Our House - March 13, 2023

Six important factors to consider when buying furniture OUR HOUSE | INTERIOR

Buying furniture can be an exciting prospect. The opportunity to breathe new life into a home with the addition of different furnishings inspires many people. However, at the same time, searching for furniture can be a tad overwhelming, especially when homeowners do not know where to begin.

While furniture may not be the most costly investment, it’s also not the cheapest, which is why getting it right is important.

Determine your needs

The first step in purchasing new furniture is to decide what is needed. Assess current furniture and think about what works for certain pieces and what doesn’t. Then you can gear purchases around desired features. For example, if you’ve determined chenille fabric holds on to too much pet fur, the next couch may be leather or microfiber.

Measure more than once

Measure your room multiple times and create a mock floor plan. This will help when figuring out if certain pieces can fit into the space. Some retailers even offer

floor plan software on their websites so that you can upload the dimensions of your room and see how certain items will fit in your spaces. In addition, be sure to measure the width of doors to ensure that it’s easy to get the furniture into the home when delivered.

Determine your style

Figure out which style best fits your personality and lifestyle. This may incluce traditional, transitional, modern or contemporary. Incorporate pieces accordingly, or mix and match to create a look that is completely unique.

Confirm materials

Consider your budget when choosing the construction materials for the furniture. Solid wood tends to be more expensive, but often more durable than engineered products. In addition, check to see how items are built. Pull out drawers and check hinges to ensure the quality is there.

Save money on sales

Furniture can be expensive, but there is room for savings. Shop when retailers offer seasonal sales. Consider warehouse retailers or 'discount' stores like Home Goods, At Home and Big Lots who routinely get new merchandise that changes with the season, helping homeowners to refresh their spaces without having to dig deep into their pockets. Shop the high-end stores for inspiration, then try to find "dupes" in the discount stores that will mimic the looks for less.

Read the reviews

Before taking the plunge, be sure to read reviews of items and retailers. While items may appear perfect, reviews can shed light on how pieces stand up to wear and tear.

Earth Day – A Commitment to Change

This Earth Day, let’s do something radically different! For the past 53 Earth Days, April 22 has come and gone – sometimes the day was celebrated with renewed optimism. Other years, the day passed with little fanfare.

We should make this Earth Day the one where we commit to change our habits and double-down on our actions to provide for a better, more sustainable environment for future generations.

Back on April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day was a beautiful spring day on Long Island. Across Long Island and throughout the United States, a movement started that focused on the importance of protecting and preserving our environment. No one can argue that our na-

tion has made great progress. Over the past 53 years, we have seen monumental strides in the legislation passed into law, including the newly added Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. The land is cleaner as thousands of old dumpsites and hazardous waste sites have been identified and remediated. Regulations have put an end to smokestacks pumping black smoke into the air we breathe. Vehicle emissions have been drastically cut. Roadside litter has been reduced. Rivers, harbors, and our

Long Island Sound are no longer discharge basins for raw sewerage.

Even though we have made great strides, there is still much more to do. One particular problem is the staggering amount of garbage and trash that is generated. Every person on Long Island produces an average of 4.8 pounds of waste each day. It doesn’t sound like much until you do the math and realize that the 2,800,000 people who live on Long Island produce a whopping 13,000,000 pounds of garbage -- every single day.

As Long Island’s largest recycler, Winters Bros. wants to see recycling grow. However, recycling is just part of the solution. Additional measures are needed to reduce the amount of waste that is being generated. We need to advance zero-waste solutions. We also should push for Minimum Recycling Content Legislation that will create robust markets for materials recovered through existing recycling programs. Minimum Recycling Content Legislation will support the use of recovered materials and encourage this material to be manufactured into new products and packages, thereby closing the loop. Strengthening end markets for recycled materials will encourage, rather than disrupt, the recycling industry’s ongoing plans to invest in new processing and collection infrastructure and innovation throughout the state.

5 signs it's time to renovate

Homeowners renovate their homes for a variety of reasons. Renovations can increase the value of a property and make homes safer and more comfortable for their occupants. Improvements also can be made to stay current with the times or to give a home a new vibe.

