 1-2 lb weight discrepancy told us that these two faucets could not be considered equal. Although both looked identical from the outside; the one from the big box store had plastic interior parts while the other had solid brass. This difference won’t present itself right away but rather will affect the longevity of the product and could cause premature failure of the product.

The lesson here? The price though cheaper at first will, in the end, cost the homeowner more in repairs and need for replacement sooner than if a quality product was purchased in the first place. So, trust your Pros when they recommend a supplier. Not only will the products be of better quality, the support you’ll receive from the very beginning of selecting your products and throughout any future need for warranty repairs or replacement will be unmatched as well.

If you need help selecting plumbing fixtures for your next project, don’t hesitate to contact us at 508-279-0656.

Kitchens: Form follows function

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Design & Detail Spotlight

Kitchens: Form follows function

Louis Sullivan a 19th Century Chicago based Architect held the belief that “form follows function”, in essence saying that the shape and design of a building should be directly related to or even dictated by it’s intended function. This axiom has become a cornerstone of many design & architectural firms principles.

A kitchen designer often takes this same approach to designing your kitchen, creating a space that functions as well as it looks and is catered to the way the space will be used.  After all what good is a beautifully designed space if it doesn’t function well? From the overall layout,  inserts and unique cabinet modules to varying operation of cabinet doors and drawers, all of the so-called bells and whistles contribute to the increased functionality of a new kitchen.

Deep drawers instead of cabinet doors.

The full extension soft close drawers allow for easy access to all of its contents without having to open a door bend down and reach in.

Dual Islands

The old kitchen work triangle concept dictated that you should keep your fridge, sink and cooktop in close proximity to each other, but not everyone uses their kitchen the same way and with kitchens becoming larger and more of a social gathering spot homeowners are breaking the rules.  This client from our Plymouth Summer Retreat project opted for two islands, one with seating and storage (the gathering spot LEFT) and the other a more utilitarian application with the cooktop, prep sink beverage center and ice maker door (RIGHT). This keeps the prep and cooking mess away from the island seating area.

Fridge Drawers & Microwave Garages

This Fridge (below left) has a main upper door and two lower drawers that are individually temperature controlled, great for storing items you use often and want quick access to or to allow younger members of the family to be able to help themselves to healthy snacks.  Also pictured are some handy appliance garages, in this case to house the microwave but really these top closing “garages” could be used to hide any appliance you’d prefer not to look at on a daily basis. They keep them out of sight but still readily accessible when needed.

        

Food Storage & Paper Towel Dispensers

Storing your potatoes & onions and paper towels are not what most think of when creating their dream kitchen, in fact these details can often be overlooked. Good design however will factor in even the little things that can add to the overall functionality of the space. The client from our Lincoln Kitchen & Interior  project preferred not to have her counter cluttered with a paper towel dispenser and this handy dispensing drawer located just beside the sink solved the dilemma. You can even store additional rolls behind the main dispenser for easy change out to a new roll!

The metal mesh drawers & cabinet doors allow for storage of items like potatoes & onions that would benefit from some additional ventilation but the feature also adds a unique decorative element.

 

Want to incorporate some of these clever solutions into your next project? Contact us and we will pair you with one of our trusted Kitchen design partners to get started in planning your dream kitchen!

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Pie

Posted on by Stacy Thorson
Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Pie

If you’re like us you’ve likely already had your fair share of ice cream this summer and with the summer heat that last thing you want to think about is turning on your oven to bake a pie, but what if you could have the best of both worlds? Yes that’s right, pie & ice cream all in one, so you can have your pie and eat (ice cream) too!

Carpenter Bob Morrissey and his wife Monica shared this no-bake pie recipe with us and we thought it was a great way to get your pie fix before summer is out. The mash up of fresh cherries, ice cream & chocolate are a winning combination that give a nod to good old fashioned cherry pie without even having to turn on your oven!

Ingredients

1 store bought or homemade oreo cookie pie crust
3/4 cup hot fudge ice cream topping of your choice (Bob likes Smuckers)
4 cups vanilla ice cream, softened
3 cups fresh dark sweet cherries,
pitted and quartered, divided
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Spread hot fudge topping over oreo crust and
    freeze until firm, about 30 minutes
  2. Combine softened ice cream and 1 cup cherries; (as an alternative you can use Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia Ice cream) spread
    over hot fudge. Freeze until firm, about 8 hours
  3. In large saucepan, combine water, sugar and
    cornstarch; bring to a boil over medium heat,
    stirring constantly. Stir in remaining cherries,
    reduce heat and simmer uncovered until thickened
    and cherries are soft, about 5 minutes. Remove from
    heat and cool completely. Refrigerate until use.
  4. Remove pie from freezer 10 minutes before cutting.
    Serve with sauce.

