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outdoor

Difference Between Screened In Patio And Sunrooms

November 10, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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It’s no secret that outdoor living areas have been among the most popular types of home modification in recent years, and this fad shows no signs of abating. More and more homeowners are looking for ways to make the most of their backyards, including relaxing seating options. What, however, of those times when inclement weather makes patios uninviting?

A sunroom or three-season porch enclosure combines the advantages of both indoor and outdoor living. The benefits are going outside without the heat, humidity, and insects. Perfect. Want to know the differences between a screened in patio and a sunroom? Now you have the lowdown.

Screened-in porch vs. Sunroom

The primary distinction between a sunroom and a screened porch is in the materials used in its construction and insulation. However, sunrooms are more like additions to the house than screened porches, which are generally just basic enclosures added on top of an existing patio or porch.

A screened-in porch won’t keep the rain and wind out as well as an open porch would. It’s really just a porch that has been enclosed by walls. There will likely be little insulation and no suitable floor constructed over the foundation.

In addition to screens, many porches also have windows or moveable panels. For this reason, porches with screens are often referred to as “three-season porches.” You may use them as a temporary home throughout the autumn and spring. However, in really chilly winters, screens are still not very practical.

While the added fourth season is the primary selling point of sunrooms over screened porches, there are additional factors to think about before breaking ground. Your selection will be influenced by a number of factors, including the location of your house, the purpose of the space, the cost of permits and utilities, the amount of useful time, and the total cost of construction.

  • Location

Sunrooms may seem like a no-brainer in places with scorching summers, but they aren’t really the norm. A screened porch may be used year-round in climates with moderate winters. A sunroom is appropriate in colder climates, but a screened-in porch may be built for far less money.

  • Intention Of the Area

A screened-in porch may be all you need if you’re only looking for a place to relax out of the sun with loved ones in the warmer months. The porch enclosure isn’t as efficient at regulating temperature as a sunroom, but it performs a decent job and can be improved upon.

Even though they lack heating and cooling, many screened-in porches nevertheless have ceiling fans. Moreover, a little electric space heater is significantly more budget-friendly than an outside patio warmer.

  • Calculating Your Investment’s Return

Think about the return on investment you’ll receive from a sunroom or screened porch. When do you anticipate using it? Is it reasonable to build a sunroom, heat it, and use it as a year-round living space? To what extent will you get to enjoy the sunroom before moving on? Sunrooms— extremely popular in certain parts of the country, but not in others— are they sought after in yours?

The value of a sunroom or screened porch varies from one homeowner to the next in the same way as the value of an above-ground or in-ground pool does. Sunrooms and screened porches aren’t a certain strategy to boost your home’s value any more than a swimming pool is.

  • Spend on Adding a Sunroom or Screened Porch 

Prices for sunroom additions tend to be higher than those for other types of additions. The price of adding a sunroom to your home may range widely based on factors including its size, the quality of its materials, and the design of your existing structure. In all, the cost of building a sunroom that meets building codes in terms of insulation, roofing, and structural support might reach $60,000.

The cost of a screened-in porch may range from considerably less to much more than that of a sunroom. The average range is $3,500 – $7,500.

Conclusion

You might end up with something you didn’t want and a lot of extra grey hair if you go into it blind. Whether you’re interested in a screened-in porch, a sunroom addition or a DIY sunroom kit, a consultation with an expert may help you make the correct choice.

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5 Backyard Ideas that will Transform Your Outdoor Space

September 21, 2022
Stella Van Lane
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There are many reasons why you might want to add a deck or patio to your backyard. Perhaps you need some extra space to entertain guests, or maybe you just want a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. No matter what your reasons may be, adding a deck or patio is a great way to improve your backyard, plus consider these extra few ideas.

1. Add a fire pit

A fire pit is a great way to transform your outdoor space. Not only does it add some warmth and ambiance, but it can also be a great place to gather with friends and family. You can find fire pits in a variety of shapes and sizes, so there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for your backyard. 

Once you have your fire pit, you can then start to think about how you want to use it. You can use it for cooking, roasting marshmallows, or simply as a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Whatever you choose to do with your fire pit, it’s sure to be a great addition to your home.

2. Install a pergola

A pergola is a great way to transform your backyard and create your own backyard oasis. Not only will it provide you with some much-needed shade, but it can also be a great place to hang out or relax. You can even add some curtains or lights to make it even more inviting. 

