Private Residence, North Reading, MA


Patient, knowledgeable and supportive are what comes to mind about my experience with Cummings architects. It was a hectic time in our life when we began building our new home. Mathew understood and gave us time to make our decisions. When we saw the preliminary plans he had drawn we knew he was listening to us. He had taken our scattered thoughts and translated them to paper in a beautiful plan. He was willing to erase and change when we had other ideas in mind, but also firm enough to tell us when an idea would not work or could not work. He explained why an idea could not work structurally and also why it might not work stylishly. Mat had so many creative ideas that added to our initial concept. Although we knew his practice was busy, when we were at an appointment in his office we always had Mat’s undivided attention.

The end result of planning and drawing and re-drawing is a beautiful structure but also a warm, comfortable home for our family. Mat was firm in his ideas about what will work but also open to our needs and desires. He understood that the process is not easy, there are many, many decisions to be made and deadlines to be met but he guided us along with a sure and supportive hand.

I would definitely recommend Cummings Architects to anyone undertaking this process. They will present you with a thoughtful, unique perspective, use their experience to your benefit, listen to your concerns and collaborate with you.

-Lisa Bernstein