Tuna Tartare

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Tuna Tartare with Sesame Ginger Sauce

Living in Coastal New England affords most of us the opportunity to have seafood on a regular basis and most every New Englander knows that when it comes to seafood, freshness is paramount. Fresh seafood is even more important when you are planning to make a dish like Tuna Tartare which;  for any who don’t know, is served raw.

Eric and Stacy happened upon some tuna that was fresher than they had ever seen because their neighbor had literally just returned from a fishing excursion with the giant fish in tow.  When he offered up a portion to share they of course could not refuse.

Now that they had this jewel toned beauty of a fish what would they make?  They wanted something that would let the quality of the fish shine so of course thought of Tuna Tartare. Simple to prepare but a combination of flavors that bring the umami depth that any foodie would appreciate.  The recipe they settled on was slightly edited to their taste so here’s their version which they said did not disappoint!

Tuna Tartare Ingredients

1/2-1 lb of sushi grade Tuna, cut into small cubes
4 green onions,(white & green parts) finely chopped
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
1 avocado, cubed
1/2 cup diced cucumber
A handful of cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp lime juice
1 red chili -seeds removed & diced (optional)
salt & pepper to taste

Sauce

2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tbsp. grated ginger
2 spring onions, chopped
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey

Instructions

1. Add all the sauce ingredients to a bowl and mix & set aside.

2. Add the chopped tuna, green onions and sesame seeds directly to the bowl of sauce and mix until combined.

3. In a separate bowl, mix together the finely chopped avocado, cucumber, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

4. To plate your tartare you can choose to use a mould, or a circular ramekin or you can take a more rustic approach and just loosely layer the ingredients on a nice serving dish and serve with your favorite cracker or crostini.

Choosing your window details

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Window details are often overlooked when planning a building or remodeling project.  Most homeowners have a broad sense of what their windows may look like based on architectural drawings but they may not give much thought into the many options and details that are available and how those choices will effect the beauty & functionality of their home.

We recently had the privilege of visiting Marvin’s design showroom at their 7 Tide location in Boston. The showroom integrates life size displays and modern technology to create an immersive design experience for builders, architects & homeowners alike. While most don’t think of  windows as key design elements in our homes, Marvin is trying to change that perception. With seemingly endless combinations of options this hands on environment helps designers and homeowners get a true sense for the many options and how they affect both the aesthetics and function of your windows and ultimately your home.

Most of our clients are surprised to learn of the number of decisions that need to be made in relation to their window choices so we’d like to take the mystery out of the process and give you a quick list of the many options available. We’re using Marvin windows as our example here because they offer a high quality product with some of the largest variety of options available.

Here is a breakdown of some of the most common features you will need to decide on:

Window Style

Windows come in different styles or types -the style typically refers to the way the window operates. A home will typically have a combination of different types depending on the application & location of the window. Some of the available types and what they mean are as follows:

Fixed – the glass is stationary or non operational and does not open.

Single hung -fixed top sash and an operable lower sash that slides up and down.

Double hung – Both top and bottom sashes are operable and can slide up and down. Most also tilt in for easy cleaning.

Casement – Single operable sash that opens via a crank or a manual push out that opens the window on one side only -Marvin now offers a revolutionary “wash mode” that allows the casement window to revolve completely around and allow access to clean the exterior from the inside of your home.

Awning – Also a single operable sash that opens the window at the bottom only -providing more water shedding ability when the window is open.

Glider -a double sash window with one fixed and one operable sash that  glides/slides left to right.

Tilt Turn -a European style, dual function window that can swing in like a door or casement or open at the top like a hopper for generous air exchange

.

Window Frame Type

Traditional -a traditional window frame is classic in design, the largest of the three frame options

 

 

Contemporary  -more streamlined cleaner lines, narrower frames -ideal for combining multiple units into stunning window wall configurations

 

Modern –  most streamlined of all options, smallest frame sizes for vast minimally obstructed views. This style is closest to a commercial look and well suited for ultra modern design aesthetics.

 

Glass & Glazing

A number of glass & glazing options are available; some, like the high wind glass and tempered glass may be required in some circumstances by your local building codes, so check with your builder to confirm your window glass is in compliance with local codes.

The glazing of your window will impact it’s energy efficiency. Marvin’s standard glazing is their “IG” or insulated glass, this is a double pane with argon gas between the panes and Low E2 coating, to act as an insulator and reduce heat exchange through the glass.

Different versions of insulated glass are available including tripane glazing and Low E1, Low E2 and Low E3 to meet the requirements of any climate region. Be sure to check with your local builder or supplier to confirm which is most appropriate for your climate zone and individual application.

