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TIPS AND TRENDS

Tips and Trends from Guest Blogger Ohannes Ortiz of Top Notch Contracting

What is the ideal project for Top Notch Contracting?

•  Our ideal project is a thoughtfully designed custom home or major renovation where craftsmanship, performance, and collaboration truly matter. 
• We especially enjoy high-performance builds, including Passive House and net-zero projects, where we can bring both technical expertise and fine detailing to the table.

What sets Top Notch Contracting apart from its competitors?  

•  We combine high-level building science with meticulous craftsmanship. Our projects are systems-driven and process-oriented, but we never lose sight of the artistry and client experience. 
• That balance between performance, precision, and relationships is what truly differentiates us.

How would you define the services that Top Notch Contracting offers?

•  We are a full-service general contractor specializing in custom homes, large-scale renovations, and architectural millwork. 
• From preconstruction planning through final finishes, we manage every phase with transparency, detailed scheduling, and a strong emphasis on quality control.

Have you noticed any new trends in what clients would like to have done?

•  Clients are increasingly prioritizing energy efficiency, healthier air quality and water quality, and long-term durability. 
• There is also growing interest in curated, highly personalized spaces that blend modern performance standards with warm, timeless design.

What is your favorite hobby outside of work?

•  I love spending time with my wife and sons, staying active, and turning my brain off whenever possible.

Any tips for people about to embark on a project to enhance their house?

• Start with clear goals and invest time in thoughtful planning because it makes all the difference. 
• Assemble the right team early, prioritize quality over shortcuts, and view your project as a long-term investment in how you live every day.

TIPS AND TRENDS

Tips and Trends from Blogger Pat Godfrey of Godfrey Design Build

What is the ideal project for Godfrey Design Build?

• Most of our projects are some kind of expansion or addition – either to the kitchen or the main bedroom, or a whole first-floor redo.
• The costs of our projects tend to be in the $250k – $650k range.

What defines the services that Godfrey Design Build offers?

• We are a design/build firm, so we pay close attention to how people live in their homes and the best way to use the space.
• We are always thinking about storage and how it can enhance the livability of the environment by making sure everything has its place.

Are you noticing any trends?

• We are fielding lots of calls from people who want us to remove their big tub with loud, hard-to-clean jets. They are no longer a thing.
• Any reconfiguration of the first floor or kitchen update these days usually includes a mudroom.

What is your favorite hobby outside of work?

• We go skiing as much as possible as a family. We are excited about all the snow!
• I love coaching my kids on their various youth sports teams.
• I’m just starting to get into golf. I view it as a great way to enjoy the outdoors as well as enjoy time with family and friends. It’s also obviously a great challenge!

Any tips for people about to embark on a project to enhance their house?

• Always check references! Finding the right contractor is worth the time it takes.
• There are many companies out there who will tell you up front what you want to hear regarding both timeline and budget, and neither is realistic. Be wary of the free estimate, as it’s often worth exactly what you paid for it!

A Note From Jason

Jason and Mindy are all smiles as they welcome CEO Bill Condron of The Granite Group to the Beverly showroom.

Hi Everyone!

It’s a new year, and that means new beginnings. Now is the moment that we resolve to eat better, sleep more, and exercise regularly. But every winter, some primal urges are in play, and that means that we want to hunker down in cozy places (not moving) and store up extra calories (more snacks) to help our bodies stay warm when the temps fall into the low digits. I am going to try to stay on course with my resolution to find better balance in my life between work, family time, and maintaining healthy habits. I wish you luck and inner strength as we engage in the steps to become better versions of ourselves in 2026.

Speaking about new beginnings, I wanted to share some big news with you. On Thursday, December 18, we announced that Salem Plumbing Supply and Designer Bath have joined The Granite Group, a plumbing supply and specialty fixture distributor based in NH. Read more about the press release here.

This is very exciting! There are so many great synergies between our businesses, and I am confident that this was the right decision at the right time. The Granite Group is run by CEO Bill Condron, who is also the third generation of his family to run the company. They take pride in their attention to their customers and their commitment to their employees. Learn more about them and their work here.

