[Special Edition] Trend Watch 2026 - Quiet Comfort

QUIET COMFORT

CREATE YOUR HAVEN

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contents | spring 2026

38 Warmth, Beauty, and Function

Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture blends a modern home with its surroundings. By Mike Morin

48 It’s All About Collaboration at Crown Point Cabinetry

How to work effectively with a kitchen designer. By Brian Stowell

56 Team Building

Ennis Construction: No problems, just solutions. By Katherine P. Cox

64 Create the Space You Love

Shaker Hill Granite meets customers’ needs with ease and style. By Susan Nye

80 Friends and Neighbors

Helping Friends and Neighbors

LaValley Building Supply opens renovated kitchen design center. By Kelly Sennott

95 Cota & Cota

Eighty-five years, four generations, and still going strong. By Dean Whitlock

In This Issue

DESIGN TRENDS

18 Shine your Light

BEAUTIUFL VIEWS

20 Framing the Future

OUTDOOR SPACES

24 A Story in Stone & Water

INTERIOR STYLE

28 Quality, Comfort, and Longevity

74 Anichini’s Timeless Textiles

NATURAL VISION

70 Coming Home

BRIGHT IDEAS

90 Considering a Modular or a Tiny Home?

SMART CHOICES

93 Building Trust

SWEET DREAMS

101 A Fresh Look at Sleeping Well

REAL ESTATE

32 Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group

54 Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty

68 Berkshire Hathaway

Homeservices Verani Realty

78 Willow Brook Realty

FINANCE

88 Sugar River Bank

trend watch image

Renew and Refresh

The warmer temperatures and bright sunshine of spring have a way of motivating us to give our homes a thorough cleaning, inside and out, to clear away the grit and grime of winter. Beyond achieving sparkling windows, floors, and siding, do you have an urge to do more? This is typically the time of year when homeowners are inspired to take on home-improvement projects. What’s on your wish list this spring?

Whether you’d like an updated kitchen, a spa-like bathroom, or are building a brand-new home, local professionals can do the job. Looking to replace your old deck or patio, or how would you like to finally have that outdoor kitchen you’ve been wanting for years? Or are you tackling a smaller project, maybe a new paint color to freshen the bedroom or a comfy sectional for the family room? You’ll find plenty of experienced, skillful contractors, installers, and designers to accomplish whatever vision you have in mind.

The staff and I would like to thank the amazing, talented business owners who have taken the time to share some of their recent work with us in these pages. Once again we see why the Upper Valley is such a great place to live. Enjoy!

Deborah Thompson Executive Editor dthompson@mountainviewpublishing.com

Mountain View Publishing, LLC

135 Lyme Road Hanover, NH 03755 (603) 678-2793

www.mountainviewpublishing.com www.greateruppervalley.com

Publishers Cheryl Frisch Ryan Frisch

Publisher Emeritus Bob Frisch (1951–2025)

Executive Editor Deborah Thompson

Associate Editor Kristy Erickson

Contributors

Anne Richter Arnold, Pamela Brown, Katherine P. Cox, Mike Morin, Susan Nye, Kelly Sennott, and Dean Whitlock

Creative Director/Design Ellen Klempner-Béguin

Advertising Design Marston Creative

Web Design Locable

Digital Manager Erin Frisch Newton

Advertising Ryan Frisch Calyn Frisch

KEEP US POSTED: trend watch magazine wants to hear from readers. Correspondence may be addressed to: Letters to the Editor, image/TW, 135 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH 03755. Or email us at: dthompson@mountain viewpublishing.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by email to ryanfrisch@mountain viewpublishing.com. trend watch is published annually in the spring by Mountain View Publishing, LLC ©2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. trend watch magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, or photographs.

Shine Your Light

SCULPTURAL STATEMENT

FIXTURES TRENDING FOR 2026

Lighting is evolving beyond illumination and becoming the centerpiece of the room. Think oversized pendants, dramatic chandeliers, and asymmetrical sconces. These designs can add impact to an entryway, set the mood in a dining area, and express personality in a living room. Why settle for a plain fixture when your light can double as a masterpiece? tw

BEAUTIFUL VIEWS

BY JACKIE TURTUR, DESIGN AND MARKETING MANAGER

Photos courtesy of Windows & Doors By Brownell

FRAMING THE FUTURE

TRENDS

FROM

WINDOWS & DOORS BY BROWNELL ARE SHAPING HOMES

In Vermont and New Hampshire, windows and doors do more than bring in light. They frame mountain views, highlight changing seasons, and protect homes from demanding weather. Today’s trends reflect a desire for natural light, energy efficiency, and strong collaboration between homeowners and building professionals. At Windows & Doors By Brownell, we are seeing several key trends shape both new construction and renovation projects across the region.

EXPANSIVE GLASS AND CLEAN LINES

Large expanses of glass continue to shape today’s most compelling homes. Homeowners want brighter interiors and uninterrupted views, while architects design spaces that feel open and connected to the outdoors. Marvin offers collections to fit every style and need: Marvin Modern for clean, contemporary lines, Marvin Elevate for a more traditional look, and Ultimate for a versatile combination of both.

TRIPANE GLASS AND ENERGY PERFORMANCE

With our changing seasons, performance is essential. Tripane glass is increasingly popular in both custom homes and replacement projects. Three panes and enhanced insulation create a stronger barrier against the cold, improving comfort and reducing energy costs. Marvin continues to advance high-performance glazing technology, delivering excellent thermal efficiency without sacrificing clarity or design flexibility. The result is lasting comfort and durability.

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR CONNECTION

Even indoors, homeowners want to stay connected to nature. Expansive window walls and oversized sliding doors capture views and extend living spaces to decks and patios. In Vermont and New Hampshire, larger openings require careful product selection and precise installation. Properly integrated, they provide panoramic views, maximize daylight, and support comfort and well-being year-round.

Above: Capturing the New Hampshire landscape featuring Marvin Modern products. Design: Paul Lewandowski, Paul Designs Project. Builder: J Myers Builders.

Left: Glenview entry door installed by Windows & Doors By Brownell in Vermont.

Right: A modern Vermont home designed by Method Architecture Studio and built by Beacon Hill

Below: Spaces designed to blur the line between indoors and out, with the help from Marvin products.

THE STATEMENT ENTRY DOOR

Front doors have become architectural focal points. Entryways from Glenview Doors are gaining popularity for their design and craftsmanship. A bold entry door establishes a strong first impression that complements surrounding glass and window lines. For homeowners, it reflects quality and attention to detail.

COLLABORATION FROM START TO FINISH

A key trend in today’s market is collaboration. Windows and doors impact structure, energy efficiency, aesthetics, and budget, so involving the right partners early leads to stronger results. At Windows & Doors By Brownell, collaboration is central to every project. Our Marvin Design Gallery showrooms in West Lebanon, New Hampshire, and Williston, Vermont, provide a hands-on space for all parties to explore options together. We support both new construction and replacement projects, offering design consultation and professional installation to ensure long-term performance.

In a region where homes must balance beauty, performance, and resilience, thoughtful window and door design is not just a finishing touch; it is the foundation for how we experience light, landscape, and lasting comfort every day. At Windows & Doors By Brownell, we are proud to help bring ideas to life across Vermont and New Hampshire, guiding every project from design to installation. tw

Windows & Doors By Brownell

800 Marshall Avenue Williston, VT (802) 862-4800

PowerHouse Mall 8 Glen Road West Lebanon, NH (603) 298-5555 wdbrownell.com

OUTDOOR SPACES

BY KAREN LARSON, COFOUNDER , SOAKE POOLS

A Story in STONE & WATER

SOAKE POOLS BEAUTIFULLY INTEGRATE WITH THE LANDSCAPE

Set behind a historic New England home, this wellnessfocused outdoor space includes two Soake Pools, one for cold plunging and another for swimming. It feels as though it has always belonged to the landscape, shaped by time and quietly integrated into its surroundings.

A third-generation master stonemason, Matt Mastromarino sourced reclaimed stone for the hardscaping surrounding the Soake Pool, laying each piece carefully and allowing its natural variation to remain visible. As a child, Matt remembers visiting the local stone yard with his father to discard extra pieces from job sites, walking past piles of weathered granite and fieldstone that had already lived one life. Today, that same yard has become a source of inspiration and material, where he and his family return to reclaim discarded stone and give it new purpose. Much of the stone used here reflects that lineage, featuring pieces similar to those handled by his father and grandfather, shaped by older generations and carried forward into a new setting.

SOFTNESS, BEAUTY, AND CHARACTER

The surface is textured and worn, marked by subtle color shifts and softened edges that reflect decades of prior use. Nothing feels new for the sake of being new. The stone carries its history forward, settling naturally around the Soake Pool as though it has always belonged there.

Reclaimed stone brings a softness to poolscapes that new materials often lack. Fine cracks, mineral variation, and uneven faces give the surface depth and character. Against the clarity of the salt water, the stone offers contrast, grounding the space and inviting touch. Together, water and stone create balance.

ENJOY YEAR-ROUND

Year-round use is not novel in some parts of the country, but in New England, a Soake Pool integrating reclaimed stone is a gift in all four seasons. In a region where landscapes are shaped by the season as much as design, stone offers continuity. It holds its presence through snow, frost, and thaw. Paired with a pool designed for year-round enjoyment, the terrace becomes a constant even as everything around it shifts. Steam rises in winter air. Rain deepens the color of the stone. Summer brings bare feet tracing familiar paths across its textured surface.

There is a growing desire to live beautifully, but quietly. To choose craftsmanship over excess. This project reflects that sensibility, honoring place, material, and the simple pleasure of being outdoors in every season. tw

Soake Pools

Pembroke, NH

(603) 749-0665

www.soakepools.com

Left: Stone moments layered throughout the property, from the poolscape to this beautifully crafted stone bridge.

