Home Improvement 240412

HOME improvement

Outdoor Oasis

Transform your porch or balcony into a cozy haven

Riley Sterling Creators.com

As the weather warms and the days lengthen, there’s nothing quite like embracing the outdoors from the comfort of your own home. Whether you have a spacious veranda or a cozy apartment balcony, you can easily create a welcoming retreat perfect for enjoying the beauty of spring and summer. All it takes is creativity and an imaginative vision to fully realize your outdoor space as a place where you can relax, have fun and make memories for many seasons to come.

Sit Back and Relax

The cornerstone of any in-

viting outdoor space is comfortable seating. Invest in quality outdoor furniture that not only looks great but also provides a cozy spot to unwind after a long day. Consider options like plush armchairs, cushioned benches or a charming porch swing, depending on the size and layout of your space.

For smaller balconies, space-saving furniture such as foldable bistro sets or compact loveseats can maximize seating without overwhelming the area. Adding soft cushions and throw pillows in vibrant colors and patterns to inject

personality and comfort into your seating arrangement.

Garden Vibes

Bring the beauty of nature to your porch or balcony with an array of colorful planters filled with seasonal blooms and lush greenery. Whether you prefer cascading vines, fragrant herbs or vibrant flowers, potted plants can instantly brighten up your outdoor space and create a refreshing atmosphere.

Mix and match different plant varieties and container styles to add visual interest and Outdoor Oasis |

dimension to your porch or balcony. Hang planters from railings or overhead hooks, place larger pots on the floor, and incorporate smaller containers on side tables or shelves. Don’t forget to water and fertilize your plants regularly to keep them thriving throughout the season.

Light It Up

Extend the enjoyment of your outdoor oasis into the evening hours with the warm glow of string lights. Whether draped along railings, wrapped around columns or hung overhead, these twinkling lights can add a magical ambiance to your porch or balcony after dark.

It’s important that you use weather-resistant LED string lights that are safe for outdoor use. They come in various lengths and styles to suit your space. Soft, warm-tone, bulbshaped lights are perfect for any space. Create a cozy atmosphere by strategically placing lights around seating areas, weaving them through foliage, or outlining the perimeter of your outdoor space. Dimmer

YOUR HOME

Kelly’s Property Services: Specialists in revitalizing interior & exterior spaces

Since 1989, Northborough native and longtime Southborough resident Bryan Kelly and his team at Kelly’s Property Services has transformed homes and exceeded expectations by delivering exceptional service with unwavering integrity, unparalleled craftsmanship and a commitment to forming professional lasting relationships built on trust. They strive to create spaces that inspire and bring joy to their clients, while upholding the highest standards in every aspect of their work.

Bryan Kelly understands that every home is unique, which is why he offers tailor-made solutions to meet each client’s specific requirements. He believes communication is the key to their success. His team works closely with you to ensure that your vision becomes a reality, from concept to completion — on interior and exterior projects throughout your home.

Exterior Services:

• Professional Painting: From the comprehensive estimate to the final clean up, their seasoned crews remain focused on your project with exemplary follow through, top workmanship and maintenance of a clean, safe work environment for you and your family. Their meticulous preparation and skillful application will provide you with a job that will not only improve your home’s value but will protect it for years to come.

• Roof Replacement: Kelly’s GAF and Certainteed installers will ensure that your roofing system is installed properly. They offer tailored solutions for a professionally flashed roofing system to prevent water infiltration, and permits are pulled for all roofing projects.

• Window, Skylight, Door and Siding Installation and Replacement: Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home’s appearance or increase its energy efficiency, Kelly’s experts are here to help. Their professional installers use only top quality products that will increase curb appeal, while still working within your existing budget (i.e., Certainteed and Everlast siding and Andersen, Pella and Harvey windows).

• Deck and Balcony Construction: Extend your living space outdoors with a beautifully designed deck or balcony. Kelly’s experienced team will create a perfect outdoor living space where you can relax and entertain family and friends, using only the highest quality materials from Azek, Trex and TimberTech decking and railing systems.