While the behind-the-scenes process will evolve as we integrate systems, I can tell you about the important things that will remain the same. Mindy and I are not going anywhere. We will continue to stay involved. The team is not going anywhere. You will have the same sales associate who knows you and has been devoted to making sure your projects go smoothly. We will still have access to most of the same product lines, with additions that include Kohler. We will have a more extensive back-office support system and more powerful buying power. The new company is larger in a way that benefits you, while keeping the meaningful relationships that you have with Designer Bath associates and that we have with manufacturers intact.

We are glad to chat with you about the changes and how this new company structure will be a plus as we move forward with new opportunities to collaborate and grow.

On the topic of collaborations, we are glad to have the opportunity to introduce our January guest blogger, Meredith Rodday. We met Meredith soon after we opened our Watertown showroom in 2017. We are thrilled every time we have the opportunity to assist her and her team with one of their beautiful home renovations. It’s fun to see what designers pick without a client’s input, so I think you will enjoy reading about her selections!

Happy New Year!

Jason Sevinor

A Note From Jason

During this festive season, our family is celebrating by continuing beloved traditions as well as starting new ones. My son joined me for a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot and he and his brother had fun with their cousin designing and building gingerbread houses.

Hi Everyone!

Hard to believe, but here we are—days getting shorter, nights getting colder, and the year starting to wind down. While part of us just wants to bundle up and hibernate, I want to encourage you to keep moving, get outside when you can, and find little ways to enjoy the season. As much as I love summer, I also really enjoy skiing. I’ve found that when you lean into different hobbies for each season, it gives you something to look forward to all year long. Even though I still miss those days when a jacket wasn’t necessary, I try to find the fun in chilly mornings and stay excited about what’s ahead.

One of my favorite parts of December is seeing the excitement around our Toys for Tots donation program. This year, the boxes are absolutely overflowing! The need continues to grow, and it’s truly amazing to see how generous everyone has been. Thank you for helping care for others in our community. There are so many great local organizations doing important work, and no matter which causes you support, your kindness really does make a difference.

And speaking of December—we’ve put together a creative holiday gift guide to help you check a few names off your list. You might not think a decorative plumbing fixture screams “perfect gift,” but trust me—it does! These are items people see and use every single day. Something that’s both functional and stylish can really brighten up a home and make everyday routines feel a little more special. It’s a thoughtful way to show someone you care. Here are some of our favorite
picks for everyone on your list.

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

A Note From Jason

We love winning awards! And we always appreciate the acknowledgement of our team’s hard work. We turned out in force to celebrate our recent honor as a recipient of a prestigious Best of the Northshore Home (BONS HOME) award. Thank you to everyone who voted for us! And then there’s the scary Sevinor duo, my two boys.

Hello!

The seasons are changing, and it’s that time of year when it starts to feel cold and my
family’s excitement for skiing begins to build. The holidays hit like dominoes, and it
seems like we have Halloween and then Veteran’s Day and then BOOM! It’s
Thanksgiving and then the sprint to Christmas and New Year’s. So as much as I would
like to talk a little about my boys and the costumes that they chose to wear for Trick-or-
Treating, I think it’s even more important to spend a moment embracing gratitude. I love
Thanksgiving because there are no gifts and no candy. It is an entire holiday focused on
food, family, and football. We can feel comfortable settling into a post-turkey coma
because that is what everyone else is doing around the country. It is a holiday that I
spend reflecting on our lives and just how fortunate I feel.

For myself, I give thanks for my health and that of my close family members and friends.
I am also grateful for our business, our team and our customers, because without them,
we have nothing. This time of year, here in New England, I like to take the time to
appreciate the brilliant colors of late fall. I really enjoy the colorful tapestry of brilliant
leaves as I drive places for work or hike on local trails.

