Pool & Patio: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Playhouse Plans & Ideas
From basic sheds with a few embellishments to miniature Colonial mansions with all the architectural details, you're bound to find a plan for a do-it-yourself playhouse project. Some of these projects are for dedicated and patient beginners with some carpentry skills, others state that the projects are difficult. Include the lucky child or children who will be the new "homeowners" -- it's a great way to teach them some DIY basics, give them a feeling of accomplishment, and share time together.
From basic sheds with a few embellishments to miniature Colonial mansions with all the architectural details, you're bound to find a plan for a do-it-yourself playhouse project. Some of these projects are for dedicated and patient beginners with some carpentry skills, others state that the projects are difficult. Include the lucky child or children who will be the new "homeowners" -- it's a great way to teach them some DIY basics, give them a feeling of accomplishment, and share time together.
Hot Tubs for Two
Hot Tubs don't always have to be expensive, especially if you choose a tub that's designed for 2-3 people, rather than a party-full. Not everyone loves the idea of wearing a swimsuit while sitting knee-to-knee in someone's hot tub. Assess what your needs are, and how often you'll use it. If the hot tub would mostly be used by you and your special person, it might be time to consider one of the many smaller models that provide the same amenities without the size or extra seats.
Hot Tubs don't always have to be expensive, especially if you choose a tub that's designed for 2-3 people, rather than a party-full. Not everyone loves the idea of wearing a swimsuit while sitting knee-to-knee in someone's hot tub. Assess what your needs are, and how often you'll use it. If the hot tub would mostly be used by you and your special person, it might be time to consider one of the many smaller models that provide the same amenities without the size or extra seats.
Outdoor Privacy Screens
Need an outdoor privacy screen? Regardless of your property's size, there are some areas of your outdoor living space that require a privacy screen. Whether it's to gain privacy for the area near your swimming pool, hot tub, spa, outdoor kitchen, patio, or just a spot where you can sit and enjoy some solitude, you're going to need to figure out how to create that screen, barrier, fence, etc. Follow these tips for finding the right screen or privacy fence.
Need an outdoor privacy screen? Regardless of your property's size, there are some areas of your outdoor living space that require a privacy screen. Whether it's to gain privacy for the area near your swimming pool, hot tub, spa, outdoor kitchen, patio, or just a spot where you can sit and enjoy some solitude, you're going to need to figure out how to create that screen, barrier, fence, etc. Follow these tips for finding the right screen or privacy fence.
Playhouse Kits to Buy
Playhouses and tree houses are an integral part of a child's outdoor play area. If you don't quite have the DIY thing down to the point that you think you can tackle small-scale home-building, consider one of the many playhouse kits available. You're still building it on your own, you've just got all the pieces cut and finished, ready for you to read the directions and assemble. Piece of cake, right? Find out what too look for and learn about some of the top-selling playhouse kits on the market.
Playhouses and tree houses are an integral part of a child's outdoor play area. If you don't quite have the DIY thing down to the point that you think you can tackle small-scale home-building, consider one of the many playhouse kits available. You're still building it on your own, you've just got all the pieces cut and finished, ready for you to read the directions and assemble. Piece of cake, right? Find out what too look for and learn about some of the top-selling playhouse kits on the market.
Can I Get H1N1 Through Water?
Reports about the pandemic H1N1 flu virus have many people worried about sources of transmission. If you or someone you know swims regularly in a public or residential swimming pool, spa or hot tub, you may be concerned about catching the swine flu from pool water or near a pool. Can the H1N1 flu virus, commonly known as swine flu, be spread through water in swimming pools or spas? Learn what the CDC advises for those who use pools, spas, hot tubs, and other treated recreational water venues.
Reports about the pandemic H1N1 flu virus have many people worried about sources of transmission. If you or someone you know swims regularly in a public or residential swimming pool, spa or hot tub, you may be concerned about catching the swine flu from pool water or near a pool. Can the H1N1 flu virus, commonly known as swine flu, be spread through water in swimming pools or spas? Learn what the CDC advises for those who use pools, spas, hot tubs, and other treated recreational water venues.
Pool Party Fountains & Floats
The pool party is at your house! Since you're the lucky one with a swimming pool, spa, hot tub or other outdoor water feature, you have the job of making sure the outside party is a splashing success! Nothing is more fun and festive at pool party than fountains, underwater light shows, inflatables, pool toys and other waterworks and accessories. Picture the setting as your guests arrive: shimmering lights in the pool, fountains spraying and a giant floating swan. Welcome to your oasis!
The pool party is at your house! Since you're the lucky one with a swimming pool, spa, hot tub or other outdoor water feature, you have the job of making sure the outside party is a splashing success! Nothing is more fun and festive at pool party than fountains, underwater light shows, inflatables, pool toys and other waterworks and accessories. Picture the setting as your guests arrive: shimmering lights in the pool, fountains spraying and a giant floating swan. Welcome to your oasis!
Outdoor Privacy Screen Photos
Maybe you're seeking a private space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Check out this gallery of creative solutions to gain privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. These photos are meant to suggest and inspire; obvously, you can't run out to your local big-box store and pick up a wall mural or bamboo forest.
Maybe you're seeking a private space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Check out this gallery of creative solutions to gain privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. These photos are meant to suggest and inspire; obvously, you can't run out to your local big-box store and pick up a wall mural or bamboo forest.
Sun Bath Hideaway
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Paver Patio
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Three Paving Materials
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
How to Use a Pool Test Kit
How do you use an at-home pool test kit? If you want to check your pool's water quality, you will need a kit that tests basics like pH levels and alkalinity. Follow these easy instructions to use your pool test kit like a pro.
How do you use an at-home pool test kit? If you want to check your pool's water quality, you will need a kit that tests basics like pH levels and alkalinity. Follow these easy instructions to use your pool test kit like a pro.