• Expert Carpentry and Repair: Kelly’s is known for their custom finish carpentry. If you need expert carpentry services, their uniformed finish carpenters are skilled in building mantled entrance doors, porticos and farmers’ porches. They will also install custom trim and replace rotted wood on your home’s exterior.

Interior Revitalization:

From painting and finish carpentry, wall coverings, built-ins and ceiling treatments to updated stair railings and balconies — the expert craftsmen at Kelly’s Property Services will help you realize your expectations for a renovation, restoration, or updating project — all while taking layout, functionality and aesthetics of your home into consideration.

Their staff focuses on superior workmanship and attention to every detail — all while maintaining a clean, safe environment, completing the work on time, on budget, and with minimum disruption, and most importantly, with the fit and finish that you expect, one that your home deserves.

Along the way, Kelly’s project managers are in constant communication to be certain that the results will meet your expectations and underscore the beauty and sophistication of your home.

Multi-Trade Specialists

When you employ Kelly’s you eliminate the need to manage multiple contractors and subs. This provides the home owner with the ability to work with one company to manage the entire project, adding convenience while saving time and money.

In the event your project calls for a major redesign, they can work with your interior designer, or their own to create an environment that is welcoming and truly representative of your distinctive taste.

As a licensed general contractor with decades of experience, they manage all aspects of your improvement projects, including:

• Cabinet Painting: Transform your kitchen with cabinet paint and new hardware for a fraction of the cost of new ones.

• Custom Woodwork: Enhance the visual appeal of your home by upgrading the woodwork in areas like kitchens,

living areas, mantels and foyers. Adding layers of woodwork such as crown molding, shiplap ceiling treatments or custom wainscoting can bring depth and sophistication to these spaces.

• Paint & Coatings: Consider repainting your walls in a new color palette that suits your desired aesthetic. Whether you prefer neutral tones for a modern look or vibrant hues for a bold statement, a fresh coat of paint can instantly transform the atmosphere of your home. Only the highest quality paints, like Benjamin Moore, are used to create a flawless finish.

• Floor Refinishing: If your current flooring is worn or dated (orange-patina hardwood floors), let the Kelly team transform it to the new light-colored (ash) look of today’s interior design trends.

• Wall Coverings: From wallpaper, artwork and fabrics, we work with our designer or yours to achieve the home of your dreams.

• Light Fixtures: Kelly’s lighting experts will install recessed lighting, sconces and chandeliers to your specifications.

Exceptional Craftsmanship

No matter the size or scope of your project, they specialize in doing the job right the first time. From start to finish, their dedicated team will work closely with you to meet your unique needs and ensure your complete satisfaction.

Let the Kelly team help you reimagine, revitalize and recreate your dream home. Learn more in their ad below, or contact them at 888-KELLY-11 or kellyspropertyservices.com for a free consultation.

Outdoor Oasis

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switches or remote controls can also allow you to adjust the brightness and mood of your lighting scheme with ease. There are even certain lights that flicker like a fire, making them the perfect match for smaller spaces or anywhere fire pits are not permitted.

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eas and add texture underfoot. Choose durable, weather-resistant rugs in vibrant colors or playful patterns of your choosing. Additionally, don’t forget to accessorize with lanterns, candles, and outdoor-friendly accessories to enhance the overall ambiance and functionality

Consider incorporating outdoor rugs to define seating areas and add texture underfoot. Choose durable, weather-resistant rugs in vibrant colors or playful patterns of your choosing.

Make It Yours

Make your porch or balcony feel like an extension of your indoor living space by incorporating personal touches and decorative accents. Hang artwork or mirrors on walls to add visual interest and create the illusion of a larger area. Display potted herbs or citrus fruits in decorative baskets or crates for a touch of freshness and fragrance.

Consider incorporating outdoor rugs to define seating ar-

of your porch or balcony. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can transform your porch or balcony into a cozy haven that’s perfect for enjoying spring and summer activities. No matter the style of decoration you choose in your pursuit of personalizing your outdoor space, the most important thing is that it relaxes you, brings you peace, and is a space that you can envision as a charming oasis for all to enjoy.

