The Best General Contractors in Newton, Massachusetts

Last updated on May 21st, 2024 at 07:57 am

Located just west of downtown Boston, the suburban city of Newton is recognized as one of the best places to live in the greater Boston area. This patchwork of 13 villages is notable for its great schools and colleges, suburban feel, and legacy and historic homes that have been carefully restored and preserved.

Serving this vibrant community are general contractors that are ready and capable to address various remodeling needs. This list features the top 15 contractors in Newton, each having its own strength and specialty. From kitchen and bathroom upgrades to complex historic renovations, these contractors have proven themselves as reliable partners in construction. These contractors were chosen and ranked based on the number of projects they have completed, the awards and certifications they have received, and the value and quality of their projects. We also considered the firms’ years of service and client testimonials, as well as the backgrounds of the firms’ principals.

If you are thinking about doing a construction project, we recommend checking each builder’s license with the local licensing board, speaking to past clients, and using our bidding system to get competitive quotes from at least 3 contractors. Getting multiple bids is the best way to ensure you get a fair price and that bids include the complete scope of work.

Abrams Renovations

123 St Paul St., Brookline, MA 02446

Brookline-based Abrams Renovations is a design-build company focused on renovating luxury homes, historic properties, and kitchens and baths in the Boston metro area. As a LEED-accredited company, it is also committed to producing sustainable and energy-efficient homes using innovative techniques, designs, and materials. The company is led by founder Matthew Abrams, a marketing graduate and a LEED Accredited Professional. He worked for commercial construction giant Skanska USA before starting Abrams Renovations.

Featured here is one of Abrams Renovations’s best projects. The early 1930s English Tudor home was updated from its old renovation. The company retained the distinct Old World exterior of the Newton residence and designed a transitional interior that exudes a more contemporary style. The layout was reconfigured to create an open plan that unifies the new chef’s kitchen and family room. A third-floor attic was also converted into a den and bedroom.

Auburndale Builders

151R Adams St., Newton, MA 02458

High performance and energy efficiency define the work of Newton-based general contractor, Auburndale Builders. This 16-year-old company specializes in home remodeling, home additions, and custom home construction. It combines its rich knowledge of historic homes and cutting-edge building science to improve homes’ efficiency and use of renewable energy. As an active member of the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA), it follows the set standards of leading organizations such as Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) to achieve low carbon buildings.

Founder Nick Falkoff leads the firm in its goal of creating healthier and more reliable homes across the greater Boston area. He has worked in residential and commercial construction for 20 years and is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Additionally, he currently serves as the Co-Chair for the Building Energy 2021 Boston conference and is the former vice president of the Passive House Massachusetts.

Auburndale Builders teamed up with Helios Design Group to take on the challenge of creating a contemporary addition for a classic Newton home. The original 1950s addition was in disrepair and did not meet the needs of its owners. This new addition features sleek modern lines that seamlessly blend with the original home while still keeping the addition unique and separate. Connection to the outdoors is highlighted by wide pocket glass doors, while the master bathroom and bath are connected to the main home through a bridge in the glass-walled connector.

Byggmeister

667A Sawmill Brook Parkway, Newton, MA 02459

Another Newton general contractor big on sustainability is Byggmeister—a design-build company that promotes the notion of sustainable homes for future generations. A group of friends and acquaintances started this collaborative in 1983. From amateur renovators to trusted home builders, Byggmeister has become one of the area’s go-to general contractors. Along with its extensive list of services for interior and exterior remodeling and renovation, it also tracks energy use on all its projects to determine and quantify the environmental impact of its work. For this, it has earned a Green Initiative Award from the Newton-Needham Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, it has earned Contractor of the Year (COTY) Awards from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and Luxury Living Awards.

Byggmeister tackled an ill-conceived home filled with failed prior renovations. It brought major changes in the layout to create a better flow of movement. The open layout combined the former living area and the kitchen to create a larger and more functional kitchen and dining space. It also added a balcony overlooking the new grand living space on the lower level. Warm and light tones keep the space bright and inviting.

Design Plus Construction

30 Newbury St., Suite 3, Boston, MA 02116

Design Plus Construction has completed more than two decades of work for discerning clients all over Boston, Newton, Cambridge, Brookline, Weston, Wellesley, Needham, and surrounding areas. It offers personalized services in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, whole-home renovations, interior and exterior finishes, and more. Clients praise the firm for its consistency on time and on budget delivery as well as its flexibility to accommodate new ideas and changes.

