Home + Design

Right at Home

How Back Bay Builders balances Maine weather, evolving energy codes, and thoughtful design in local homes Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by courtesy of Back Bay Builders On a rare sunny winter day in Portland, Nate Nelson’s crew is in good spirits. “Man, did we need this,” he says with a laugh. After weeks of ice storms and gray skies, the mood shift is immediate. “My guys are super happy. Sun and everyone’s singing.” That awareness of weather, mood, environment feels fitting for...

Home + Design

Well Framed

Thoughtful framing enhances art, architecture, and the way we experience our spaces Article by Becca Abramson Framing is often thought of as the final step after art is selected, but it’s just as important as the artwork itself. At its best, framing is both a craft and a design element, something that protects a piece while also shaping how it lives in a home. Professional framers know to consider materials, proportions, and construction techniques that ensure longevity, while also thinking...

Home Services

The Comfort Equation

Kristie Green of Horizon Homes explains how a whole-home approach to energy efficiency helps Mainers lower bills and boost comfort Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by courtesy of Horizon Homes What’s unique about Horizon Homes’ whole-home approach to energy efficiency? When we go into someone’s home, we always start with a free energy assessment—similar to a building inspection, but from an efficiency standpoint—that takes everything into consideration: insulation, air sealing...

Home + Design

Natural by Design

At Thos. Moser, craftsmanship, longevity, and Maine’s deep relationship with the forest shape furniture designed to endure for generations Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by courtesy of Thos. Moser We live in a design world increasingly dominated by composites, and fast-turn furnishings, which makes solid wood feel a little like the grown-up in the room. It doesn’t shout, chase trends, or ask to be noticed, but it always holds its ground. For decades, Thos. Moser has built its...

Arts + Culture

A Seat for Everyone

How Portland Ovations opens its doors so more people can experience live performance. Article by Angela Smith Portland Ovations believes live performance should be within reach for every person in our community. Through its Community Seats program, Portland Ovations partners with local nonprofits, social service agencies, and others to offer tickets to people who might not otherwise attend a show, from newer Mainers and youth programs to families navigating tough seasons. We sat down with...

Life + Culture

February Field Guide

Little Adventures, Big Local Love: 40 Ways to Brighten February Article by Angela Smith From sunrise thermos walks to igloos, trivia nights, and wintry beach walks, this list is your invitation to treat February like a month-long micro-adventure. Use these ideas as date nights, solo resets, or ways to show off Portland to visiting friends. Circle a few, add them to your calendar, and let small, local moments brighten even the grayest days here. Sunrise Thermos Session on the Eastern Prom ...

Arts + Culture

The Art of Paying Attention

National Geographic–published photographer Robbie George captures the presence hiding in plain sight. Article by Angela Smith | Photography by Robbie George Robbie George is a National Geographic–published fine-art nature photographer whose work focuses on the quiet, powerful moments where wild landscapes and human experience meet. He has spent more than 20 years photographing the natural world, from the high Rockies to the rugged New England coast. Robbie’s connection to Maine began through...

Arts + Culture

Love, Illustrated

A look at Illustration Institute, the Peaks-born nonprofit turning illustration into a living conversation and showing how stories on and beyond the page connect us. Article by Angela Smith | Photography by Courtesy of Illustration Institute Illustration Institute isn’t just about hanging pretty pictures. Founders Scott Nash and Nancy Gibson-Nash are quietly and methodically building a place where illustration is treated as a serious, egalitarian art form that connects people through story. ...

Wellness

New Era of Skin Care

C. Skin Co. blends science, prevention, and gentle aesthetics to keep skin healthy, confident, and true to you. Article by Angela Smith | Photography by Caylin Lee Photography At C. Skin Co. Medical Aesthetics, skin care is part of your wellness plan—not an afterthought. We sat down with co-founder Carolyn Lebeis to talk about a new era of skin care rooted in education, prevention, and feeling like yourself.   Q. Can you start by telling us a little bit about your company and what makes it...

Wellness

Two Doors to Wellness

Emotional & Physical Paths That Help Kids Thrive—and Adults Stay Steady Article by Angela Smith Two Doors to Wellness Emotional & Physical Paths That Help Kids Thrive—and Adults Stay Steady   Why Now: The Early-Childhood Need   Mornings start early, emotions start big, and many days feel full before drop off or circle time begins. Teachers and families are doing their best inside long days and short margins. Children bring big feelings to small bodies, and the adults who love them...