Give your walls a new lease on life

Aaron Brown Creators.com

In the realm of home decor, there are few transformations as striking and effective as a fresh coat of paint or the application of wallpaper. Whether you’re aiming to infuse your space with tranquility or make a bold statement, both options offer diverse opportunities for elevating your home’s aesthetic appeal. From light and airy hues that evoke a sense of serenity to bold patterns and textures that demand attention, the possibilities are endless. So, if you’re ready to breathe new life into your home, consider picking up a paintbrush or exploring the world of wallpaper.

Light and Airy Tones vs. Classic Elegance: Choosing Your Palette

For those seeking a peaceful oasis within their home, light and airy colors provide the perfect solution. Soft blues, such as powder blue or aqua, evoke the calming presence of the sky and sea, promoting a sense of peace and harmony. Similarly, soft greens, such as sage or mint, bring the rejuvenating essence of nature indoors. Paired with crisp white trim and natural wood accents, these shades can transform any room into a serene retreat.

timeless and sophisticated look, consider adorning your walls with classic floral or damask prints. These tradi tional patterns evoke a sense of elegance and charm, add ing a touch of romance to any room. Whether you prefer delicate roses, lush botanicals or intricate damask motifs, these wallpapers can create a sense of warmth and intimacy in your home.

ette, consider warm whites or pale grays. These versatile shades provide a subtle back drop for your furnishings and decor while creating an open and inviting atmosphere. With their timeless appeal, they can easily adapt to changing styles and trends, ensuring your space remains fresh and invit ing for years to come. Lighten

By Evan Walsh Reporter

GRAFTON – Gemme Painting has operated for over 100 years, spans four generations and has accumulated thousands of satisfied customers over the decades.

Yet the family-owned, Grafton-based company has achieved this longevity by focusing on one basic principle: quality.

First started in 1907 by Paul Gemme, the company has a storied history. After returning from military service in 1945, Ernest W. Gemme – the company’s namesake – took over the business, eventually handing the reins to his son, Roger Gemme, in 1965.

The company incorporated in 1980, and shortly after, Rene Gemme – the fourth generation of Gemme family ownership – started working summers for the business, painting fences, sheds, and

“

We’re full-service home improvement. They don’t have to call a carpenter. They don’t have to call a painter. I do it all, and that’s what customers like.

learning the trade. After graduating high school, he joined the company full time in 1993, and in 2020, Rene Gemme became the company’s new president.

The family has high-quality painting, power-washing, and carpentry services.

“When we enter the house, we’re expected to bring quality. With our company being older and the people we have, people just expect quality when we enter and when we leave. We don’t cut corners, we use quality material. We stay with the same values we

have been working with for 100 years,” Rene Gemme told the Community Advocate in an interview at the company’s Grafton office.

The company uses topnotch materials – including oil-based primer – for painting jobs, and every project comes with the guarantee of world-class workmanship that generations have come to depend on. E.W. Gemme has attracted customers that became dissatisfied with the level of service at other companies.

Impressed with the work

– and reassured by the company’s focus on quality from prep work to painting – many repeat customers ask the company back to work on other projects. Cheapest is not always the best, said Gemme. It’s as the company writes on its website: “It costs less to get it done right the first time.”

The commitment to quality is also reflected in how E.W. Gemme treats its workers. The company attracts top-tier talent by offering employees vacation time and benefits. Employees are happy with their jobs, and it reflects in the work. The company “takes care of its men,” Gemme said.

With carpentry – including wall and ceiling repairs, window replacement, and more – power washing and painting experience, E.W. Gemme is able to offer a convenient, one-stop home-improvement option. Jason Gemme, the head foreman and Roger Gemme’s nephew, also helps the fully insured family business.

“We’re full-service home

improvement. They don’t have to call a carpenter. They don’t have to call a painter. I do it all, and that’s what customers like. The more you can do for your customer, the better it is for them,” Gemme said.

