GENERAL CONTRACTING | DESIGN-BUILD | REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
Welcome About Us
Our Story
Meet The Team
Where We Work
Design Services
Build Process
Heritage Home Program
Custom Homes
Renovations
Contact Us
32 YEARS OF UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY
As President & Founder of Sleeping Dog Properties, I take great pride in our three-decade legacy of building and renovating homes in Greater Boston with precision and dedication. We’ve thrived by tackling projects others deemed too daunting, always putting our clients first as the cornerstone of our success.
Our strengths lie in effective communication, meticulously organized work environments, and a collective wealth of expertise. Alongside our extensive experience, we bring the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate intricate design specifications and complex project coordination—consistently delivering results that exceed expectations.
From initial concept to final finishing touches, we prioritize your unique vision, ensuring it remains at the heart of every decision. Whether your dream is a contemporary urban oasis or a timeless suburban retreat, we are dedicated to bringing it to life with unmatched precision and craftsmanship.
Allow us to transform your vision into reality, creating a space that inspires awe and admiration. With Sleeping Dog Properties, your dreams become our mission.
We look forward to meeting you.
Chris Rapczynski Founder & President
Welcome
About Us
Our Story
Meet The Team
Where We Work
Design Services
Build Process
Heritage Home Program
Custom Homes
Renovations
Contact Us
OUR STORY
Established in 1993 by Chris Rapczynski, Sleeping Dog Properties has built a sterling reputation as a premier luxury designbuild contractor, serving Greater Boston, its suburbs, Cape Cod, and the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Our meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to excellence set us apart.
Chris founded the company with a vision to take on projects others found too daunting. Through determination and self-belief, he propelled Sleeping Dog Properties to prominence, challenging contractor stereotypes. By consistently delivering projects on time and within budget, he proved the power of open communication, competence, and transparency.
Today, with a team of over 40 professionals and 3,000 subcontractors, we remain committed to a client-first approach. Our success stems from core values of communication, organization, and expertise, allowing us to navigate intricate designs and complex coordination with ease.
At Sleeping Dog Properties, we prioritize your unique vision from conception to completion. Whether crafting a contemporary urban oasis or a timeless retreat, we bring precision and attention to detail that exceeds expectations.
Choose Sleeping Dog Properties for a seamless, luxurious design-build experience tailored to you.
MEET THE TEAM
Our team is the cornerstone of our success. Our strength lies not only in the enduring relationships we’ve fostered among artisans, craftsmen, and hardworking trade professionals but also in our unwavering dedication to delivering unparalleled quality and innovation.
We take pride in our diversity, recognizing that it is the unique perspectives and talents of each team member that truly sets us apart. From seasoned architects and visionary designers to meticulous project managers and skilled builders, we are united by a shared passion for creativity and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
But our team is more than just a collection of individuals; we are a cohesive unit, collaborating seamlessly to bring our clients’ visions to life. With decades of collective experience and a reputation for exceeding expectations, you can trust that when you choose Sleeping Dog Properties, you’re not just hiring a team – you’re partnering with a group of professionals dedicated to turning your dreams into reality.
Chris Rapczynski Founder & President
Chris, a resident of Andover, MA, is a seasoned construction professional with over 30 years of experience. Beginning as a carpenter and tradesman in Boston’s Back Bay, he honed his skills renovating homes and commercial spaces. His dedication and talent quickly led to larger, more sophisticated projects, culminating in the founding of Sleeping Dog Properties, Inc. in 1993, named after his loyal black lab who was a fixture at job sites.
Over the past three decades, Chris has transformed Sleeping Dog into one of the region’s most respected general contracting firms, delivering projects worth over $500 million across high-end residential, boutique
commercial, and hospitality sectors. His commitment to excellence drives his focus on recruiting top talent, adopting innovative tools, and fostering exceptional work, all while emphasizing cleanliness, communication, and competency.
Outside of work, Chris enjoys life as a husband and father to three children. His time is filled with coaching soccer, running, boating, and attending car shows. A lifelong dog lover, his family now includes two Portuguese Water Dogs. Email: chrisrap@sleepingdogproperties.com
Phone: 617-576-6100
Derrick Tyler Chief Operating Officer
Derrick has been a cornerstone of Sleeping Dog Properties since 2003, starting as an intern while pursuing his Bachelor of Architecture at Wentworth Institute of Technology.
Rising through the ranks from Designer to Chief Operating Officer, he now oversees day-to-day operations, including contract negotiations, project management, and financial controls. Derrick collaborates closely with the design team, ensuring ideas are heard and architectural details are resolved, while maintaining a client-first approach that often includes after-hours support and personalized site visits.