Textured , and semi-transparent glass options are also available to be incorporated into any window configuration.

 

 

Divided Lites -Type

Divided lights refer to the style of grid that appears to “divide” the window pane. Taking your home style & any existing windows into consideration will help to make this choice. Different options offer various aesthetic & practical advantages.  Here is a list of some of the most common divided light styles:

Authentic Divided Light (ADL): individual panes of glass with true divided wood sections in between. This is a common option if historical authenticity is desired.

Simulated Divided Light (SDL):  Fixed Grid patterns are installed on both the exterior and interior of the window panes.

Simulated Divided Light with Spacer (SDLS): A spacer bar is added at the locations of the grid pattern to give the illusion of a true divided light.

Grilles Between the Glass (GBG): Grilles are placed in between the two glass panes, this option allows for easier maintenance and clean up of t he glass surface but not everyone likes the look.

Removable Grilles – Many Manufacturers also offer removable grilles that affix to the interior of the glass only and can be removed for cleaning or to change the appearance if desired.

Divided Lites -Pattern

Once you’ve selected the type of divided light, you will need to select the pattern. Your architect may have already included a window grid pattern in your design but you may want to review this detail with the architect & discuss their reasoning behind the choices.   Available patterns can vary from one manufacturer to the next. Generally most homeowners choose to maintain the same grid pattern on the entire home or at least per elevation. In some coastal locations however many choose to vary the pattern. For their street side windows they may choose a classic grid pattern because of the architectural interest but prefer unobstructed views on the water side of their home so prefer a cottage style grid pattern or none at all.

With Marvin Windows a homeowner is only limited by their imagination. Although some grid patterns are more standard in nature the possibilities are endless and custom grid patterns can be made upon request to fit almost any design that you or your design professionals can dream up. As with anything however, the more custom in nature an item is the higher the cost to produce.

Color & Finish Options

Marvin Windows offers an aluminum clad product with wood interior and wood/aluminum clad exterior. A number of finish options are available for the exterior & interior. From stained to painted & even custom color finishes.

Marvin 2018 Exterior Clad Color options

Hardware Type & Finish

Because window details are often decided early in a building or remodeling project deciding on details like the window hardware become quite an ordeal. Often our clients want to match all of the interior hardware finishes so deciding on window & door hardware color forces a commitment early in the process.

Different styles of hardware are available on specific products -reference your manufacturer’s catalog for a list of available hardware and finishes for the window types you have selected.

Screen Type & Finish

Even your window screens have options to consider and likely more than you ever thought possible.

Retractable Screen: The innovative Retractable Screen, available on the Ultimate Double Hung Next Generation
Window, is a factory-installed screen that easily retracts out of sight when not in use. The screen can be drawn to rest at one of two stop points. The resulting seal at either the sill or at the checkrail lets the breeze in while keeping insects out. The screen is released from its set position with a click of the latch on the pull bar. With lift assist action, the screen returns to its concealed position as smoothly as it was drawn. The retractable screen sets to the interior of the window.

Full or Half Screen:– Exterior screen with an aluminum surround. The full screen covers both the top and
bottom sash. The half screen only covers the bottom sash.

Two-Lite Storm Sash or Screen A wood frame containing non-removable glass. The storm sash can be removed during the summer and replaced with a wood framed screen. Available only for wood windows.

Storm & Screen Combinations – A combination unit is composed of two glass panels and one screen
panel that can be easily removed from the interior for cleaning. Available with a wood (bare or primed) or aluminum
surround, panels can be configured multiple ways to accommodate season or preference: glass above screen, screen
above glass or glass above glass. One of the panels slides behind the other for self storage when the screen is in use.

Energy Panel – Often confused with storm windows, an energy panel is technically a glazing option. It is a removable,
exterior glass panel finished on the edges by a surround. Energy panels cover the exposed glass surface of each sash and
offer added energy efficiency for wood windows with single glazing.

We hope this list has given you insight into some of the many options that will need to be decided on prior to ordering your windows for your next building or remodeling project. The majority of the information and photos contained in this post were taken from the 2018 Marvin Window & Door Catalog. If you are about to finalize your window choices we highly recommend a visit to Marvin’s Window & Door Design Center  at 7 Tide in Boston where a knowledgeable team of representatives are available to guide you through the many available options and how they will best fit into your next project!

Ready to think about windows for your next project?

Contact us and let’s get the conversation started!

 

 

 

If walls could talk; your home as a time capsule.