Gazebo Patio
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patio Passageway
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Wheelchair Accessible Patio Garden
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Inground or Above-Ground?
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
I'll Leave the Porch Light On
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
The View From the Terrace
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
White House Grounds Trivia
We've heard interesting facts and trivia about the presidents, their families, and the White House. But what about the White House grounds, or more specifically, the swimming pools, patios, porches, secret retreats, outdoor furniture and other features we may not know about. Enjoy these bits of information about the White House landscape, past and present.
We've heard interesting facts and trivia about the presidents, their families, and the White House. But what about the White House grounds, or more specifically, the swimming pools, patios, porches, secret retreats, outdoor furniture and other features we may not know about. Enjoy these bits of information about the White House landscape, past and present.
Tree-Stump Patio Seating
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Somewhat Above-Ground
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Hot Patio Furniture: Seating
Need outdoor furniture, or more specifically, outdoor seating? On a "budget" but don't want to scrimp on style or quality? When the heat is on, step outside into your outdoor living space and relax. What will it take to get you in the mood? A tall, icy beverage, bare feet and something to sit or relax upon. From a wooden Adirondack chair to charming wicker and space-age modernism, here's a chair to suit every bottom. Presenting the top 10 seating selections for 2009, under $250.
Need outdoor furniture, or more specifically, outdoor seating? On a "budget" but don't want to scrimp on style or quality? When the heat is on, step outside into your outdoor living space and relax. What will it take to get you in the mood? A tall, icy beverage, bare feet and something to sit or relax upon. From a wooden Adirondack chair to charming wicker and space-age modernism, here's a chair to suit every bottom. Presenting the top 10 seating selections for 2009, under $250.
Decking Connection
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Backyard Haven
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Fenced In
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
A Round Above
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Side Motifs
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Kid's Paradise
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than inground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an inground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Above-Ground Pool Deals
While late summer is traditionally the best time of the year to score a great deal on an above-ground swimming pool, the current economy changes all the rules. Whether you get an above-ground pool in the spring or fall, you still have the potential of saving hundreds of dollars, if you keep an eye on the prices. Above-ground pools can be as simple or elaborate as you need, desire or can afford. Take a look at the assortment of on-ground and above-ground swimming pools currently available.
While late summer is traditionally the best time of the year to score a great deal on an above-ground swimming pool, the current economy changes all the rules. Whether you get an above-ground pool in the spring or fall, you still have the potential of saving hundreds of dollars, if you keep an eye on the prices. Above-ground pools can be as simple or elaborate as you need, desire or can afford. Take a look at the assortment of on-ground and above-ground swimming pools currently available.
Pool at Hyatt Dorado
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Cottage Garden Patio Nook
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Living Christmas Tree
When you step outside this season, what surprises await? While you probably won't be expecting a new car tied with a bow in your driveway, there are other less expensive ways to decorate your outdoor space with flair. One of the more traditional ways of sprucing up your yard, entryway or outdoor space is with plants and trees. Whether it's a fir that's been in your yard for decades or some newly purchased ornamentals in containers, living plants give your home's exterior a natural embellishment.
When you step outside this season, what surprises await? While you probably won't be expecting a new car tied with a bow in your driveway, there are other less expensive ways to decorate your outdoor space with flair. One of the more traditional ways of sprucing up your yard, entryway or outdoor space is with plants and trees. Whether it's a fir that's been in your yard for decades or some newly purchased ornamentals in containers, living plants give your home's exterior a natural embellishment.
Oval Aboveground with Deck Surround
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.
Double Wreaths
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Kidney-Shaped Spa
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Double Delight
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Wreath & Garland Reviews
As a Californian, I consider two wreaths to be pretty festive, but in the other parts of the United States and Europe, wreaths adorning each window and door is a common site. Whether you use one wreath or a dozen, you want something that is beautiful, well-made, and will last for many seasons to come. Balsam Hill's business is artificial holiday greenery: trees, garlands and wreaths. They know what they're doing, and customers have come back throughout the years to add to their collections.
As a Californian, I consider two wreaths to be pretty festive, but in the other parts of the United States and Europe, wreaths adorning each window and door is a common site. Whether you use one wreath or a dozen, you want something that is beautiful, well-made, and will last for many seasons to come. Balsam Hill's business is artificial holiday greenery: trees, garlands and wreaths. They know what they're doing, and customers have come back throughout the years to add to their collections.
Symbols of Fall
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
A Wreath Within
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Still Life
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Turquoise Treasure
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Before You Poolscape
Those faced with the job of landscaping near a swimming pool in any region have the basic considerations pool owners in any region must confront. Before making an impulsive trip to the nursery for whatever strikes your fancy, do some research. Those fruit and flower-bearing trees and shrubs may be beauties, but they make a big mess when their leaves, needles, fruits or flowers fall in and around your pool. Fruit and flowers = extra work for the pool cleaner, you or the person you hire.
Those faced with the job of landscaping near a swimming pool in any region have the basic considerations pool owners in any region must confront. Before making an impulsive trip to the nursery for whatever strikes your fancy, do some research. Those fruit and flower-bearing trees and shrubs may be beauties, but they make a big mess when their leaves, needles, fruits or flowers fall in and around your pool. Fruit and flowers = extra work for the pool cleaner, you or the person you hire.
Top Patio Dining Sets
Think about it. An outdoor dining set is like the anchor or hub of an outdoor room. You've got your burgers, marinade and some sort of grill. You can't just hand someone a meat patty and expect them to wander aimlessly throughout your yard. Enter the outdoor dining set. It lures you and your guests outdoors and keeps you there. If it's comfortable, well-made, and attractive, it establishes an outdoor room. We've done the scouting: check out our top dining sets for 2009 that cost under $1,000.