A natural leader, Derrick fosters a positive and productive environment through mentorship and hands-on teaching. His dedication to continuous improvement drives the team to adopt new efficiencies while adhering to rigorous business protocols. By treating each project as if it were his own, Derrick exemplifies the company’s commitment to excellence and empowers his team to consistently deliver exceptional service.
Joe Boccelli Director of Construction
A lifelong Massachusetts resident, Joe has embedded himself into the local construction industry from an incredibly young age. Growing up in a construction family taught him valuable lessons concerning hard work, quality craftsmanship, and problem-solving. As our Director of
Construction, Joe has extensive experience working as a site supervisor, project manager, estimator, and designer all within the same day. Throughout his 20+ year career in construction, he has put into place over $150 million in both residential and commercial construction projects.
Joe’s leadership goes beyond administration—he’s hands-on, guiding field staff not just with instructions but by working alongside them. His ability to balance strategy and execution fosters collaboration, respect, and continuous learning.
Committed to both the craft and the team, Joe is an exceptional leader and invaluable to our company.
Michael Feldman Chief Financial Officer
Our Controller for over five years now, Michael, is a Certified Public Accountant with over 30 years of experience in financial leadership roles in the real estate and construction industry. His expertise has been instrumental in ensuring the fiscal integrity and success for our company for over half a decade.
Blake Clinton Marketing
Manager
Blake, a Connecticut native, arrived in Boston for his college years at Bentley University, earning a B.S. in EconomicsFinance. Initially uncertain about his career path, he found his passion in construction and design, joining SDP as an Estimator in 2017. Through hard work and dedication, he quickly mastered his role while gaining a
deep understanding of the business. Since 2021, Blake has also led our marketing efforts, managing social media, website development, branding, and content.
A native of Sharon, MA, Mike attended the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and graduated with a degree in accounting. He has three kids, and three dogs, and enjoys sports, and traveling, especially to his home on Cape Cod with his family.
Outside of work, he enjoys running, golfing, live music, spending time with his family on Cape Cod, and cheering on Liverpool.
Welcome About Us
Our Story
Meet The Team Where We Work
Design Services
Build Process
Heritage Home Program
Custom Homes
Renovations
Contact Us
WHERE WE WORK
At Sleeping Dog Properties, we have have a deep understanding of Boston and extensive experience building in and around the city. Nestled in the South End, our office serves as a hub for our team to collaborate, coordinate, and navigate the complexities of undertaking construction projects here.
We possess a wealth of knowledge gained from completing successful projects in the most sought-after neighborhoods including Back Bay, the South End, Beacon Hill, and Seaport.
However, our expertise extends beyond the city limits. From the picturesque North Shore to the scenic lakes region of New Hampshire, the chaming South Shore to idyllic Cape Cod, our team is dedicated to delivering unparalleled craftmanship and exceeding expectations, no matter where our client’s visions may take us.
ANCHORED IN BOSTON. BUILDING BEYOND.
Beacon Hill
Seaport
Cambridge
Downtown
South End
Back Bay
Newton
Brookline
Wellesley Weston
North Shore
South Shore
DESIGN SERVICES
The best designs emerge when diverse perspectives come together. That’s why Sleeping Dog Properties offers comprehensive design-build services while seamlessly collaborating with outside designers and architects to create stunning results.
For many clients, Sleeping Dog’s holistic design-build approach is a powerful way to combine the expertise of designers and builders into one cohesive team that ensures a streamlined transition from concept to construction.
By involving owners, architects, interior designers, and contractors at every phase, we blend technical knowledge with practical expertise to streamline material selection, code compliance, and feasibility.
Our commitment to collaboration continues throughout construction. We believe communication is the backbone of success, ensuring every voice is heard and every concern addressed.
Welcome About Us
Our Story
Meet The Team Where We Work
Design Services
Build Process
Heritage Home Program
Custom Homes
Renovations
Contact Us
BUILD PROCESS
Sleeping Dog Properties has been a leading figure in the realm of high-end luxury residential renovations and new builds for over three decades. Our extensive experience positions us as a formidable force in the industry, offering clients a unique advantage when undertaking projects of exceptional value, complexity, and distinction.
At the core of our success lies a team of seasoned professionals renowned for their competence and reliability in managing technical projects. With a meticulous approach, we navigate the intricacies of construction with finesse, delivering outcomes that epitomize precision and efficiency. Our team comprises individuals who are not only skilled in their respective disciplines but are also well-versed in the nuances of advanced engineering and building concepts. Additionally, we stay abreast of the latest construction technologies, enabling us to incorporate innovative
solutions that elevate our quality and efficiency. However, what truly sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. From project inception to completion, we prioritize the client’s vision, needs, and preferences, ensuring that their objectives remain at the forefront of every decision made. Clear and open lines of communication serve as the cornerstone of our approach, fostering transparency, trust, and collaboration throughout the entirety of the project lifecycle.