Opposite, clockwise from top left: A Soake Pool framed in reclaimed granite, its natural patina complementing the clarity of the water. Third-generation master stonemason Matt Mastromarino with Karen Larson, cofounder of Soake Pools. Layered reclaimed stone carefully composed around the pool. A reclaimed stone arch repurposed as a sculptural garden feature. A 7’x13’ full plunge and 4’x4’ cold plunge integrated into a historic New England terrace, shaped by stone and water.

OUTDOOR SPACES

BY LYNNE WARDLAW

EXPAND your LIVING SPACE

COMFORT AND QUALITY ARE KEY AT DECK DOCK HOME & GARDEN

The right furniture will make your outdoor space just as beautiful and comfortable as inside your home. From club chairs and swivel rockers to sofas and sectionals, Deck Dock Home & Garden in Sunapee, New Hampshire, has everything you need to create an amazing gathering space—and many pieces are totally customizable.

Lloyd Flanders of Menominee, Michigan, has been producing a unique wicker product on specialized looms since 1918. It’s on some of the most beautiful porches in the country. Their designs have evolved to include a modern, streamlined look more suitable for today’s architecture. With 20 wicker colors and dozens of fabric designs, options run the full gamut.

Right: Les Jardins uses a proprietary method to age and seal teakwood, resulting in the style and durability of wood without the maintenance. Skaal deep seating is shown.

Inset: Clean, modern lines and large dimensions make Skaal a great

Below: Bella woven with treated teak arms gives the comfort of wood where it counts.

Inset: Multicolored gray vinyl wicker pairs well with treated teak.

Weathered occasional tables mean carefree entertaining.

Les Jardins is a French company using hitech architectural materials and a proprietary process to produce modern designs with a perennial favorite: teakwood. Teak is favored for its temperature stability and classic look, but its Achilles’ heel is maintenance. With a pretreated “weathered” surface, all it needs is occasional cleaning. Another company using a weathering process to seal the teak is Three Birds Casual. While methods vary, the result is a nonporous surface in beautiful shades of gray and no maintenance required. Quality craftmanship and materials mean a lifetime of low-maintenance enjoyment. The perfect outdoor furniture—exactly how you like it—will expand your living space and add to your family’s enjoyment of your home for years to come. tw

Deck Dock Home & Garden 81 Edgemont Road Sunapee, NH (603) 763-3266 deckdock.com

Be Ready to Buy or Sell

COUNT ON SOUND ADVICE AND SUPPORT FROM SNYDER DONEGAN REAL ESTATE GROUP

What attracts out-of-town buyers to the Upper Valley as a place to relocate?

There’s an undeniable charm to the Upper Valley that attracts families and businesses alike. The area offers good people, good schools, and strong, safe communities. The natural beauty with seemingly endless recreational offerings is also a huge draw for people looking to escape more crowded areas for a simpler way of life.

How can you advise customers with what you see for the rest of 2026?

The advice we are giving to buyers is to be ready. Get your financials together ahead of time and familiarize yourself with the area as much as possible so that when a suitable new property becomes available you are prepared to make a strong offer quickly. Working with a dedicated Snyder Donegan agent who knows both your goals and current market activity will give you an advantage in the process. As for sellers, buyer demand remains high, so most sellers are in an excellent position to market and sell their properties.

Tell us about your commitment to support community causes.

Part of what makes this area so special is the closeness and authenticity of our communities. It’s the essence of our cultural fabric. And since every agent

in our firm doesn’t just do business here but actually lives and serves within these communities, we have a vested interest in seeing them thrive and succeed. We see it as our privilege and responsibility as a company to support and contribute to their wellbeing and help preserve what makes this such an exceptional place to live.

You are selectively seeking talented agents. What attributes make for a good fit with the Snyder Donegan team?

Paramount to our success as a firm is the integrity, trustworthiness, and professionalism of our agents, so those qualities are of utmost importance when considering new additions to the team. From early discussions on property searches, pricing, and marketing to offers, negotiations, and ultimately closing, our expectation in every transaction is that agents provide exceptional counsel and support to clients from start to finish. Compared to bigger companies with nonlocal ownership that hire midlevel managers to oversee agents in the area, our owners are hands-on in the business and supportive of each member of the team. It is because of this commitment to excellence that Snyder Donegan has established itself as the leading boutique real estate firm in the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire. tw

“Lebanon Paint & Decorating introduced Sansin interior/exterior stains and finishes, which are known throughout the industry to provide superior protection and longevity. Sansin even makes a product that is designed to work on decks close to the ground.”

Upper Wall: Silhouette AF-655, Aura Bath & Spa, Matte

Beadboard: Swiss Coffee OC-45, Advance, Semi-Gloss

Ceiling: Swiss Coffee OC-45, Aura Bath & Spa, Matte

CREATE A STYLISH HOME

LEBANON PAINT & DECORATING: WHERE COLOR COMES TO LIFE

John Rescigno, store manager of Lebanon Paint & Decorating, which serves the Upper Valley and beyond, says, “Let our experts guide you through beautifying your home. Whether it’s helping you pick the right color for a room, a home, a business, or an office or selecting the best option for window treatments, we are here to help. We carry a multitude of unique products, so stop in and check us out.”

Unsure of the color you want? Gina Rescigno, paint and color specialist, will offer guidance. Special painting project? John or Bob Samuels have you covered. Undecided on window treatments? Ann O’Connor or Lee Ann Lyman will ease that process.

“We carry a full line of Benjamin Moore products,” John says. “If you want the best value, the Ben line is what you are looking for.” For outstanding color retention, unsurpassable durability, and coverage, John recommends Aura. If you want a zero VOC paint with no emissions, Eco Spec is for you. “It even comes certified asthma and allergy friendly,” John adds.

If you want a vibrant or bold color for wood, Sansin offers a wide range of colors for exterior or interior wood. Sansin’s products have been tested over time and are environmentally friendly. “We also carry General Finishes, which are trusted by woodworkers everywhere,” John says. From glazes to milk paints, water-based stains, and more, General Finishes products are sure to exceed your expectations.

TIME TO GET WARM

“This year warm hues are here with a bang!” says Gina Rescigno. “With lots of green and brown, nature is calling. Of course, whites will always be in style, but it’s warmer shades that are trending.” Benjamin Moore’s color of the year is Silhouette. “It’s a rich, beautiful shade that pairs lovely with Swiss Coffee and for trim it gives a luxurious feeling in any room,” Gina explains. In the exterior world, traditional colors such as red, gold, and blue are always current. Stains remain popular in natural shades, paired with black trim for flare. Cream and white shades with black trim are a popular trend this year, both for the interior and the exterior of your home.

Above: Graber® Classic Roman looped shades are available in light filtering or room darkening and are perfect in any home style. Lift options: cordless, continuous loop, or motorized.

Right: Graber® cellular shades are available in hundreds of colors in room darkening, light filtering, or sheer. The crisp look and energyefficient shades are available in a variety of lift options including top down/bottom up for the ultimate in privacy control. Photos courtesy of Graber.

PAYING ATTENTION TO WINDOWS

What is new and exciting for 2026? “Most of us who have suffered through negative temperatures in the double digits this winter can appreciate adding window treatments to their homes and businesses as a central element that can balance looks, smart functionality, and energy savings,” states Ann O’Connor, window treatment lead.

Ann says Smart Shades are a smart addition. “Equipped with programmable routines, the shades can raise or lower automatically, helping to reduce heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter.” Another wise reason to consider motorization is child and pet safety. As of June 1, 2024, all window treatments sold in the United States must be cordless or have inaccessible cords to reduce the risk of injury. Loose cords are a significant risk and should be removed or secured out of reach in any home where children or pets reside. “Larger shades or those in difficult to access areas are the ideal locations for motorized products,” Ann advises.

Layered treatments are back and better than ever, according to Ann. Sheer panels may have delicate patterns that create artful shadows. Paired with drapes, the combination is as functional as it is beautiful. Extra luxury is achieved by combining soft Roman shades with drapery panels, which helps with sound reduction, reducing drafts, and creating a custom look that is truly one of a kind.

Customization is no longer a luxury—it is expected. Tailored shades and drapes that are made to measure look and perform better by minimizing unwanted light and drafts.

“Lebanon Paint & Decorating offers free measuring to ensure the best fit,” John explains. “Our highly trained experts can discuss all the various options and help guide decisions. We work with homeowners, contractors, and decorators throughout the Upper Valley bringing color to life. Stop in with your measurements and let us help you transform your space!” tw

Lebanon Paint & Decorating 51 Main Street

West Lebanon, NH (603) 298-8596

lebanonpaint.com

Another wise reason to consider motorization is child and pet safety. As of June 1, 2024, all window treatments sold in the United States must be cordless or have inaccessible cords to reduce the risk of injury.

BY MIKE MORIN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC PETSCHEK

Warmth, Beauty, and Function

WAGNER HODGSON LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE BLENDS A MODERN HOME WITH ITS SURROUNDINGS

The geometry of the architecture is extended into the landscape, blurring the lines of where the landscape and architecture start and end.

Opposite: The main house and pool house were sited on a ridge at the location of an old farm to take advantage of incredible views.

Keith Wagner, founding partner at Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture of Burlington, Vermont, says, “I think it took a seat where the site offered it a chair,” whimsically describing their Dorset West Modern home project site in Vermont, a few miles east of the New York state line.

The “chair” offers commanding views from a ridge on the site of a historic farm. The farm is no longer there but the new modern structure still offers a warm and welcoming feel that previous holders of the land, no doubt, loved most about the site. You might think that kind of change would be jarring, but Wagner Hodgson has repurposed other sites into stunning projects throughout New England. Dorset West Modern is a perfect example of synergistic efforts between client, project manager, and landscape architects.

First Impressions

Ted Adams, principal at the firm, recalls first impressions of the raw site. “I think it was really interesting,” he says. “The first stages of the project are always the most interesting when we’re all out there as a team looking at the site and then coming up with ideas. The home was relatively sited where the farm was, where originally there was still the old chimney standing and the fireplace, which was cool.”