Pergolas are fairly easy to install and can be a great DIY project for weekends. Just make sure to do your research and get the right materials before you start. With a little bit of effort, you can easily create a backyard retreat that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Backyard deck
Image by Francine Sreca from Pixabay

3. Add some plants and flowers

If you’re looking for a simple way to transform your backyard, adding some plants and flowers is a great option. Not only will it make your space look more inviting, but it can also provide you with some additional privacy. Consider planting a hedge or installing some flower boxes along your fence line. You could also add some climbers to cover up an unsightly view. Whatever you choose, adding some greenery to your backyard is a surefire way to improve its appearance.

4. Install a deck or patio

One of the best ways to transform your backyard is to install a deck or patio. A deck or patio can provide a great place to relax or entertain guests, and it can also add value to your home.

If you’re thinking about installing a deck or patio, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you’ll need to choose the right location for your deck or patio. You’ll also need to decide what material you want to use. There are a variety of options available, including wood, composite, and concrete. 

Once you’ve decided on the location and material, you’ll need to hire a contractor to install your deck or patio. With a little planning and some help from professionals, you can easily transform your backyard with a new deck or patio.

Backyard deck
Image by eyeclick from Pixabay

5. Build a shed or workshop

Building a shed or workshop is a great way to add some extra space to your backyard. Not only will it provide you with a place to store things, but it can also be a great place to work on hobbies or projects and put to use all those home remodel tips you’ve learned. 

If you’re thinking about building a shed or workshop, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you’ll need to decide on the size and style of shed or workshop that you want. There are many different sizes and styles available, so it’s important to choose one that will fit your needs. Once you’ve decided on the size and style, you’ll need to choose a location for your shed or workshop. 

It’s important to choose a level spot that’s not too close to your house or other structures. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, you can start planning the construction of your shed or workshop. Be sure to check with your local building code office to get all the necessary permits before you begin construction. With a little planning and effort, you can transform your backyard into an extra storage space or workspace.

Final thoughts

There are many different ways to transform your backyard. By adding some plants and flowers, installing a deck or patio, or building a shed or workshop, you can easily make your backyard more inviting and functional. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can turn your backyard into the perfect retreat.

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Creative Tips to Design the Outdoor of Your Home

December 6, 2019
Chloe Taylor
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Remodeling a house into your dream home is an elaborate project. There are a number of things to consider before you jump in, which includes the budget, aesthetics, time, and energy. Mind you, the possibility of a large closet is impractical for a small home. Hiring professionals and getting them to carry out instructions as you like is no mean feat. A tip for more productive results could be by tackling them into segments to keep things manageable. Let’s start with the outside so your house can make a solid impact.

Begin at the beginning; make a list of all the things you do not like or those that need to be redone. For example, does the scorching sun, shine right over your pool, blinding the swimmers on hot days? Maybe you would like to enjoy a cold summer beverage in your front yard, with a book in hand. Well, retractable folding arm awnings can do just the trick. It can not only provide shade but also repurpose your space into a sitting area. If your home is one of those classical structures that do not need much to make them shine, awnings will be a favorable addition to your house.

Plants

If you are not an avid gardener, choose plants that are easy to care for. Do you have shrubs lining the front of your home? If yes, small shrubs like boxwood can be given rounded shapes for some symmetry. Leafy plants like long-leaved ferns can stand sentries next to your door, while the pathway that leads to it can be covered in cobblestones with large tiles placed apart for ease of walking.

Perhaps you have a space large enough to accommodate dining when the weather and mood call for it. In such a case, stay away from plants that attract pollinating insects. They can be planted away from the dining area close to your garden’s (or yard’s) wall. Consider the general wind direction and get your gardener to grow scented flowering plants in the enclosed space close to your entryway so that it gives out fragrance to anyone who enters. Evergreen plants or variegated ones add color to your yard and gives it an inviting vibe. Install a swinging bench nearby, a pool or a pond, and your barbecue nights will be the best. 

Outdoor Furniture

furniture outdoor
Since we are outdoors, the furniture you select will have to be sturdy enough to bear the weather conditions. Comfortable yet practical, something that is easy to wash. In sunny areas, the seats and cushions can get very hot. If you have a pavilion big enough to be turned into a dining area, you can get elegant chairs and set them up in a symmetrical fashion for a classic look.