Moreover, we uphold stringent standards of cleanliness and safety on-site, meticulously managing the environment to safeguard both the physical integrity of the site and the well-being of all individuals involved in the construction process. By placing the client’s interests at the center of our operations and adhering to the highest standards of professionalism, SDP continues to redefine excellence in the realm of residential construction.
OUR CORE BUILDING PRINCIPLES
COMPETENCY COMMUNICATION CLEANLINESS
From inception to completion, our skilled team combines deep industry expertise, mastery of modern practices, and cutting-edge technologies to deliver exceptional craftsmanship, seamlessly integrating intricate architectural details and innovative systems with precision and finesse.
We prioritize open communication by providing weekly email updates with progress reports, milestones, and upcoming activities, while also holding regular in-person meetings to address questions, concerns, and project details directly.
Safety and cleanliness are paramount, with strict adherence to OSHA standards, personal safety gear, and advanced measures like ZIP walls, negative air pressure systems, and professional cleaning services, alongside protective solutions to prevent accidents and safeguard property.
HERITAGE HOME PROGRAM
A home is one of your most valuable assets. To keep its essential systems running smoothly, we created the Heritage Home Program. Our expert technicians perform regular maintenance, including HVAC filter replacements, plumbing and electrical inspections, smoke detector testing, and seasonal adjustments to ensure everything functions optimally.
We understand that every homeowner has unique needs, so our program is fully customizable. Whether you have specific concerns or require additional services, we tailor our approach to meet your expectations. Routine maintenance allows us to catch potential issues early, helping you avoid costly repairs and unnecessary stress.
Beyond proactive care, we prioritize clear communication and transparency. After each visit, our technicians provide detailed reports outlining findings and recommendations. We believe an informed homeowner is an empowered one, and our goal is to give you the knowledge and confidence to make the best decisions for your home’s long-term care.
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OUR MAINTENANCE SERVICES
Our Heritage Home Program is fully customizable to you and your property’s needs, but here are a few general services we offer. Please contact us to inquire how we can tailor this program for you.
Plumbing & Electrical Review
For plumbing, we check for leaks, blockages, and wear and tear, offering recommendations for repairs or replacements. In the electrical domain, we review wiring, outlets, switches, and appliances to ensure safety and optimal performance, advising on necessary repairs or upgrades. Our proactive approach aims to enhance functionality and prevent future issues, ensuring the efficiency and safety of your essential systems.
HVAC Filter Replacement
By ensuring that these filters are consistently replaced, the program keeps indoor air quality optimal, reducing health risks and making your home more comfortable. Simultaneously, the efficient HVAC system operation due to clean filters contributes to cost savings on energy bills, aligning with the program’s overarching goal of preserving your heritage home’s legacy, while enhancing its comfort, sustainability, and economic viability for the future.
Spring & Winter Prep
Our team will thoroughly inspect areas vulnerable to colder temperatures, including insulation, weatherstripping, and caulking to retain heat and reduce energy waste. We’ll winterize your plumbing to prevent freezing damage. In spring, we’ll optimize your home for warmer weather by inspecting and cleaning your HVAC system and checking outdoor spaces for winter-related wear or damage, recommending any necessary repairs or maintenance.
CUSTOM HOMES
Sleeping Dog Properties specializes in the meticulous execution of fully custom luxury homes, where every detail is thoughtfully considered, and no aspect is left to chance. Our expertise lies in navigating the unique challenges of high-value residences—where intricate design specifications, elevated expectations, and the finest materials demand an unparalleled level of precision and craftsmanship.
At the heart of our approach is a team of highly skilled professionals who excel in managing the complexities of bespoke construction. From advanced engineering solutions to seamless project coordination, we thrive in environments that require both technical mastery and an uncompromising commitment to excellence. Our deep understanding of sophisticated building methods, combined with our ability to integrate cutting-edge construction technologies, ensures that each home we craft is a flawless reflection of the architect’s vision and the homeowner’s aspirations.
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HISTORIC BEACON HILL REVIVAL
Beacon Hill — Boston
This 8,000-square-foot Beacon Hill townhouse underwent a full gut renovation, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern luxury. Reconfigured for optimal flow, it features six refined bathrooms, a sculptural Cocoon Bianco soaking tub, a transformed kitchen with custom cabinetry and courtyard views, and an elegant staircase with a custom oak handrail. The basement now houses a bespoke wine cellar, completing a home where every detail was meticulously curated for timeless sophistication.