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

A home renovation can sometimes uncover layers of  a home’s history. You remove a bank of cabinets to find perfectly preserved floral wallpaper from the 1960’s  or several different types of flooring that were installed one on top of another sometimes many layers deep.  Peeling back these layers can often lead a homeowner to reflect on the history of their home. If the home is older or perhaps antique it likely had several owners and could have potentially gone through multiple renovations. Each layer tells a story about the house and sometimes even the people who occupied it.  Finding these “relics” as we like to call them is not uncommon, we’ve found quite a few over the many years of doing renovations; some more noteworthy than others.

The town of Plymouth, MA has some of the oldest homes in the country and we’ve had the privilege to work on many of them. One project demolition uncovered a date inscribed in the fireplace brick behind the framing, as best as we could distinguish it seemed to  read; JAN +1+ 1895. although no name was included, this carving instantly had us imagining the person who may have made the inscription and wondering what life may have been like for them; was it the owner?..or perhaps a worker building this opulent seaside home in an age with no power tools (although ironically the first power tool was invented in 1895)!

 

More recently another of our projects on Priscilla Beach in Plymouth uncovered yet another relic during demolition; a local real estate listing of the home from 1928 hidden in the walls.  The clipping affirmed the date that the house was built and the homeowner also found it interesting to see what the Boston real estate market looked like 90 years ago.

The homeowners Chuck & Cheryl have always owned older/antique homes in Plymouth, many of which have been in the family for generations since their ancestry can be traced all the way back to the Pilgrims.  Their house, like many others had become it’s own time capsule, with long lost history preserved in the walls. This steep family history in the area and an appreciation for preserving the past inspired our clients to preserve their own history in the walls of their home in hopes that perhaps tens to hundreds of years later it will be found and a new story uncovered from the past; their story.

The time capsule project thus began…

and Chuck & Cheryl spent some considerable time curating a collection of items that in their opinion may be of interest to future generations.  Mind you, the renovation project we are currently completing for Chuck & Cheryl touches almost every inch of the home’s interior and adds on an addition so they knew they would want to tell that story; how the home got to this point, what it looked like prior to the renovation, who performed the renovation (ahem, Thorson of course!) but also wanted to include some personal information about their family and some time stamped articles and items.

The official list of items included were as follows:

  •  A written note giving a bit of history about their family, the date they purchased the house and the purchase price, a project description and an estimated renovation cost.
  • A before and after photo of the exterior of the house
  • A Thorson Restoration & Construction business card
  • The original 1928 real estate news clipping that was found during demolition
  • A 2018 Plymouth real estate page
  • The Front page of Plymouth’s local newspaper – The Old Colony Memorial
  • A science magazine
  • A financial magazine
  • A few coins dated 2018
  • A photo of Chuck & Cheryl’s family taken with Priscilla Beach as the backdrop
  • Last but not least a lock of hair from Chuck (according to Chuck “in hopes that they might be able to use my DNA to bring me back”)

The items were all packaged in a metal fire safe box, secured and placed in a wall cavity of an upper level bedroom dormer just prior to plaster being installed. This location was chosen because it is an area of the home that is less likely to have a renovation in the near future, unlike a kitchen or bath that are likely to be renovated more frequently as design trends evolve. Chuck & Cheryl’s hope is that this home will stay in the family for generations so will also leave some photos and personal  effects in the far reaching corners of their attic for grandchildren and great grandchildren to discover them. The reality though is that this time capsule has the potential to remain sealed away in this home for multiple generations and to one day be discovered by either a distant relative or  even a complete stranger, one that will have better insight into their home’s history and the story behind those who occupied it before they did.

Today Chuck & Cheryl’s whole house renovation project is almost complete, after the time capsule was sealed in the walls we moved on to painting, flooring & interior finishes. This project is one that we are proud to be part of knowing that we are in effect leaving a lasting mark on this family, their home and even the impression that future generations will have about the building practices of our era. We hope that if any future homeowners do decide to renovate this home they look at the quality and attention to detail and conclude that “they just don’t build them like they used to”!

 

 

 

The value of charm & nostalgia

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Sometimes the value of a home is greater than it’s physical structure and monetary value. Location, family ties and deep rooted nostalgia can boost a home’s personal and perceived value tenfold and that was exactly the case for the homeowner at our Highland Whole House Renovation project.

This multi-phase project began in 2013 with the renovation of the main structure. Phase II added a handsome detached  2 car garage with recreational space above. Fast forward to 2019 and we are just beginning Phase III of this project to build an addition that connects the main house to the garage and adds a spacious master suite. The commencement of Phase III made us reflect back on our long standing relationship with this client and their journey to transform this home from a nostalgic summer retreat to a permanent full time residence that will no doubt last for generations.

This home, built in 1922 was one that evoked a sense of nostalgia for the client who was raised in this coastal community and since returned to spend countless summers always surrounded by friends and family who occupy several other homes in the area. They personally rented this summer home for years and when it came on the market there was no question that they would purchase it and plan to keep in in the family for generations to come.   The home was loaded with charm but needed updating, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. The family also needed more space in the home overall to be able to comfortably summer here.

