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Everything from hemlines and haircuts, architecture and art are subject to the whims of fashion. Patios are no exception. A few distinct styles have emerged over the years, but some parts of patio design will always be timeless. Let’s look at different patio styles over the past few decades. The 1950s “mid-century” look was popular

Exposed brick, concrete countertops, tile and stone floors are chic decor elements with a hardened past. The first factories of the industrial revolution were built in the late 1700s. Forging steel, laundering fabrics, or glass-making involved very hot and often unwieldy fire. By the early 1900s the onset of unreliable electrical wiring added to the

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, we ask an Irish stone artist what he loves about Ireland’s legendary stonework St. Patrick’s Day falls on a weekend this year, giving the holiday some special attention. Revelers and traditionalists alike will be breaking out their most unique and notable activities. Big cities like Boston and Philadelphia have

Footworn paths in the grass don’t have to be an eyesore. Here’s how pavers can help. We’ve all seen them and we’ve all helped make them: shortcuts across lawns that leave ruts in the grass. They are called “desire lines” or “desire paths” in civil engineering circles. Usually found on college campuses, in amusement parks,

A very, very long time ago, during the pre-historic age, humans figured out that stone had many uses in their world. This abundant natural resource was used for many things, such as: furniture, cutting tools, and weapons. Not only did they use it to build walls for shelter and fortification, they used smaller stones (like

There are many elements to interior design. Color, light, lines, shapes (forms) and texture are all applied principles of design that are immediately noticeable in a room. These principles also apply when building and decorating exterior rooms. One design element that is often overlooked on the patio is texture. “Texture” is a visual as well

Traditional style homes can be challenging to landscape. Fortunately there are pavers designed specifically to complement centuries-old structures. The trick to updating the landscape and hardscape of an older home is using the right paving stones. Many original streets in the New England territories are often said to have been paved with leftover ballast from

In modern culture, we have a plethora of food and cooking options. Instead of simply roasting a piece of meat over a crude fire, we can bake, sauté, deep fry or flambé. With each new method comes more dining options. Cooking standards that were acceptable before fall out of favor as we reach for new

Looking to bring your patio to the next level but you wonder what’s involved? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Outdoor cafe culture started in Europe and eventually took over even the smallest American towns. Now homeowners are picking up on the trend. Additions like outdoor rooms, patios, kitchens and sports bars are topping homeowners’

A bright young leaf in Spring reminds us of nature’s promise: that everything old will be new again. Pantone’s Color of 2017 gives a whole new meaning to “green development.” The color is called Greenery, and it reflects that hopeful feeling one gets from making a fresh start. Pretty up your patio with its energetic-yet-cool