“I think there’s not a lot of fuss to the landscape,” Keith says. “It’s clean, it’s minimal. It relies heavily on meadows and hedgerows, stone walls, and those kinds of contextual elements; the things that you would see in an agrarian landscape and knitting them together, I think in a very pictorial way.”

When members of Wagner Hodgson’s team make their first visit to the site, they begin considering what an owner or guest might think at first blush, according to Keith. “I think about the sense of arrival and how one greets the house, the experience of getting out of a car and going through the house, extending the architecture and the geometry of the architecture into the landscape. Blurring that line where landscape and architecture start and end. The important thing with our work is there’s no wasted movements.” Minimalist is a word used often by Keith. “It’s like a haiku. You use the minimal number of words to express your idea. It’s all choreographed perfectly.”

A Sense of Timelessness

Keith says that solar orientation is among the most critical decisions to make in structure placement. And when it comes to plantings, they make sure there is at least something interesting during each of our area’s four distinct seasons—that includes large-scale plants, according to Ted.

“On this project, we specified large-caliber trees and had them brought into the site to give the house a sense of permanence and timelessness, rather than using small plant material and small trees that would take a lot of time to grow. There are red maples and honey locusts, native trees that make sense in the site and knit perfectly with the contextual meadows

and forest lands.” He adds that variety and texture extend to many plant types. “We created a special spot on the south side of the house for the owners, which was a garden with raised Corten planters, a cutting garden with different native flowers, perennials, and vines.”

Transitioning from Natural to Refined

Wagner Hodgson worked to create a transition between the refined landscape and the natural landscape to avoid crisp lines. “We try to blur that a little bit and make the transition feel much more gradual,” Keith says. But is there a place for local wild plants to bridge that transition from farm to modern home?

Ted says, “Meadows were restored around the house, and whether it was a grass meadow to match an existing one or a meadow that included wildflowers around the fire pit, we selected seeds specifically to include native plants and pollinators.”

Fire pits are a four-season favorite, especially in colder Upper Valley weather. The landscape architects designed a stunning hillside spot for sipping mulled cider and

Clean lines and texture express the minimal landscape.

roasting s’mores during chilly nights. “A big part of what we do is working with the existing topography and trying to be light on the land,” says Ted. “The fire pit is a good example. That meadow existed on a hillside in front of the house where you see the fire pit, and we carefully composed and designed that space to fit in on the hillside with views out and connecting into the house. That was a very cool feature.” Wagner Hodgson found a way to repurpose part of the original farmhouse for the fire pit by including its marble fireplace mantle.

Many Moving Parts

With a project like Dorset West Modern, things get done in layered stages, often concurrently. Carpenters may be doing finish work inside while the outdoor landscaping is being created. Part of this project took place during the pandemic, so building material availability wasn’t always dependable.

“It wasn’t like first the house and then the landscape. There was some blending, but they were working on the interior of the house for a long time. There are a lot of nice finishes, so there wasn’t much going on in the landscape at that point. It wasn’t a start and stop,” Keith explains.

Dorset West Modern is situated on the land of two Vermont towns, as the plot occupies a 114-acre footprint. “It wasn’t a major handicap; it was just something we had to work through that was unusual. Typically, a property’s in one town or the other. I wouldn’t say [it was a] challenge, but it was a hiccup.” Keith explains that a project like Dorset West Modern is one he thoroughly enjoys.

Keith finds wisdom and simplicity to sum up the Dorset West Modern project: “There’s a clarity to the landscape and there’s a clarity to the architecture, and I think they work well together in terms of speaking to one another and speaking to the site. I love that project.” tw

Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture

7 Marble Avenue Burlington, VT (802) 864-0010 wagnerhodgson.com

Custom-fit open shelves paired with reclaimed chestnut built-ins make a beautifully crafted storage space perfectly suited for an avid baker.

BY BRIAN STOWELL, PRESIDENT, CROWN POINT CABINETRY

IT’S ALL ABOUT COLLABORATION AT CROWN POINT CABINETRY

HOW TO WORK EFFECTIVELY WITH A KITCHEN DESIGNER

Custom cabinetry represents one of the most significant investments in your construction project. As such, this investment needs to be made wisely. First and foremost, custom cabinetry demands thoughtful design. Design that works. Design that wows. When it comes to successful designs, there is one factor that determines the outcome: collaboration.

When a client’s vision meets a designer’s expertise, the result is a beautifully tailored space that brings joy for decades. At Crown Point Cabinetry, we have a team of expert designers who can make this happen.

THE POWER OF PROACTIVE PLANNING

A design that endures demands time to unfold. Engaging with our design team at the earliest conceptual stage—well before the first blueprints are finalized—transforms your project from a construction site into a curated experience.

Architectural Harmony: “Cabinetry serves as the bridge between raw architecture and refined living,” notes longtime designer Josh Doonan. By involving us early, we can influence architectural details, ensuring your cabinetry integrates as a seamless, built-in extension of your home’s character rather than an afterthought.

Mastering the Lead Time : For the discerning client, logistics should be invisible. With nearly three decades of experience, Jim Balcom emphasizes that early engagement is the ultimate safeguard against project friction. “Once a client has determined they are moving forward with a project, they should contact Crown Point as soon as they can.” It ensures your custom, artisan-made pieces arrive precisely when the project requires, maintaining a seamless flow and preserving your peace of mind.

Simply put, proactive planning provides the opportunity to establish your specific needs, from determining a budget to knowing that every detail in your design has been worked through.

THE DESIGN PROCESS

Once you have connected with one of our talented kitchen designers, the process begins. Every project starts with a budget. This budget allows your designer to provide feedback on what can be achieved in your design. All Crown Point cabinetry is of the finest quality, but certain materials and details can dramatically affect the final price of the project. This feedback allows a client to make value judgements for their individual project.

Form follows function, so it is critical to determine function after budget. Do you entertain regularly? Do any of you cook? Do you have a family that makes daily meals together a priority? These are just a few of the many questions that need to be answered. Our designers want to create a space that works best for you. Architects, building professionals, and interior designers can also be involved in your design. Everyone wants the same end result for your project: client satisfaction. The entire team being on the same page allows each professional to contribute their expertise toward a cohesive, functional, and beautiful space.

Opposite: A custom-built pantry is so gorgeous it is easy to overlook the abundance of function. Below: An island oasis for the entire family to share. Meals and memories are made here.

“I

try to keep things simple, but even the best designed kitchen can’t replace discipline, so making things convenient and easier lends itself to better organization,” says designer Josh Watkins.

Your inspiration photos, appliance list, architectural plans, and a clear understanding of how you intend to use the space helps designers create a plan that truly aligns with your lifestyle.

The Spice of Life: Josh Doonan is an advocate for having a variety of storage options in your kitchen layout. “Mixing drawers with various heights, roll-out trays, pull outs, and dividers helps give everything its right place.” Knowing what all your storage options are can help elevate your space, bringing you one step closer to your dream kitchen.

Old Habits Die Hard: Every homeowner has a kitchen workflow that makes the most sense to them—where the utensil drawer is, where the pots and pans go. Keeping that layout familiar helps the space feel natural and comfortable. “I try to keep things simple, but even the

best designed kitchen can’t replace discipline, so making things convenient and easier lends itself to better organization,” says designer Josh Watkins. Designing for how you already live turns familiar routines into effortless organization. Working effectively with a custom kitchen designer ultimately comes down to communication and collaboration. To ensure success, come prepared with your vision, project timeline, and an understanding of how you would like to use your space. Have an open mind for professional guidance. Most importantly, clearly express your needs and preferences so your kitchen designer can translate them into a design that works for you. tw

Crown Point Cabinetry

462 River Road Claremont, NH (800) 999-4994 crown-point.com

Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty

NAVIGATING THE UPPER VALLEY HOUSING MARKET — TRENDS TO WATCH IN 2026

Can you give us a quick overview of how the housing market performed last year in the region?

Overall, the Upper Valley market held up pretty well in 2025, even with all the economic ups and downs. We saw a 4.7 percent increase in units sold across Vermont and New Hampshire towns in the region, totaling 3,956 sales. The average sale price ticked up by 3.8 percent to about $523,000, and total sales dollars jumped 8.7 percent to over $2 billion. Days on market stretched to 51 days on average, up 24.4 percent, suggesting buyers are taking a little more time to decide. It’s steady growth; not the wild ride we had a few years back, but solid.

Were there any standout towns or trends in Vermont or New Hampshire that agents and clients should know about?

There were some interesting variations by town. In Vermont, places like Barnard saw a big jump in sales units, up 60 percent, and average prices rose to $784,100. Hartford and Hartland also did well, with more sales and prices up around 11 to 12 percent in Hartford. On the flip side, some spots like Newbury had fewer sales and lower prices. In New Hampshire, Charlestown saw a 33 percent increase in units sold, but prices dipped slightly. Croydon nearly doubled the average sale price to $632,400, which was a surprise. Hanover stayed strong with high-end sales averaging over $1.1 million. You will see some towns attracting more buyers for affordability, while others attract more buyers for luxury.

How are national trends on rates, prices, and wages, and what does that mean for buyer activity in a rate-sensitive market like ours?

Affordability is improving, and it’s a gamechanger. Nationally, a mortgage on a median home now eats up about 32.6 percent of median household income, down from higher levels, and it’s projected to drop to 31.8 percent by year’s end. We are getting closer to that “affordable” 30 percent threshold when you factor in taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Rates have fallen to near three-year lows, like from 7.26

percent last January to 6 percent now, saving buyers $419 a month on a $500,000 loan. Wages are outpacing home price growth in 2026, which is huge. And buyers are super sensitive to these rate dips. Every time we’ve seen rates hit low-to-mid 6 percent, demand spikes. We saw a 17.9 percent jump when rates dropped from 7.62 percent to 6.64 percent a couple of years back. In the Upper Valley, this could mean more folks jumping in, especially if rates keep easing.