The resulting design by Noseworthy Residential Design added a full length addition off the rear to include an expanded kitchen, full bathroom, side entry, screen porch & outdoor covered patio. In 2013 Phase I of this multi-phase project began and would be the beginning of an ever evolving project that would fully transform this property while trying to remain true to the original bones & feel of the home.

The house was lifted off of it’s foundation, porches removed and a new full height foundation was poured to allow for the finishing of the entire basement area.  This portion of the project presented plenty of challenges but the homeowner once again saw value in making this home well suited for them so chose to move forward despite the complexity of the work.    The new full height basement significantly increased the square footage of the home and added an additional bathroom, kitchenette and recreational space that the entire family could make use of.

The scope of the project soon expanded to other parts of the home as the client explains; “At our first meeting with Eric, his excitement inspired us. As he got to know us, he intuitively offered us suggestions that we did not consider, but were just what we wanted.”

In 2016 a small underutilized detached garage on the property was demolished and a new 2 car garage with recreational space above was built in it’s place. The garage is perfect additional entertainment area for the countless family visitors that frequented the property throughout the summer months. Aesthetics of the property were significantly enhanced with exterior finishes to match the newly remodeled main home.

With the garage complete it wasn’t long before the client began planning for phase three of this  multi-phase project.  The client returned to architect Gordon Noseworthy to draft plans for an expansive master suite addition that would connect the garage and main house and prepare the home for the client to eventually make it their permanent year round residence.

With plans complete & permits pulled, construction on the phase III addition began on March 25, 2019. We look forward to working with this long standing repeat client to complete their vision of a home well suited to their personal lifestyle that maintains its original charm and nostalgia.

If you love your home and it’s charm and nostalgia but wish it was better suited for your lifestyle, now may be the time to start planning!

Contact us and let’s discuss your home’s story and how we can help make it uniquely yours! 508-279-0656

 

Eric’s Homemade Beef Jerky

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Homemade Teriyaki Beef Jerky

This tasty treat is one that was made by our very own Eric Thorson but comes courtesy of the Wolf’s “Mastering the Convection Steam Oven” Cookbook.  You see,  Eric & Stacy underwent a renovation of their own recently and in the process learned alot about the Subzero and Wolf appliances that they chose to use in their newly renovated kitchen. The process of selecting their appliances took them to the Clarke Showroom in Milford, MA which if you have never experienced is a showroom unlike any other. What makes it so unique is the no-pressure atmosphere and the focus on education and the client experience. No appliances are actually sold there (hence the lack of pushy sales people) but the showroom features a plethora of fully functioning appliances that you can “test drive” on the spot or do as Eric & Stacy did and join in one of their regularly scheduled cooking demonstrations that help you understand how to use the many functions of your Sub zero & Wolf Appliances all while watching a master chef at work (and getting to eat the resulting gourmet treats)!

The journey to discover the many functions of each appliance and which would be of most use to Eric & Stacy in their day to day cooking endeavors was one that actually helped them to better serve our clients as well. Both Eric and Stacy have shared their new found appliance knowledge with our clients so they too can make educated decisions on  which appliances would be the best fit in their new kitchens.

The  Wolf Convection Steam oven has created the most buzz by far; for an appliance with a bad reputation for being a “uni-tasker” (to quote Alton Brown) -or an appliance that only does one thing, like steam vegetables, this steam oven proved that wrong on so many counts and has turned out to be Eric & Stacy’s new go-to appliance. They have tested the oven with everything from risotto (that doesn’t need a babysitter) to perfectly “boiled” eggs and even, yes, beef jerky!

Stacy noticed that their new appliance knowledge has inspired Eric to be more active in the kitchen and try new things that they otherwise may not have thought of. One such occasion was the day she happened upon Eric whipping up some homemade teriyaki beef jerky. The photos here were not staged, Eric, armed with the Wolf Cookbook and the eagerness of a child learning a new skill was happily arranging his pre-marinated steak pieces artfully on the gleamingly new integrated cooking rack.  After 4-6 hours in the Wolf Convection Steam Oven on the “convection mode” …Voilla! Eric had himself a perfect pound of tasty home made teriyaki beef jerky that admittedly didn’t last long in their household.

So in honor of this magical real life moment we thought we’d share with you the recipe!

Teriyaki Beef Jerky

Makes 10 Servings

Cooking Time 4-6 Hours

INGREDIENTS 2-21⁄2 pounds beef round or flank, thinly

sliced

¼ cup soy sauce
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt

TERIYAKI
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1 tablespoon freshly grated garlic
(to replace garlic powder)
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon Korean chili paste
½ teaspoon sesame oil
Zest of 1 orange
Juice of 1 orange

PREPARATION METHOD
1. Have the meat sliced very thin by a butcher at time of purchase, rather than attempting it by hand.

