Uncover New England: History. Homes. Happenings. | May 2026

As spring returns to New England, the region comes alive with blooming gardens, historic traditions, vibrant waterfronts, and renewed energy across its towns and cities. In this edition, we explore the beauty and history of the season — from iconic springtime destinations and local happenings to distinctive homes and real estate opportunities that capture the timeless charm of New England living. Join me for a tour of our vibrant community.

Frederick Law Olmsted’s

Emerald Necklace Was Designed for Spring Beauty

Frederick Law Olmsted designed Boston’s Emerald Necklace park system in the late 1800s by transforming unhealthy marshlands into a connected network of public green spaces. Intentionally designed with spring in mind, its flowering trees, winding waterways, and open meadows provided relief from crowded urban life and remain one of the earliest and most influential examples of American landscape architecture and urban planning.

Spanning more than 1,100 acres, the Emerald Necklace links major parks and landscapes—including the Public Garden, Back Bay Fens, Jamaica Pond, and the Arnold Arboretum—into a continuous ribbon of green that runs through multiple Boston neighborhoods, offering access to nature, recreation, and fresh air.

Olmsted (1822–1903) was an American landscape architect, author, and social reformer widely regarded as the founder of landscape architecture in the United States. He co-designed Central Park in New York City and advanced the idea that thoughtfully designed public green spaces improve health, civic life, and democracy. His former home and office in Brookline, MA, is now the Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site.

May in Boston | Lilac Sunday at Arnold Arboretum

Lilac Sunday in May is one of Boston’s most cherished spring traditions, celebrating the spectacular bloom of the world-renowned lilac collection and other seasonal highlights at the beautiful Arnold Arboretum. Set within Boston’s beloved Boston's Emerald Necklace park system, the annual event invites visitors to experience spring amid rolling landscapes, historic pathways, and gardens in full bloom. The Arboretum itself spans 281 acres and attracts visitors throughout May as different collections come into bloom over several weeks.

Visitors can discover more than 400 varieties of lilacs from around the world, filling the Arboretum with extraordinary color and fragrance. The celebration also features guided tours, live music, educational exhibits, children’s activities, picnicking, and opportunities to explore one of North America’s premier botanical collections. Among the thousands of flowering plants throughout the Arboretum, only the lilac is honored each year with its own dedicated celebration — a tradition that has continued since 1908.

Economically and culturally, these landscapes also enhance Boston’s appeal as a place to live, work, and visit. They contribute to neighborhood vitality, support tourism, increase surrounding property values, and give Boston a character that distinguishes it from many other major cities.

Expanding Into One of New England’s Most Iconic Regions

I’m also excited to share that we are expanding our business into Berkshire County in Western Massachusetts.

With the addition of two highly experienced advisors, Jeff Loholdt and Herb Butzke of Altaluxre Group, joining us this month, we now have a strong presence across some of the region’s most sought-after towns, including Lenox—home of the Tanglewood Music Center. A renowned outdoor music festival and summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Tanglewood is considered one of the premier classical music destinations in the United States.

Anchored by towns like Great Barrington, Stockbridge, Williamstown, and North Adams, Berkshire County is prized for its rare combination of natural beauty, cultural sophistication, small-town charm, and four-season lifestyle. For both homeowners and visitors, the Berkshires offer an experience that feels peaceful and scenic while still being intellectually and culturally vibrant.

Jeff and Herb bring deep local knowledge and long-standing expertise in these distinctive markets, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the team.

Tanglewood Music Center in Lenox, MA

Noteworthy Listings | On Market

Introducing two truly special homes currently on the market, each with its own distinct character and presence. Both reflect a thoughtful approach to design and craftsmanship, with warm, inviting interiors, generous living spaces, and details that feel both refined and livable rather than simply decorative.

From open, well-balanced layouts to inviting outdoor areas made for relaxing or entertaining, these homes are well-equipped for it all. Set just minutes from Boston, they offer a rare combination of comfort, privacy, and easy access to the city—an ideal balance of calm living and urban convenience.