Our History
In 1940 Leon Kimball Johnson and Donald Lee Bosworth founded Lee Kimball, Inc.—a small, client-centered business offering home appliances, heating systems, installations, and service. Within five years the firm began to install full kitchens for their clients.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s Johnson, the grandfather of current Lee Kimball owners Bruce and Gregg Johnson, designed high-quality custom kitchens for an ever-expanding group of clients. In 1969, he was among the first group of 25 people to become Certified Kitchen Designers (CKD).
Bruce and Gregg began their apprenticeships early–focusing on all facets of the business. They learned to be exacting designers and builders, and flexible problem solvers. Above all, they learned the importance of not just meeting, but exceeding client expectations.
Today this work ethic guides the entire Lee Kimball team. It’s what drives our success in building both great spaces and long-term relationships with our clients.
LEE KIMBALL THROUGH THE YEARS
The Lee Kimball Company was founded by Leon Kimball Johnson at 119 Canal Street in Boston. The company provided heating systems, home appliances and service contracts.
The first Lee Kimball kitchen. Leon got his first request for a Geneva kitchen which he helped to design and had installed.
Lee Kimball developed a kitchen showroom to demonstrate products kitchen styles and design capabilities.
Leon K. Johnson was instrumental in the organization of the New England Chapter of the American Institute of Kitchen Dealers (AIKD), now known as the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).
Leon K. Johnson was named as one of the first 25 Certified Kitchen Designers (CKD) in the US. This accreditation is obtained only after working in the industry for a minimum of four years and passing a rigorous exam.
Lee Kimball Kitchens introduces contemporary European Kitchens to the New England market.
Bruce was hired as a draftsperson and learned about the business working along side his grandfather.
Gregg & Bruce bought Lee Kimball Kitchens and incorporated.
Leon K. Johnson is inducted into the Kitchen and Bath Hall of Fame.
55th anniversary party and grand opening of new showroom at 70 Canal Street in Boston. Showroom was designed and built by Bruce and Gregg Johnson and the Lee Kimball team.
Bruce receives accreditation of Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD).
Lee Kimball Kitchens has expanded beyond kitchens and baths. The company offers a wide range of home renovations including entire home additions.
Lee Kimball Kitchens rebrands and changes their name to Lee Kimball to promote a wider range of home renovation projects. Design. Build. Celebrate!
Lee Kimball relocates to a convenient location in Winchester, MA.
Living environments with working appliances, fixtures, and accessories are added to our selections center.
Lee Kimball further expands the showroom and selection center.
Lee Kimball relocates to Reading, MA.
Lee Kimball launches LK Interior Design.
Lee Kimball opens new design studio, including a dynamic selection center and idea lab in downtown Reading.
Lee Kimball celebrates 80 years in business.