2. In a large bowl, combine all marinade ingredients and mix well to combine.

3. Dip each piece of meat individually into the bowl to ensure an even coating.

4. Allow to sit for at least 3-4 hours or overnight.

5. When ready to cook, drain off excess marinade and lightly pat meat dry with a paper towel.

6. Lay strips out flat on the wire racks. The edges of the meat can touch, but the meat should not overlap or
be folded in any way.

7. Place the racks into the oven on positions 2 and 4. Place the solid pan on rack position 1 to catch any drips.

8. Leave the door slightly ajar and select the Convection Mode set to 150°F. Dehydrate for 1 hour.

9. After an hour, flip over the meat and rotate the racks.

10. Continue to cook until the meat develops a stiff, leathery texture. Thicker cuts of meat can take an additional 3-5
hours or longer to dehydrate and cooking rates vary if using a conventional oven.

11. Continue to flip and rotate the meat every 1-2 hours to ensure the jerky has a uniform texture.

12. Cool and store in an airtight container. The jerky can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

BEFORE YOU START
You will need both of the wire racks that came with your Wolf Convection Steam oven (or any oven safe wire racks if using a conventional oven). It is also helpful to have the solid oven pan to catch drips as you lay out the strips of meat across the racks. Surprisingly, you will also need a colander to drain off the excess marinade. This provides a much cleaner way of handling the strips of meat than removing them one at a time from the zip-top bag.

Recipe courtesy of Wolf’s “Mastering the Convection Steam Oven” guide

 

 

Linear Drains & Curbless Showers

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Linear Drain From our “Bay Shore Bathrooms” Project

What is a Linear Drain you ask? Well they go by many other names including trough drain, channel drain & slot drain all of which are correct and simply refer to the shape of the grate & drain body. Instead of a round or square drain grate in a central location  where all areas of the shower floor are pitched toward the drain;  a “linear” drain is linear in shape and the attached drain body is a trough that channels water to one central exit port using a slope in only one direction. Linear drains can be installed in various locations in a shower but the most common is at either an outside wall or at the shower entry point. Drains of this type have been used in commercial applications and overseas for decades but have emerged more prominently on the US residential market in the last decade or so.

We’ve noticed that requests for linear drains are on the rise and they have been incorporated into many of our recent projects.  Curbless showers are also gaining in popularity whether it be for better access as a homeowner ages in place or to fit a more modern and streamlined aesthetic. These two features are often combined although it is possible to have one without the other; you can opt for the look of a linear drain but still want the peace of mind that a shower curb brings in terms of containing water in the showering area.  There are also alternative “curbless” or “level entry” drain systems that employ a standard center drain but are installed recessed into a subfloor to be able to eliminate the curb. Depending on the reasons for wanting either a linear drain or curbless shower entry a number of factors need to be considered to determine if they’re right for your home & project.

Many homeowners main objective in selecting a linear drain is to achieve a “look”. They perhaps saw one featured in a home design magazine or website and fell in love with the sleek modern feel. Some though, have more practical objectives like handicap accessibility or reducing tripping hazards. Whatever the end goal; there are pros and cons to consider.

 

Pros

  • Option for Curbless Shower entry

    Although linear drains don’t need to be installed in a level entry application, they do allow for this. Do note however that not all linear drains are recommended to be installed at a level entry point, check with your drain supplier & manufacturer for recommended applications of your specific drain.

 

  • Option for multiple drain exit ports
    Linear drains also allow for additional drain ports within the same drain body. Some states require additional drains by code if the gallon per minute rate of water flowing from multiple fixtures exceeds a predetermined amount. When a shower has multiple heads & body sprays etc. a second drain outlet is usually required. Having two standard drains is typically undesirable but the trough design of a linear drain allows for multiple exit points to be installed in line with the same main trunk, creating the look of only one linear style drain.
  • Nicer on the feet
    Because linear drains are typically installed at the edge of the shower floor it allows for a clear footpath at the showering area and makes it so the person doesn’t have to continually step on the drain underfoot.

 

  • Design Flexibility
    In a standard shower the floor tile is usually required to be smaller to be able to contour to a floor that pitches in multiple directions toward a central drain. With a linear drain the floor need only pitch in one direction, this allows for a larger format tile to be installed on the shower floor if desired. In some cases even continuing the main bathroom floor right into the shower if installed without a curb. No longer limited by the shower slope you can choose a tile floor of any size and shape meaning the design possibilities are endless! A variety of drain grates are also available on the market today in multiple patterns and finishes to suit any style.