In addition to focusing on quality, Gemme said the business is built on trust.

“I want customers to trust us. We’re honest with them, so they trust us. You have to be respectful to the customer. A lot of the time customers will say, ‘Oh, I didn’t even hear you guys here. You were so quiet!’ I love to hear that. That’s part of being courteous – the family is happy with us and their experience,” he said.

For more information on E.W. Gemme and Sons Co., Inc., please visit the company’s website: https://www. ewgemmeandsons.com/. For a quote, please call (508) 839-4775 (Grafton) or (508) 757-5239 (Worcester). The company services every town in the Community Advocate coverage area

Lighten Up with Paint or Wallpaper |

from page 5

Bold Accent Walls vs. Modern Sophistication: Making a Statement with Color or Design

For those who crave drama and excitement in their interiors, a bold accent wall can serve as the perfect focal point-

Deep shades of emerald green or sapphire blue add a touch of luxury and sophistication to a space, creating a sense of opulence and drama. Alternatively, consider rich jewel tones such as amethyst purple or ruby red for a bold and adventurous look. These daring

hues demand attention and create a sense of energy and vitality, making them perfect for entertaining spaces such as dining rooms or home offices. Paired with metallic accents and plush textures, these colors can transform even the most ordinary room into a

glamorous retreat.

If you’re drawn to clean lines and contemporary aesthetics, geometric and abstract wallpapers may be the perfect choice for you. These bold patterns feature geometric shapes, abstract motifs and striking color combinations that add a sense of modernity and sophistication to any space. Whether you opt for a subtle tone-on-tone design or a vibrant statement print, geometric and abstract wallpapers can infuse your home with personality and style.

If you prefer a more subtle approach to color, opt for a moody charcoal or navy accent wall. These dark, sophisticated shades add depth and dimension to a room while providing a striking contrast to lighter furnishings and decor.

Choosing the Right Option for Your Home

Whether you choose to paint your walls with a splash of color or embrace the versatility of wallpaper, the key is to consider the overall mood and ambiance you want to create. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect solution for your home. With a fresh coat of paint or the application of wallpaper, you can transform your space and breathe new life into your surroundings.

©2024 Benjamin Moore & Co. Woodluxe, Aura, Ben, and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co.

From Bare to Beautiful

Spring into life and transform your blank canvas

gardeners everywhere eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring.

As winter’s icy grip loosens and the days grow longer,

For those embarking on the adventure of creating a garden from scratch, the season pres-

ents an exciting opportunity to design a space bursting with life and color. Whether you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned green thumb, crafting your

ideal spring garden involves careful planning and consideration of various elements.

From layout to plant selection and everything in between,

here’s how to design a spring garden that will become the envy of the neighborhood.

Layout and Structure

Before diving into plant selection, it’s essential to establish the layout and structure of your garden. Start by assessing the available space and considering factors such as sunlight exposure, soil quality and existing features like trees or structures. Sketching out a rough plan on paper can help visualize how different elements will fit together.

Consider creating distinct areas within your garden, each serving a specific purpose. For example, you might designate one area for colorful annual flowers, another for a tranquil water feature and a third for a cozy seating area. Incorporating pathways or walkways between these areas not only

Aaron Brown Creators.com

adds visual interest but also enhances accessibility and flow.

Choosing Shrubs and Trees

Shrubs and trees form the backbone of any garden, providing structure, texture and year-round interest. When selecting plants for your spring garden, consider factors such as size, shape and seasonal characteristics. Choose a mix of evergreen and deciduous shrubs to ensure year-round color and texture and opt for trees that offer seasonal interest through flowers, foliage or fruit.

For spring blooms, consider varieties such as cherry blossoms, magnolias and flowering dogwoods. These trees not only provide stunning displays of color but also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding to the garden’s biodiversity. When planting shrubs and trees, pay attention to spacing and placement to allow for adequate growth and prevent overcrowding as the garden matures.