Looking ahead to 2026, do you have any advice for buyers or sellers in the Upper Valley?

I’m optimistic but cautious. We expect steady growth in the first half of 2026, similar to 2025, depending on the economy. Pricing right is key. If you overprice, you’ll sit on the market longer. I think we will see inventory start to rise in the spring, and if rates continue to decline, we will see buyer activity increase. For buyers, with rates trending down and affordability getting better, it’s a good time to lock in before any shifts. Sellers, highlight your property’s strengths in this competitive but balanced market. My suggestion is to reach out to an experienced agent here at Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty. Navigating this stuff solo is not easy, and we are always happy to help! tw

BY KATHERINE P. COX | Photos courtesy of Ennis Construction

TEAM BUILDING

ENNIS CONSTRUCTION: NO PROBLEMS, JUST SOLUTIONS

Jamey Ennis and his team at Ennis Construction in Quechee, Vermont, build and renovate high-end homes in the Upper Valley. What’s notable about a lot of them—whether remodeling and opening up a whole end of a house or a new build—are the large, expansive windows and doors that enable the homeowners to enjoy the gorgeous views outside their home. “The common theme has been to bring the outside in,” says Jamey.

THE FAMILY BUSINESS

Ennis Construction was started over 50 years ago by Jamey’s uncle, Dana Ennis, who passed away in 2018. It was a family affair. Jamey’s father, Alan, worked there until he retired in 2009. Jamey has been part of the family business for 22 years, first as project manager and vice president and now as owner and president. He credits his team of longtime employees, contractors, tradespeople, landscapers, designers, and

“Our goal is to maximize those views with thoughtful design and a variety of glass walls, windows, and door systems that bring the outdoors in and fully embrace the landscape.”

architects with helping him build lasting relationships with his clients and ensuring a positive experience with each project.

“What we pride ourselves on is our team; building relationships is the biggest goal, whether it’s our team or our clients. We’ve found the best way to work with our clients and achieve a highly successful project and a completely satisfied homeowner is by looking at it as not just building a home but building relationships,” Jamey says. “We do that through communication, organization, attention to detail, teamwork, and delivering a high-quality product. Each project is different.” And while some projects might present challenges, he says there are no problems, just solutions. His team has been together for over 15 years. “They’ve got great skills and great attitudes. Everyone knows what the goal is and we enjoy what we do,” he says.

IT STARTS WITH A PLAN

Each new build or remodel starts with a meeting with the homeowner to see what their vision is. “Is there an architect involved, a designer? Do they have a design concept in place? What trades and details do we have to line up?” After that initial meeting, a plan is formed and other issues addressed so a budget can be formulated.

Extensive remodel in Quechee, Vermont, features a vaulted, timber-framed great room with a large Pella window wall capturing mountain views—perfect for entertaining or a cozy Vermont evening. Interior Design by Jess Klein Studio. Photo by Joyelle West.

“We focus on complex projects that require advanced energy efficiency, strong building science, and performance standards beyond the typical home. We’ve completed several net-zero houses and regularly incorporate solar.”

“If it’s a new build, we walk the property with the owners or architect and begin developing the site and house design. If it’s a remodel, we evaluate the existing structure to determine what we have to work with.” In either case, a plan is developed that may include securing permits and assessing infrastructure such as power, septic, and electrical. A project can involve navigating site conditions, permitting, design, engineering, product selection, and building science. Ennis Construction goes a step further. As a member of Efficiency Vermont, whose mission is to help Vermonters save energy and money through strategic partnerships and technical advice, Ennis Construction also builds high-efficiency homes that meet the highest level of energy efficiency guidelines. “We focus on complex projects that require advanced energy efficiency, strong building science, and performance standards beyond the typical home. We’ve completed several net-zero houses and regularly incorporate solar.”

BUILDING TRENDS

What Jamey’s seeing often are homes that are a mix of styles, incorporating the old and new, he says, a mix of traditional with modern aspects. “If it’s

done right, it looks great.” The common thread among his recent projects is their spectacular settings—many in Quechee and Woodstock. “Our goal is to make the most of those views through thoughtful design and a range of glass walls, windows, and door systems that bring the outdoors in and truly embrace the landscape,” Jamey says. “We’re always doing something different and are ready to take on any challenge.” tw

Ennis Construction

176

Quechee, VT

(802) 674-2646

ennisconstruction.com

BY SUSAN NYE PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHAKER HILL GRANITE

create the space YOU LOVE

SHAKER HILL GRANITE MEETS CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS WITH EASE AND STYLE

Whether a new build or remodel, construction is stressful. Unlike a bad haircut, a wrong decision can’t be easily righted in six or so months. And, of course, a whole lot of time and money are involved. In spite of that, who doesn’t love a shiny new kitchen? Shaker Hill Granite in Enfield, New Hampshire, is more than the name implies. The company provides custom countertops in a variety of natural and manmade stone and wood as well as cabinets and tile. The company’s highly professional and experienced team is ready to help homeowners navigate the countless design, materials, and layout choices they face.

An engineer by training, Shaker Hill’s owner Shawn Bronson began his career installing and servicing high-end stone-cutting equipment. For more than a decade, he visited countless shops and was particularly impressed with the wellorganized, clean operations at Shaker Hill. Shawn says, “As soon as I saw it, I knew that if I ever owned a shop, I’d want it to look like Shaker Hill.” After a decade on the road, Shawn decided it was time to stay closer to home and went to work for one of his customers. A few years later, Shaker Hill founders Rob and Lauri Malz brought Shawn on as operations manager. With plans to retire soon, they worked out a transition plan and Shawn bought the business in 2024.

Design, Execution, and Customer Service

With plenty of competition both near and far, the company’s sweet spot is creating beautiful kitchens for luxury homes. Shaker Hill focuses on high-end projects providing excellence in design, execution, and customer service. Shawn says, “Customer service is our shining star. It’s how we do business. If something

Above: This custom choice is frameless cabinetry made from rustic alder, finished with a custom estate Turkana treatment that brings out the wood’s natural texture while providing a warm, inviting appearance.

From far left: Custom frameless cabinetry is constructed from cherry wood, presented in a natural finish that emphasizes the beauty and grain of the cherry itself.

goes wrong, we’ll make it right. For us, good enough is never good enough.”

Many companies back away from complicated custom jobs. They stick to simple kitchens—work that they can churn out quickly and easily. Not Shaker Hill. “We’ll always look at a project, even if it’s been turned down by other shops as too difficult or impossible,” says Shawn.

In fact, Shawn is inspired by those difficult, seemingly impossible projects. “The engineer in me wants to find a solution,” he says. The company is continually updating its equipment to ensure they have the latest technology to fulfill their customers’ wants and needs. Shaker Hill has built beautiful custom marble sinks and filled niches with countertops and shelves when others have said it couldn’t be done. They are able to precision-cut slabs for stone-faced walls and work with stones that other companies refuse to touch.

The growing demand for second, prep, or catering kitchens creates new challenges. Incorporating the heavy-duty workspace

with the first kitchen—the entertainment hub—can be problematic. Shaker Hill designs and installs kitchen pantries and second kitchens that seamlessly integrate into the family’s living space. “We listen to our customers and do our best to do what they want, not what’s easy,” he says. “It happens, but it’s rare that we are forced to tell a homeowner or a designer that their vision is just not feasible.”

Luxury Design Trends

Whether a lake house renovation or new mountainside retreat, interior designers and architects are a driving force in luxury home design trends. Their clients, many of them with multiple multimillion dollar homes, know what they want and they want the best. For more than a century, the Upper Valley and nearby lakes have been a prized setting for both vacations and retirement. Today’s discerning luxury homeowners expect their residences to fill the needs of multiple generations with ease and style.

While Shawn’s team spends a great deal of time with designers, architects, and builders, he encourages homeowners to visit the Enfield showroom and shop. A visit provides the client with the opportunity to interact with the team, ask questions, and clear up any concerns. Nagging worries about layout can be resolved with Shaker Hill’s 3D imaging software. Clients can see their kitchen before the cabinets are installed and stone slabs are cut. In addition, rather than making critical decisions based on a small sample, clients can see, touch, and choose the stone slabs that will become a part of their home

Shawn urges homeowners to get involved in every phase of the design and planning process. Don’t let questions go unanswered or that nagging voice in the back of your head go unheard. Demand the changes that will ensure that your new kitchen fits your needs and the needs of your family. After all, you’re the ones who’ll be living with it. You shouldn’t just live with your new kitchen—you should love it too. tw

Center: The cabinetry is a framed overlay style made from cherry wood, finished with a hazelnut stain, and accented by a charcoal glaze. The hood in this section is crafted from maple and finished with concrete paint, further treated with a cinder glaze that gives it a modern, textured look.

Above: The lower cabinets are flush inset and made from maple, painted in a striking black shade for a bold effect. The upper cabinets are constructed from cherry in a framed overlay style and finished with a cobblestone stain, providing a subtle contrast and enhancing the room’s visual interest.

Shaker Hill Granite

17 Granite Place

Enfield, NH (603) 632-9800

www.shakerhillgranite.com

Lori Shipulski Regional Manager

The ADU Solution

ADDING SPACE, VALUE, AND PEOPLE TO YOUR PROPERTY

In the backyards of Norwich and Hanover, above garages in Lyme and Lebanon, and in converted basements across the river in Woodstock and Hartford, small, thoughtfully designed homes are quietly appearing on existing properties. They’re called Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs. For a growing number of Upper Valley homeowners, ADUs are changing the game.

An ADU is a self-contained dwelling with its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping space, located on the same property as a single-family home. They take many forms: detached backyard cottages, garage conversions, basement apartments, or additions with a private entrance. In true New Englander fashion, it makes the most of what you have.