A great idea to beautify your space is to paint the floors. Vibrant colors can transport any outdoor space. You can use a bright table cloth or painted chairs to set up the lounge area on your deck. Bring out the cushions and some wine – it’s the perfect setting to enjoy a good book. If you wish to give your backyard sitting space a friendly view, start by gathering bamboo or wicker furniture with a table that can double as a tea trolley. Collect other rustic items or collectibles from around the house, and you have space where you can enjoy some great conversations over tea and scones.

Can you recycle?

Depending on the amount of cash you are willing to part with, you can install old or recycled slabs of granite to act as a low bench. Use an old tire to fashion into a swing. Put some paint on it and add a cushion for a comfortable seat. Upcycled crates can be turned into a side table that can hold wine or books. String lights and leftover buntings are also great options for your outdoor space.

Lighting

backyard lighting
Do you recall the old-fashioned gas lamps from movies depicting ancient English alleyways? Antique lamps still look quite warm, be they floor ones like the ones depicted in the first garden or those that hangover from a post. Lighted pathways and bright cooking areas add character to your visual space. Lanterns along the garden path evoke interest in the landscape. You can have a dense shrubbery with tall and leafy borders. But with lanterns installed, you will never have to worry about having enough light or people hesitating to pass through at night.

Invite the sun into your outdoor living area. You can install a roof of corrugated plastic that will allow the sun in, and yet provide enough shade to allow for lounging and dining. A rooftop deck can be fashioned into an outdoor sitting area too. All it needs is some metal fencing and simple furniture. It would work on cloudy days when the sun isn’t too bright and at night with electric light fixtures. This design is best carried out if the surrounding area has tall trees of ample foliage to give some privacy.

Add a television

Adding a television may seem strange at first if you have never seen it set up outdoors, but if done the right way, it is the only thing missing from a great outdoor experience. With cushioned seating arrangements and a cozy fireplace, a perfect post-dinner activity may consist of coffee with a movie playing on the screen. The tv can be set up in an enclosed space to protect it from the weather or on to your brick wall. You can even take your screen to an open deck with an awning or a roof. This arrangement can get your sports matches sorted while lounging on deck chairs and enjoying the weather.

Do you see how all bars have a television overhead? You can fashion your outdoor space into a makeshift bar too. Imagine a long marble countertop running at one end of covered outdoor space with a large oven cum grill at one corner, complete with wooden chairs and a television overhead.

The Final Word

outdoor
When it comes to designing outdoor spaces, there are endless options to choose from. You must first consider what you want out of your project – is it a space that looks gloomy, something missing that you wish to add, or make your dream house? In any case, do your homework before you go all out, tearing the walls apart. The best makeovers are making the existing features shine: the boulders in your backyard, the lush trees that can be seen beyond your bedroom window, the pathway in your garden, or old furniture that hasn’t been used in years. It is a smart idea to put them into use.

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5 Tips for Cosy Outdoor Thanksgiving Décor

November 22, 2018
Mike Johnston
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It’s that time of the year when your family starts gathering, looking forward to family time, cosy home atmosphere and delicious feasts. Yes, Thanksgiving is here and you should welcome it in style! Aside from giving your interior space that charming, comfy vibe, you should also style up your exterior. Thanksgiving-inspired outdoor décor will put all of your guests in a great, festive mood the moment they arrive.

Choose the colours of the season

Although Thanksgiving is a fall holiday, its colours are certainly warm and inviting. Nature’s fall palette will help you cosy up your exterior and create a truly welcoming atmosphere. When choosing your decorations for Thanksgiving, you should go with a fiery palette of burnt orange, rich brown, vibrant russet red and golden yellow. You can complement such a warm colour scheme with contrasting hues such as eggplant purple, navy blue, charcoal grey and black. Such a palette will help you combine traditional fall hues with unexpected shades, which will give your outdoor areas authentic appeal.

Bring out the festive lighting

Stunning lighting solutions will help you create a festive ambience of comfort and cosiness. They will also help you accentuate your Thanksgiving décor and your home’s beautiful features. You can place fall-inspired lanterns around your front door that will soon become an enchanting focal point of your home’s exterior. If you have a porch, you can also place lanterns and candles for a whimsical effect. As for your back entrance, you can create a garland using leaves and fall flowers and then pair it with string lights. Placing this arrangement around your door will make your entrance appealing and inviting. You can experiment with other lighting fixtures, as well, and use them to emphasise certain features. You can even find solar-powered pumpkins that you can scatter around your front yard and garden, creating a truly inspiring Thanksgiving setting.  