Contributors
Architect — Sleeping Dog Properties
Interior Designer — Lisa Miao Interiors
Photographer — Greg Premru
Welcome About Us
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Where We Work
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PRIMARY BATHROOM
Located on the third floor, this primary suite features a large bedroom with a sitting area, seperate his and her closets with custom millwork, and a bathroom fit for a museum. Flooded light in the mornings with its east facing windows, this bathroom highlights three main features: a custom maple vanity, three-sided glass and stone shower, and a soaking tub carved from a single block of stone (seen on page 7).
— Features
• Cocoon Piet Boon freestanding soaking tub crafted from a single block of Cocoon Bianco natural stone - Imported from Italy
• Custom floating double vanity crafted from UV maple
• ‘Vermont Maple Danby’ marble stone used for the shower walls, floor, ceiling, curb, and surround - matches the vanity countertop and backsplash stone
• Engineered, North American white oak hardwood flooring layed in a herringbone pattern from PID Floors
• Waterworks ‘Henry’ plumbing fixtures and accessories in a nickel finish
• Benjamin Moore ‘Herbal Escape’ for walls, ceiling, and trim
KITCHEN
Centrally located on the Parlor Level, this kitchen serves as the heart of the home—a vibrant space where the family gathers to cook, dine, and entertain. A newly added bank of windows bathes the room in natural light while framing a tranquil view of the private courtyard, creating an inviting atmosphere for both lively gatherings and quiet moments.
— Features
• Custom, shop-painted cabinets with applied trim, maple interiors, and appliance panels
• Custom, stained walnut island serves as a central anchor for the space, contrasting the painted perimeter cabinetry
• Barroca soapstone used for the perimeter countertops while a honed marble, ‘Montclair Darby’ was used for the island
• Barrel-vaulted ceiling adorned with glazed ceramic tile takes advantage of unique detail and increase ceiling height
• 43” La Cornue - gloss black induction range with stainless steel and polished brass accents & 42” Sub-Zero french door refrigerator/freezer
• Engineered, North American white oak hardwood flooring layed in a Herringbone pattern from PID Floors
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KITCHEN (contd.)
— Features
• (To the left) A unique, tall cabinet with applied walnut moldings that match the island and reeded glass doors
• Custom-crafted kitchen table with a pedestal base is paired with a long built-in bench featuring an upholstered cushion
• Two antique bronze lamps from Visual Comfort were thoughtfully placed within cabinet niches and pair well with the matching pendant above to provide focused task lighting
• Applied moldings to the walls and built-in cabinets mirror the trim on the kitchen cabinetry
• Benjamin Moore ‘Herbal Escape’ for walls, ceiling, and trim
• A bright, curated art piece adds a pop of color to the neutrally balanced palette Adjacent to the kitchen, a charming dining nook offers a cozy yet refined extension of the space. A custom wooden table and built-in bench provide both comfort and functionality, while seamlessly integrated cabinetry enhances storage. Soft tones and warm lighting create an inviting ambiance, blending vintage elegance with understated luxury.
WINE CELLAR
Once a vacant, unfinished basement, this space underwent a meticulous transformation to achieve its stunning final form. Extensive preparation was required, including HVAC, electrical, insulation, framing, and concrete work, to establish a solid foundation for the finishing touches. The result is a sophisticated and functional space—designed to be both enjoyed and admired.
— Features
• Custom designed wine cabinets and racks from Kessick Wine Storage Systems crafted from walnut and finished with a clear satin finish
• Total capacity +/- 860 bottles
• The centerpiece island is made from a polished marble stone, ‘Arabescato Corchia’ from Cumar and features stunning, deep veining — contrasting the earthy tones of the millwork
• Chiseled limestone tiles in ‘Battle Gray’ with a Roman antique finish pave the floor
• Moroccan lime-plaster adorns the ceiling adding to the Old World charm and timeless aesthetic
• Warm LED accent lights add to the room’s moody ambiance
Welcome About Us
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Design Services
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Heritage Home Program
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RENOVATIONS
Sleeping Dog Properties is a trusted leader in high-end luxury residential renovations and custom home builds, known for delivering exceptional craftsmanship and precision. Our expertise allows us to navigate the complexities of projects with significant value, intricate design details, and elevated expectations.