At Designer Bath, our customers include many incredibly talented professionals in the
design/build field. We have been working with Katie Boucher from Right Angle Kitchens
for many years. She has just opened a new showroom in Beverly, which joins the
original location in Woburn. Please join me in welcoming her as this month’s guest
blogger!

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

A Note From Jason

Our industry loves a good excuse to get fancy! Mindy and I are all dressed up for a dinner with designers.

Hi everyone!

After a few surprising days in the 80s, I think Mother Nature finally got the memo — it’s October, and time to lean into fall. For me, that means crunchy leaves underfoot, switching to soup instead of salad, and digging through the closet for jackets, hats, and gloves. I’m ready… are you?

In the design and build world, autumn is our “red carpet” season. It’s when award galas and industry celebrations fill the calendar — a chance for everyone to swap work boots for black tie and toast the incredible projects that define our region. These events always remind me just how much talent exists across New England. Every time I read about a new winner or scroll through photos of a stunning project, I find myself inspired by the level of craftsmanship, creativity, and collaboration happening all around us.

Beyond the glitz, what really stands out are the people — the designers, builders, and architects who continually raise the bar while mentoring the next generation. They’re shaping not just beautiful spaces, but also a strong, supportive community of professionals who push each other to do their best work.

We recently had the pleasure of welcoming Eunice Weckesser, founder of Crown The Cool Studios, to our Watertown showroom. Eunice began her career as a nurse, but during the pandemic, she took a bold leap into interior design — and she’s been making waves ever since. Her fearless use of color and her playful approach to both residential and retail spaces have already earned her recognition and visibility in local décor magazines. It was such fun giving her a tour and seeing her light up exploring our faucets, fixtures, and accessories. This month, Eunice joins us as our guest blogger. Don’t miss her post — it’s full of personality and inspiration!

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

A Note From Jason

Off to the races! My boys are heading into 5th and 7th grade. Hard to believe!

Hello everyone, and hello fall!

This season always sneaks up on me. One minute we’re soaking up the slower, laid-back pace of summer, and the next we’re scrambling to keep track of school supplies, schedules, and activities. Who needs to be where, when? How much homework needs to be completed? Have friendships shifted, or stayed the same? It’s a whirlwind—and honestly, a little overwhelming at times—but it’s also exciting. Watching my sons move up to 5th and 7th grade reminds me that with every new challenge comes growth. My goal this year is to embrace the change, not resist it, and to celebrate the progress that comes with each season. Let’s go!

On the work front, we’ve had some exciting changes, too. I’m thrilled to introduce Antonio Paula, our new Showroom Manager. Many of you knew Michelle Ritchie, who led our showroom sales team for more than a decade. Michelle was instrumental in modernizing our technology and keeping our focus on exceptional service. We’re so grateful for her contributions, and we wish her well as she launches her new venture, Mended By Meesh, specializing in carpentry and small projects.

Antonio brings a wealth of experience from luxury retail, with a strong background in customer service and creating value in the shopping experience. He’s quickly getting up to speed on our systems and is excited to meet all of you. We’re lucky to have him join our family!

Finally, I want to celebrate Chris Brown, who was recently promoted to President of Platt Builders, Inc. After nearly two decades with the company, Chris’s leadership and dedication have earned him this well-deserved role. It’s been a pleasure collaborating with him and his team on their beautiful projects. This month, Chris is our guest blogger—be sure to check out his picks and insights below.

Here’s to fresh starts, new faces, and continued growth.

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

A Note From Jason

80 Looks Good on Us!

Hi everyone,

This August, we proudly celebrated a milestone few businesses ever reach—80 years in business! Only about 3% of family-owned companies make it this far, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

To show our gratitude, we’re launching our biggest sale of the year:

🎉 80 FOR 80 – 80 hours of incredible savings over 2 weeks!

• Early Access for Friends & Family starts TODAY 
• Public sale runs Monday, Aug. 18 – Friday, Aug. 29

This is our way of saying thank you for supporting us over eight decades. Your loyalty has allowed us to hire the best people in the business, win awards, and continue delivering excellence in service and product knowledge.