The company is captained by experienced contractor, Keith Tower. With more than 20 years of experience in construction, he has worked in carpentry, site management, project development, land acquisition, new construction, renovations, and historic restoration. He is a registered home improvement contractor and a certified lead paint renovator. With his experience rooted ‘in the field,’ he has become a successful owner and leader of the company.

Fallon Custom Homes & Renovations

171 Reservoir St., Needham, MA 02494

Since 1976, Fallon Custom Homes has been an expert in custom home building and bespoke renovations throughout New England. Over the years, the firm has amassed major industry awards, including coveted Prism Awards. The company has also been featured in publications like The Boston Globe, Remodeled Homes Magazine, Wellesley Weston Magazine, and Trends Magazine. Founder Peter Fallon has been a respected industry professional for more than 40 years. A tenured builder, he has managed new construction, historic renovations, and aesthetic remodeling projects.

Historical homes in Newton villages have had the privilege of being renovated by Fallon Custom Homes & Renovations. Its deep understanding of period home styles as well as New England vernacular architecture make it a go-to contractor for owners of historic homes looking to bring their residences into the current age. An example is this Chestnut Hill carriage house, where the company retained much of the home’s original character, such as iron works and the mechanical carriage hoist. Wood elements like hardwood doors, timber beams, and stained paneling are also prominent throughout.

Fresh Start Contracting

30 B Street, Burlington, MA 01803

Lifelong friends Ben O’Sullivan Piece and Nick Stamos began Fresh Start Contracting in 2006 inside a small truck. Over the years, the two developed this collaboration into a residential contracting firm that now serves the greater Boston area. They have employed a team of estimators, master carpenters, project managers, and skilled laborers who adhere to high standards of professionalism and quality.

From its detailed estimation and project management systems to stunning finished homes, Fresh Start Contracting has become a trusted partner in upgrades and renovations. The company tackles exterior and interior renovations, from kitchen and bathroom remodeling to whole-house renovations and additions. It uses the most up-to-date technology available in providing floor plans, drawings, and construction documentation.

One of its projects in Newton is a collaboration with Hammond Design. The repeat client hired both for this fourth renovation of their home—this time involving the master suite. The traditional style of the home was highlighted and enhanced through custom tile work, a new layout, and a custom walkthrough closet. This delightful project was featured in Boston Globe Home Addition.

Gilman, Guidelli & Bellow

26 Farwell St., Newton, MA 02460

In 1989, Rick Guidelli and Gary Gilman formed a partnership to conduct custom renovation projects around Massachusetts. The duo quickly gained a reputation for their hands-on work and authentic craftsmanship. In 1991, Doug Bellow joined the team as a carpenter and became a partner after a decade. Today, the three steer a team of more than 25 professionals who share the same passion for precise projects, good client relationships, and beautiful homes.

Gilman, Guidelli, & Bellow serves Greater Boston, the North Shore, and Southeastern Massachusetts by providing distinctive custom homes, historic renovations, and general remodeling. It is also committed to cost-effective environmental design and construction that is budget friendly and accessible. Its talented architects, innovative designers, and skilled tradespeople are trained in employing sustainable design options and using energy conservation strategies for every type of home.

The company has received recognition for its exemplary work, with features in North Shore Home, Rhode Island Monthly, Design New England, New England Home, and Fine Homebuilding. It has also earned awards like an AIA Merit Award, LEED Silver Award, and Anthony C. Platt Award from the Cambridge Historical Commission. Featured here is a beautiful addition the company made for a Victorian home in Newton. It required careful re-creation of exterior details, moldings, and siding patterns of period homes.

Hampden Design + Construction

PO Box 180, Newton, MA 02468

Newton-based Hampden Design + Construction blends striking design and efficient craftsmanship in its various residential projects across Newton, Brookline, and the greater Boston area. Principal David Cohen started the company in 2003 with the goal of helping homeowners create comfortable additions and renovations and beautiful custom homes. A licensed construction supervisor and building inspector, he leads a management team of highly experienced project managers and supervisors that works directly with clients on all aspects of their projects.

