Exploring the World of Architecture

Stella Hamor, a senior at Proctor Academy, spent the last two weeks interning with us here at Bonin Architects & Associates. She joined us wanting to explore architecture as a possible field to study in college.

From job site visits to learning design software, Stella jumped in with curiosity, energy, and a lot of enthusiasm. Her thoughtful questions, eagerness to learn, and collaborative spirit made her a valuable part of the team from day one.

We were happy to have her as part of our team and enjoyed sharing our process with someone who is passionate about architecture. We wish her the very best in her next journey!

Here’s what Stella had to say about her experience at Bonin Architects:

My Experience as an Intern at Bonin Architects

By Stella Hamor

Over the past two weeks, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to intern at Bonin Architects & Associates, where I gained valuable insight into the architecture and design process, what day-to-day life in a firm is like, and the steps it takes to become a licensed architect.

When I began this internship, I had very little knowledge or experience with architecture. I came in hoping to explore whether this could be the right field for me as I prepare to start college this fall.

From the very beginning, everyone at Bonin Architects was welcoming, patient, and generous with their time, taking moments out of their busy days to answer my endless questions, walk me through their projects, and share advice from their own experiences. I got to sit in on firm meetings, visit an active job site, learn about drone photography and even collaborate on a marketing design project, which gave me a better understanding of how many different skills and departments come together in this field.

I also had the chance to learn about different design software and see how a project moves from an initial sketch to a real, tangible space. This experience made architecture feel much more real and exciting to me, and showed me how much creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving go into every part of the process. I’m so grateful to the whole team for making me feel included, encouraging me to ask questions, and inspiring me as I take my next steps toward college and my future career. 

Designing Inviting Guest Spaces in Your New Home

At Bonin Architects, we understand that designing a guest space goes beyond just adding extra rooms, it’s about creating spaces where both comfort and privacy are prioritized for both the homeowner and the guests. Whether you’re thinking about integrating guest space in a walkout basement, transforming your garage or building a separate guest house the key is to ensure that your guests feel welcome, relaxed, and completely at ease during their stay. Ideally, the guest space is removed from the main family living areas, offering a sense of independence and privacy that enhances the guest experience.

As you design your custom home, consider the needs of your future visitors, whether they’re here for a weekend or an extended stay. Planning during the design phase of your new home can elevate your guest’s experience while complementing and enhancing the overall design of your home. Below are some creative and functional ideas to consider when planning your guest spaces.

Consider Living Space Above Garage for Guest Space

Utilizing the garage may not be the first space that comes to mind when thinking about guest space. With the right design approach, a garage can become a stylish and functional extension of your living space. And if you're looking to do it right, a 3 bay garage offers the perfect foundation to create great guest quarters. The added width of the third bay allows for a more generous footprint above, creating a comfortable living space for extended stays.

This kind of setup is perfect for homeowners who want to offer their guests more independence, whether it’s a private loft style space or a fully equipped accessory dwelling unit (ADU).

Standalone Guest House for Maximum Privacy

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For those who frequently host guests or have extended family visiting, a detached guest house can be the ultimate solution. An ADU or standalone cottage offers visitors a peaceful, self-contained space that feels like a retreat of its own.

This option is especially appealing for homeowners building in vacation destination locations such as lakeside or mountain settings, where a guest house can serve as a cozy, private haven. It is also ideal for hosting adult children and their families for weekend getaways.

Finished Walkout Basement as a Guest Suite

If a separate structure isn’t feasible, a finished basement can be a smart solution for creating a private and quiet retreat for your guests. While basements are sometimes associated with limited light and a closed-in feel, if you have potential for a walkout basement, it offers an ideal opportunity to overcome those challenges. With larger windows that bring in natural light and the option to include a separate entrance, a walkout basement can feel like fully independent guest space.

Timber Frame Home in Vermont’s Green Mountains

This custom timber frame home perfectly captures the spirit of Vermont living by blending superior craftsmanship with the stunning natural beauty of the landscape. Surrounded by open swaying pastures, the home’s directional orientation and thoughtfully designed window package offer stunning views of the valleys and mountains nearby.

