We had an excellent experience, start to finish, with the gut renovation of our large primary bathroom (May - July 2025) Designer Eliza was great to work with. Her expertise and experience kept everything grounded in reality, while her eye for design helped us make choices to put together colors and materials that we absolutely love and felt 100% personal and custom, never cookie-cutter. Project Manager Bryan was always there for us, answering questions, keeping on top of all of the details big and small, and making sure we knew what to expect every step of the way. All of the contractors, sub-contractors, and craftspeople who came to do work were highly skilled, efficient, professional, friendly, and tidy. Was there the odd delay in shipment, minor miscommunication, or human error? Sure, in such a large project there are going to be hiccups here and there. But most importantly, everything was handled super professionally and it was genuinely as smooth as could be reasonably expected. Demo began the first week of May, and the bathroom was about 95% complete and useable by the last week of June. There were a few weeks to wait for the glass door install (which was expected and communicated from the very start), and a couple of backordered plumbing fixtures that didn't arrive until late July (temporary replacements were installed in the meantime so the shower was fully functional). But all told, we "moved out" of our room for under two months. None of it was cheap, of course. That said, we found them totally in the same range as other places we met, and felt we got really great quality. Not only the quality of the gorgeous bathroom that we love, but great quality in the people who made it happen. Would ABSOLUTELY use Design 1 again if we do another big reno.Read More
Our Company
At Design 1 Kitchen & Bath, we are a full-service design/build firm specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations. Our 3,000-square-foot showroom in Bedford, MA features over 30 kitchen and bath displays, allowing you to explore a wide range of styles, materials, and design possibilities.
Our Commitment
Since our founding in 2007, Design 1 Kitchen & Bath has grown steadily each year, thanks to our dedication to exceptional craftsmanship, customer service, and high-quality materials. With decades of experience, we lend our expertise to every project, helping homeowners, builders, and contractors bring their visions to life. Our team works collaboratively to ensure your project is completed seamlessly and exceeds your expectations.
Great Homes Begin with Great Relationships.
Why Choose Design 1 Kitchen & Bath?
• Over 40 Years of Experience – Owner Patrick Small has been in the kitchen and bath industry since 1985.
• Skilled Design Team – Our talented in-house designers create unique, customized solutions tailored to your needs.
• Full-Service General Contractors – Beyond kitchens and baths, we offer comprehensive home remodeling services.
• Personalized Approach – We believe in creative, one-of-a-kind designs, not cookie-cutter solutions.
Our Remodeling & Design Services
• Kitchen & Bath Remodeling – Custom layouts, cabinetry, countertops, and fixtures.
• New Home Design & Material Selection – Assisting homeowners, contractors, and builders.
• Full Home Renovations – Including additions, mudrooms, basements, and more.
• Design-Only Services – Get expert design and product selection without construction services.
• Project Management – From measuring and permitting to budgeting, scheduling, and installation.
High-Quality Products & Materials
We carefully select our cabinetry, countertops, hardware, tile, and plumbing suppliers to offer a wide range of options for every style and budget. Whether you need a complete remodel or design assistance only, we provide the expertise and materials to bring your project to life.
Our Staff
Kristen Boncore
Showroom Manager | Designer
Kristen joined Design 1 Kitchen & Bath in 2012 after earning her bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from Mount Ida College. Over the years, she has grown within the company, starting as an assistant designer, advancing to designer and assistant project manager, and ultimately being promoted to showroom manager in January 2024.
With extensive experience in design, project management, and client collaboration, Kristen works closely with homeowners, contractors, and tradespeople to ensure a seamless remodeling process. She values building strong relationships with clients and takes a collaborative approach to design, creating functional and beautiful spaces tailored to their unique needs.
Outside of work, Kristen enjoys traveling, visiting gardens, antique shopping, and spending time with her nephews.
Eliza Bigelow
Designer
Originally from Northern Vermont, Eliza moved to Boston to attend Wentworth Institute of Technology, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. She joined Design 1 Kitchen & Bath in 2018 after working as an associate designer at Zen Associates, bringing a strong background in kitchen & bath design, space planning, and project coordination.
Eliza works closely with clients to design spaces that are both functional and visually stunning. One principle that has been ingrained in her from school is the phrase “form follows function” by architect Louis Sullivan. This she finds important in any area of design, but when she is looking at how to design a client’s kitchen or bathroom she looks at how the space is used and how to enhance each space with the end user in mind. Her expertise in material selection, layout optimization, and collaboration with contractors helps create a smooth, stress-free renovation process.
Outside of work, Eliza loves visiting her family in Vermont and exploring the outdoors. She recently adopted a German Shepherd puppy, who keeps her busy and entertained!
Bryan Crespo
Project Manager
Bryan has joined the Design 1 team in the spring of 2024 as Project Manager, bringing 18 years of construction industry experience. Before this, he started his career working for a construction company where he gained knowledge in various aspects of remodeling. He has strong experience in the tile industry, with in-depth knowledge of different types of tile and waterproofing systems as well as an eye for detail. He owned a successful tile installation business where he built a strong relationship with Design 1 as a trusted tile sub-contractor. Since working with us he has received his Massachusetts Contractor Supervisor License and managed several successful projects to completion.
Vivian Wholey
Designer
Vivian graduated from Endicott College in 2023 with a BFA in Interior Architecture and a minor in Theater. Through Endicott’s internship program, she gained practical experience at Dab’s Interiors, a residential design firm, and DiMella Shaffer, a commercial firm. Her work included creating mood boards, renderings, and LEED documentation, preparing design presentations, managing social media, and leading a Science & Tech Office project under supervision.