The majority of the company’s work focuses on residential upgrades—either renovations of rooms within an existing footprint or additions that blend seamlessly with a home. Hampden also specializes in condo refurbishments and custom home projects. Hampden Design + Construction’s projects have gained the attention of top design magazines in the region, such as Wall Street Journal, Modern Luxury Interiors, This Old House, and Boston Magazine Home & Garden. Most recently, Boston Magazine named one of the firm’s custom home projects as “Best Custom Home – Design/Build” on its Best of Boston Home list.

JW Construction

12 Garfield Circle, Burlington, MA 01803

Luxury home builder and renovator JW construction provides New England residents with a wide range of client-centered services and a hassle-free construction experience. Established in 1993, the firm is experienced in construction management services including historic preservation, green building and in-house carpentry. The firm also introduced its Elite Service Division in 2015 which now services and maintains over 50 homes in the area. Thanks to its top-notch craftsmanship and fine-tuned customer service, the firm has secured a loyal customer base and has established an award-winning reputation. Jon Wardwell, the company’s principal, established these core values and used them as a benchmark for company operations. Wardwell is a construction veteran and a seasoned entrepreneur that has been able to triple the size of his business in just a few years.

The firm utilizes a rigorous, step-by-step approach covering budgeting, scheduling, construction, and weekly site meetings. This meticulous approach is evident in the firm’s portfolio. The firm has extensive experience in building high-end homes in complex home styles as well as remodeling kitchens, bathrooms, and historic homes.

The company’s impressive list of awards include Contractor of the Year Awards from the NARI and Prism Awards from the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston (BRAGB). It has also been ranked in Remodeling Magazine’s Remodeling 550 and Inc’s 5000. Additionally, Luxe included the company in its annual Luxe List as one of its Best Green Builders.

Merz Construction

168 Bingham Road, Carlisle, MA 01741

Jonathan Merz has been working as a respected builder—restoring, renovating, and constructing thoughtfully designed spaces for more than 30 years. He established his construction company, Merz Construction, in 1986, after working as a professional boat builder and gaining extensive experience in architectural millwork and finish carpentry. As a master craftsman, he possesses a deep understanding of construction elements, contemporary styles, and New England vernacular architecture. He applies all this knowledge to specialize in high-end residential construction and focus on bespoke remodeling and renovations across the greater Boston area.

Publications such as Boston Magazine, Globe Magazine, New England Home, and Boston Design have noticed the firm’s keen eye for details. One example of this is the Newton renovation featured here. Merz Construction created a Mid-Century Modern master suite with custom walnut veneer millwork and a coffered ceiling. Its warm tones and clean lines align the interior of the home with the contemporary exterior. The ensuite bath features a soaking tub, glassed-walled shower, heated towel bars, and marble tile.

MKB Partners

69 Prescott St., Newton, MA 02460

For decades, homeowners, businesses, and investors in Eastern Massachusetts have relied on local contracting company MKB Partners for tailor-made construction services. The company prides itself on being a single-source general contracting company capable of performing all types of residential remodeling and commercial renovations. Its team is made up of expert project and construction managers and some of the region’s most experienced tradespeople. Whether a client dreams of a new all-white kitchen, a zen bathroom, or a total home rebuild, MKB Partners is able to handle each phase of the process smoothly and efficiently.

Principal Michael Bernier has more than 25 years of experience in residential and commercial general contracting, project management, and real estate development. In the company, Bernier wears many hats and can assist clients in design coordination, permitting, estimation and representation. Client reviews commend Michael for his sound decision making, flexibility, resourcefulness, and friendliness.

Morse Constructions

57 Central Street, Somerville, MA 02143

Beginning as a small cabinet company founded in 1976, Morse Constructions has grown into an award-winning full-service company offering design-build renovation services to homeowners throughout the greater Boston area. It has earned awards for its exceptional work, such as COTY Awards from the NARI – Eastern Massachusetts and an Honor Award for Design Excellence from the Boston Society of Architects. Its projects have also been featured in numerous publications, such as This Old House, Architectural Digest, Better Homes and Gardens, and The Boston Globe.