Our client’s design objective was to use the timeless combination of wood and stone to create beautiful spaces both inside and outside the home that truly defines quintessential Vermont living. The natural wood beams and fine finishes offer an organic ambience, while the stone elements give the house a solid, enduring quality. It is the complementary nature of the building materials that makes the space feel rooted in its surroundings and inviting to each new season of the year. It is the perfect place to gather with friends and family to tell old stories and make new memories.

This home’s defining feature is the timber frame great room providing a spacious living area that encourages togetherness. This room feels airy and bright with a grand central stone fireplace providing a warm hearth area for conversation. The flow of the living spaces is perfect for everything from quiet intimate nights by the fire to more generous family and social gatherings.

An additional standout feature of the home is its connection to the outdoors. Large windows and doors bring in natural light allowing access to the surrounding landscape from nearly every room. The views of mountains and meadows is a constant reminder of how special this place is. The scenery is everywhere you look and constantly changing with each season.

The home also features a wraparound porch bringing the living space into the outdoors. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy that first morning coffee or host a summer BBQ while soaking in the peaceful view. The porch, along with other outdoor spaces, invites you to embrace Vermont’s natural beauty and live more outdoors.

The details of the design, the inherent beauty of the materials and the way it all connects to the land integrate to create a space that is welcoming and beautiful.  It feels like home. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy nature, and experience the very best of Vermont living.

INTERVIEW WITH PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT KEVIN TEN BRINKE

Meet Kevin ten Brinke, owner and Principal Architect at Bonin Architects & Associates! Kevin, originally from Nashua, New Hampshire, spent his early years in Merrimack and Cape Cod before settling in Sudbury, Massachusetts. His connection to both mountain and coastal landscapes has deeply influenced his creative work, bringing a distinctive blend of nostalgia and inspiration to his designs.

With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Kevin is a highly skilled Architect, holding degrees in Architecture, Building Science, and Business from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He is a LEED AP, Certificated Architect, registered in multiple states, and the Principal Architect at both Bonin Architects & Associates and KT2 Design Group. Kevin’s expertise spans luxury residential design, commercial architecture, landscape design, and real estate development. The Bonin Architects team is excited for the future with Kevin leading the direction.

Let's get to know Kevin better as he shares his experiences and architectural insights through a few questions.

How did you first get interested in architecture, and what inspired you to pursue it as a career?

At the age of 15, living in a 40x20 Campanelli ranch with three siblings, my parents decided we needed more space. Led by a father who had been a carpenter in a former life, my siblings and I strapped on tool belts, grabbed hammers, and learned how to build. Our first order of business was constructing our own in ground pool. Then, over the next four years, we gut renovated and doubled the size of our house together. It is worth noting that we lived in the house throughout the entire project, which provided endless material for life lessons I now pass on to my kids. They constantly ask, “Dad, please tell me that story again. Your childhood stories and the lessons they teach us are invaluable to our development.” Such great kids, absolutely no mockery in their requests.

Can you walk us through your design philosophy? How do you approach new projects?

Each project is an opportunity to positively impact our clients and those closest to them as they live, grow, and create memories. Great design, like great art, has the power to evoke emotion in every moment.

To achieve this, we draw inspiration from the natural world, beginning with a clear vision of how the finished environment should feel. From there, we thoughtfully shape each space and detail, crafting not just a home but a meaningful experience.

Can you share a project that you are particularly proud of? 

I feel like the current project will always be my favorite experience. So, if I have to pick one, it would be our most recently completed Quechee Hillside Meadow House, soon to be posted. Our clients trusted our vision and were incredible collaborators. This Scandinavian-inspired home sits on a hillside with stunning views of Lake Pinneo, as well as the surrounding hills and valley.

Who is your favorite architect?

Santiago Calatrava, for his ability to merge functional solutions with breathtaking aesthetics without relying on ornamentation embodies the purest expression of architectural excellence in our discipline.

What are your hobbies outside of architecture?

Studying architecture…kidding?  We love to travel.  We’ve been so lucky to grow as a family by traveling the world, experiencing life in different environments and see the natural diverse beauty of cultures around the globe. 