Creating Focal Points

Every garden benefits from focal points that draw the eye and create visual interest. Whether it’s a striking sculpture, a colorful flower bed or a dramatic architectural feature, incorporating focal points adds depth and personality to your garden design. Consider placing focal points strategically along pathways or at key vantage points to create a sense of journey and discovery as visitors explore the garden.

When selecting focal points, choose elements that reflect your personal style and complement the overall theme of the garden. Don’t be afraid to get creative -- repurposed materials, found objects and DIY projects can all make unique and eye-catching focal points that add character to your garden space.

Incorporating Walkways

Walkways serve both practical and aesthetic purposes in the garden, providing access while also guiding visitors through the space. When designing walkways for your spring garden, consider factors such as material, width and pattern. Materials such as gravel, stone pavers and wood decking offer durability and visual interest, while curved or meandering pathways add a sense of whimsy and charm.

THE RIGHT HOME STARTS WITH THE RIGHT MORTGAGE.

From Bare to Beautiful | from page 9

However, be sure to consider potential accessibility issues when choosing your materials. Looser materials, such as some soft bark and some types of gravel, can be difficult or impossible to navigate for those who use mobility devices such as wheelchairs, scooters or walkers.

Pay attention to the scale and proportion of walkways relative to the surrounding landscape, ensuring they complement rather than overwhelm the garden design. Incorporating curves or gentle bends can help soften the edges and create a more naturalistic feel. Consider lining walkways with plantings or bordering them with lowgrowing ground covers to further integrate them into the garden environment.

Designing a spring garden from scratch is a labor of love that requires careful planning, creativity and patience. By considering all of the above elements, you can create a garden that delights the senses and provides enjoyment throughout the seasons. So roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools and get ready to bring your dream garden to life this spring!

Tips for Hiring a Handyman

B e vigilant when it comes to inviting people into your home for repairs, maintenance and other contract work.

Find handymen to screen

The best way to start this process is to speak with local friends and family about whom they have used. Word of mouth is the best advertisement someone can have.

Another way to find possible leads is to pick up your local newspaper, but remember, advertising does not automatically mean credible.

Ask questions during the screening process

Ask for references and check them out. Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call to see if someone was happy with the work they received and the contractor’s conduct. Remember, you are inviting this person into your home. Also ask questions about the handyman’s experience and abilities.

Be wary of door-to-door handymen who just happen to be in your neighborhood and see you need some repair work, especially if they use scare tactics.

Make a list of what you need

Have a clear idea and write it down. Though there are many handymen with a tremendous range of skills, you can’t assume anything. It is important to go over the list with the handyman during the screening process. Your goal is to decide if this person will properly complete the job you’re hiring him to do.

Make sure the handyman is licensed and insured

No matter how uncomfortable it may feel, it is not unreasonable and you should ask for proof of insurance and current license. Be sure to check expiration dates. Each state is different, so you’ll want

to check with your local business inspector or city hall. You can also go online to your local Department of Business and Professional Regulation website and look up information there. If the contractor does not have insurance, don’t forget, no matter how petty the job is, the liability of an accident could be your responsibility.

Ask how the handyman charges

Do they charge by the hour, half hour or by the job? How do they want to be paid? Do they provide free estimates?

Finally, remember that all handymen are not necessarily jacks of all trades. They come from all walks of life and all sorts of interesting backgrounds.

Smart Summer Shades

Stylish, efficient ways to cool the house down

Riley Sterling Creators.com

As temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, keeping your home cool and comfortable becomes a top priority. However, maintaining privacy while still allowing natural light to filter in can be a challenge. Fear not, as stylish window treatments offer the perfect solution to beat

the heat and enhance privacy while adding a touch of elegance to your space.

Solar Shades

Solar shades are a contemporary and practical option for combating the heat while preserving your view and privacy. Crafted from specialized fabrics, these shades effectively block harmful UV rays and glare without sacrificing natu-

ral light. They act as a shield, keeping your interiors cooler and preventing furniture and flooring from fading due to sun exposure.