Clients go to Morse for its distinctive home renovations and additions that perfectly reflect the unique lifestyle of each customer. Aside from whole house renovations and kitchen and bathroom remodeling, the firm has expertise in aging-in-place, sustainable building, and historic renovation. This project in Newton exhibits the firm’s knowledgeable and efficient undertaking of complex historic projects. The traditional U-shaped eat-in kitchen features medium tone wood floors, white cabinets, quartz countertops, and an undermount sink.

New England Design & Construction

103 Terrace St., Boston, MA 02120

Award-winning DesignBuild general contractor New England Design & Construction (NEDC) provides artisan skill and craftsmanship to deliver outstanding DesignBuild architectural planning and construction services to the Greater Boston area. With prestigious awards such as a PRISM Gold Award, and Best Contemporary Design Qualified at the Shine Awards, this creative firm is one of Boston’s premier DesignBuild companies dedicated to designing, renovating and remodeling homes. NEDC has also achieved coveted rankings in Remodeler’s Big 50 list, Remodeling Magazine’s Top 550 and 40 Under 40 lists, Professional Remodeler’s Top 500, and Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 and Top 550. In 2020 NEDC took home a Gold and two Silver EM NARI COTY awards — the Gold Award presented in the Whole Home Remodel for Condominium category.

With a degree in architecture from Tufts University, founder David Supple further trained as a professional in planning and management for three years, designing, directing, and managing 50 to 100,000-square-foot renovations prior to establishing New England Design & Construction in 2005. David leads a team with a combined experience of over 100 years in the local construction scene. Together, they offer a unique accountability-driven approach that fosters collaboration between members, clients, and subcontractors. This results in successful client projects from start to finish on a single platform spanning design and construction.

In Newton’s Upper Falls, NEDC remodeled a cramped kitchen space into a light-filled chef’s dream. NEDC’s team opened the kitchen into the larger eating area and the formal dining room for a better flow of movement. A custom kitchen island was added, along with white shaker cabinets and a blue tile backsplash.

Oteri Construction

83 Barnard Ave., Watertown, MA 02472

Edward Oteri, a second-generation woodworker from Watertown/Cambridge, teamed up with Montreal native Jennifer Moore to establish Oteri Construction in 2002. Their combined experience in the trade along with the expertise of their collaborators — architects and interior designers at the Boston Design Center — have made the company one of the most reliable contractors in the Boston metro area. It has also received accolades such as the NARI COTY Awards and a Newton Preservation Award. The company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and is a member of the NARI – Eastern Massachusetts.

One of the company’s award-winning projects is a remodel of a two-story historic home in Newton. The company capitalized on the home’s understated simplicity. Intricate details on the exterior grounds the home in classic elegance, while a fresh interior gives a needed upgrade to the living spaces. This project won a Newton Preservation Award.

The Remodeling Company

100 Cummings Center, Suite 327J, Beverly, MA 01915

Serving the greater Boston area since 1998, The Remodeling Company provides complete residential remodeling and handyman services to help create ideal living spaces to accommodate and enhance all customers’ lifestyle. Thanks to carefully designed and constructed spaces, the firm has been recognized by notable publications and associations, making it onto Remodeling Magazineʼs Big 50 Contractors list, as well as Qualiﬁed Remodelerʼs Top 500 Remodeler list every year since 2003. It is also a four-time Chrysalis Award recipient.

Company founder Gary Moffie and his team of project supervisors are all Massachusetts-licensed, and each has more than 25 years of experience in the remodeling industry. Moffie is also a Certified Graduate Remodeler, a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist, and a Universal Design Certified Professional. Additionally, the company holds memberships in the NAHB, NARI, and BRAGB associations.

One of the company’s most extensive renovation projects is the restoration of this historic 1800’s landmark in Newton. The Gilded Age Federal-style mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Remodeling Company took extra care in remodeling the home and following the necessary guidelines for historic property renovations. Pictured here is the home’s new kitchen, which has a large custom stove hood, tin ceiling, and Blue Savoy marble countertops and backsplash.

About Our Rankings

This list takes a range of ranking criteria into consideration, including but not limited to: work history, customer satisfaction, awards and recognition, geographic area of work, cost, building permits, and clientele. We spent over 40 hours researching local contractors before calculating the final ranking for this post. If there is additional information about your business that could affect these rankings, please fill out this form and we will take it into consideration.