Why Now?

The timing couldn’t be more relevant. A recent regional study found that the Upper Valley needs approximately 10,000 new homes by 2030, yet building at that scale on our protected landscape is no simple task. ADUs offer an elegant alternative, working smarter with the land and structures already in place. Recent legislation has made it easier than ever. In New Hampshire, HB 577, which took effect in July 2025, now allows detached ADUs by right statewide, raises the size cap to 950 square feet and removes red tape that had long slowed the process. In Vermont, state law already guarantees homeowners the right to add one ADU by right, with no special permit required.

The Reasons Are Personal

Ask homeowners why they built an ADU and you’ll hear these themes:

5 Allen Street, Suite 1 Hanover, NH (603) 643-8822

bhhsverani.com

• a parent who wants to stay independent but close by

• an adult child priced out of a market where the median home now tops $540,000

• a need for rental income to ease the cost of a mortgage

• a caregiver who needs a dignified space on the property.

Whatever the motivation, the financial case is strong. ADUs can increase a property’s value by 20 to 30 percent, according to the National Association of Realtors, while generating meaningful monthly rental income.

Costs vary widely, from approximately $50,000 for a simple basement conversion to $300,000 or more for a custom detached cottage. In Vermont, the Housing Improvement Program offers forgivable loans of up to $50,000 at 0 percent interest for ADUs used as long-term rentals (accd.vermont .gov/vhip).

Where to Start

Before breaking ground, homeowners should contact their town’s zoning and planning office to understand local setback requirements and permit processes. Even where state law guarantees an ADU by right, building permits are still required, and local rules vary by town.

Vital Communities connects Upper Valley homeowners with local builders, planners, architects, and lenders who specialize in exactly this kind of project, a great first step for anyone who’s curious (vitalcom munities.org/housing/upper-valley-home-creators).

In New Hampshire, Kinstruct Tiny Homes (kinstructtinyhomes.com) custom builds ADUs on-site with permanent foundations. Kinstruct was the recipient of the 2024 and 2025 New Hampshire Home Builders Cornerstone Award for Best ADU.

The idea of ADUs isn’t new. But right now, it may be one of the smartest ideas to help the Upper Valley with some of its housing challenges. tw

BY PAMELA BROWN

COMING HOME

HENNESSEY ARCHITECTURE USES

NATURE’S LANDSCAPE AS DESIGN INSPIRATION

Make good architecture. Design better places. Explore more possibilities. That credo guides Tim Hennessey in his architectural firm, Hennessey Architecture. “A building is a legacy. If it’s well-crafted and beautiful, it will be loved. If it’s loved, it will be maintained. That’s the truest form of design and sustainability,” says Tim, owner and principal architect.

Located in Meriden, New Hampshire, the studio was established last year after Tim worked for decades across New England and the Pacific Northwest. “The firm is a homecoming. I wanted to return to the tactile, the tectonic, and the local project,” he says, founding the firm with a single drafting desk, a sketchbook, and a desire to unite the precision of high-performance buildings with the rugged, soulful craftsmanship of New England. “There’s a strong commitment to environmental conservation and stewardship. Being a business in the Upper Valley, I work with incredible local builders, timber framers, and masons who still value the ‘mark of the tool.’”

The firm offers full architectural residential and commercial design services. “Residential includes everything from ultraefficient custom homes to missing middle housing (duplexes, in-law apartments, and cottage clusters) that helps density feel dignified. We specialize in boutique hospitality—small hotels, restaurants, cafes, or retreats that prioritize the guest’s connection to the landscape,” says Tim.

PLACE-BASED DESIGN

Growing up in Boston and living in four of six New England states, Tim’s intentional designs take a regional approach to the community it serves. “A common thread is human-centric, place-based design. Everything should have a purpose and reason. We use local materials because they have a lower carbon footprint and they belong to the site’s DNA. Place-based design (or critical regionalism) means studying the local vernacular, climate, geology, and traditions that worked long before air conditioning or electricity existed,” says Tim, who is inspired by the New England landscape.

“I want them to wake up six months later, look at how the light hits a specific wooden joint we designed, and feel a profound sense of intention and peace. I want them to feel like their home is an active participant in their well-being.”

The Ledge House

Hennessey Architecture is currently designing The Ledge House, a cabin in Jamaica, Vermont, that is pinned directly into a rugged rocky outcropping overlooking Stratton Mountain. According to Tim, instead of fighting the terrain, the cabin’s structural design follows the natural topography of the stone, allowing the local geology to become a tactile feature. “This project uses rigorous Passive House principles and high-performance windows to ensure comfort under challenging conditions while maintaining a small energy footprint. Clad in local wood that will silver over time to match the surrounding stone and lichen, the cabin acts as a quiet, durable lens focused on the ever-changing mountain view,” says Tim.

Top: The residence, situated at the highest point of their site, welcomes the homeowners. Bottom from left: Founder Tim Hennessey. Photo by Florence Lambert-Fliszar. The house sits on delicate pier structures connecting to exposed ledge and minimizing site impact. A simplified material palette features an exposed timber frame, radiant heating, and triple-pane glazing.

NATURAL VISION

“I often look back at the anonymous builders of historic barns, whose structural honesty and use of local materials have stood the test of time. At the same time, I’m guided by the work of architects like Alison Brooks, Kazuyo Sejima, Peter Zumthor, and Alvar Aalto, who showed how a building can be both technically precise and deeply soulful. This balance between old-world craft and modern building allows me to design buildings that feel both grounded and forwardthinking,” Tim says.

This design philosophy led Tim to create site-responsive buildings that integrate nature into the daily experience and embrace high-performance design. “We begin our partnership with a discovery session to look at the site’s feasibility and functional potential of your vision. High-performance design means using building science to ensure the building requires minimal active heating or cooling.”

QUALITY AND LASTING VALUE

A key industry trend Tim sees is a shift toward high-quality craftsmanship and durability as homeowners increasingly prioritize lasting value over excessive square footage. His response to this is Passive House. “It’s the future of construction. Passive House is a permanent way of life, offering

unrivaled comfort, improved air quality, and lower operating costs. These buildings are in high demand because they provide economic resilience against rising energy costs and a level of quiet that traditional construction cannot match,” says Tim.

“Our clients are seeking spaces that are as technically sound and energy independent as they are aesthetically soulful. Once you live in a house with no drafts, no cold spots near windows, improved air quality, and reduced operating costs, living in a ‘standard’ code-built house feels like the absolute bare minimum. It’s good to aim for better; quality is important.”

A SENSE OF INTENTION AND PEACE

Tim is hands-on, providing personalized service to understand a client’s preferences and lifestyle. “Architecture is a long, emotional journey for a client. We act as the owner’s partner and personal guide from the first sketch until the day the keys are turned over. I value the tactile, collaborative relationship between the architect’s hand, the local maker’s skill, and the client’s vision. We work through design charrettes with the client and are on-site working with the builders,” says Tim, whose goal is for clients to feel “held” by their home. “I want them to wake up six months later, look at how the light hits a specific wooden joint we designed, and feel a profound sense of intention and peace. I want them to feel like their home is an active participant in their wellbeing,” he says.

“To me, success isn’t just a beautiful photograph—it’s the quiet, enduring comfort of a building that breathes with the seasons and the peace of mind that comes from building something with technical and aesthetic honesty. My ultimate goal is to create enduring spaces that respect the land and provide a sense of quiet sanctuary for generations to come.” tw

Hennessey Architecture

155 Main Street

Meriden, NH

hennesseyarchitecture.com

INTERIOR STYLE

BY ANNE RICHTER ARNOLD

ANICHINI’S TIMELESS TEXTILES

LEADING THE LINEN TREND IN BEDDING AND BEYOND

The use of linen in bedding, towels, and throughout the home has become popular with designers in recent years, driven by consumers who want environmentally friendly products that perform.

But the trend has been a fundamental part of the product line of Anichini, a home textile company based in Quechee, Vermont. Anichini has been dedicated to using natural, sustainable, durable materials, especially linen, since its founding by designer Susan Dollenmaier in 1981. The company pioneered the use of linen towels and bedding, inspired by Susan’s personal collection of antique linens that she started collecting in college. She uses this as an archive from which to draw inspiration for new concepts.

“The linen trend has really taken off. There has been exponential interest in sustainability as we all have seen,” says Susan, “and that has luckily entered mainstream interior design and home furnishings. Linen bedding is now marketed in ways it never was even five years ago.”

BEAUTY, QUALITY, AND DURABILITY

The main selling points of linen are areas that are growing in popularity: sustainability and wellness. Linen uniquely addresses both while providing durable, high-quality fabric. The flax plant, the source of linen, requires significantly less water and fewer pesticides than cotton. In its lifecycle, a linen garment or sheet uses roughly one-fifth of the water that a cotton equivalent would. High-quality linen, such as Anichini’s, sourced in Eastern Europe, is also 100 percent biodegradable and recyclable.

The benefits of linen go beyond being “green.” Consumers look to linen because they want a more sustainable fiber than cotton, as they have learned it can last longer. Additionally, it is naturally antimicrobial and temperature regulating, so it’s an ideal fiber for bedding.

“Linen is becoming synonymous in the textile space with wellness because of its natural qualities and has impacted the popular aesthetic,” says Susan. “The tight, white bed is waning in popularity, and we are seeing the more natural appearance across design websites and magazines as well as in marketing materials.”

THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE

Anichini has produced and sold linen towels—both terry and flat weave— for more than 25 years. In fact, Anichini was the first company to market linen towels in the United States. The impetus to move away from cotton or other fibers to linen stems from the founder’s pursuit of excellence and quality. “At Anichini we are always searching for the genuine article,” says Susan. “When I encountered linen towels, I knew immediately that this was the future of the bathroom.”