Linear Drain from our “Lincoln Kitchen & Interior” Project

Cons

  • Higher Cost
    While a standard drain is pretty nominal in cost, a linear drain or any level entry drain system can multiply that cost significantly in some cases reaching in to the thousands when all material & labor costs are factored in. The product itself is more expensive and typically the installation, prep work & coordination is bit higher as well.

 

  • Installation Limitations
    Because of the size and requirements to install a linear drain you may be limited on where it can be installed. When working within an existing structure for a renovation the sub floor material, depth of the joists and path for running a drain line all factor into the feasibility of such drains. This style of  drain in general is much more difficult to incorporate into an existing structure as a retrofit. Even in a new construction the placement and planning will require much forethought, sometimes well before the engineering and framing phases commence. 

 

  • Longer lead times & added planning time
    Because of all of the additional planning involved and the custom nature of some linear drains or level entry drain systems the coordination time is longer and products are often custom ordered with longer lead times to arrive in. Be sure to notify your building professionals far enough in advance so all details can be worked out and products ordered in time for the rough plumbing phase of your project.

 

  • Reduced Water Retention
    when installing a curbless or level entry drain of any type there is an increased risk of water escaping the showering area. Simply put, water doesn’t always flow where you want it, splashing is inevitable and drains sometimes get clogged. A shower with a curb would at least retain any backup but a curbless shower would not,  causing water to migrate to other areas of the bathroom.

Whatever your reason for considering a curbless or linear drain there’s much to research & discuss before pulling the trigger. Every project is different and although one bathroom in a home may be a good candidate for a linear drain , another in the same home may not, so speak with your qualified building or remodeling professional well in advance to discuss your options and allow ample time to plan for a proper installation.

 

 

Always Tripping?

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Picture this;

you are a homeowner and just had the kitchen of your dreams installed and are so happy to begin using your new space, you plug back in your appliances, coffee maker, lamps etc. and settle in.  One day seemingly out of the blue, your electrical breaker trips, you find the breaker and turn it back on because you’re a pretty handy homeowner and “YOU GOT THIS”, then it happens again and again until  you decide it’s time to call a Pro.

If this scenario sounds all too familiar and you have a problem with persistently tripping breakers you are not alone, this is a common issue that we get calls about frequently. The main objective in calling a pro is to get to the bottom of the issue since it’s not always as easily identifiable for most homeowners. Unfortunately, getting to the bottom of the issue is  perhaps even more difficult (even for the Pros) since the updating of certain electrical codes.

The various code councils are always assessing and updating code standards to safeguard the health, safety, and general welfare of building occupants. Many of these code upgrades have to do with shock & fire prevention in an around the electrical wiring in your home.

Some of the more recent electrical code updates stipulate that specific types of electrical breakers be used in certain areas of the home to help prevent fires. Any measure to prevent fires and increase safety in a home is definitely a positive change, however some negative ramifications have come from some of these changes as well.

These newly required breaker types are called AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) or CAFI (combination arc fault interrupter) and are designed to sense arcs, many of which are normal in the operation of switches, motors and other electrical appliances. The breaker is supposed to turn the circuit off when it detects a dangerous arc caused by a frayed cord, or a loose connection or any other problematic item that could start a fire. Very good thing right? Well,  yes of course,  but the nature of these newer devices is that they are designed to be pretty sensitive at times leading to what is called “nuisance tripping” or tripping of a circuit for no apparent or identifiable reason. Of course there is always a reason, but identifying a valid safety concern and addressing the reason can be where issues arise.

At times, older products with motors will cause the AFCI breaker to trip. This is because the brushes wear down on these older motors, which causes the arc pattern to become irregular and not as rhythmic as when the motor was new. This causes AFCI to detect this as an arc and trip the circuit for safety.

Do note that AFCI breakers differ from GFCI breakers that are designed to trip when the load becomes unbalanced between the hot and neutral wires, also known as an electrical “leak”. GFCI breakers are to protect people from getting shocked versus AFCI which are to prevent electrical fires. Both AFCI and GFCI breakers perform the duties of a standard circuit breaker which is to protect the wiring from short circuits and overload conditions.

Note that combination AFCI and GFCI breakers are also used and do all of the functions described above. These breakers are commonly used on dishwashers, disposals, kitchen circuits and other kitchen appliances near the sink.

Ok,  enough talk about the technicalities right? Let’s get back to the issue at hand, identifying the cause and knowing when to call in the professionals.

