Blog - McDonald Contracting

kitchen, Recent Work

First Floor Renovation Designed for a Growing Family

23Jun2026

Even contractors need a home that works for their family. When the owner of McDonald Contracting, Ed, and his family of five began to outgrow their existing first-floor layout, it was time for a home renovation that prioritized functionality, organization, and everyday living. The project focused on reimagining the home’s main living space by expanding the dining area to better accommodate family meals and gatherings, relocating the bathroom to a more private location, and incorporating a custom mudroom nook to help manage the daily flow of backpacks, shoes, coats, and sports equipment. This home renovation showcases how thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship can transform a house into a space that truly supports a growing family’s needs.

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ADU

Massachusetts ADU FAQ: Everything Homeowners Need to Know

11Jun2026

Our team at McDonald Contracting is getting a lot of inquiries for ADUs, and for a good reason! Recent changes in the MA laws are making it easier than ever to build. Here are a few frequently asked questiosn we get –

What is an ADU?

An ADU is an Accessory Dwelling Unit, a small residential unit located on the same property as the main home. Including all the essentials needed, such as a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and sleeping space, it is suitable for independent living.

What forms of ADUs can you add?

ADUs can be built in different forms to suit what you want for your property. Just like your main residential house, your ADU can be adjusted to fit your overall aesthetic and theme. These are some common forms of ADUs people add onto their property.

Detached backyard cottages
In-law suites
Garage conversions
Basement apartments
Attic conversions
Home additions with separate living quarters

Why are ADUs beneficial?

ADUs can be attached to the main home or even built as a separate structure anywhere on a property. There are a variety of purposes ADUs can be used for such as housing aging parents, providing independent living space for adult children, accommodating guests, or generating rental income. They allow homeowners to make better use of their property while adapting to changing family and housing needs while being flexible and cost-effective to maximize the use of their property.

Is an ADU right for your property?

Adding an ADU to your property can have amazing benefits but there are some things to think about before moving forward. You should always consult with a professional to help you determine whether an ADU is practical for your property. Here are some things you should evaluate before moving forward:

The size of the lot
Layout of the ADU
Local zoning requirements
Budget considerations
Long-term goals for the space

Accessory Dwelling Units are becoming a popular solution for Massachusetts homeowners to add space and value to their property. Whether you’re looking to create space for family members, generate rental income, or increase your property’s value, an ADU offers flexibility that can benefit your household for years to come. It is important to work with experienced professionals to ensure that everything is regulated and complies with local guidelines.

Reach out if you want to get your ADU started!

Bathrom

Detailed Arlington Bathroom Renovation

11May2026

At McDonald Contracting, we love bringing our clients’ visions to life, and this Arlington bathroom renovation was a perfect example of that collaboration. The homeowner’s daughter carefully designed this space, selecting finishes and details that created a warm, timeless, and inviting bathroom with plenty of character.

Our team worked closely with the family to execute the design and ensure every detail came together seamlessly. The custom dark wood vanity paired with the marble countertop adds warmth and sophistication, while the brass fixtures and modern lighting bring a soft, elevated feel to the room.

The white subway tile shower surround keeps the bathroom feeling bright and classic, while the frosted window allows natural light to flow through the space while maintaining privacy. One of the standout details is the hexagon tile flooring with dark accent borders, which adds subtle contrast and personality without overwhelming the room.

In smaller bathrooms, thoughtful planning and craftsmanship are key. We focused on making sure the layout felt functional and polished while carefully installing each finish to match the client’s vision. The final result is a bathroom that feels timeless, practical, and beautifully customized to the family’s style.

At McDonald Contracting, we value the collaborative process and enjoy helping homeowners turn their ideas into finished spaces they can enjoy for years to come.

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