MICHAEL PRITCHARD RECOGNIZED WITH “UP AND COMING TALENT (UNDER 40)” AWARD

Bonin Architects & Associates is proud to announce that Michael Pritchard, Project Manager and BIM Manager, has been honored with the Up and Coming Talent (Under 40) award at the 2025 New Hampshire Home Design Awards. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding professionals under 40 who are making significant contributions to the architecture and design industry in New Hampshire.

Michael joined Bonin Architects in 2015 and has since become a driving force behind the firm’s innovation and collaborative culture. As both a Project Manager and the studio’s BIM Manager, Michael leads staff training in cutting-edge modeling and rendering technologies, playing a pivotal role in enhancing design processes and client experiences.

“Mike is an integral member of our team, and we’re thrilled to see him recognized for his talent,” said Kevin ten Brinke, Principal Architect at Bonin Architects. “He’s constantly exploring how new tools and technologies can improve the way we design—and because of his initiative, our firm has adopted some of the most advanced visualization methods available today.

Michael’s passion for emerging technologies has helped Bonin Architects implement high-level design tools such as Twinmotion for photo-realistic renderings, drone photogrammetry for site modeling, and immersive virtual reality experiences using 3D and augmented reality software. After expressing interest in aerial imagery, Michael became a licensed FAA drone pilot—further expanding the firm’s capabilities in taking drone.

In addition to his role at Bonin Architects, Michael is dedicated to mentoring beyond the workplace. He volunteers as a youth sports coach and regularly engages in professional design conversations—including a recent article featured in the AIANH Forum.

Currently pursuing his MBA, Michael continues to grow his leadership and business expertise, positioning himself as a rising star in the field of architecture.

THE BENEFITS OF BUILDING A LAKESIDE HOME IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

Lakeside living is a dream for many homeowners, and for good reason. In New Hampshire, with its stunning lakes and breathtaking scenery, building a lakeside home offers not only aesthetic beauty but also a host of benefits that make it an ideal choice for both primary residences and vacation homes.

In particular, the Greater Lake Sunapee Region and the Lakes Region near Lake Winnipesaukee offer an abundance of lakes to choose from, each with its own unique charm. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a home for your active, outdoor lifestyle, New Hampshire offers the perfect setting to build your lakeside home.

A Tranquil Escape

Living by the lakes in New Hampshire offers a perfect balance of tranquility and relaxation. The natural beauty of the lakes, with their quiet coves and crystal-clear waters, creates an ideal environment for unwinding. Whether sipping your morning coffee on the deck or winding down in the evening, the soothing sounds of the water and the stunning views help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being, offering a serene atmosphere throughout the day. Lakeside living offers the perfect weekend escape.

Lifestyle of Leisure and Adventure

Beyond relaxation, New Hampshire is a hub for outdoor recreation and adventure. During the summer months, the lakes invite you to enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. In addition to these, New Hampshire’s local mountains offer year-round options, including hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling. With iconic lakes like Lake Sunapee, Lake Winnipesaukee, Newfound Lake, and Squam Lake, your front door becomes the gateway to endless outdoor possibilities, no matter the season.

A Smart Financial Investment

In addition to the lifestyle benefits, lakeside properties in New Hampshire also represent a wise financial investment. Due to the limited availability of lakefront land, waterfront homes are highly sought after and tend to hold their value over time. Building a home by one of these pristine lakes ensures you’re investing in a location that will maintain its appeal for generations. Furthermore, unlike coastal properties, you won’t face complications with tidal forces, making insurance coverage simpler and more predictable.

Privacy and Security

Privacy and security are another major draw for those seeking a lakeside home. Many of lakeside homes in our region are tucked away in secluded areas, offering a level of peace and solitude that is increasingly rare in more densely populated regions. The tranquil seclusion found near places like Lake Sunapee, Squam Lake, and the quiet coves of Lake Winnipesaukee allows you to enjoy a private and intimate lifestyle, while still being conveniently close to local amenities.

Four Season Living

One of the most captivating aspects of lakeside living in New Hampshire is the ever-changing beauty of the surrounding landscape. From the vibrant colors of fall foliage to the serene snow-covered vistas in winter, the views from your home will constantly evolve with the seasons. Each season brings its own unique views and experiences, whether it’s spring wildflowers, summer sunsets over the lake, or snowy vistas in the winter months. You’ll enjoy a constantly shifting and breathtaking panorama from your own home.

