1. You'd like to spend more time outside. A yard doesn't seem to do do much good if it's unused. A deck or patio can maximize existing space and allow for more cook-outs, games, and outdoor fireplaces. 2. You need more room for guests. A general rule of thumb is that an outdoor seating area should have as many places to sit as your living room. This way,... [Read more...]

This season, Outdoor Environments looks back at past projects as we progress on current installations. Here are some fun before-and-afters: This project, which won an award in 2007, transformed a backyard into a dynamic entertaining and living environment. The deck was expanded and tiered to take full advantage of indoor-outdoor living opportunities. This... [Read more...]

National design magazines have been writing about patios more than ever this spring. It's easy to see why–patios increase living space and add to a home's resale value. Let’s take a look at what patio styles are on the newsstands: Better Homes and Gardens suggests softening the edges of a patio with a border of flowers. Taller shrubs are suggested for... [Read more...]

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