"I think it's an up-and-coming, happening place," she hollers above the din of construction. Burbine, 56, owner of the New Upholstery Shop, has lived in Scituate for more than 30 years. She's taking measurements for drapes for one of the new retail spaces but agrees to give me a tour.
    Strolling down Front Street, with views of Scituate Harbor, we pass a few dilapidated stores, but they don't detract from the area's appeal. We find The Welch Company (146 Front Street, 781-545-1400),  a high-end gift shop set to move from the building with chipped red paint it has occupied since 1879 into a newly constructed building next door.

    Tucked inside the gift shop is an appealing apparel boutique called The Clothes Line.
    Across the street at Scituate Music Center (123 Front Street, 781-545-9800),  a glittery drum set reflects the sun like a beacon. An inspection of its crowded window display reveals miniature guitar amps and an oversize harmonica. "That place is an institution," says Burbine. 
    Owner Gerry McMorrow says he hopes the area's transition will increase its profile. "I get people who live in surrounding towns calling for directions, because they don't even know that [the business area] is here," he says.
    Burbine points out the new Patriot Cinemas (1 Mill Wharf Plaza, 781-545-3130), a replacement for an old theater that used to flood. "I can remember people saying they came to see Titanic, and at high tide they discovered there was water at their feet," she says.
    Two shops that Burbine credits for enlivening the street are Harborside Wine & Spirits (109 Front Street, 781-545-0059),  known for its funky wine accessories as well as its large selection of California vintages, and newcomer Beaucoup Beads (76A Front Street, 781-545-7000), a custom-jewelry shop where you can also make your own creations.

Patrick Gerard Healy