SKA, Inc.

SKA, Inc. A pioneering residential architecture firm with offices in Cambridge, MA, and the NH Lakes Region.

Noted for excellence in transitional design, we engage in thoughtful renovations and offer a fresh perspective when designing new construction. Sam Kachmar Architects (SKA) is a Cambridge-based architecture firm committed to excellence in custom-designed residential buildings. We combine our passion for design with a background in construction management, a rare combination that leads to a distinc

tive design process and end product that are aesthetically and intellectually rigorous, as well as financially informed. Our values are rooted in New England pragmatism: efficiency, logic, beauty, honest expression of materials, and clean lines and forms that allow the architecture itself—the space, light, materials, spatial relationships—and inhabitants to thrive. We employ the latest technology and innovation, allowing our clients a virtual walk through their spaces before committing to a design. The result is an architecture that is current but timeless, functional yet warm, and universally rational while also being uniquely reflective of the values and characters of our clients.

Print hits different. We’re excited to see this project featured in Modern Luxury Interiors and honored to share the sto...
05/15/2026

Print hits different. We’re excited to see this project featured in Modern Luxury Interiors and honored to share the story behind a home designed around connection, light, and thoughtful details.

🛠️ SGL developments
📸 Matthew Delphinich photography
🏗️ Roome & Giarracino LLC
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Sometimes it’s the quiet details that do the most talking.Warm wood, soft tones, and just enough contrast to make everyt...
04/24/2026

Sometimes it’s the quiet details that do the most talking.

Warm wood, soft tones, and just enough contrast to make everything feel grounded and effortless. Even the sink area gets its moment.

🛠️
📸
🏗️ Webb Structural Services
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Proof that good design isn’t just for humans 🐾Built-in shelves, warm wood, and a staircase that doubles as a lookout for...
04/20/2026

Proof that good design isn’t just for humans 🐾

Built-in shelves, warm wood, and a staircase that doubles as a lookout for the real boss of the house. Cozy, clean, and just the right amount of “I’ll sit here for five minutes”… an hour later.

04/13/2026

When the boundary between inside and outside basically disappears.

With the bifold doors fully open, this space shifts from a room into an experience fresh air, natural light, and uninterrupted flow straight to the outdoors. It’s not just indoor-outdoor living… it’s living without the line in between.

Florals for spring? Groundbreaking.But when it’s done right… it actually is. Soft wisteria tones, delicate pattern play,...
04/08/2026

Florals for spring? Groundbreaking.

But when it’s done right… it actually is. Soft wisteria tones, delicate pattern play, and just enough contrast against crisp stone and warm brass to keep things feeling fresh not fussy. This powder room leans into tradition, then quietly updates it.

Sometimes the classics stick around for a reason.

SKA was featured on Houzz.Originally an underperforming three-season room, this space was reimagined into a hardworking ...
04/06/2026

SKA was featured on Houzz.

Originally an underperforming three-season room, this space was reimagined into a hardworking mudroom designed for a growing family.

Here's the article below or check out the full article in the link in our bio!

Homeowners’ request. “Like most older homes in the New England area, this gambrel suffered from a lack of storage, particularly for a young family with three children,” says designer Karina Melo. “In this gut renovation, we sought to create extra space and storage throughout the home. In that spirit, an old, ill-functioning three-season room was converted to a spacious mudroom with various storage options for parents and young children.”

Storage features. “Our goal was to introduce multiple storage options at this space that would grow with the family as their needs changed and to maximize efficiency within the space,” Melo says. “We used every corner for storage. At the ceiling we designed cubbies for baskets to store bulk and seasonal items. A bench seat wraps the corner, with half dedicated to two large drawers and the other side with open cubbies for everyday shoe storage. Along one wall we designed full-height cabinets with storage for shoes at the lower levels, coatracks and shelves and open areas for other items. Also, open coat hooks are available on the opposite wall for quick stowing of guests coats and everyday jackets.”

Other special features. “The cabinetry was designed by Metropolitan with a mix of stained walnut and white tones,” Melo says. “The walls, ceiling and trim were all painted Chantilly Lace (by Benjamin Moore) for a clean finish. On the floor we chose a gray porcelain hexagonal tile that would be durable and easy to clean.”

Designer tip. “As families and children grow, their storage needs change,” Melo says. “The blend of cubbies, drawers, cabinetry, coat hooks, etc. will function for this family for a lifetime. To maintain a clean, clutter-free look, open storage was intentionally placed out of direct sightlines, while beautifully finished wood cabinetry was used to create a focal point as you enter the room, resulting in a space that feels both practical and polished.”

From what was… to what’s next.This one didn’t ease into it we took it all the way back to the bones. Existing conditions...
04/01/2026

From what was… to what’s next.

This one didn’t ease into it we took it all the way back to the bones. Existing conditions told the story: tight layouts, dated finishes, and a lot of untapped potential. Demo opened it up, exposed the structure, and gave us a clean slate to rethink how the house actually lives.

Now we’re building it back with intention. Reworking circulation, dialing in natural light, and layering in materials that feel warm, grounded, and built to last. The renders start to show where it’s heading clean lines, refined details, and spaces that actually breathe.

It’s always a process: existing → chaos → clarity.

Stay tuned… this one’s going to be a good one.

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Bringing new life to a local staple. The  exterior is getting a thoughtful refresh starting with new windows designed to...
03/30/2026

Bringing new life to a local staple. The exterior is getting a thoughtful refresh starting with new windows designed to improve performance, increase comfort inside, and strengthen the connection to the street outside.

We’re introducing fold-up windows by FoldUp, opening the facade in a way that invites the energy of the street straight into the space.

All while staying true to the character that makes this place what it is. Familiar, just sharper.

03/26/2026

This beautiful home in Manchester-by-the-Sea blends classic New England character with a scale that makes a statement. From the welcoming front portico to the layered rooflines and expansive façade, every angle feels timeless and grounded in its surroundings. Just the kind of place where ocean air, historic charm, and thoughtful design come together.

More to come on this one. Stay tuned.

A new chapter for a New Hampshire classic!Exciting changes are on the horizon for this charming New England home! Nestle...
03/23/2026

A new chapter for a New Hampshire classic!

Exciting changes are on the horizon for this charming New England home! Nestled in the picturesque New Hampshire setting, its timeless character is about to meet a fresh, transformative vision.

Our design journey has just begun, and we can't wait to share every step as this project takes shape. Stay tuned for updates you won’t want to miss the reveal of what’s to come!

Address

357 Huron Avenue
Cambridge, MA
02138

Opening Hours

Monday 7am - 4pm
Tuesday 7am - 4pm
Wednesday 7am - 4pm
Thursday 7am - 4pm
Friday 7am - 4pm

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