Linen towels are naturally antimicrobial, meaning they do not need as frequent washing as conventional cotton towels. They also take up far less space, using less water and energy to clean them. They air-dry easily, which

INTERIOR STYLE

can eliminate the need for the dryer completely—something impossible with cotton terry towels. Linen towels are made from stronger fiber and will last for decades.

“Our linen towels were the first of their kind in the United States. For those who are trepidatious about getting rid of terry, we have Vilnius, a vastly popular towel that enters the linen towel world without alienating traditional mindsets of what a towel should be,” says Susan.

Anichini’s flat-weave towels, Donatas and Olga, are the most popular towels and best represent the use of flat-weave linen towels from countries such as Europe and Japan. “They are gorgeous and last a lifetime,” says Susan. “Our bath sheets are also the best beach towels out there—large, they do not hold onto sand, and they’re not bulky—all the reasons they are sustainable.”

SOFT, SUSTAINABLE BEDDING

“We have believed in the sustainability of linen for decades, promoting the use of linen on the bed even when 90 percent of consumers were worried it wouldn’t be soft enough,” says Susan. “We have educated our clientele over the years to understand the benefits and beauty of linen. It is interesting to see that expand across other brands.

“Linen bedding is the true representation of our company’s motto: enlightened luxury,” explains Susan, “because it is durable but with a wonderful hand. It is cooling, which for the summer months is ideal but also a benefit for hot sleepers. It is antimicrobial and it launders wonderfully. It air-dries like a dream. Despite popular belief, linen does need to be ironed, but if you want to, it irons much more easily than cotton.”

According to Susan, Vita has been Anichini’s linen bedding staple for years. “It’s a simple white linen with a wonderful hand, a true treat to sleep on. We also have a brand-new product called Liverno, a wide-patterned, thread-died jacquard linen that is out of this world. We are thrilled to tell everyone about it here. It is classic yet contemporary, luminescent yet calming. It is a dream textile.”

Linen has been a timeless fabric used through the centuries because of its attributes, and Anichini has innovatively brought back the use of this fiber throughout the home. Through its founder’s mission to provide elegant, durable, and quality products that are sustainable, Anichini has been on the forefront of the practical and beautiful linen trend. tw

Anichini

6931 Woodstock Road Quechee, VT (802) 698-8813 anichini.com

ANICHINI 802

Luxury Textiles & Soft Furnishings 6931 Woodstock Road Quechee, VT (802) 698-8813 www.anchini.com/vermont

Design Consultations & Personal Shopping Open Daily

Upper Valley Business Alliance

The Upper Valley Business Alliance serves to support and create resources for workforce and economic development, tourism, and advocacy in the Upper Valley region of New Hampshire and Vermont. (603) 448-1203 uppervalleybusinessalliance.com

Rodd Roofing

49 Perkins Street

St. Jonsbury, VT (800) 331-7663 www.roddroofing.com

Allen Pools & Spas

227 Mechanic Street Suite A Lebanon, NH (603) 410-5900

www.AllenPools-Spas.com Open 7 Days a Week!

Shepard Interior Selections

115 Town Line Road Route 4 Quechee, VT For appointments call (802) 457-1116 or email Eleanor@shepardvt.com

Watermark Marine Construction

NH’s Leading Full-service Dock Builder & Marine Contractor (603) 293-4000

www.watermarkmarine.com Serving Sunapee and Gilford, NH

Eyeglass Outlet

24 Hanover Street #3 On the Mall Lebanon, NH (603) 448-0030

Mon–Fri 11am–5pm Call (603) 349-8787 to schedule an eye exam with Dr. Alla Devitskaya

Copeland Furniture Factory Outlet

241 Waits River Road

Braford, VT (802) 222-5300

www.copelandfurniture.com/factoryoutlet store@copelandfurniture.com

Mon–Fri 9:30am–5:30pm Sat 10am–5pm

Boynton Construction

216 Route 5 Hartland, VT (802) 436-4411

www.boyntonconstruction.net office@boyntonconstruction.net

Reavill, REALTOR® Designated Broker for New Hampshire

Associate Broker for Vermont

Willow Brook Realty

NEW ENGLAND HOMES AREN’T ALL THE SAME—AND NEITHER IS THE TEAM YOU NEED

New England may look compact on a map, but anyone who has searched for a home here knows the truth: A lakeside property in Vermont, a village home in the Upper Valley, and a house near the New Hampshire shore are entirely different experiences. They’re built differently. They weather differently. They attract different buyers—and they require different strategies.

More buyers and sellers across Vermont and New Hampshire are realizing that real estate here isn’t just about choosing a town. It’s about understanding the region as a whole—and having the right real estate agents to navigate it.

One Search, Many Possibilities

Today’s buyers rarely stay in one lane. A search that begins in the Upper Valley may expand north toward Vermont’s lakes or south toward the New Hampshire seacoast. Lifestyle plays as much of a role as price: proximity to water, seasonal use, privacy, commuting patterns, and how a home performs in winter.

That kind of search requires availability and regional knowledge. Vermont Realtor® of the Year Sandy Reavill, Windsor County Board of Realtors® President Brooks Reavill, and logistics specialist Cole Reavill work together to ensure that buyers never miss an opportunity to see a home, no matter where their search leads. With multiple agents collaborating, showings happen quickly, questions are answered thoroughly, and buyers can move with confidence rather than pressure.

Selling Well Requires More Than a Sign

Willow Brook Realty 39 Central Street, Suite 201B Woodstock, VT (802) 613-0729

vtnhrealty.com

For sellers, success today depends on presenta tion, timing, and access. Buyers decide how they feel about a home long before they walk through the door. That’s why the Reavills approach selling as a full creative and logistical process. In-house professional photography, videography, FAAcertified drone video, floorplans, custom print magazines for every listing, and staging services work together to tell a home’s story clearly and compellingly. Each property is marketed intentionally, highlighting not just features, but lifestyle and setting.

Just as important, sellers never miss an opportunity to show their home. A collaborative agency structure allows for secure, well-coordinated showings, consistent communication, and respect for privacy, especially for distinctive or high-value properties.

Why Teamwork Matters

Real estate across Vermont and New Hampshire doesn’t move on a single schedule. Homes appear quickly, buyers act decisively, and timing matters. A collaborative team ensures that no opportunity is lost—whether it’s a buyer hoping to see a property before it’s gone, or a seller making the most of every showing.

In a region as varied as New England, experience matters. But so does availability, coordination, and the ability to work seamlessly together, wherever the search or sale may lead. tw

Sandy Reavill, Brooks Reavill, and Cole Reavill work as a collaborative team serving Vermont and New Hampshire. Together, they guide buyers across the region and provide sellers with full in-house creative marketing, including professional photography, videography, FAA-certified drone imagery, custom print materials, staging services, and secure showings. Their team approach ensures that opportunities are never missed—on either side of the transaction.

BY KELLY SENNOTT | PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAVALLEY BUILDING SUPPLY

Friends and Neighbors Helping Friends and Neighbors

LAVALLEY BUILDING SUPPLY OPENS RENOVATED KITCHEN DESIGN CENTER

LaValley Building Supply’s newly renovated kitchen design center in West Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a vibe, starting with the entrance. Greeting visitors is a mudroom with Chicago brick tile, cabinets, and cozy benches, and inside the storeroom itself, there’s Zach Shappy, the director of first impressions, offering guests coffee and water. Soft music plays. Beautiful lighting illuminates 22 brand-new kitchen displays.

There are wood cabinets, painted cabinets; quartz countertops, marble countertops; all the tile, all the hardware, and all the styles, from traditional to Scandinavian, with surprises thrown in, too. (A secret room! Gemstone cabinet hardware! A dog bath!)

“We really wanted it to be a destination for people. You would have to go to Boston to see something like this,” says Bryan Huot, vice president at LaValley Building Supply. “When somebody walks in the door, they’re greeted by somebody. And then from there, you can browse. You can set up an appointment. You can look at different samples.”

The effort to revamp and expand the 5,000-square-foot space is also part of a larger mission that’s been in place since 1962, when Bryan’s grandparents started the company: to help the community find building solutions and create safe, comfortable places to land at the end of the day.

TIME FOR AN UPGRADE

It had been 20 years since the showroom’s last renovation, and so it was time for an upgrade, says Bryan. Not only have styles changed but so has how people gather. Most entertaining used to happen in the living room; now, it’s in the kitchen. “We try to be a one-stop shop for people for their whole house, and the kitchen really is the heart of the home, so it’s always been a very important piece of our company,” Bryan says.

Three of the staff’s 25 full-time designers—Sheila Varnese, Kelly O’Meara, and Colette Foss—developed the creative vision for the new kitchen design center. Planning started in 2024, renovations in early 2025. The grand reopening was last October.

During a tour, Sheila and Bryan highlight the impressive array of kitchen models. One features two kitchen islands, one adorned with barstool seating, the other with a kitchen workstation outfitted with a

Galley sink and flat surfaces that can slide on top for more countertop space. Another display seems to house a built-in refrigerator, but it’s actually a door to a walk-through pantry. “The secret room!” Sheila says. “It looks like your cabinets, but it’s not your regular door. It’s a lot of fun.”

Sheila says they tried to incorporate as many styles and options as possible. She points to her favorite, which features a mix of wood and yellow cabinets and intricate backsplash. Beside it is a kitchen whose tile sparkles and cabinet hardware contains gemstones. Sprinkled throughout are displays of knobs and cabinet handles, and in the back is the sample room, which contains walls of cabinet doors and countertop stone.

Sheila says visitor reception has been overwhelmingly positive. “Pretty much everyone loves it,” she says. “They’ve never seen anything quite like it, with so many displays and options. From what it was before, it’s a huge transformation.”

HELPING CREATE DREAM HOMES

Some clients come in with mood boards and extreme clarity on what they’re looking for, but just as many need a little extra help. “It’s really more involved than just interior design. We’re responsible for cabinets fitting in the space they’re going into,” Sheila says. “A lot of people are overwhelmed by the choices. We help reign them in and make it so it’s not so crazy for them.”