Think about it. An outdoor dining set is like the anchor or hub of an outdoor room. You've got your burgers, marinade and some sort of grill. You can't just hand someone a meat patty and expect them to wander aimlessly throughout your yard. Enter the outdoor dining set. It lures you and your guests outdoors and keeps you there. If it's comfortable, well-made, and attractive, it establishes an outdoor room. We've done the scouting: check out our top dining sets for 2009 that cost under $1,000.
Saltillo & Teak
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Fall Harvest Planters
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Bright Orange Pumpkins
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Brick-Lined Kidney Shape
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Installing Posts for an Arbor
Follow these steps to dig post holes and install posts. While this is for a pre-fabricated arbor, you can use this tutorial for decks, fences, gazebos and other outdoor structures. The arbor's four posts don't provide extra space to sink posts into the ground with concrete. You'll need to dig holes about 1 foot deep, mix concrete, and pour it into the holes. This arbor can be used as a transitional structure linking outdoor spaces, as a privacy screen, or could be installed against a wall.
Follow these steps to dig post holes and install posts. While this is for a pre-fabricated arbor, you can use this tutorial for decks, fences, gazebos and other outdoor structures. The arbor's four posts don't provide extra space to sink posts into the ground with concrete. You'll need to dig holes about 1 foot deep, mix concrete, and pour it into the holes. This arbor can be used as a transitional structure linking outdoor spaces, as a privacy screen, or could be installed against a wall.
Still Life, October
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Patio Basics
The traditional meaning of the word patio pertaining to Spanish architecture is a courtyard or inner area open to the sky. The term patio has evolved to refer to any outdoor hardscaped area, usually with chairs and tables for lounging, dining and entertaining. When planning a patio-building project, you'll want to assess the size, style, materials, budget, DIY difficulty level, usage, and the average number of people you expect to entertain within the space.
The traditional meaning of the word patio pertaining to Spanish architecture is a courtyard or inner area open to the sky. The term patio has evolved to refer to any outdoor hardscaped area, usually with chairs and tables for lounging, dining and entertaining. When planning a patio-building project, you'll want to assess the size, style, materials, budget, DIY difficulty level, usage, and the average number of people you expect to entertain within the space.
Vintage Wreath Hanger
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Red Berry Wreath
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Eye-Catching Hebe
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Gifts for Play Areas
It's simple and a given: kids love to play outdoors, and kids love to play on stuff outdoors. They delight in playhouses and play equipment that's tailored for their smaller sizes, and love having a space outdoors they can claim as their own. As with any gift, you can go simple or elaborate: most children are appreciative and thrilled to have something that kicks off their imaginations or sets them free to exercise in their own environment. A bonus for parents: you can make sure they're safe.
It's simple and a given: kids love to play outdoors, and kids love to play on stuff outdoors. They delight in playhouses and play equipment that's tailored for their smaller sizes, and love having a space outdoors they can claim as their own. As with any gift, you can go simple or elaborate: most children are appreciative and thrilled to have something that kicks off their imaginations or sets them free to exercise in their own environment. A bonus for parents: you can make sure they're safe.
Welcome to the Americana Del Mar
Each of the amazing designs for Project Playhouse are built by teams of contractors, builders, architects, interior designers, and landscapers. Now in its 17th year, Project Playhouse debuted in 1992 in Orange County, CA, and is the largest event of its kind in the U.S. The playhouses are on display to the public then sold at live auctions. Proceeds benefit each city's local chapter of HomeAid, a national nonprofit that builds dignified housing for homeless families and individuals.
Each of the amazing designs for Project Playhouse are built by teams of contractors, builders, architects, interior designers, and landscapers. Now in its 17th year, Project Playhouse debuted in 1992 in Orange County, CA, and is the largest event of its kind in the U.S. The playhouses are on display to the public then sold at live auctions. Proceeds benefit each city's local chapter of HomeAid, a national nonprofit that builds dignified housing for homeless families and individuals.
Round Pool
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Deep-Orange Pumpkins and Gourds
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Kidney-Shaped Pools
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Above-Ground Round Pool
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.
Halloween Door: Park Slope, Brooklyn
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Chandelier Web Design
Whether it's a Halloween porch, Halloween yard, Halloween patio or Halloween balcony, you're going to have to show your (evil?) spirit with a creative outdoor Halloween display. Giant inflatables are fun, but how about combining black foilage and other unusual plants with pumpkins, gourds, fall flowers and spooky props? One of the masters in plant-and-decor Halloween displays is the famous Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach, California. Enter the gallery at your own risk and walk away inspired!
Whether it's a Halloween porch, Halloween yard, Halloween patio or Halloween balcony, you're going to have to show your (evil?) spirit with a creative outdoor Halloween display. Giant inflatables are fun, but how about combining black foilage and other unusual plants with pumpkins, gourds, fall flowers and spooky props? One of the masters in plant-and-decor Halloween displays is the famous Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach, California. Enter the gallery at your own risk and walk away inspired!
Books About DIY Playhouses
A book on playhouse and treehouse designs is bound to give you ideas on what you, and most importantly, your child wants in this important backyard play structure. Whether you decide on a plain box-shape or a detailed architectural masterpiece, these books can help kick-off your outdoor project. Some playhouse projects in the following books are for beginners, while others are going to be more difficult and take more time. After reading a book, you'll know which playhouse is the one for you.
A book on playhouse and treehouse designs is bound to give you ideas on what you, and most importantly, your child wants in this important backyard play structure. Whether you decide on a plain box-shape or a detailed architectural masterpiece, these books can help kick-off your outdoor project. Some playhouse projects in the following books are for beginners, while others are going to be more difficult and take more time. After reading a book, you'll know which playhouse is the one for you.