Our journey began with my grandfather, Bill, whose vision built our company’s foundation. My dad, Ralph, expanded our horizons with our first showroom and offered decorative fixtures. Since then, every team member—past and present—has added their talent, passion, and personality to our story. The common thread? Dedication, and a genuine commitment to making customers happy—the secret sauce behind our reputation.

Over the years, we’ve had challenges, triumphs, and plenty of lessons learned. But each chapter has shaped us into the company we are today: one that serves homeowners, designers, builders, architects, and plumbers with pride.

Speaking of architects, I’d like to congratulate Heather Souza of Flavin Architects, a talented designer we’ve had the pleasure of working with recently, on being named principal of the firm—well deserved!

Here’s to 80 years of history, and to an even brighter future—together.

See you at the sale!

Jason Sevinor
President, Designer Bath & Salem Plumbing Supply

A Note From Jason

Happy Father’s Day from Jason and his sons.

Happy June!

I am a little more relaxed than usual as I look forward to spending Father’s Day with my family. Usually, Designer Bath and Salem Plumbing Supply are gearing up for the big Annual Sale, which typically kicks off on the day before Father’s Day. For decades, the early weeks of June have been spent gathering up items that have been returned and/or discontinued and setting up displays that feature low-priced items. We focus on our Beverly showroom, which becomes a bit of a jumble with tables everywhere and sale signage.

Now, however, we have our OUTLET in specially designated areas of the Beverly showroom. Instead of offering incredible prices for this one SALE, we have them EVERY DAY. We opened the OUTLET this past January, and I am thrilled to report it is a success! Our customers are delighted to purchase in-stock items at rock-bottom prices. These bargains tend to sell fast. Be sure to check them out in person or online at designerbath.com

I feel very fortunate to be able to enjoy the holiday both as a dad of two boys and as a son. As many of you know, our business was started 80 years ago by my grandfather, who passed it along to my dad, who then entrusted the company to me. It is a privilege to toast to my dad, his dad, and all the dads out there.

This month’s blogger also has lots to celebrate this Father’s Day. Architect Craig Bosworth owns his firm in Marblehead, MA. The father of two boys, Bosworth, recently hired his eldest to help him with his business, and also attended the college graduation of his younger son. Lots of good things on the horizon for the Bosworth family! Please read on to see what he picked as his favorite items from our Beverly showroom.

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

A Note From Jason

We are proud of the long-term relationships we have with notable publications such as Boston Home and New England Home.

Hello everyone!

Are you looking forward to the upcoming long weekend? I certainly am! Although I wish the weather was predicted to be warmer, I am still planning to take advantage of the unofficial start of summer to get outside and channel some sunshine vibes.

We have been discussing partnerships important to us and our business. Lately, I have highlighted the significance of aligning with top-quality trade professionals, such as designers, architects, and builders, who have developed solid reputations for impeccable craftsmanship. We have also focused on the benefits of strong relationships with manufacturers and their reps. Our connections and tight bonds with these companies help us provide extraordinary service to our clients. 

Another part of the network is our collaborations with regional media outlets. We have been a strong supporter of print magazines because they are a way for beautiful projects to have their moment to shine in front of an important audience of discerning homeowners. Not too long ago, there was a lot of talk about the rumored demise of paper periodicals. However, they seem to be undergoing a renaissance. The pages are full of stunning kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and living spaces. The ads (especially the Designer Bath ones!) are plentiful and impactful. We are thrilled that this type of communication is still valid and vibrant. We appreciate the work it takes to put together these glamorous issues and we applaud the publishing and editorial staff that promote our industry and help us connect us with one another.

On our social media channels, we have been celebrating National Home Remodeling Month by giving shout-outs to the people who are leading teams dedicated to knowledge, expertise, and quality. We have met many remodelers through our involvement with PRO NE (Professional Remodeling Organization of New England). Our director of marketing serves on the board, along with this month’s guest blogger, Ben Becker of BLB Design/Build.

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President