When selecting solar shades, opt for those with a high UV protection factor. These shades not only protect your home but also safeguard your health by reducing the risk of UV-related skin damage. Choose neutral tones like gray

Take advantage of the biggest heating and cooling rebates ever.

or beige to complement any decor style, or opt for darker shades for a more dramatic effect.

Bamboo Blinds

For those seeking an ecofriendly and stylish option, bamboo blinds are the perfect choice. These lightweight and breezy blinds add a touch of nature to your interiors while providing excellent light con-

trol and privacy. Bamboo’s natural insulating properties help regulate indoor temperatures, keeping your home cool during the sweltering summer months.

If you have a gas or oil heating system in your home, 2024 is the best year ever to replace it. Your replacement heating and cooling system could be at practically no cost – if you act now!

Current rebates can add up to a savings of $16,000. Plus: no interest Mass Save heat loans are available up to $50,000!

more today!

Bamboo blinds come in various weaves and finishes, allowing you to customize the level of light filtration and privacy according to your preferences. From tightly woven designs that block out light to loosely woven styles that create a dappled effect, there’s a bamboo blind to suit every need. Enhance the organic appeal of your space by pairing bamboo blinds with earthy decor elements like rattan furniture and indoor plants.

Fabric Roller Shades

Inject personality into your space with fabric roller shades featuring summery patterns and vibrant colors. These playful window treatments not only add a pop of visual interest but also offer effective light control and privacy. Choose your perfect pattern, such as tropical motifs, floral prints and geometric designs, to

evoke a sense of summer all year round.

Fabric roller shades are highly versatile, allowing you to adjust the amount of light entering your room with ease. Opt for sheer or light-filtering fabrics to maintain a soft, diffused glow, or select room-darkening options for enhanced privacy and light blockage. Coordinate your roller shades with complementary accent pillows and throws to create a cohesive and inviting ambiance.

How to Select the Perfect Window Treatments

1. Consider your needs. Assess your requirements regarding light control, privacy and style preferences before selecting window treatments.

2. Measure accurately. Take precise measurements of your windows to ensure a perfect fit for your chosen treatments.

3. Explore options. Explore a variety of window treatment styles, materials and patterns to find the perfect match for your space.

4. Prioritize quality. Invest in high-quality window treatments that are durable, easy to maintain and offer long-lasting performance.

5. Seek professional advice. Consult with interior designers or window treatment specialists to receive expert guidance and recommendations tailored to your needs.

Beating the heat and enhancing privacy doesn’t mean sacrificing style and aesthetic appeal. With an array of stylish window treatments available, you can transform your space into a cool, comfortable and visually stunning retreat.

Upcycled Garden Delights

Reduce waste while adding personality to your garden

Riley Sterling Creators.com

In a world that increasingly values sustainability and creative reuse, upcycling has become more important than ever.

Upcycling involves transforming discarded or unused items into something new and useful, giving them a second life. One exciting and rewarding way to embrace this eco-friendly practice is by upcycling household objects into charming garden additions. By utilizing old furniture, tires, pallets and other items you may have thought you had no further use for, you will add the perfect personal touch to your garden, all while saving money and preventing waste.

Furniture Revival

Old furniture pieces that may seem destined for the landfill can find new purpose as eye-catching garden planters. Wooden chairs, dressers and even end tables can be transformed into charming containers for your favorite plants.

Consider removing drawers from an old

dresser and filling each compartment with soil for a multilevel planter. Alternatively, turn a wooden chair into a whimsical flower bed by removing the seat and replacing it with a container filled with vibrant blooms. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to inject your garden with character while reducing waste.

Windows

Before you consider discarding old windows, think about the creative possibilities they hold for your garden. Convert them into picturesque garden frames by removing the glass panes and replacing them with chicken wire or lattice. Lean the window frames against a wall or fence, allowing climbing plants to weave their way through, creating a charming vertical garden. Alternatively, suspend windows from sturdy branches to craft a hanging garden or create a DIY greenhouse by arranging multiple windows to form a shelter for delicate plants.

