Tag Archives:


fireplace

Anticipate the roadblocks your contractor may encounter

Getting a patio or pool installed is a major project. Here’s what your contractor wants you to know about the common problems workers face when construction begins. Good communication is the best skill a homeowner can bring to a project. Many difficulties can be avoided when both the homeowner and the contractor are aware of

Hardscape hearth: Get the outdoor fireplace of your dreams

Entertaining always seems to happen in certain areas in the house. Kitchens and fireplaces are welcoming spaces that signify warmth and welcome, and the crowds tend to gather around them. An outdoor fireplace may be the hearth your yard needs to feel more like home. While a fire pit is a lovely addition to any

A Fun Fireplace: 3 traditional accessories and their new twists

The apple spice and pine scented days are upon us. Along with your fuzzy blanket and mug of hot cider, add some unique accessories to your hearth to welcome the winter season. In days gone by, the fireplace, whether indoor or outdoor, was a central feature in any room. Being the primary and sometimes only

Covering up: blankets for your outdoor room

Fall usually means the onset of chilly nights. Fight off the frost with some warm, cozy blankets. Don’t let the cold keep you inside. Outdoor rooms are meant to be used all year round. A crackling fire pit and some other heat sources can help make things comfortable, but a little extra may be needed

Cast Veneer Stone: Adding color and texture to living spaces

You don’t need a psychology degree to know that color affects us. Fast food joints use bright yellows, oranges and reds to convey energy and encourage customers to eat quickly. Cafés use dark greens, browns, blues or maroons to give an air of sophistication and comfort. If you do have a degree in psychology, you

Planning Ahead for your Landscape Design

As winter continues, it may be that thoughts of spring landscape planning seems a little premature, but the fact is, making use of being more housebound during the next few weeks  will really pay dividends in achieving your goals.  Not only can you do your research on plans and products, but if you plan to

New Year, New Landscape Design

Welcome to 2016! Just about a full calendar year lay before you with possibilities and potential. What are your plans? As the days stay short and the wind makes you more apt to stay indoors, the winter blahs can set it in. Battle those blues by planning your garden that will be filled with beautiful

Party on the Patio: Take Advantage of the Weather and Plan an Outdoor Holiday Event

If you’re enjoying the balmy weather much of the Northeast is experiencing, thanks to the El Nino effect, it may be putting a damper on your ability to get into the traditional holiday spirit. While no one wants sub-zero temps like we had last year, it can be hard to wrap your head around planning

Creating a little “Peace on Earth”, Right in your own Backyard

There are a lot of wishes for “Peace on Earth” at this time of year and, while the general intent is for mankind as a whole, there’s another saying that comes to mind: “Charity begins at home”.  By creating a tranquil environment in which to host family and friends, you can add a little “peace”

Fall on the Patio: Family Gatherings

With the ghouls and goblins having gathered their treats and hopefully a few tricks, we feel it necessary to remind you that Halloween stands at the peak of the downhill slide that launches us through the holiday season clear to New Year’s Day. How many times have you looked back on the end of year