Bonin Architects is a multi-disciplinary design firm focusing on custom residential, commercial and landscape design.  We are in the heart of the NH Lakes Region with offices in both Meredith and New London, New Hampshire and have completed commissions throughout all New England and beyond.

BONIN ARCHITECTS & ASSOCIATES AND KT2 DESIGN GROUP HAVE JOINED FORCES

KT2 DESIGN GROUP - GAMBREL ESCAPE - WESTON, MA

We are excited to announce that Bonin Architects & Associates and KT2 Design Group have joined forces. The two award-winning firms have created a strategic alliance offering clients exemplary custom residential, commercial, and landscape architectural services.  With the breadth of experience across both firms, Bonin Architects & Associates and KT2 Design Group provide design expertise throughout New England. Both firms will keep their highly skilled staff and continue to create legacy design projects for their clients. Kevin ten Brinke, current Partner and Lead Architect at KT2 Design Group,, will take charge of the alliance by assuming the role the Principal and Lead Architect of Bonin Architects & Associates; guiding the firms into this next chapter.

KT2 DESIGN GROUP - WAYSIDE COLONIAL - SUDBURY, MA

Located in the heart of the New Hampshire Lakes Region, with offices in New London, NH and Meredith, NH - Bonin Architects & Associates Founders Kim and Jeremy Bonin have led Bonin Architects & Associates and their staff for nearly twenty years. They will continue to play pivotal roles, offering their expertise during the transition and beyond.

Located outside Boston, KT2 Design Group was founded in 2015 by husband-and-wife team Kevin ten Brinke and Kalah Talancy, an Architect and Interior Designer, respectively.  Having worked for over a decade under their respective names, reviewing projects together daily, and bouncing design solutions off each other, the idea of developing a Design Group that allowed clients to work with one, or both of them, was a natural evolution.

KT2 DESIGN GROUP - QUECHEE, VT

Kim and Jeremy are thrilled to welcome Kevin as the new Principal Architect at BAA. As an industry veteran, Kevin brings focused leadership, vitality, and a client-centric approach. Adding the resources of KT2 Design Group, Kevin's leadership will bolster the firm’s efforts.

KT2 DESIGN GROUP - STATELY COLONIAL - WELLESLEY, MA

"From the moment I met Kim, Jeremy, and the BAA staff, I knew this was the right decision for our clients” Kevin remarked. Both firms share an inventive spirit and earnest desire to make their client’s dreams a reality. As our firms continue to focus on high-level service and design, this alliance gives our clients embedded access to industry leading knowledge whether that dream is lake life or mountain side access in New Hampshire, Maine or Vermont - exploring the expansive shores of New England, the Cape and the Islands - or tapping into the unlimited resources the Boston area offers. 

This alliance brings our clients industry leading design and regional connectivity throughout all of New England. Together, we create.

To learn more please contact:

 KT2 Design Group

www.Kt2designgroup.com

Sudbury, MA

978-443-5157

Bonin Architects & Associates

www.boninarchitects.com

New London, NH

Meredith, NH

603-526-6200

RENDERING TO REALITY

New innovations in design technology are revolutionizing the architectural process, giving architects and clients alike the ability to explore a project long before construction begins. With advanced rendering tools and visualization software, we can now present highly realistic previews that capture everything from textures and materials to lighting and landscape details.

Here, we showcase a perfect example of how closely these renderings can mirror the final built environment. Captured by our in-house drone, expertly piloted by BIM Manager and Project Manager Mike Pritchard, this aerial view provides a striking comparison between the finished project and the original design renderings created by our talented staff. The result is a powerful visual testament to the precision and accuracy modern design technology brings to every phase of the architectural process.

ROOTED IN FAMILY HISTORY

Nestled on the shores of Lake Sunapee, Split Rock is rooted in family history.

As the family has grown, so did the need for a space to accommodate everyone, from quiet mornings with a cup of coffee by the lake, to bustling holidays filled with laughter and conversation. This mid-century modern retreat is a place where those needs are met.