What to Do

Step 1
Identify the Circuit causing the issue.
 At the breaker panel identify the circuit that has tripped. The switch will be in the neutral position (between on and off).
 If the circuit is an AFCI breaker it will be labeled as such and will have a “test” button and sometimes light indicators. Below is an example of what AFCI breakers look like:

Step 2
Isolate the potential cause.
 Unplug all fixtures/appliances plugged in to the circuit.
 Turn the circuit switch back into the “on” position
 Plug in each appliance or fixture back into an outlet on this circuit one at a time and turn on or run each for a time to see if any of them are causing the trip to occur.

Most common items that trigger AFCI Tripping:
1. Vacuums, , typically being plugged in or unplugged when turned on
2. Any older motorized appliance or tool
3. Fluorescent lights
4. Surge protectors/power strips
5. Older appliances or fixtures
6. Any appliance or fixture with a worn plug or wiring (sometimes caused when furniture is pushed against plugs)
7. HAM Radios
8. Loose light bulbs, worn receptacles, plugs not fully plugged into the receptacle.

Step 3
If any of the devices trigger a trip, unplug the item and test it on another circuit that is also AFCI protected. If this same device trips a different AFCI circuit breaker, it’s the result of incompatibility between the electronic device and the AFCI breaker, or possibly a major problem with the device. You can try relocating the device to a non –AFCI protected circuit or if the device is older or plug/wiring is worn you may want to consider replacing the fixture to reduce fire hazard risk & reduce chances of future nuisance tripping.

If the trip is not duplicated in another AFCI circuit, contact your electrician for further investigation.

 

 

 

Looking back at 2018

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

What a great year 2018 was! We had a diverse mix of projects, fabulous clients, high accolades and an ever talented team of craftsman and trade professionals that worked harder than ever to make it all happen! We are grateful for each and every part of this year and are looking forward to what 2019 has in store!

Check out our 2018 Recap video for this year’s highlights!

 

A Barn Raising

Posted on by Stacy Thorson

Barns are an intrinsic part of classic New England architecture and although they come in many forms, the majority of the ones that survived the colonial era into today were likely some form of timber frame construction. It’s estimated that timber frame construction has been utilized worldwide since approximately 200 B.C. and there’s no question about why it is still being used today. The method uses large scale beams that are shaped and connected with interlocking joinery & wooden pegs creating an immense amount of strength and durability while still allowing for a measure of flexibility.  The result is a structure that can withstand whatever the New England weather patterns can dish out and when properly maintained, can last for generations.

 

The process of erecting these long lasting structures has a history of its own as well as many long standing traditions that go along with it. In Colonial times a good old fashioned barn raising was typically a community event. The old adage that “it takes a village” can also apply to constructing a massive structure in an era before crane’s and power tools;  an entire community would literally have to come together to make it happen.

Fast forward to today and although we have the assistance of cranes and power tools, some of the social traditions that were adopted centuries ago are still running strong today. Our latest Custom Home Project in Plymouth Ma. is one that in both design and tradition is paying homage to times past.  The main home was designed to look and feel like it had been built centuries ago with classic New England styling & finishes and high quality beam work that will be a lovely compliment to the newly raised timber frame barn on the property. The Barn design calls for hundreds of wooden beams and pieces that were pre-engineered off site using modern technology & tools. The erecting of the barn however took on more of an old fashioned approach.

    

On Monday December 3, 2018 several members of the Thorson Team along with the homeowner and even several of their friends were present to assist and witness the raising of the barn. Although a large crane helped with the heavy lifting and positioning of the beams in their place, many hands were still needed to make final adjustments and connections as well as to feed the hard working helpers (for which the homeowner graciously stepped up to the plate).  The foundation and flooring were prepared in advance and ready to accept the main structure. Posts & beams assembled in sections on the ground were then carefully lifted to their final positions. While the structure was successfully being erected the social aspects of a traditional barn raising also ensued. Food was shared by all thanks to a gracious offering by the homeowner and a small evergreen tree was nailed to the highest peak. (yes you heard us correctly…)

 

The ritual of nailing a bough or small tree to the highest peak goes back hundreds of years and served two purposes. One was to  pay homage to all the trees that went into the construction of the structure and to the many hands that built it. The other symbolizes the establishment of the Barn’s roots, which will nourish a long and prosperous life, one that will no doubt last for generations.  This time of year though, one could also argue that the small tree is nod to Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree that gave importance to the simpler aspects of life, and the meaning behind them rather than their fancy facade.

An old fashioned barn raising is for sure a reflection of simpler times past. The beauty is really in its simplicity. The warm wooden beams will provide solid structure and are just as beautiful and awe inspiring standing on their own as they will be after they’ve received their final facade.

We have always had an immense amount of respect & admiration for classic architecture and building techniques and are proud to be a part of projects like this one that create quality lasting structures that will no doubt be enjoyed for generations to come!