Fresh Wreath & Tropicals
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
AZUL Blue Swim-Up Pool Bar
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Grasses Gone Wild
Ornamental grasses are fairly new on the landscape scene - they have increased in popularity in recent years. But there's not really a standard way to prune or groom them. And not every landscaper or gardening expert knows how to take care of everything in the garden, including these grasses that can grow quite big. Follow these steps to groom your grasses and get them to looking great. In some regions, that means your ornamental grasses will be show-offs year 'round.
Ornamental grasses are fairly new on the landscape scene - they have increased in popularity in recent years. But there's not really a standard way to prune or groom them. And not every landscaper or gardening expert knows how to take care of everything in the garden, including these grasses that can grow quite big. Follow these steps to groom your grasses and get them to looking great. In some regions, that means your ornamental grasses will be show-offs year 'round.
Accent on Red
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
See-Through Screen
A wall or a fence are both obvious choices for gaining privacy, marking bounaries and creating barriers. Not all walls and fences have to be typical or boring. Once you start investigating, you'll find that there are many materials and styles you can use. But if you've always dreamed of a white picket fence and it goes with the architectural style of your house, then folow that dream! If not, stacked stone might be nice...
A wall or a fence are both obvious choices for gaining privacy, marking bounaries and creating barriers. Not all walls and fences have to be typical or boring. Once you start investigating, you'll find that there are many materials and styles you can use. But if you've always dreamed of a white picket fence and it goes with the architectural style of your house, then folow that dream! If not, stacked stone might be nice...
Hanging Sweet Potato Vine
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Swimming Pool Shapes
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Things that can dictate pool shapes: lot size and available space, lay of the land, budget, safety codes, your home's architectural style, and how you will use the pool.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Things that can dictate pool shapes: lot size and available space, lay of the land, budget, safety codes, your home's architectural style, and how you will use the pool.
13 Blackbird Lane
Whether it's a Halloween porch, Halloween yard, Halloween patio or Halloween balcony, you're going to have to show your (evil?) spirit with a creative outdoor Halloween display. Giant inflatables are fun, but how about combining black foilage and other unusual plants with pumpkins, gourds, fall flowers and spooky props? One of the masters in plant-and-decor Halloween displays is the famous Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach, California. Enter the gallery at your own risk and walk away inspired!
Whether it's a Halloween porch, Halloween yard, Halloween patio or Halloween balcony, you're going to have to show your (evil?) spirit with a creative outdoor Halloween display. Giant inflatables are fun, but how about combining black foilage and other unusual plants with pumpkins, gourds, fall flowers and spooky props? One of the masters in plant-and-decor Halloween displays is the famous Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach, California. Enter the gallery at your own risk and walk away inspired!
Pimpled Pumpkins
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Red Porch Swing
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Denali White Wreath and Garland
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
No Place Like Shed for the Holidays
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Heads of the Table
Whether it's a Halloween porch, Halloween yard, Halloween patio or Halloween balcony, you're going to have to show your (evil?) spirit with a creative outdoor Halloween display. Giant inflatables are fun, but how about combining black foilage and other unusual plants with pumpkins, gourds, fall flowers and spooky props? One of the masters in plant-and-decor Halloween displays is the famous Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach, California. Enter the gallery at your own risk and walk away inspired!
Whether it's a Halloween porch, Halloween yard, Halloween patio or Halloween balcony, you're going to have to show your (evil?) spirit with a creative outdoor Halloween display. Giant inflatables are fun, but how about combining black foilage and other unusual plants with pumpkins, gourds, fall flowers and spooky props? One of the masters in plant-and-decor Halloween displays is the famous Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach, California. Enter the gallery at your own risk and walk away inspired!
Autumn Craftsman
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Rectangular Pool with Integrated Spa
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of rectangular-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of rectangular-shaped swimming pools.
Top Automatic Pool Cleaners
The next-best thing to having a weekly "pool guy" is buying an automatic swimming pool cleaner for your in-ground pool. Also referred to as swimming pool vacuums, these cleaners seem to be a great investment for the do-it-yourselfer, making the job of cleaning a pool much easier -- maybe even a bit fun. Here's our top picks for in-ground pools:
The next-best thing to having a weekly "pool guy" is buying an automatic swimming pool cleaner for your in-ground pool. Also referred to as swimming pool vacuums, these cleaners seem to be a great investment for the do-it-yourselfer, making the job of cleaning a pool much easier -- maybe even a bit fun. Here's our top picks for in-ground pools:
Through the Garden Gate
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Indoor Swimming Pool at the Grand Pequot Hotel
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Holiday Decor Reviews
In these economic times, many consumers have put a halt to buying. We're cutting back, downsizing and doing without. In just a few months, so much seems so frivolous and unnecessary. Holiday gifts are less expensive but more carefully considered. People are foregoing any visual signs of celebration. But Christmas is about feelings and memories, many of which are sparked by simple decor: lights, greenery, colors and familiar images. Buy one decoration this season and perhaps raise your spirits.
In these economic times, many consumers have put a halt to buying. We're cutting back, downsizing and doing without. In just a few months, so much seems so frivolous and unnecessary. Holiday gifts are less expensive but more carefully considered. People are foregoing any visual signs of celebration. But Christmas is about feelings and memories, many of which are sparked by simple decor: lights, greenery, colors and familiar images. Buy one decoration this season and perhaps raise your spirits.
Top Patio Side Tables
You're kicking back on the patio, enjoying the day, but something's missing. Chair? Check. Favorite beverage? Got it. Something upon which to put that favorite beverage? That's it. A side table, accent table, occasional table, garden table, patio table -- whatever you want to call it, it's a necessary part of the furniture arrangement when you move your life outside. We've explored far and wide to find the best patio tables for 2009. Take your pick!
You're kicking back on the patio, enjoying the day, but something's missing. Chair? Check. Favorite beverage? Got it. Something upon which to put that favorite beverage? That's it. A side table, accent table, occasional table, garden table, patio table -- whatever you want to call it, it's a necessary part of the furniture arrangement when you move your life outside. We've explored far and wide to find the best patio tables for 2009. Take your pick!