Mid-century modern design is known for its clean lines, open spaces, and seamless integration with nature, and is typically a perfect fit for lakeside settings.

Conveniently, the uniqueness of this project lies in its remarkable location, which inspired the architecture to reflect the site’s natural beauty. The expansive windows and open layout bring the outdoors in, making the surrounding landscape a central feature of the home, and letting the tranquility of the outdoors spill into the living spaces.

Beyond its function as a gathering place, Split Rock honors the family’s heritage.

Originally built by the client’s father, the site has been cherished for generations, and every aspect of the proposed design reflects this deep connection. The name "Split Rock" itself is derived from a geological feature that is swum to by young family members and has become a rite of passage for growing up at the lake.

To respect its history, it was important for the architecture to minimize its environmental impact and respect the natural contours of the land.

The design of the home strives to ensure that this special place can be enjoyed by future generations without compromising the beauty that has made it so meaningful.

Split Rock is more than just a house; it’s a living testament to family, history, and the balance between modern design and nature—a place where past and future generations can continue to grow, gather and create lasting memories together.

FROM RENDERING TO DRONE SHOT

Our clients are truly the best! Next week, we'll feature many photos and details of this recently completed home on Lake Winnipesaukee.

Here's a sneak peak of the finished home, taken by Mike Pritchard via drone, as well as one of our firm's design rendering. It is hard to tell the difference between the two images, isn't it? Wow!

In the meantime, we're honored to share these kind words from Ed & Rachel, the owner's of this fabulous new lakefront home! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to you both!

“We cannot imagine what our project would have been like had we not worked with Bonin. We initially met Jeremy and Kim in early 2019. They were very flexible and accommodating as we wanted a reasonably long lead time to plan and execute the project. We formally engaged them in April 2019 and iterated on the house design and plans for the better part of two years (again at our request to move slow). It was a truly collaborative creative experience. Jude was introduced early on as the project lead and was simply terrific. The same applies to Greg for the site plan and landscape design. It’s important to note that we were not local for the first 10 months of construction. Jude was there every step of the way, iterating with us, and managing our multitude of changes both large and small. We’d never been through a custom house build and the number of details that Jude thought about and designed was astounding. From the larger details like the gable design, interior staircase and kitchen layout to the smaller details like light switch placement and door swings, Jude was meticulous in his attention to detail. Equally important was the ongoing oversight he provided during construction through regular site visits and calls. If it were not for Jude, a number of potential construction issues would not have been identified and resolved. He was a true partner and during the course of the project became a friend to us. In short, we could not have undertaken a project of this magnitude without Bonin in our corner. We’re thrilled with the house and the partnership with Bonin allowed us to get exactly what we wanted. We highly recommend Bonin Architects, and you can have confidence you will get the experience and the resulting product you want..”

LAKEFRONT HOME IN MAINE

Nestled on an idyllic property just over the border in Maine, construction is officially underway on a stunning new lakefront home. Surrounded by peaceful woods and offering sweeping views of the water, this location provides the perfect setting for what has long been a dream home in the making. After years of visioning and planning, this wonderful couple is finally seeing their dream take shape, and we are truly honored to be a part of that journey.

From the earliest design meetings to the current build phase, we have worked closely with the homeowners to ensure every detail reflects their lifestyle, vision, and love for the natural beauty that surrounds the site. This custom home is designed to maximize lake views, bring in natural light, and provide a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces.

We are excited to share a glimpse into that vision with some of our firm’s design renderings, paired with a few early photos captured on site. These visuals highlight just how closely the final construction will align with the design intent, a testament to our team's collaborative process and attention to detail.

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS

Construction of this unique home has begun, offering expansive views of the Lake Winnipesaukee Broads and the distant Ossipee Mountains!

We are thrilled to partner with Cargill Construction to create a home that will be used throughout the year by a dynamic, active family.

They have a passion for outdoor activities, from boating in the summer to skiing at Gunstock Mountain in the winter. This beautiful location in the lakes region of New Hampshire provides the perfect setting for them to enjoy all year round. Here are some of the design renderings of the new custom home.

We'll continue to update as the construction progresses, check back soon for other project updates as well!

