from the publisher
One can visit numerous exhibits and booths, speak
with the principals of major firms from all categories
of residential design, peruse the photo galleries of exquisite architecture and elegant home building projects, and attend seminars with designers and other
professionals.
one sure way to experience and appreciate the
depth and variety of design talent in New England
is to attend the annual Residential Design & Construction Show at the Seaport World Trade Center.
This trade show — produced by the Boston Society
of Architects, our local chapter of the American Institute of Architects — is open to the public during
the evening, and was held this year on April 2 and 3.
POR TRAI T B Y KELLY DAVIDSON
It is clear how important these professionals are to the successful execution of any design
project and how important it is for homeowners to learn as much as possible, so we can better
articulate our dreams and visions to the pros who create them for us. For example, I attended
one seminar on kitchen design, appliances, and materials. Consider some of your choices:
lacquers, stone, tile, exotic woods, natural glass or a blend. Then, just focus on your countertops. Should they be thick granite, semiprecious stone, creative concrete, or wood? How about
appliances? Just consider refrigeration. Do you want it built in, fully integrated and hidden,
professional style, or as separate cooling drawers in different rooms? The point is that in all
areas there are new technologies and many choices. The more we know, the better we can
express our desires and needs to the professionals. The pervading theme is the importance of
thorough planning for every aspect of your project, knowing in advance what you want, and
the necessity to bring all key players into the process early.
As part of our effort to bring you ever closer to your own dream home, we are pleased
to announce that Design New England will now also be available in a digital edition on our
website ( designnewengland.com). Beginning with the May/June 2008 issue, you will be able to
read and share the full contents of every issue online. You can sign up to be notified when new
issues are posted and learn about special new Design New England events. You can also click
on the ads featured, and link directly to our advertisers’ websites.
With the abundance of nature blooming all around us and our homes, I’d like to wish you
a wonderful spring season and the chance to enjoy all things outdoors and in.
stephen twombly, publisher
mark your calendar
➜ May 15: Empyrean Open House and Reception From 4 to 8 pm Design New England and
custom home builder Empyrean invite you to an evening of presentations on industry insights
and model home tours, to be followed by cocktails and a light supper at Empyrean’s Acton,
Massachusetts, headquarters. To RSVP call 978-266-7198 or visit empyreanint.com.
➜ May 29, June 12, June 26: Van Millwork and Design New England Home Seminar Series
This three-part complimentary seminar series (with lunch at Van Millwork’s Needham,
Massachusetts, studio) kicks off with landscapes May 29, then focuses on choosing design
professionals June 12, and wraps up with a look at design details June 26. To register call
781-444-8744 or visit vanmillwork.com.