Turn your front door into a Thanksgiving focal point

As the focal point of your home’s exterior, the front door will be the most conspicuous detail of your Thanksgiving arrangements. There are so many creative ideas that you can try out. Placing a lush wreath made of leaves, flowers, tiny pumpkins and pinecones will make your front door stand out immediately. You can also line it using a mesmerising garland or place an arbour made of grapevines over the door. Of course, don’t forget to welcome your guests with a Thanksgiving-inspired mat that will feature your chosen colour scheme.

Create stunning décor arrangements

Placing decorative Thanksgiving arrangements in your front yard, back garden or on the porch will truly capture the festive spirit of this holiday. Gather pumpkins of all colours and sizes and stack them together. You can also fill wicker baskets with fall flowers, leaves and pumpkins and place them around your yard. Lining your garden path and front-door pathway with tiny pumpkins is also a beautiful option that will create a lovely trail. You can also use hale bales for a porch arrangement, combining them with festive lighting, fall foliage, wicker baskets, etc.

Welcome Thanksgiving into your outdoor haven

If you have an outdoor space where you can gather with your family, make sure to cosy it up and give it a Thanksgiving-inspired look. Introduce your fall colour palette into your outdoor area and use it for soft materials, garden planters and decorations. If you have a seating area with a coffee table, place a Thanksgiving centrepiece made of seasonal fruit and vegetables, leaves, flowers, etc. You can also place tiny pumpkins in glass containers and put them on the outdoor tables. Scattering leaves around your outdoor sanctuary will also create a Thanksgiving vibe. Finally, if possible, create a beautiful fire pit where you can gather around with your family and sip your hot beverages. This will be the perfect way to spend the Thanksgiving evening.

Thanksgiving is the holiday that you should spend with your loved ones. Using these ideas will not only help you set the tone for this occasion, but also make your friends and family feel welcome and cosy.

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Expand Your Living Space with an Outdoor Kitchen: Design Tips

December 20, 2017
Sara Solomon
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For me, every meal tastes better al fresco. If you agree and love preparing and eating food outside, it’s time for you to expand your living space and invest in an outdoor kitchen. It will allow you and your family and friends to spend time outside while making tasty lunches or hosting fun dinner parties. In case you don’t know where to start with your design, here are some outdoor kitchen design tips for every outdoorsy chef.

Carefully plan the location

One of the first rules of building: location, location, location! Probably the most common mistake people make when designing their outdoor kitchen is not looking at the wind pattern in their yard. You don’t want all the smoke and smells to get sucked into your home every time you’re using your outdoor kitchen, so place the grill and smoker accordingly. Also, people often place their outdoor kitchen too far from the inside kitchen, which makes carrying heavy platters and drinks quite inconvenient. Additionally, if you love the view from the inside of the house, don’t block it with the outdoor kitchen. Instead, place it to the side or pick an angle that will not ruin your view.

Choose the right materials

Your outdoor kitchen needs to be a bit sturdier than your indoor kitchen in order to resist the elements, such as winds, rain, snow and extreme heat. So, during the process of designing your outdoor space, opt for materials that are weather-resistant and easy to clean and maintain. Stainless steel is always a good option for countertops because it’s tough and durable, easy to clean and looks very sleek. If you want something more rustic and warmer, you can opt for tiled countertops. Tiles come in all shapes, sizes and colors, and they require minimal maintenance. Also, pay attention to your floors. Tile and marble floors can get very slippery when wet or greased, so you might want to skip them. Concrete, brick and natural stone, on the other hand, are much safer and they will give your space a stylish look.

Opt for high-quality appliances

No matter how well you’re planning to equip your outdoor kitchen (some only opt for a grill, a sink and a small fridge, while others include beer taps, smokers and even warming drawers), you have to make sure your appliances can take both rain and sun. Stainless steel works great, requires little maintenance and is quite popular nowadays. Additionally, hire a licensed electrician to install your appliances and make sure everything is up to code.

Provide storage

Like every kitchen, your outdoor kitchen also needs storage for cooking tools, gadgets, food, and drink. Also, the outdoor storage should be waterproof and well insulated to endure temperature changes. With some storage, you’ll always have things on hand and your countertops will be clutter-free.

