Preservation vs. Performance: Renovation in the Modern Era

Presented in Partnership with Kevin Cradock Builders

How do we honor the past while meeting the demands of the present? This panel brings together Stephen Payne (Payne|Bouchier), Kevin Cradock (Kevin Cradock Builders), and Nick Schiffer (NS Builders) to explore the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of preservation and performance.

From historic restorations to cutting-edge renovations, they’ll discuss balancing authenticity with innovation, craftsmanship with efficiency, and tradition with modern technology. Expect a dynamic conversation featuring real-world projects, shifting client expectations, and the future of building in a changing landscape.

Join us for fresh perspectives, practical takeaways, and inspiration for anyone passionate about architecture, design, and construction today.

Kevin Cradock

Kevin Cradock grew up in the Boston neighborhood of Jamaica Plain, surrounded by classic homes that awakened a love of carpentry and an appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.

Beginning his career as a finish carpenter renovating classic Boston homes, Kevin gradually moved toward creating distinctive custom cabinetry for his building and renovation projects. By the mid-1990’s he established his own shop, and, in collaboration with local designers, devoted himself to crafting the finest custom millwork, cabinetry and furniture available.

Today KCB is an award-winning luxury builder, known for working closely with architects, designers, and homeowners on a range of projects from renovations and additions to new construction.

When not working, Kevin can be found fishing, skiing and spending time with his family and three dogs.

Nick Schiffer

As the founder and visionary behind NS Builders, Nick Schiffer has spent his life mastering the art of residential construction. His hands-on experience began in his father’s workshop, grew through formal training in carpentry and construction management, and matured over years in commercial and high-end residential construction. Known for his dedication to craftsmanship and forward-thinking approach, Nick leads the team with a commitment to detail, quality, and client satisfaction that ensures each project is an enduring work of art.

Stephen Payne

After dropping out of college in 1972, Stephen Payne, worked in a woodshop in New Mexico. He then moved back to Boston where he worked at Downes Millwork, where the main focus was short runs of 19th century reproduction standing and running trim. When that business sold, he moved first to another Boston shop owned by the Dixon Brothers, where he built cabinets and made sash and doors, and then to the West coast.

After a couple of years of cabinetwork and construction in the Los Angeles area, Steve again returned to Boston to join with his brother Tom and Oliver Bouchier, to found Payne/Bouchier. The threesome started out as a woodshop that fabricated and installed custom architectural millwork. In the mid-1980’s they began to expand from a custom woodshop to a full-service General Contractor: Payne/Bouchier, Inc., Fine Builders.