At the core of our success lies a team of seasoned professionals renowned for their competence and reliability in managing technical projects. With a meticulous approach, we navigate the intricacies of construction with finesse, delivering outcomes that epitomize precision and efficiency. Our team comprises individuals who are not only skilled in their respective disciplines but are also well-versed in the nuances of advanced engineering and building concepts. Additionally, we stay abreast of the latest construction technologies, enabling us to incorporate innovative solutions that elevate the quality and efficiency of our work.
MODERN TRANSITIONAL CONDO
Back Bay — Boston
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Public Garden, this city condo seamlessly blends modern amenities and finishes with its original 1860s architecture. The building’s classic French Academic exterior makes a distinctive statement along Arlington Street, while the 2,800-square-foot interior is bathed in natural light, highlighting the significant upgrades throughout.
Studio DRAW spearheaded the meticulous design transformation, harmoniously integrating wood, stone, metal, and paint. Careful consideration of each material’s color and texture ensured they complemented the surrounding space. The result is a cohesive design that melds historical charm with contemporary elegance, paying homage to the home’s roots while offering a living experience defined by timeless sophistication and modern functionality.
Contributors
Architect — Studio DRAW
Interior Designer — Reed Scranton Designs
Photographer — Greg Premru
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STRIKING CUSTOM CONDO
Downtown — Boston
Perched near the pinnacle of Boston’s iconic Millennium Tower, this 4,500-square-foot penthouse epitomizes elevated living with breathtaking panoramic views that showcase the city’s skyline in all its glory. We had the privilege of collaborating with these discerning clients from the very beginning, renovating the entire condo during its initial construction to reflect their impeccable taste and vision. Now, returning to reimagine their kitchen, we seamlessly merged traditional elegance with contemporary sophistication, creating a space as functional as it is visually stunning.
Contributors
Architect — Sleeping Dog Properties
Interior Designer — Carolyn Thayer Interiors
Photographer — Greg Premru
COLOR INFUSION
Seaport — Boston
Though initially a minor renovation, the enhancements to this stunning Boston Harbor-facing condo made a significant impact. High-end condos often feature neutral, universally appealing finishes, and this one was no exception. To personalize the space, the client partnered with Elms Interior Design to create a home that truly reflected their style.
In the kitchen, a ¾” Zebra Polished stone with a waterfall edge was installed, contrasting strikingly against white cabinets. A custom gray pantry complemented the island’s darker tones, while the master bedroom gained a bold built-in with unique brass hardware. In the powder room, Patina Designs hand-painted gold accents on the walls, tying in with new brass fixtures and a high-gloss black vanity, elevating the home’s contemporary aesthetic.
Contributors
Interior Designer — Elms Interior Design
Photographer — Sleeping Dog Properties
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PIED-À-TERRE
Back Bay — Boston
When we first met the client who purchased this 990-square-foot condo at Beacon and Fairfield, their vision was a “jewelry box living” experience—an elegant city home many empty-nesters dream of but couldn’t afford while raising children. The space had a traditional look with dark millwork, brown leather furniture, and outdated fixtures. We completely transformed it into a bright, radiant home. To maximize the main living area, we designed a sleek galley kitchen, arranging counters, cabinets, and appliances to face each other—proving that in city living, smart design outweighs size.
Contributors
Architect — Sleeping Dog Properties
Interior Designer — Sleeping Dog Properties
Photographer — Greg Premru
RELAXING MODERN DETAILS
South End — Boston
This South End brownstone had potential but lacked functionality and character—until two young buyers partnered with Sleeping Dog Properties and Daher Interior Design for a full-gut renovation. The transformation began by relocating the kitchen from the garden to the parlor level, creating a more traditional and functional main floor. To enhance space, we expanded the rear masonry opening, installed a Marvin multi-stack door system, and added a new kitchen-level deck. A new vestibule further established the parlor level as the grand entrance.
We also reconfigured the rear alley for two parking spaces, requiring deck removal and earthwork while integrating a new parlor-level deck. Throughout the home, we renovated all bathrooms, including a grand master bath, installed wide-plank Carlisle flooring, refinished the staircase, updated lighting, and refreshed finishes. A new roof deck was the final touch, offering stunning Back Bay views.
Contributors
Architect — Sleeping Dog Properties
Interior Designer — Daher Interior Design
Photographer — Jessica Delaney
CONTACT US
Whether you have a question, a project inquiry, or simply want to learn more about the extensive design-build services Sleeping Dog Properties provides, we’re here to provide you with the information you need.
Please feel free to call or email us and we’ll ensure a prompt and personalized response. Our dedicated team of professionals is eager to listen, collaborate, and assist in bringing your vision to life.
BOSTON | CAPE COD | LAKES REGION