Academically, Vivian's Senior Capstone project earned a Thesis Award nomination, and her Natatorium design construction documents were submitted to The Council for Interior Design Accreditation.
In addition to design, Vivian is passionate about acting and continues to pursue opportunities in theater, where her creativity and ability to collaborate shine. Now based in Billerica, MA, she blends her artistic talents with a focus on human-centered solutions. Since joining Design 1 in May 2024, she has been an enthusiastic team member, eager to learn and contribute to the firm's success.
Mark Halliday
Project Manager
Mark Halliday brings over 40 years of experience in the remodeling and construction industry to his role as Project Manager at Design 1 Kitchen and Bath. A Licensed Contractor Supervisor, Mark has honed his expertise through a diverse career that includes sales, project management, and serving as the foreman of his own successful contracting company.
Mark’s hands-on approach and deep understanding of the remodeling process allow him to manage projects with efficiency and precision. He is dedicated to delivering high-quality results while fostering clear communication and trust with clients every step of the way.
Mike Kirtland
Project Manager
Mike has been a key member of Design 1 Kitchen & Bath since 2010, bringing years of hands-on experience in project management and construction supervision. As a licensed Construction Supervisor, he ensures every project runs smoothly from start to finish, handling everything from scheduling and permits to on-site coordination and quality control.
With a deep understanding of home remodeling and renovation, Mike works closely with clients, designers, and contractors to bring projects to life efficiently and effectively. His attention to detail and problem-solving skills help keep timelines on track and ensure top-notch results.
When he’s not managing projects, Mike stays busy with his newly adopted dog, who keeps him on his toes. He also enjoys exploring the outdoors with his son. His dedication to craftsmanship and client satisfaction makes him an invaluable part of the Design 1 team.
Patrick Small
President | Project Manager
With credentials as a Licensed Construction Supervisor and Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler, Pat ensures every project reflects precision and excellence. As a certified Lead Safe Remodeler with the State of Massachusetts, Patrick upholds the highest standards of safety and compliance.
Since launching his career in 1985, Patrick has amassed over 40 years of remodeling and design expertise. At Design 1, he wears many hats, including overseeing daily operations, conducting in-home client consultations, managing project planning, and ensuring smooth execution as the project manager. His holistic approach guarantees that every detail of the design and remodeling process aligns seamlessly with client expectations.
Taylor Small
Office Administrator | Billing & Marketing Specialist
Taylor is an integral part of the team at Design 1 Kitchen & Bath. As the Office Administrator, she ensures the smooth day-to-day operations of the business while also handling billing and spearheading marketing efforts.
In November 2023, Taylor joined the company after living in Portland, Maine, bringing her unique perspective and enthusiasm to the family business. Since then, she has been immersing herself in the design/build industry, learning everything she can from the expert team she works with. Her passion for the field and dedication to excellence shine through in every aspect of her work.
Her role allows her to contribute to the firm’s growth while building strong client relationships and ensuring the seamless execution of projects.
Outside of work, Taylor enjoys hiking with her dog and exploring the outdoors, a passion she developed during her time living in Maine and Vermont. She is deeply passionate about sustainable design, driven by her love of nature and commitment to environmental stewardship. She is particularly interested in learning how it incorporate renewable materials, energy-efficient technologies, and earth-friendly practices into the design/build process.
Testimonials
Aileen
Second time working with Design 1 and extremely happy with the process and outcome. Very easy communication with trusted team members and subcontractors that were diligent and took pride in their work. We wanted to replace the worn out carpet in the basement, which led to a bigger project (on my part). Bryan and the team had good ideas and suggestions to make the space even more functional than originally thought. Highly recommend Design 1 for your renovation!Read More
Houzz User
My new kitchen is so beautiful and it is because of the people at Design 1. Eliza helped me choose wonderful materials and gave me multiple options for the design based on my general concepts. Mark and the contractors did a wonderful job, paying attention to every little detail throughout the rehab. My kitchen is now a happy place. Lots of thanks to the teamRead More
Jill Sandeen
Design 1 was a delight to work with from the first visit to our house to the final punch list. Kristen Boncore was enthusiastic and creative in working with our vision. She was always cheerful and helped us make design choices that were beautiful as well as functional. Mike Kirtland, as the project manager, was responsive, attentive and transparent. We could always count on him to make sure the project ran smoothly and with high quality results. There are always glitches in remodeling projects. Design 1 navigated these as painlessly as possible and we truly appreciate that attention to customer service. Loudes and his team were hardworking, respectful and highly skilled. It was a pleasure to have them working in our house. Steve Brady, the plumber, was diligent in solving various plumbing issues. Steve from DeSousa, the electrician and his team, made sure our lighting/electrical work was just what we had imagined. The additional painting was done carefully and beautifully by Marlon Lopez and his team. We used John Nunamaker with Stone Inc for the stone. Though Design 1 does not typically use his shop, they were flexible and able to work together. John’s team did a great job fabricating the center piece of the bathroom: the stone. We love our new bathroom! It is a veritable sanctuary! We unreservedly recommend Design 1 for any project.Read More
Ellen S
The team at Design 1 helped us transform our small kitchen, making it brighter and improving the layout. Kaytlyn walked us through the many decisions a kitchen renovation requires with patience and good humor. She and her team were easy to work with, communicative, and worked well with our contractor. We are so happy with the results!Read More