Best of Boston Home 2013

Every year we consult with dozens of local experts, then hit the pavement ourselves to create a list of talented, trustworthy pros ready to make your dream project a reality. Happy nesting!

Kitchen


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Photograph courtesy of PAYNE/BOUCHIER FINE BUILDERS

Contractor
PAYNE/BOUCHIER FINE BUILDERS

There’s a reason why so many renovations in Boston’s toniest neighborhoods have a Payne/Bouchier sign out front. The company’s beautiful millwork, historical reproductions, windows, and cabinetry (all of which can be completely customized) is matched only by its staffers’ superior project-management skills. No matter what the request, the personable crew produces results that are consistently breathtaking.

173 Norfolk Ave., Boston, 617-445-4323, paynebouchier.com.

Countertops
CUMAR MARBLE & GRANITE

The key to an efficient kitchen renovation? Finding a shop that can not only source and fabricate gorgeous stone, but also install your countertops with incredible precision. Look no further than Cumar. Owner Angelo Cubi—whose family has been in the stone business for seven generations—travels the world to find the finest slabs of granite, marble, limestone, and white quartz,then finishes them with his crew of skilled artisans. No wonder demanding designers seek out this shop first.

69 Norman St., Ste. 4, Everett, 617-389-7818, cumar.com.

Custom Cabinetry
KENYON WOODWORKING

The team at this Jamaica Plain shop can panel your library or build you a bar—the city even enlisted them to fix Faneuil Hall’s signature round windows. But kitchens are their specialty: Cabinets are designed in a range of styles—Arts & Crafts, French country, contemporary—all of which are remarkably well made.

179 Boylston St., Jamaica Plain, 617-524-6883, kenyonwoodworking.com.

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Photograph courtesy of SIMON PEARCE

Tabletop
SIMON PEARCE

Since opening his studio near Woodstock, Vermont, in 1981, Simon Pearce has built a mini glass-and-pottery empire. His many collections of handmade stemware, glasses, dishware, and accessories share a signature look—elegant and contemporary, with a touch of traditional flair. And now that he’s added linens, flatware, and pendant lights to his repertoire, Pearce has turned his name into a full-on lifestyle brand.

103 Newbury St., Boston, 617-450-8388, simonpearce.com.

Major Appliances
POIRIER SALES & SERVICES

When it comes to buying and repairing refrigerators and ranges, service matters, and Poirer, with more than 50 years of experience in the industry, offers its customers the absolute finest. Its in-house service department has pull with the manufacturers, meaning repairs are just a call away. Bonus: The company will match the prices of other brick-and-mortar retailers.

244 Needham St., Newton, 617-558-5500; 1015 Washington St., Norwood, 781-769-2446; poiriersales.com.

Cooking Supplies
EUROSTOVES

Choosing the right cookware is all about feel: the way a knife fits in your hand, the heft of a sauté pan, the angle of a peeler. Which is why a visit to Eurostoves’ Beverly showroom and its adjacent test kitchen is worth the trek. There you can try out the goods—from Shun knives to Capresso coffeemakers—or take them for an in-depth test drive during one of the many cooking classes offered.

45 Enon St., Beverly, 877-232-0007, eurostoves.com.

Decorative Hardware
RAYBERN DECORATIVE HARDWARE

Every kind of door hardware, handle, and knob imaginable is on display at this vast Charlestown showroom, so make sure you have plenty of time for browsing. Raybern also offers a kitchen design center that showcases nifty hinges, gadgets, and corner cabinet solutions for custom jobs.

24 Roland St., Boston, 617-666-3000.

The Boston Home team has curated a list of the best home design and home remodeling professionals in Boston, including home builders and contractors, interior designers, home accent décor, and more. Get the help you need with FindIt/Boston's guide to home renovation pros.