Build shelter from the elements

If you don’t want the weather to stop you from enjoying your outdoor kitchen, you should build a shelter that will keep the elements away from your grill. A tall roof, pergola or even some simple umbrellas will allow you to show off your culinary skills ever in the rain or scorching sun. You can also equip your outdoor kitchen with a fan for the summer and a heat lamp or a fire pit for the winter. Additionally, if you live in an area with pesky mosquitoes and a lot of flies, you can equip your kitchen with repellents and bug zappers that will keep them away from your food.

Install good lighting

Good lighting will allow you to prepare food when natural light is scarce and it will provide your outdoor space with a soft ambience that’s perfect for relaxing. You will need overhead lighting for food prep (hang the light from the roof or install a pole yard light) and add some string lights or tiki torches for ambient lighting.

Add comfort

An outdoor kitchen isn’t just a place where you cook food. It also serves to enjoy those delicious meals you make and for entertainment. So, make sure you put out some chairs, tables and decoration that will make your outdoor kitchen the star of your home. Choose durable pieces and weather-resistant fabrics so you can enjoy them all year round.

Once your outdoor kitchen is finished, get ready to break out your spatula, tongs and fork and prepare the perfect BBQ for all your family and friends.

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It’s Never Too Early To Start Planning Your Beautiful New Walkway!

August 16, 2017
Lana Hawkins
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When the time comes for you to choose a finished surface for a walkway, you will almost certainly opt for one that is cost-effective, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Many homeowners in Toronto, Ontario, for instance, are seeking stamped concrete walkways because it can easily mimic high-end materials such as limestone, flagstone, and other types of stone patterns at a fraction of the cost.

Synergy of Walkways and Plants

Garden walkways beautiful additions to a luscious front lawn or backyard, but they also enable you to freely walk in the garden at any time of the year, without having to worry about tripping on uneven greenery or dirtying your shoes. A beautiful pathway can also boost the aesthetic value of your home, encouraging in a higher resale amount when or if you eventually choose to sell. In addition, they keep garden plants and grass safe, since movement in the yard is guided, protecting the vegetation from extensive foot damage.

Walkway

Ensuring the safety of you and your plants is a lot less complicated than you might assume. While installing stamped concrete driveways, patios, and walkways can seem quite challenging, with the proper preparation and guidance, what was once daunting can become an enlivening project bound to bring new life to your home. To be sure, this is a permanent and costly undertaking, which means that there can be no room for error.

Driveway

When proceeding with the project, the patterns must be properly laid down and installed; in this sense, it’s best to hire professionals who know what they are doing. Additionally, the process is relatively stress-free if you can find a single company with which to work for the entirety of the construction. If you’re living in or near a large metropolitan area, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of companies who will guarantee your satisfaction, but only a few will effectively and efficiently follow through every step of the way, such as Elite Concrete in Toronto  – notorious for their dedicated work ethic, they’ve become one of the city’s top architectural concrete specialists, and, no not only that, they can aid you every step of the way.

Walkway

Choosing The Right Material

Installing a walkway starts with subgrade preparation, something that needs to be properly compacted to prevent drainage and soil erosion. Reliable companies will likely use wood, metal, or plastic forms of preparation to contain the concrete within the desired area. Reinforcements should be made using welded wire mesh or steel bars to boost the capacity of the structure and its impact resistance, which helps prevent cracking. After stamping the walkway, give it time to dry up before having it sealed.

Walkway

If your home experiences extremely cold temperatures, as Toronto frequently does during the winter, you should also consider sealing the concrete to reduce freeze thaw damage. This condition is the main cause of surface flaking and cracks in walkways and driveways found in cold areas. It is brought about by the penetration, expansion, and freezing of water in the pavement, but sealers prevent the penetration of water and should be used on paths that have heavy human traffic. Normally patios, pavements, and walkways are subjected to conditions that may cause stains to form on the surface, but the use of sealers prevents these elements from penetrating the surface. Sealing new walkways – be it in the musky urban center or the sprawling surrounding suburbs – prevents the build-up of white powdery materials on the surface from the concrete.

Walkway

From aesthetics and wear-and-tear, all the way to the unpredictability of climate, there are a lot of factors to consider. One thing that is certain is the right company can and will provide the guidance and care required for such extensive work; all it takes, then, is a little bit of research and you’ll find yourself on the sturdy ground in no time at all.