2024 NH HOME MAGAZINE DESIGN AWARDS

Our firm was honored at the 2024 NH Home Magazine Design Awards, for an "Outdoor Design Award" for the ‘Lake Sunapee Retreat’ project. Greg Rusnica, Senior Landscape Architect on this project, accepted the award.

The jury said in part..."this understated design relies on crisp detailing and appropriate scale to ground the house into its lake view site. It’s deft handling of natural materials and textures forge connection between site and structure without overpowering the house or greater landscape.”

This is Greg's third year in a row with a winning entry in the category of Landscape Architecture. He would like to thank his team, clients, and project partners who worked with him on this wonderful home.

Congratulations, Greg!

RENDERING TO REALITY

In the fast-paced world of residential design and construction, the journey from conceptual rendering to construction is a testament to human skill and technological prowess.

Initial designs come to life through digital renderings, which enable our clients to visualize their dream homes before construction. During construction, progress photos, that we capture with our in-house drone, piloted by BIM Manager/Architectural Designer, Mike Pritchard, offer a bird's-eye view of the evolving project. This ensures our clients receive consistent updates from our architectural firm regarding the status of their future home.

Evolving steadily, here's a glimpse into the ongoing transformation of this modern lakefront residence in New Hampshire, currently being constructed by McGray & Nichols.

FOREST KNOLLS WEST AT RAGGED MOUNTAIN

Bonin Architects & Associates is excited share some marketing material we’ve designed.  Forest Knolls West is an eight-lot residential development adjacent to the base Ragged Mountain Resort in Danbury, NH.  BA&A created this site plan and photo-realistic rendering based on subdivision plans designed by a local civil engineering firm.  These materials will be used by real estate brokers to market and sell these surely-to-be-sought-after lots.  The aerial rendering was created by blending our in-house drone photography and three-dimensional computer modeling.  The site plan is a mix of hand drawn graphics, G.I.S. photography, and Photoshop…..blending the old ways with the new.

PRELIMINARY COMMERCIAL DESIGN IN THE LAKES REGION

We'd like to feature one of our newest projects in the Lakes Region of NH! Here are a few preliminary renderings for the transformation of an existing structure to a mixed-use building, which will host a growing business, office spaces, and two cozy residential units. It combines contemporary design with historic elements, while focusing on comfort and amenities. This exciting project modernizes a familiar locale into a hub where work, life, and community thrive!

PRELIMINARY DESIGN WITH A VIEW TO THE WHITE MOUNTAINS

Our firm is in the preliminary design phase of a new custom home, just over the border in Maine, with long-range views of Mt. Washington! This full-time family home has been a years-long dream for our clients. We are thankful to be a part of their team of professionals and craftspeople. Here are a few of the exterior design renderings. We'll continue to update the progress of the design of this home with interior renderings soon, stay tuned!

PRELIMINARY DESIGN ON SQUAM LAKE

We are excited to be involved with creating another Squam Lake custom residential home design!

Here are just a few of our firm's renderings for our wonderful clients. This lakefront home will take advantage of both lake and mountain views, especially from the patio, screen porch, and open living spaces.

Squam Lake is special to our clients, who have a long family history with this beautiful area. It will become a welcoming family home, to be used year-round, with a love of outdoor activities, dogs, holiday gatherings and quiet time.

LAKE SUNAPEE NEW HAMPSHIRE HOME - SIMPLY SPECIAL

Thank you New Hampshire Home Magazine for featuring one of our firm's projects for truly wonderfully creative, repeat clients, who are great supporters of our many local businesses. Thank you, Diane and Tom!

Bennett Builders was the general contractor, and Christopher Timberlake, project manager from our firm's office, was also interviewed for this article.

So many talented local craftspeople were involved in this beautiful Lake Sunapee home-click on the photo below to read the full article.

PRELIMINARY DESIGN ON GOLDEN POND

Widely known as the lake where On Golden Pond was filmed, Squam Lake is also one of NH's most tranquil, beautiful areas. As our firm begins the preliminary design of this generational family home and carriage house, we would like to share some of the first renderings of the exterior of this property. All members of this wonderful family, their extended family, and friends will use these spaces year-round.