Backyard Banana Tree
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
A Bouquet of Aeonium Rosettes
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Three-Level Planting Design
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Brick Beauty
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Deck Building
You don't want a "slab" of concrete -- you'd like your outdoor space to rise up to the level of your back door, creating a near-seamless transition from indoors to outdoors. Sounds like a deck is the right choice for you. Decks work well on sloping, uneven, or poorly draining sites. A wood deck is cool underfoot and also dries quickly
You don't want a "slab" of concrete -- you'd like your outdoor space to rise up to the level of your back door, creating a near-seamless transition from indoors to outdoors. Sounds like a deck is the right choice for you. Decks work well on sloping, uneven, or poorly draining sites. A wood deck is cool underfoot and also dries quickly
Mixed Materials
Pathways in a waterwise garden use traditional hardscape materials -- like pavers, concrete, bricks, pebbles and pea gravel. How they differ from non-water-wise landscape design lies with what's growing -- or not growing -- between and surrounding the pathway materials. While many walkways are placed across a carpet of grass, the growing stuff on a waterwise pathway might be a drought-tolerant groundcover -- like thyme or stonecrop -- or another hardscape material, like bark or loose aggregate.
Pathways in a waterwise garden use traditional hardscape materials -- like pavers, concrete, bricks, pebbles and pea gravel. How they differ from non-water-wise landscape design lies with what's growing -- or not growing -- between and surrounding the pathway materials. While many walkways are placed across a carpet of grass, the growing stuff on a waterwise pathway might be a drought-tolerant groundcover -- like thyme or stonecrop -- or another hardscape material, like bark or loose aggregate.
Grasses & Pumpkins
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Who Let the Moose Near the Pool?
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
DIY Pool & Spa Maintenance
When trimming your budget, you look to the money you're forking over each month to have someone else do something that you could potentially do yourself. While many don't like the idea of venturing into unfamiliar waters, it certainly is possible to clean and maintain your swimming pool, spa or hot tub on your own. There's a big world out there with pool test kits, vacuums, plumbing, circulation and surge-tank float valves. Don't worry -- we'll explain things so you'll be cleaning like a pro!
When trimming your budget, you look to the money you're forking over each month to have someone else do something that you could potentially do yourself. While many don't like the idea of venturing into unfamiliar waters, it certainly is possible to clean and maintain your swimming pool, spa or hot tub on your own. There's a big world out there with pool test kits, vacuums, plumbing, circulation and surge-tank float valves. Don't worry -- we'll explain things so you'll be cleaning like a pro!
The Holiday Express
When you step outside this season, what surprises await? While you probably won't be expecting a new car tied with a bow in your driveway, there are other less expensive ways to decorate your outdoor space with flair. One of the more traditional ways of sprucing up your yard, entryway or outdoor space is with plants and trees. Whether it's a fir that's been in your yard for decades or some newly purchased ornamentals in containers, living plants give your home's exterior a natural embellishment.
When you step outside this season, what surprises await? While you probably won't be expecting a new car tied with a bow in your driveway, there are other less expensive ways to decorate your outdoor space with flair. One of the more traditional ways of sprucing up your yard, entryway or outdoor space is with plants and trees. Whether it's a fir that's been in your yard for decades or some newly purchased ornamentals in containers, living plants give your home's exterior a natural embellishment.
White Pumpkins & Fountain Grass
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
International Style
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hand Planted
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Autumn Beauty Wreath
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Jack Skellington & Friends
Get your Halloween spirit on! Big or small, your outdoor space needs to be transformed into something festive for Halloween. Spooky, terrifying or family-friendly Halloween decorations adorn people's front and backyards, porches, entryways, doors, windows, patios, balconies and wherever else they can find to decorate. Halloween is second only to Christmas in consumer dollars spent on outdoor decorations. Find out how to unleash those creative spirits for the perfect halloween display or party.
Get your Halloween spirit on! Big or small, your outdoor space needs to be transformed into something festive for Halloween. Spooky, terrifying or family-friendly Halloween decorations adorn people's front and backyards, porches, entryways, doors, windows, patios, balconies and wherever else they can find to decorate. Halloween is second only to Christmas in consumer dollars spent on outdoor decorations. Find out how to unleash those creative spirits for the perfect halloween display or party.
Fall Harvest Steps
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Black Cat, Orange Pumpkins
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Pumpkins in Retirement
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Autumn Still Life
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Wall Vase
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Way-Above-Ground Oval Pool
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.
La Costa Pool Cabana
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
How to Close Your Pool
Part of maintaining a swimming pool or spa includes preparing it for those months when you won’t be using it. Also referred to as closing your pool or pool closing, the time to tackle this task depends on the climate or region in which you live. Most experts believe that pools should be closed for the season when nighttime temperatures are in the 40s and daytime highs are in the mid 60s. If you close it too soon, you risk the possibility of algae overgrowth.
Part of maintaining a swimming pool or spa includes preparing it for those months when you won’t be using it. Also referred to as closing your pool or pool closing, the time to tackle this task depends on the climate or region in which you live. Most experts believe that pools should be closed for the season when nighttime temperatures are in the 40s and daytime highs are in the mid 60s. If you close it too soon, you risk the possibility of algae overgrowth.
Meet the Jesters
Encinitas, CA, is where many of the world's top flower growers produce the most breathtaking blooms. Among them: Tamaya’s Orchids, The Flower Fields, and the Paul Ecke Ranch.[p] From 1929-1966, the Ecke Ranch produced poinsettia mother plants. For over 40 years, the 25-acre ranch's key focus has been growing poinsettia cultivars and shipping them to growers throughout the world.[p] Come inside the ranch, where more than 75% of U.S. and 50% of worldwide flower poinsettia plants get their start.