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Transform Your Outdoor Area Without Breaking The Bank

July 4, 2017
cooper klein
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Australians love the great outdoors, but it’s all too easy to neglect our outdoor spaces when we think about rejuvenating the design of our home. We tell ourselves, it’s too big a job, no one sees the backyard anyway, and besides, it’s too expensive.

But an outdoor renovation can breathe new life into your home like nothing else, so we talked to Steve Jovcevski, property expert at financial comparison site Mozo.com.au, to get some top tips on refreshing your outdoor spaces – without sending you broke. Here’s what he had to say:

Assign the space a purpose

If you’re working to a budget, the first thing to do is sit down and think through what you want to achieve with your outdoor space. Will you be hosting big groups of people? Relaxing on your own? There’s no point spending a bundle on beautiful lawn furniture that you have to pack away every time family comes over because the kids want to play backyard cricket.

Choosing a centre piece for your outdoor area – say a classic BBQ – and then working out from that is a good way to create a cohesive, useful space. Decide what you want to use the space for, then make sure all your effort – and money – is going toward that purpose.

barbecue grill

Keep up with maintenance

Another easy thing that will give your outdoor areas an immediate boost is making sure you keep everything – from lawn, to garden beds, through to outdoor furniture or decks – well maintained. A nice neat lawn that’s mowed and watered regularly looks a thousand times better than one that’s been neglected, and old patio furniture can often be rejuvenated with a good scrub down and a bit of elbow grease.

Make an escape from the weather

One key way to make your outdoor space more useful and versatile is by putting up some kind of cover to keep it safe from the weather. This doesn’t have to be a full-blown pergola – a fabric sail can work just as well to keep the hot Aussie sun off and transform your backyard into an oasis.

It’s important to make sure your design elements all compliment each other and unify the space, and getting this major element right can help you with the design and tone of the rest of your outdoor entertaining area.

man mowing grass

Light up your life

When it comes to fairy lights, I find people either love them or hate them, but there’s a reason they’ve been a hot trend lately – if you often entertain at night, stringing fairy lights above an outdoor seating area is a quick, relatively cheap way to add a touch of magic to your backyard.

It’s a good idea to plan out where you’ll place the lights before you start, and as you do, keep in mind that the more lights you have, the more expensive it will be to buy and then run them. And remember – if you’re leaving them up permanently, make sure they’re not too exposed to the elements. Stringing them up under a pergola is a good way to keep lights dry.

Get creative with outdoor furniture

Outdoor furniture is one aspect of home design that I think you can really afford to get creative with. So instead of heading out to IKEA with a shopping list, think about DIY options, like repurposing old cinder blocks, tree stumps, or barrels as seating and tables.

The beauty of using these objects – aside from giving new life to what might have otherwise ended up as rubbish – is that you really get the chance to put your own style into it. It can be as rustic or luxurious, colourful or elegant, eclectic or streamlined as you want to make it.

old garden chairs

Opt for remnant stone

Hardscaping – putting in features like retaining walls, walkways and edging – can be one of the most expensive parts of sprucing up your outdoor areas. If you like the quaint, cottage-y look, one way to refresh your hardscaping while keeping a handle on your budget is to use stone leftovers that you can get cheap at building supply auctions.

This look isn’t for everyone though – so before you go ahead, make sure remnant stone will suit the overall look of the space. If the rest of your exterior design is ultra-sleek and modern, it’s going to look pretty out of place. A nice, modern alternative that might suit your look better is a green wall.

Look underfoot

The design of a great outdoor space often starts at the bottom. Choosing the right paving material can make a big difference to both the look of your space and your budget. Generally, crushed rock or gravel is a less expensive option than traditional pavers, and with the right styling, can look just as good – just don’t forget to lay weed mat first. Polished concrete is another good, low-cost and low-maintenance option that I personally favour.

If you prefer traditional pavers, think about interspersing them with grassy areas to cut back on the amount of expensive material you’ll need.

Steve is Mozo’s property investment and lending expert. With an extensive knowledge of home loan products and property trends, Steve is full of practical tips to help first homebuyers, refinancers or investors build and get the most out of their property portfolio.

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Functional Meets Stylish: The Latest Outdoor Furniture Innovations and Trends

December 9, 2016
Chloe Taylor
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If you’re among those individuals who are blessed with a lovely outdoor area, then you should do everything you can to bring its décor to perfection. This is the area where you can truly unwind, soak up the sunshine and retreat from the hustle and bustle of an urban city.