Sheila and Bryan say they see the full range of emotions among customers, particularly the ones undergoing a kitchen remodel, from stress to overwhelm to jubilation. So many have been wanting to build their dream kitchen forever, and finally they’re at the point in life where it’s possible.

But just as rewarding is helping people with the small projects. Because LaValley’s is so vertically integrated with different facets of construction, Bryan says people come here for everything, no matter the budget, whether it’s as small as a new paint job or as major as a new build.

“Whatever problem they have, we can help answer it, and it’s a very tangible answer. It’s not elusive. It could be as simple as, my door doesn’t work, or my faucet’s broken, or my roof is leaking,” Bryan says. “We can provide things like that to people, and it makes their life a little less stressful.”

PART OF THE COMMUNITY

At the front of the showroom is a timeline illustrating the history of LaValley Building Supply, starting when Bryan’s grandparents, Harold and Gerry LaValley, founded the company in 1962. Their first building? An 800-square-foot shed in Newport.

“This was our first location,” Bryan says, pointing to a black-and-white photo on the wall. “Didn’t look like much back in 1962.” Next to it is a piece of white lined paper with various business details: office expenses were capped at $500. Heat, lights, and telephone were budgeted at $600. “This was our business plan back in 1962. It’s very, very simple. Very basic.”

There are photos of the West Lebanon location when it first went up and details of when the company established its modular housing manufacturing plant in Claremont and its sawmill in Middleton. Over time, this company with a humble start has grown to include 13 locations in New Hampshire and Vermont.

LaValley Building Supply remains a family venture: Bryan’s dad, Larry Huot, is president, and his mother works there part-time. Harold, now 94, is still involved and visits the showroom regularly. “When he turned 94 a couple months ago, he said, ‘I’m 94, and I still get to come to work. I still have a job.’ He loves the business,” Bryan says.

Despite its vast growth over the past 50 years, they say the business is still just made up of local people. Bryan mentions LaValley’s sponsoring of the arts, sports teams, and various local organizations. He hopes people see them as part of their lives beyond whatever project they’re working on. “We’re friends and neighbors helping friends and neighbors,” Bryan says. “We try to serve the communities we’re in and help make the communities what they are.” tw

LaValley Building Supply Kitchen Showroom 5 Airport Road West Lebanon, NH (603) 298-5641 lavalleys.com

Heather Roberts Vice President Senior Loan Officer

1746883

Sugar River Bank: Where Local Truly Means Better PROVIDING

A PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE TO MEET YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS

In a world where financial decisions shape long-term stability, choosing the right bank matters. Sugar River Bank stands out as a reliable, community-focused institution dedicated to personal service, local support, and helping customers reach their financial goals. By taking the time to understand individual needs, the bank provides a personalized experience that larger institutions often cannot match.

A key part of Sugar River Bank’s identity is its deep community involvement. The bank regularly participates in local events, sponsors youth sports programs, and contributes to area nonprofits and charities. Customers who bank with Sugar River Bank aren’t just opening an account—they’re supporting a financial partner that invests directly into the well-being of their hometowns.

Understanding Today’s Mortgage Landscape

As of February 2026, New Hampshire’s mortgage market remains active, shaped by fluctuating interest rates and ongoing economic shifts. For buyers, especially first-time buyers, this environment offers opportunities— though timing the market is never simple. Acting sooner can provide more certainty, while waiting may offer modest savings depending on future trends.

Sugar River Bank is committed to guiding first-time homebuyers through what can feel like an overwhelming process. The bank’s mortgage team works closely with customers, helping them prepare, understand their options, and move confidently through each step. This supportive approach reduces stress and ensures buyers feel informed from start to finish.

Sugar River Bank also partners with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston and New Hampshire Housing to provide valuable financial assistance programs designed to reduce upfront costs.

Beneficial Programs

The Equity Builder Program offers significant support to eligible low- and moderate-income homebuyers. Customers may receive up to $32,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance, helping make homeownership more accessible in a competitive housing market. For many buyers, this program removes one of the biggest barriers to purchasing a first home.

Additional programs through New Hampshire Housing provide down payment and closing cost assistance in the form of a 0 percent interest second mortgage with no payments due unless the home is sold or refinanced. Some loan options also allow financing up to 97 percent of the purchase price and offer reduced mortgage insurance for borrowers earning below 80 percent of the Area Median Income.

Local Banking with Local Expertise

Banking locally is about more than transactions—it’s about receiving superior customer service grounded in knowledge of the local market. Sugar River Bank provides tailored products, government-assisted programs, and educational workshops to support homebuyers every step of the way.

With locations in Newport, Grantham, Sunapee, New London, Warner, and Concord, Sugar River Bank’s mortgage team is ready to help turn your homeownership goals into reality. tw

BY JENNY SINCLAIR

CONSIDERING A MODULAR OR A TINY HOME?

THE CARRIAGE SHED HAS YOU COVERED

Homes are trending once again, yet there aren’t enough affordable options in this housing market. There are just not enough homes period due to the influx of people moving to our area. The Carriage Shed has been offering homes for more than 15 years, and a couple options worth considering are modular homes and tiny homes. Our tiny home journey started two years ago, and they have exploded since then. Starting off as hunting cabins, these homes have slowly grown into gorgeous full-time places of residence. Perfect for a second home or detached in-law apartment, they’re perfect for someone wanting to deal with less maintenance and a simpler lifestyle. Both modular and tiny homes are certified for the area in which they’re being set. This means the homes are built to meet your energy code, which covers snow loads, wind loads, and everything in between.

MODULAR HOMES MEET ALL ENERGY CODES.

MODULAR HOMES

Cozy Cabins, our larger modular homes, come standard with a beautiful log siding. If this is not your jam, other siding options are available. This year they started featuring a whitewashed interior that breaks up some of the wood finish and makes the interior designs pop that much more. There are many styles and a ton of options to choose from—you can tweak the floor plans to fit your needs. Need a larger kitchen? No problem! Need an extra bedroom? Let us see what we can do. They have also added two new cabinet colors this year, ensuring one of the choices suits your taste. The advantage to our modular homes is that they are built inside, which means the building is not affected by weather. It also allows for better setup. The tools are more accessible, and it makes it a much more efficient process. This makes a huge difference between stick-built and modular homes.

TINY HOMES

If you don’t have much space, are looking to downsize, or are just starting your homeowner’s journey and don’t want to spend all your money, a tiny home is a comfortable bet. There are many different models, and you can design how you would like it laid out. Choose between a park model, which is on wheels and you put a skirt around the base to keep everything warm, or a modular, which is placed on a crawlspace or full basement. You can add windows everywhere to make it feel like you’re living in the wild. You may have an amazing view that deserves attention—put in a tiny home and enjoy that view all the time.

Don’t worry. The Carriage Shed still offers barns, garages, sheds, studios, gazebos, pool houses, woodsheds, riding arenas, and the list goes on. All our structures are Amish and Mennonite built, meaning your building is in capable hands from the very beginning. Call us today and start making your dream a reality! tw

BY DANA JOHNSON

BUILDING TRUST

QUATION BROOK CONSTRUCTION PUTS CLIENTS FIRST

Have you been dreaming about a spa-like bathroom with a spacious shower? Or are you envisioning a new kitchen with a functional island? Whatever home improvements you can imagine, the team at Quation Brook Construction can turn them into reality.

Nick Potter and his sons Brent and Brandon have more than 50 years of combined experience in construction, and they have been working for the past six years to give clients the spaces they’ve been wishing for. They have built a specific team of the highest quality electrical and plumbing contractors in the area. They also work closely with an interior designer as needed to help achieve the client’s vision.

As general contractors, Quation Brook Construction oversees all aspects of the client’s home improvement needs. “We’re very flexible and work within the client’s budget. When we give a quote, that’s what the job costs,” Nick says. “Here at QBC, we pride ourselves on clear communication and being up front and honest.” tw

BY DEAN WHITLOCK | PHOTOS COURTESY OF COTA & COTA

Cota & Cota

EIGHTY-FIVE YEARS, FOUR GENERATIONS, AND STILL GOING STRONG

This is a special year for the Bellows Falls fuel oil company of Cota & Cota— in May they will celebrate their 85th anniversary. That’s a remarkably long life for any family-owned local business, and it has been a full one for the Cotas. Working together as customer expectations changed with the climate, they have grown their company from a single office to a service footprint stretching from Bennington to Thetford, Vermont, and from Hinsdale to Orford, New Hampshire, delivering new heating and cooling technologies to keep their customers safe and comfortable.

During these 85 years, Cota & Cota has been owned and operated by three generations of Cotas. The founding pair—Kenneth and Helen Cota—owned Vermont’s first 24/7 gas station in Bellows Falls, at a time when it was a major junction for routes running north from Boston and Connecticut. In May of 1941, Kenneth went on a late-night service call with FJ (Bingo) Lawlor, who had decided to sell his local fuel business. The truck broke down a few miles out, forcing them to walk back to town. By the time they reached the garage, they had negotiated a deal transferring Bingo’s business to the Cotas, who split the shares 50-50.

FAMILY AND COMPANY TIMELINE

1941 – Cota & Cota starts up as a partnership of Ken Cota and Helen Cota. Hugh Cota, first employee in the second generation, is born.

1955 – Builds headquarters office at 4 Green Street, Bellows Falls, Vermont. (It’s still there!)

1964–65 – Builds garage and bulk storage plant in Bellows Falls.

1965 – Hugh Cota joins the company after a stint with the Air Force.

