We Are Ready To Create Your Heirlooms

 
 

Craig Lupien, Founder

Craig holds a degree from the Massachusetts College of Art.  Before attending Mass Art, Craig had a number of years of college credits under his belt.  This allowed him to fill his course load with a variety of classes in different mediums.  He’s always interested in learning more about his craft and loves the thrill of a challenge.

After Mass Art Craig went on to work at Trefler’s Antique and Art Restoration.  He spent 18 years there and was the head conservator of furniture for ten of those years.  With over 23 years of expert work in furniture and object conservation and restoration, extensive experience in the design and creation of custom furniture and a passion for excellence, Craig started NEAR in 2018.

Craig is also an accomplished professional artist, with work in private collections in Boston, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Miami.

Member of:

  • AIC - American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works

  • NECA – New England Conservation Association

  • CPPC – Claims Prevention and Procedure Council

 

Our Team

Erik M:

Erik started building furniture and doing woodworking projects with his father at an early age.  Due to this, he has a vast range of knowledge about woodworking and is a great problem solver for those unusual projects.  Erik went on to attend Assumption College.  After this, he did some work in carpentry, worked as an intern on the business side of a custom furniture company in NH, and finally landed here at NEAR.

In his downtime, Erik is an avid volleyball player and coach.  If you can’t find him on the volleyball court, you just might find him helping out with his family’s Alpaca farm in Rutland Massachusetts.

James L:

James has experience working as an apprentice in a studio that made furniture for Hank Gilpin.  He was exposed to a lot of hand tools and traditional methods in that position.  He then went on to work with a cabinet maker to further expand his repertoire. James holds a degree in Building Materials and Wood Technology from the University of Massachusetts.  He loves applying his knowledge and experience to every project.

When not at work James can be found hiking, camping, running, and biking with his wife and dog. 


Jen F:

Jen has a vast history in the trades. Having started at Yestermorrow Design and Build School, she has since been involved in general construction, fine woodworking, and carpentry. Jen’s history of working has brought 10 years of extensive experience to the NEAR team.

Outside of her work life, Jen is an avid athlete. Jen plays both dek and ice hockey, as well as skiing during the colder months. Jen’s dek hockey team is extremely successful, having won the Leominster Championship in 2023.


Jon W:

Jon has extensive experience in finish carpentry, with a background in custom millwork, construction and installation. His strong mathematical and spatial skills are a great asset to the NEAR team.

Outside of work, Jon enjoys spending time with his wife, two daughters and grandchild. When he's not at NEAR he keeps busy by working on his 'honey-do' list.


 

Jeff B.

Jeff has a mix of experiences that make him a great fit on the NEAR team. Having been inspired to start carpentry from his older brother, he started his path at vocational school for carpentry. Soon after he attended Lasell University for history and secondary education. Jeff taught at a vocational high school as a carpentry and special education teacher before coming to NEAR. Now Jeff brings his strong passion for learning and history to the NEAR team.

Outside of work you can find Jeff playing his guitar or on the courts playing and coaching volleyball.

Abby M:

Having started at Roger Williams University, Abby gained a minor in architecture and concentration in education. Soon afterwards Abby graduated from Worcester State University with a bachelors in history. Having worked as a Pharmacy technician and Photography Assistant since, Abby brings a sense of passion for history and art, as well as a strong sense of organization.

Outside of work Abby is an avid fiber artist, loving projects involving crochet, knitting, and sewing.

 

Rebecca S:

Rebecca brings a mix of disciplines and experience to NEAR. She has a degree in etching and painting, is a self-taught jeweler and has over 18 years of experience in interior design showroom management and sales. She brings a passion for making beautiful things and a drive for building businesses and relationships.

When not stuck to her bench, she can be found outdoors with her husband, son and dog, no matter the weather.