Use Fabrics to Accentuate

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Image 1 source: summerclassics.com

When it comes to the most popular outdoor fabrics, get ready to embrace damask, jacquard and linen. If you want to create an atmosphere of elegance and glamour, then you should opt for jacquard – the intricate patterns in different shades of red will give an impression of royal refinement. Damask is a better option if you’re going for a monochromatic look with elaborate patterns. Another among fabrics that radiate luxury is linen that you should use to create a simple, but elegant ambient in your patio. Regardless of the fabric you choose, you should opt for colours that are calming and relaxing, for example, snorkel blue, fiesta, peach eco and limpet shell. The best thing is that these fabrics contribute to an overall tone and ambient; you can use them as accents by layering, hanging outdoor curtains and placing decorative pillows.

Avoid Cluttering Your Outdoor Haven

Don’t give in to clutter, but make sure to keep your outdoor area clean and organised. This is particularly important if you have a small patio, so you don’t need useless items that will take up a lot of space and make you feel cramped. Instead, try to merge style and functionality – you can obtain a lovely seat that has a storage compartment. This is a perfect place for putting aside your blankets and pillows when you go inside. Another practical solution is opting for a beautiful outdoor coffee table with drawers for storing magazines, or mosquito repellent.

Be Eco-Friendly

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Image 2 source: decoist.com

Having a personal outdoor area is a perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature. By forming a connection with natural life, our awareness of the importance of preserving our environment increases and we’re a step closer to protecting it. There are small eco-friendly options for your outdoor area that can make significant changes. Instead of buying new furniture, be creative and reuse the old one. You can easily transform an old bench into a new piece by simply reassembling or painting it, but make sure to use UV-proof and solvent-free colours to minimise air pollution. If there’s a harbour in your vicinity, you can easily obtain old ship sails, recycle them and use them for outdoor furniture. Since the fabric is weather-resistant, you don’t have to worry about it when it rains.

Bring Indoors Out

The idea of bringing indoors out will make your outdoor area completely unique and stylish. You can start by opting for comfortable and luxurious indoor furniture that will reflect your interior design. By adding some accent elements, you can really make a décor statement; for example, you can use a beautiful rug as a focal point in your outdoor haven. You can blend indoors and outdoors by using the same fabrics, patterns and colour schemes or opting for the same theme.

Outdoor Furniture Options

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Image 3 source: gardenfurnitureland.com

If outdoor furniture is more to your taste, you’ll be happy to hear that there are many different options that will create a relaxed atmosphere. The classic choice when it comes to material is wood that you can use in combination with iron, resin, teak and stainless steel. You shouldn’t forget to include a lovely wooden dining set, since there’s nothing better than having lunch with your family outside while enjoying a beautiful day. Principles that you should also consider when furnishing your outdoor area are multi-functionality and flexibility – opt for ottomans that can also be used as side tables for the former, and multiple seating options that you can separate or group as you wish for the latter.

The outdoor area deserves as much attention as the indoors, so transform yours by trying out some of these outdoor trends. Just don’t forget to be creative and eco-friendly!

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Chic Outdoor Living Ideas

June 24, 2016
Zoe Clark
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Summer in Canada has almost come and in Calgary the season can be a short one. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t have beautiful, elegant and usable outdoor space to make the most of the sunny summer days and nights.

Whether you have a large yard, wood deck, stone patio or balcony, consider what you really want to be doing in that space. Is it for entertaining, playtime with the kids, feet up with book in hand or all of the above.

Outdoor living

Outdoor Furniture

Gone are the days of the simple white plastic lawn chair. Today’s choices for outdoor dining and seating are limitless. From wood to fabric, consider your needs and how much maintenance you are willing to put into your purchase.

Outdoor living

Any type of patio furniture will last longer with routine care. During cold weather seasons, when the patio is no longer in use, store your patio furniture in a garage, basement or garden shed. If you don’t have a place to store your patio furniture over the winter use a cover or tarp. It will make it last longer as the elements will damage it over time. Calgary winters will not be kind to furniture left to the elements.

During warm weather, wash seat cushions once a month with one part bleach to 10 parts warm water. And a few drops of dish detergent to the mix and let sun dry if possible. If you have wrought iron, wash and wax it a few times a year. For wood, use a gentle solution like Murphy’s Wood Soap to keep clean then oil if necessary.