Encinitas, CA, is where many of the world's top flower growers produce the most breathtaking blooms. Among them: Tamaya’s Orchids, The Flower Fields, and the Paul Ecke Ranch.[p] From 1929-1966, the Ecke Ranch produced poinsettia mother plants. For over 40 years, the 25-acre ranch's key focus has been growing poinsettia cultivars and shipping them to growers throughout the world.[p] Come inside the ranch, where more than 75% of U.S. and 50% of worldwide flower poinsettia plants get their start.
It's Curtain Time
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
Colorful Murals of Flower-Head Senoritas
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Follow these creative solutions to gain some privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space.
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Follow these creative solutions to gain some privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space.
Sophisticated Succulents
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
The Grapes of Wreath
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Pink Flagstone
When building a patio or walkway, one of the more fun but challenging decisions you'll have to make is determining what type of paving material to use. The material should blend in with the architecture and landscaping, be easy to walk on, easy to maintain and weather-resistant. This photo gallery provides a look at the wide variety of paving and surfacing materials available. Of couse, there are numerous types out there -- this gallery only begins to cover it.
When building a patio or walkway, one of the more fun but challenging decisions you'll have to make is determining what type of paving material to use. The material should blend in with the architecture and landscaping, be easy to walk on, easy to maintain and weather-resistant. This photo gallery provides a look at the wide variety of paving and surfacing materials available. Of couse, there are numerous types out there -- this gallery only begins to cover it.
Elegant Pomegranate Wreath
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Hanging a holiday wreath on your door is a quick and simple way to decorate your house and neighborhood, while sending out a warm welcome to visitors. Wreaths come in many styles to suit your preferences, along with the architecture, interior and landscape design of your home. You can choose a wreath that's living or artificial; realistic or stylized; and decorated or unadorned (as in, nothing on it). You can personalize a wreath by adding your own decorations.
Colocasia 'Black Marble'
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Each of the amazing designs for Project Playhouse are built by teams of contractors, builders, architects, interior designers, and landscapers. Now in its 17th year, Project Playhouse debuted in 1992 in Orange County, CA, and is the largest event of its kind in the U.S. The playhouses are on display to the public then sold at live auctions. Proceeds benefit each city's local chapter of HomeAid, a national nonprofit that builds dignified housing for homeless families and individuals.
Each of the amazing designs for Project Playhouse are built by teams of contractors, builders, architects, interior designers, and landscapers. Now in its 17th year, Project Playhouse debuted in 1992 in Orange County, CA, and is the largest event of its kind in the U.S. The playhouses are on display to the public then sold at live auctions. Proceeds benefit each city's local chapter of HomeAid, a national nonprofit that builds dignified housing for homeless families and individuals.
Red Hot Chile Peppers
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Many Mini Pumpkins
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Accents of Lime
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Fall Votive Tray
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Goth Baby Dolls
Whether it's a Halloween porch, Halloween yard, Halloween patio or Halloween balcony, you're going to have to show your (evil?) spirit with a creative outdoor Halloween display. Giant inflatables are fun, but how about combining black foilage and other unusual plants with pumpkins, gourds, fall flowers and spooky props? One of the masters in plant-and-decor Halloween displays is the famous Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach, California. Enter the gallery at your own risk and walk away inspired!
Whether it's a Halloween porch, Halloween yard, Halloween patio or Halloween balcony, you're going to have to show your (evil?) spirit with a creative outdoor Halloween display. Giant inflatables are fun, but how about combining black foilage and other unusual plants with pumpkins, gourds, fall flowers and spooky props? One of the masters in plant-and-decor Halloween displays is the famous Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach, California. Enter the gallery at your own risk and walk away inspired!
The Royal Club Pool at the Grand Xcarat by Occidental
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Potted Ice Punch
Looking at the various colors and shapes, it’s quite clear these aren’t your grandmother’s drug-store poinsettias. Shake up her world a bit with a 'Peppermint Twist' thrown into the mix, along with her favorite red and some assorted evergreens. While you’re at it, shake up the world just outside your door. Like on your porch, in a planter bed, or containers. These Mexican natives attract a different kind of attention than, say, the inflatable snowman like the one two doors down.
Looking at the various colors and shapes, it’s quite clear these aren’t your grandmother’s drug-store poinsettias. Shake up her world a bit with a 'Peppermint Twist' thrown into the mix, along with her favorite red and some assorted evergreens. While you’re at it, shake up the world just outside your door. Like on your porch, in a planter bed, or containers. These Mexican natives attract a different kind of attention than, say, the inflatable snowman like the one two doors down.
Taking the Succulent Path
Pathways in a waterwise garden use traditional hardscape materials -- like pavers, concrete, bricks, pebbles and pea gravel. How they differ from non-water-wise landscape design lies with what's growing -- or not growing -- between and surrounding the pathway materials. While many walkways are placed across a carpet of grass, the growing stuff on a waterwise pathway might be a drought-tolerant groundcover -- like thyme or stonecrop -- or another hardscape material, like bark or loose aggregate.
Pathways in a waterwise garden use traditional hardscape materials -- like pavers, concrete, bricks, pebbles and pea gravel. How they differ from non-water-wise landscape design lies with what's growing -- or not growing -- between and surrounding the pathway materials. While many walkways are placed across a carpet of grass, the growing stuff on a waterwise pathway might be a drought-tolerant groundcover -- like thyme or stonecrop -- or another hardscape material, like bark or loose aggregate.
Dreaming of a Chartreuse Christmas
When you step outside this season, what surprises await? While you probably won't be expecting a new car tied with a bow in your driveway, there are other less expensive ways to decorate your outdoor space with flair. One of the more traditional ways of sprucing up your yard, entryway or outdoor space is with plants and trees. Whether it's a fir that's been in your yard for decades or some newly purchased ornamentals in containers, living plants give your home's exterior a natural embellishment.