Helen wanted to be sure that she was in the company name, so it has been Cota & Cota from the start. That same year, Hugh Cota was born, destined to become a second-generation member of the company. In those days their product was mostly kerosene for cooking and heating. It came in 55-gallon drums that were often stored inside, sometimes on the second floor for gravity feed. Delivery entailed running a hose upstairs. In the postwar years, fuel oil replaced kerosene as the primary heating fuel, and the company adopted new heating technologies, looking for those advances that not only lasted longer but

1972 – Ken and Helen retire; Hugh Cota becomes president.

1979 – Chris Cota, Hugh’s brother, merges Cota Plumbing with Cota & Cota. Adds Ludlow office in Ludlow, Vermont, along with bulk plant and garage in Proctorsville.

1985 – Sean Cota, son of Hugh and Carol K. Cota, joins the company.

1987 – Adds air conditioning systems to product line.

1990 – Opens office and garage in North Springfield, Vermont.

1991 – Jim Tully, husband of Kelley Cota Tully, joins the company.

1993 – Casey Cota, son of Hugh and Carol Cota, joins the company full time.

1995 – Hugh Cota retires. Sons Sean and Casey acquire Cota & Cota, becoming president and vice president. Daughter Kelley Cota Tully acquires C&H Transportation, Inc. (a subsidiary company). Jim Tully becomes its operations manager.

1996 – Makes its entry into the propane gas industry.

2003 – Opens Upper Valley office in White River Junction, Vermont. Introduces bio-blend heating oils.

2004 – Builds propane facilities in Gassetts and Westminster, Vermont. Adds heat pump systems to product line.

2005 – Opens Windsor bulk plant.

2008 – Opens bulk plant and automated gas station in Westminster, Vermont.

2010 – Opens office in Brattleboro, Vermont.

2011 – Sean Cota retires. Casey Cota becomes president. Opens office in Winhall, Vermont.

2012 – Opens facilities in Jamaica, Vermont.

2015 – Jim Tully passes. Kelly Cota Tully retires from nursing to become VP of operations.

2016 – Celebrates 75 years! Opens office in Manchester, Vermont.

2018 – Chris Cota retires.

2023 – Opens office in Keene, New Hampshire.

2023 – Fourth-generation member Seamus Cota joins the company full time.

2026 – Celebrates 85 years!

“The company’s ideals have always been the family’s ideals: to take care of the customer first. We’ve never pushed for growth; we took opportunities as they arose.”

also saved money and reduced consumption. In the 1960s and ’70s, for example, a customer would use 1,600 to 1,700 gallons of fuel each year; now they use around 650 to 700 gallons.

GROWING INTO LARGER QUARTERS

Cota & Cota moved five times before 1955, when they built their current headquarters at 4 Green Street. In the 1960s, they began expanding the same way they started: Neighboring companies would approach Cota & Cota to pass along their customers to a company that would take good care of them. Then and now, says current president Casey Cota, the family always considered whether it was the right time for growth—they didn’t want to lose their reputation as a local company that people could trust. “The company’s ideals have always been the family’s ideals: to take care of the customer first. We’ve never pushed for growth; we took opportunities as they arose.”

They acquired a propane company in 1996, adding another fuel option for customers, and began to offer bio-blend fuels in 2003. These

plant-based fuels reduce the use of fuel oil while maintaining United States fuel stability and supporting farmers. Made from soybean waste products, the blends are sustainable, burn cleaner, and fit the conservation mindset of the new millennium.

More recently, the company began offering heat pumps and mini splits, which provide both heating and air conditioning. “We didn’t grow up with AC, not even in cars,” Casey points out. “Now you can’t buy a car without one. Even Vermonters have come to expect it in the workplace and feel a need at home. It’s part of the fabric of our culture now.” But before adding a new system, you need to be sure that it works well with old systems, he says. “It’s a belt and suspenders, old Vermonter approach: Have a backup. Heat pumps are great, but you still need a furnace during the coldest weather and a generator if the power fails. These systems evolved over time and will continue to be important.”

THAT GOES FOR THE FAMILY SYSTEM, TOO

“Working together as a family makes us strong,” Casey says. “In good times and bad we help each other out, and when you work here with us, you’re part of the family.”

Each generation, some offspring have wanted to work for the company. Casey started at 10 and spent a lot of his snow days and free time after school going on calls with his grandfather and father. The same was true for his sister Kelley, now VP of operations, who acquired the transportation leasing arm of the business when Hugh, her father, retired in 1995.

The family approach has always been clear to the children, Casey says. “If it’s something you really want to do, we’d love to have you, but you need to know that it’s a lifetime commitment. It’s a 24-hour, seven-day job that you can take pride in. You’ll have an impact on the community you live in. You’ll be keeping people warm.” The fourth generation is already working for Cota & Cota. tw

Cota & Cota

White River Junction, VT (888) 268-2645 cotaoil.com

BY KELLY SENNOTT

A FRESH OUTLOOK ON SLEEPING WELL

AMERICA’S MATTRESS FINDS NEW OWNERS AND NEW DIRECTION

America’s Mattress of West Lebanon, New Hampshire, has gone through a myriad of changes this past year, including aesthetic upgrades, new products, and most importantly, new ownership. Gina Lee and Ken Flanders purchased the business last August and have been painstakingly remodeling their small piece of the franchise ever since. During a tour, they note the newly built desk, trim work, and paint job coating the walls and ceiling. They point out the floor models and the mattress accessories: sheets, pillows, bed protectors, and bed frames.

For Gina, owning a business was never part of her career plan. But when it became clear America’s Mattress might close under the previous owner, her friend Ken, whose business, Flanders Kleaning Services, regularly serviced the building, approached her with a proposition. He knew how to run a business; Gina had been with America’s Mattress since 2014. She’d been to all the shows, knew all the contacts.

What if they bought it together? Now she could have a real stake in its success. “My goal, really, is to watch it succeed,” she says. “It’s a work in progress, but it’s starting to do what we want it to do. And I definitely feel pride in that.”

BUYING A MATTRESS

Gina worked for Sleepy’s before America’s Mattress and has effectively been in the business for nearly two decades. She says times have changed since she joined the industry; 20 years ago, memory foam was new, and hybrids, which have both coils and foam layers, didn’t exist. Now, half of what they sell are hybrids. “It’s more conforming, which is what you want a mattress to do. You want the support, but you want it to conform to your body,” she says.

The company sells two brands, Serta and Beautyrest, which range in price from a couple hundred to a few thousand dollars. All come with a 10-year warranty. She encourages customers to try them all: the coil mattresses, the hybrids, the bed-in-a-box mattresses.

Then she highlights the luxury items, including cooling pillows, scented pillows, beds with massaging features, and beds with adjustable bases to raise your head and feet. “It takes all the pressure off your back and brings your feet above your heart, which is good for circulation,” she says. “There are people who think, oh, I don’t need a hospital bed. I’m young. That’s not really the point. The point is to make you sleep better and be more comfortable.”

She advises customers to lay on beds for 10 or 15 minutes before making decisions, because there are so many variables to consider. What’s your body structure? Are you a side sleeper? Back sleeper? How is the mattress contouring to your body?

“We try to guide people into what physically looks like is going to be better for them. But where the ultimate decision lies is, what are you comfortable with?” she says. “It’s a very personal thing, and people don’t realize that. A lot of people who buy online end up not keeping it and coming in.”

SMALL BUSINESS, BIG IMPACT

America’s Mattress is part of a franchise, which means they

can carry the name and use the America’s Mattress website as long as they sell their products. “We’re not a big corporation,” Gina says. “Even though it’s a franchise, we’re a small business.”

Most days, Gina runs the store while Ken manages behindthe-scenes work while running his other business. It’s not always an easy industry to be in. Gina says most people don’t get excited about buying a new mattress the way they might a new couch. It’s an expense, and it’s not something you see when you walk through the front door. But the investment can have life-changing payoffs in the form of more comfortable, restful sleep, which is rewarding to help people achieve.

“When I was younger, I woke up with more pains than I do now because now I have the right bed,” Gina says. “When I wake up, I just turn my blanket over because I don’t toss and turn. That’s what happens when you have the right bed.” tw

America’s Mattress

10 Benning Street West Lebanon, NH (603) 790-8359

americasmattress.com

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Allen Pools & Spas 77

Anichini 802 77

Belletetes 19

Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices/ Verani Realty 69

Boynton Construction 77

Carpet Mill Flooring USA 23

Catamount Self Storage 103

Copeland Furniture Factory Outlet 77

Creative Lighting Designs 63

Crown Point Cabinetry 94

Crown Point Select 3

db Design Group 8

Deck Dock Home & Garden 102

Delta Dental 2

Eastern Propane & Oil 6

Ennis Construction 1

Eyeglass Outlet 77

FloorCraft 99

Four Seasons/Sotheby’s International Realty 55

Frank Webb Home 5

G.R. Porter & Sons, Inc. 30

Gilberte Interiors 31

Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce 11

Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering, Inc. 86

Landforms Inside back cover

Landshapes 63

LaValley Building Supply 7

Lebanon Paint & Decorating 30 & 100

Loewen Window Center of VT and NH 52

Love’s Bedding & Furniture 104

MB Pro Landscape Design 17

McGray & Nichols 15

Mudge Greeley Architects 99

North Country Door 76

Old Hampshire Designs, Inc./Timberpeg 4

Quation Brook Construction 93

Real Property Options 73

Richard Electric 73

Rodd Roofing 77

Shady Elm Home Systems 12

Shaker Hill Granite 9

Shepard Interior Selections 77

Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group 33

Soake Pools Back cover

Sugar River Bank 89

The Cabinet en-Counter 100

The Carriage Shed Inside front cover

The Tea House 87

Upper Valley Business Alliance 77

Valley Artesian Well Company 10

Valley Floors 103

Vermont Cabinetry 27

Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture 53

Watermark Marine Construction 77

Willow Brook Realty 79

Windows & Doors By Brownell 37

Yankee Barn Homes 13

For more information about print and online advertising opportunities, contact Ryan Frisch at (603) 678-2793 or email ryanfrisch@mountainviewpublishing.com.