Outdoor living

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If you plan on buying cushions for your outdoor furniture set also make sure that they have a high UV rating and ventilation slits to avoid sun and moisture damage. Mildew-resistant acrylic fabric is long-lasting.

Outdoor Cooking

The backyard barbeque that your Dad used to grill bratwurst and steak has had a major upgrade. Old black charcoal blocks have been replaced with clean lines, sleek looks and superior aesthetics.

Barbeques are no longer just for cooking. Just as kitchen appliances are now more than utilitarian devices, the barbeque can add a great deal to the look and aesthetics of you outdoor space. So, with the seemingly endless options for grills don’t forget to incorporate one early on in your backyard planning.

And go from this:

Outdoor living

To this:

Outdoor living

Outdoor Accents

And just because it’s the great outdoors doesn’t mean you can’t add beautiful accents and art to make your space even more beautiful. Hang some art. Add some decorative touches. There doesn’t need to be a distinction between inside and outside elegance.

Outdoor living

Outdoor living

Author bio:

Ana Cummings, of ANA Interiors is the only IDRC and CDECA multiple award winning show home designer in Calgary. Her work is internationally published and her studio offers full service interior design and decorating that specializes in original unable-to-leave spaces. Ana is a graduate of Mount Royal University, a member of the Calgary Design Group (CDG), Interior Décor Resources Canada (IDRC), and interim President of the Canadian Decorators’ Association Alberta Chapter (CDECA).

Feature image source: Belderbos.co.uk

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How to create your perfect outdoor nook

May 5, 2015
Lana Hawkins
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We all need a place where we can relax and unwind. Some do it with the comfort of a book wrapped in a blanket in their favorite sofa. Others love nature and want to relax outside. If you have a big yard, you can remodel it to this particular need. A place where you can watch the stars in the evening while drinking a big glass of wine.

The deck

You are will have to hire a contractor for this. You want it to be flawless and you are not the best person for the job, unless you are a DIY nut. Anyway, you need to research what kind of wood would you like for your deck. The best choice is to use composite lumber. This composite is a mixture of timber fibre, plastic and an agent that bonds the material. It is the most eco-friendly option available on the market if you want to keep that timber look but you also want to think of the environment. Next, you need to decide on the finish. The available methods of treating wooden decking are painting and staining.

http://eachbatt.com/
Image credit http://eachbatt.com/

Furniture

When searching for the best piece of furniture on the market, be sure to make the durability of the material the paramount in your choice. The outdoor furniture is susceptible to weather and its condition can deteriorate over time. You need to familiarize yourself with the materials and how they are maintained. If you are into trends, then be sure to check out what is new and stylish for 2015. Timber furniture is the best option since it is cheaper than metal and looks better then plastic furniture. Additionally, when it gets cold outside, it is still more comfortable to sit in than metal furniture. For a more rustic style, you can buy wicker furniture. It is cozy, light and versatile. You can move it indoors and use it as living room furniture.

https://www.localsearch.com.au/
Image credit https://www.localsearch.com.au/

Décor

In order to add elegance and taste to the overall impression of your outdoor space, some decorations would be in order. Start with lighting. If you prefer not to have the space illuminated, opt for fire pits. Nowadays, fire pits can be bought in any store that specializes in outdoor furniture. They provide that unique lighting and warmth only fire can deliver. If you plan on reading outside when the weather is nice you will need a proper lighting. Outdoor ceiling lighting is a nice touch and it goes well with classically stylized wall lighting. One of the freshest trends is putting a rug and curtains on your patio. It adds the feeling of being in a living room. When you decide to add a carpet and curtains, remember to remove them when the weather conditions worsen.

For party animals

If your outdoor nook is meant to be a place where you and your friends gather to unwind together or just hang out, consider adding an outdoor kitchen. When you choose from the wide range of grills, think about everything each one has to offer. Gas grills are fast but they do not give you the authentic charcoal taste. Charcoal grills are for hardcore barbecue fans. However, the best choice is a portable grill as you can always switch it up and even cook inside. No matter which one you choose, you will be immensely satisfied with how your nook looks like since it is tailored according to your wishes and your wishes alone.

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Smooth Decorator is a website dedicated to our little sanctuaries from the hustle and bustle of the outside world – to our homes, sweet homes. We believe that the foundation of a quality life needs to be set right there, in the place where we first dream things up, and that only when we organized our homes can we hope to organize the rest of our everyday existence.

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