When you step outside this season, what surprises await? While you probably won't be expecting a new car tied with a bow in your driveway, there are other less expensive ways to decorate your outdoor space with flair. One of the more traditional ways of sprucing up your yard, entryway or outdoor space is with plants and trees. Whether it's a fir that's been in your yard for decades or some newly purchased ornamentals in containers, living plants give your home's exterior a natural embellishment.
Kidney Shape with Elevations
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Three Pumpkins
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
10 Reasons for Pool Covers
Your swimming pool is aqua, the water is calm and still and the atmosphere is perfect, as close to paradise as you’re going to get in your backyard. You’ve worked hard and diligently to maintain the pool and keep it clean, and it reflects your efforts. Overnight, light winds pick up. The next morning, your pool is an unrecognizable pond full of leaves, twigs, and debris from last night’s winds. There goes your little piece of paradise! Consider these 10 reasons for buying a swimming pool cover.
Your swimming pool is aqua, the water is calm and still and the atmosphere is perfect, as close to paradise as you’re going to get in your backyard. You’ve worked hard and diligently to maintain the pool and keep it clean, and it reflects your efforts. Overnight, light winds pick up. The next morning, your pool is an unrecognizable pond full of leaves, twigs, and debris from last night’s winds. There goes your little piece of paradise! Consider these 10 reasons for buying a swimming pool cover.
Welcome to the Casbah
The third annual Dwell on Design event was held at the Los Angeles Convention Center June 5-8, 2008. Jam-packed into the four-day design fest hosted by Dwell magazine were conferences, exhibits, home tours and parties revolving around modern architecture and design. What we experienced: a pre-fab sustainable neighborhood completely landscaped and furnished; eco-friendly outdoor home furnishings; and discussions on everything form urban gardening to a mandated LEED program for LA.
The third annual Dwell on Design event was held at the Los Angeles Convention Center June 5-8, 2008. Jam-packed into the four-day design fest hosted by Dwell magazine were conferences, exhibits, home tours and parties revolving around modern architecture and design. What we experienced: a pre-fab sustainable neighborhood completely landscaped and furnished; eco-friendly outdoor home furnishings; and discussions on everything form urban gardening to a mandated LEED program for LA.
Sea of Poinsettias
Encinitas, CA, is where many of the world's top flower growers produce the most breathtaking blooms. Among them: Tamaya’s Orchids, The Flower Fields, and the Paul Ecke Ranch.[p] From 1929-1966, the Ecke Ranch produced poinsettia mother plants. For over 40 years, the 25-acre ranch's key focus has been growing poinsettia cultivars and shipping them to growers throughout the world.[p] Come inside the ranch, where more than 75% of U.S. and 50% of worldwide flower poinsettia plants get their start.
Encinitas, CA, is where many of the world's top flower growers produce the most breathtaking blooms. Among them: Tamaya’s Orchids, The Flower Fields, and the Paul Ecke Ranch.[p] From 1929-1966, the Ecke Ranch produced poinsettia mother plants. For over 40 years, the 25-acre ranch's key focus has been growing poinsettia cultivars and shipping them to growers throughout the world.[p] Come inside the ranch, where more than 75% of U.S. and 50% of worldwide flower poinsettia plants get their start.
Celebrity Swimming Pools
While swimming pools have been around since the days before the Hanging Towers of Babylon, in modern history, private backyard swimming pools really started to make a big splash after World War II. And guess who owned pools, were photographed in and near them, and unofficially sparked the trend that continues to grow more than 60 years later? Movie stars -- as in "Swimming pools, movie stars" (and Jed Clampett, Jethro, et al).
While swimming pools have been around since the days before the Hanging Towers of Babylon, in modern history, private backyard swimming pools really started to make a big splash after World War II. And guess who owned pools, were photographed in and near them, and unofficially sparked the trend that continues to grow more than 60 years later? Movie stars -- as in "Swimming pools, movie stars" (and Jed Clampett, Jethro, et al).
Big, Fat Green Bamboo
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Follow these creative solutions to gain some privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space.
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Follow these creative solutions to gain some privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space.
Red & Orange
Encinitas, CA, is where many of the world's top flower growers produce the most breathtaking blooms. Among them: Tamaya’s Orchids, The Flower Fields, and the Paul Ecke Ranch.[p] From 1929-1966, the Ecke Ranch produced poinsettia mother plants. For over 40 years, the 25-acre ranch's key focus has been growing poinsettia cultivars and shipping them to growers throughout the world.[p] Come inside the ranch, where more than 75% of U.S. and 50% of worldwide flower poinsettia plants get their start.
Encinitas, CA, is where many of the world's top flower growers produce the most breathtaking blooms. Among them: Tamaya’s Orchids, The Flower Fields, and the Paul Ecke Ranch.[p] From 1929-1966, the Ecke Ranch produced poinsettia mother plants. For over 40 years, the 25-acre ranch's key focus has been growing poinsettia cultivars and shipping them to growers throughout the world.[p] Come inside the ranch, where more than 75% of U.S. and 50% of worldwide flower poinsettia plants get their start.
Giant Bird of Paradise
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Toasty Fireplace Pumpkins
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
I'm Dreaming of a White Pumpkin
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Maybe you live in a region that's known for its brilliant fall foilage. Then again, maybe autumn is more like Indian summer, with some of the year's hottest days occurring after Labor Day. Wherever home may be, you can celebrate the change of season by decorating your porch, entryway, balcony and other outdoor living spaces with the colors, symbols and plants that show off autumn in all its glory. Need ideas? Take a leisurely stroll through this autumn photo gallery.