The transparency of windows adds a touch of elegance to your garden while serving as functional and aesthetically pleasing plant showcases. Embrace the uniqueness of each window frame and let your garden flourish behind these repur-

posed architectural wonders.

Pallets

Wooden pallets, often discarded after serving their original purpose, are a versatile resource for upcycling projects. Transform a pallet into a vertical garden by attaching plant containers to its slats. This not only maximizes space but also creates a visually stunning arrangement.

For a rustic herb garden, stand a pallet upright, fill the gaps with soil and plant your favorite herbs in each section. Pallets can also be dismantled and used to construct raised garden beds, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional gardening materials.

Bird Feeders

Give birds a reason to flock to your garden by upcycling household items into unique bird feeders. Turn teacups into charming hanging bird feeders by attaching them to a vintage saucer. Wine bottles, when inverted and mounted on a wooden platform, become stylish bird feeders that add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. Consider repurposing old kitchen colanders as bird feeders by suspending them from a tree branch, creating a quirky and functional addition

to your garden.

Attic Surprises Rummage through your attic or storage space for forgotten treasures that can be repurposed as garden decor. Vintage tin cans can be transformed into whimsical lanterns by punching decorative patterns into the metal and placing a candle inside. Old ladders can be repurposed as trellises for climbing plants, adding vertical interest to your garden. Embrace the shabby-chic aesthetic by repur-

posing worn-out picture frames as decorative accents for your garden, creating a unique and personalized outdoor gallery. Each upcycled creation tells a story and contributes to a more sustainable and visually appealing garden oasis. So, grab your paintbrush, dust off those forgotten items, and embark on a journey to turn trash into treasure, one garden project at a time. Your garden will thank you, and you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of creating something beautiful from the unlikeliest of sources.

Splash Into Summer

Give your pool a fresh look for the season

Aaron Brow Creators.com

As the temperatures rise and the sun stretches its rays across the sky, it's time to dust off those poolside loungers and prepare for a season of refreshing dips and endless relaxation. But why settle for the same old pool setup when you can give it a vibrant makeover that screams summer excitement? Whether you're aiming to create a tropical oasis or a playful aquatic wonderland, here are some tips to help you transform your pool into the ultimate summer hotspot.

Paint the Edging a New Color

First impressions matter, and nothing sets the tone for your pool area quite like its edging. Say goodbye to drab concrete or faded tiles and

ful pool floats and inflatables. From giant unicorns to oversized watermelons, these playful accessories instantly elevate the fun factor of your pool and beckon guests to dive into a world of aquatic adventure.

Choose floats that reflect your personality and style, whether it's a classic inflatable ring for lazy lounging or a novelty float shaped like your favorite fruit. Mix and match different shapes, sizes and colors to create an eclectic and eye-catching display that will have everyone clamoring to take a dip.

Additionally, consider investing in inflatable games and toys such as basketball hoops or water volleyball sets to keep guests entertained and active. With a variety of options available, you can tailor your pool experience to suit both children and adults, ensuring endless hours of enjoyment for everyone.

Install a Fun Waterslide for the Kids

For families with young children, a waterslide is the ultimate backyard addition that promises hours of laughter and excitement. Transform your pool into a mini water park

with a slide that twists, turns and splashes into the refreshing depths below, providing endless entertainment for kids of all ages.

When selecting a waterslide, prioritize safety and quality to ensure peace of mind and longevity. Choose a slide with sturdy construction, secure anchoring and smooth, slippery surfaces to minimize the risk of accidents and maximize the fun. Additionally, consider the size and layout of your pool area to determine the most suitable slide design and placement for optimal enjoyment and accessibility.

With a waterslide as the centerpiece of your pool makeover, you'll create cherished memories and moments of pure joy for your family and friends. From thrilling descents to triumphant splashes, each slide ride is sure to be met with squeals of delight and eager anticipation for the next aquatic adventure.

A pool makeover for summer is the perfect opportunity to infuse your outdoor space with color, creativity and endless fun. Unleash your imagination, embrace the spirit of summer and prepare to bask in the sunshine with a poolside paradise like no other.