Circle in Wall
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
Not-Set-in-Stone Wall
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
Symmetry & Simplicity
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of seasons more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Polar Bear, Polar Bear
Encinitas, CA, is where many of the world's top flower growers produce the most breathtaking blooms. Among them: Tamaya’s Orchids, The Flower Fields, and the Paul Ecke Ranch.[p] From 1929-1966, the Ecke Ranch produced poinsettia mother plants. For over 40 years, the 25-acre ranch's key focus has been growing poinsettia cultivars and shipping them to growers throughout the world.[p] Come inside the ranch, where more than 75% of U.S. and 50% of worldwide flower poinsettia plants get their start.
Encinitas, CA, is where many of the world's top flower growers produce the most breathtaking blooms. Among them: Tamaya’s Orchids, The Flower Fields, and the Paul Ecke Ranch.[p] From 1929-1966, the Ecke Ranch produced poinsettia mother plants. For over 40 years, the 25-acre ranch's key focus has been growing poinsettia cultivars and shipping them to growers throughout the world.[p] Come inside the ranch, where more than 75% of U.S. and 50% of worldwide flower poinsettia plants get their start.
Spider at the Door
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Pool Planning 101
Curious about what it takes to build a swimming pool in your own backyard? Here are a few key points to consider before making the commitment.
Curious about what it takes to build a swimming pool in your own backyard? Here are a few key points to consider before making the commitment.
Showy Ornamental Grass: Porcupine Grass
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Ornamental Sweet Potato Vine
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
From the Ground Down
Follow along throughout the many stages it takes to build a new inground swimming pool. From digging the big pit to the final result, you'll witness the various steps and stages involved in a complete backyard swimming pool project. Not a do-it-yourself project, this pool includes a landscape architect, licensed pool contractor, subcontractors and crew.
Follow along throughout the many stages it takes to build a new inground swimming pool. From digging the big pit to the final result, you'll witness the various steps and stages involved in a complete backyard swimming pool project. Not a do-it-yourself project, this pool includes a landscape architect, licensed pool contractor, subcontractors and crew.
Round About
Each of the amazing designs for Project Playhouse are built by teams of contractors, builders, architects, interior designers, and landscapers. Now in its 17th year, Project Playhouse debuted in 1992 in Orange County, CA, and is the largest event of its kind in the U.S. The playhouses are on display to the public then sold at live auctions. Proceeds benefit each city's local chapter of HomeAid, a national nonprofit that builds dignified housing for homeless families and individuals.
Each of the amazing designs for Project Playhouse are built by teams of contractors, builders, architects, interior designers, and landscapers. Now in its 17th year, Project Playhouse debuted in 1992 in Orange County, CA, and is the largest event of its kind in the U.S. The playhouses are on display to the public then sold at live auctions. Proceeds benefit each city's local chapter of HomeAid, a national nonprofit that builds dignified housing for homeless families and individuals.
Poolside Cabanas at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Planning a pool project? No doubt you've been looking at photo after photo of swimming pools and spas of all kinds of sizes, shapes and styles. How about a little inspiration from some of the most luxurious world-class hotels? Maybe you can replicate one that comes close to your "dream pool" -- on a slightly smaller scale, of course.
Britta Peterson Interview
Have you hit a 'dead end' when it comes to decorating your yard for Halloween? Britta Peterson, 'Webmistress of the Dark,' guides you through Halloween prop design and party planning in her book, Eerie Elegance. Friends have described Peterson as a cross between Martha Stewart and Tim Burton, which she takes as a compliment. Possessed with design talents and DIY know-how, Peterson also is an accomplished party-cuisine chef, web designer and is a well-organized party planner. Meet Britta...
Have you hit a 'dead end' when it comes to decorating your yard for Halloween? Britta Peterson, 'Webmistress of the Dark,' guides you through Halloween prop design and party planning in her book, Eerie Elegance. Friends have described Peterson as a cross between Martha Stewart and Tim Burton, which she takes as a compliment. Possessed with design talents and DIY know-how, Peterson also is an accomplished party-cuisine chef, web designer and is a well-organized party planner. Meet Britta...
Sliding Shoji Screens
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
Fiesta at the Border
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Follow these creative solutions to gain some privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space.
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Follow these creative solutions to gain some privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space.
Holiday Hanger
When you step outside this season, what surprises await? While you probably won't be expecting a new car tied with a bow in your driveway, there are other less expensive ways to decorate your outdoor space with flair. One of the more traditional ways of sprucing up your yard, entryway or outdoor space is with plants and trees. Whether it's a fir that's been in your yard for decades or some newly purchased ornamentals in containers, living plants give your home's exterior a natural embellishment.
When you step outside this season, what surprises await? While you probably won't be expecting a new car tied with a bow in your driveway, there are other less expensive ways to decorate your outdoor space with flair. One of the more traditional ways of sprucing up your yard, entryway or outdoor space is with plants and trees. Whether it's a fir that's been in your yard for decades or some newly purchased ornamentals in containers, living plants give your home's exterior a natural embellishment.
Giant Crest Fit for the King of Pop
One of the volumes for the auction of Michael Jackson's Neverland estate features garden statuary and outdoor furniture. While Neverland is nevermore, back in its heyday, the 2,500-acre compound boasted an amusement park, zoo, statuary and patio furniture. On opening day of the Jackson collection’s preview exhibit in Beverly Hills, the much-hyped auction of 1,400 was canceled. Details were few, but basically Jackson won a court order to halt the auction because he wanted to keep some stuff.
One of the volumes for the auction of Michael Jackson's Neverland estate features garden statuary and outdoor furniture. While Neverland is nevermore, back in its heyday, the 2,500-acre compound boasted an amusement park, zoo, statuary and patio furniture. On opening day of the Jackson collection’s preview exhibit in Beverly Hills, the much-hyped auction of 1,400 was canceled. Details were few, but basically Jackson won a court order to halt the auction because he wanted to keep some stuff.
Wrought Iron Patio Set
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foilage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.