Market research company Statista projects $510 billion will be spent on home improvements in 2024. The home improvement market is generating significant revenue. In fact, nearly a quarter of Americans opting to renovate their homes will spend an average of $10,000 on their projects.

Kitchens and bathrooms often get the most attention when it comes to home improvement.

However, every room and space in a home may need a renovation at some point, and the following are five signs it’s time to renovate.

AGE OF HOME

The National Association of Home Builders states that 50 percent of U.S. homes are over the age of 40. That means that age alone could dictate a need to renovate, particularly if some materials are original to the home. For example, asphalt roofs typically last 25 to 30 years, while window frames can last 20 to 50 years depending on how well they have been maintained.

INCONVENIENT LAYOUT

Some homeowners scratch their heads when faced with awkward floor plan layouts. While one may live with the inconvenience for some time, typically a floor plan that isn’t working for the homeowner is a major driver of renovations.

OUTDATED LOOKS

A home can look dated even if it is a relatively recent build. That’s because trends change quickly. For example, dark, cherry cabinets that were popular just a little while ago have now been replaced by lighter color palettes. Homeowners whose homes do not match the looks emulated in design magazines may consider a change, particularly if they’re planning to sell soon.

DETERIORATION

Signs of water, storm or structural damage should be addressed as soon as possible. Any deterioration should be a strong indicator that it’s time to renovate.

EFFICIENCY

Escalating utility bills could be indicative of an inefficient home. Homeowners can conduct energy audits and then improve the areas where energy loss may be occurring, such as windows, doors, siding, and insulation.

OUR HOUSE | INTERIOR

Top kitchen trends to try on any budget

When designing your dream kitchen, it's important to balance timeless features with modern colors, patterns and textures that reflect your personality and style — especially since, now more than ever, it provides a place to cook, eat, work and entertain. A beautifully designed kitchen can also boost the home's resale value in the future.

"Kitchen design trends for 2023 nod to the past and focus on increasing convenience, comfort and personal style," said Kaley Galinksy of The Home Depot. "Whether you're planning on renovating, remodeling, or simply updating your existing space, there is endless inspiration and affordable ways to achieve the most sought-after trends for kitchens in the coming year."

Here are five kitchen design trends that will be big this year.

Return to traditionalist

This year you'll see a return to classic, timeless and sophisticated black that offers a sense of comfort and familiarity of traditional designs. To update your home so that it's always in style, choose classic, timeless palettes of black, white, creams and neutrals.

If you want to add interest to your home, use patterns and classic materials like marble, especially when it comes to your kitchen. High-contrast kitchens with classic lines and black finished cabinets and countertops are making a comeback

and result in a striking kitchen makeover. Cabinetry has a heavy influence on your kitchen's overall design style and can help you achieve a new look in less time. With a cabinet makeover, you keep your existing kitchen layout and get allnew doors, drawer fronts and hardware, plus optional upgrades such as pull-out shelves, cabinet lighting and more.

Art deco revival

This year interior designers are predicting a renewed interest in the art deco styles of the roaring '20s. To achieve this trend in your home, incorporate brighter colors, geometric patterns, luxurious fabrics and shiny surfaces. Add or replace the backsplash in your kitchen using geometric-shaped tiles in greens and golds for a sleek and elegant look.

Modern organic

A renewed focus on natural and organic materials will continue to make their way into kitchens in the form of warmer finishes, soft and organic shapes, as well as mixing finishes and materials like concrete, wood, rattan and metals. For homeowners looking to embrace this modern organic trend, interior designers recommend introducing textured white oaks paired with honed black or dark gray countertops for your next kitchen remodel. For cabinets, slab doors are still popular, but the newer thin shaker is gaining popularity.

Home retreat

Your home should be a sanctuary from the stressors of day-to-day life. This year, many homeowners will transform their homes into personal havens that help minimize stresses and prioritize a sense of calm.

For those that retreat to the kitchen for self-care, an easy way to remove stressors is to reduce clutter with a well-organized pantry. Custom organization systems help add functionality and streamline your kitchen with stylish storage solutions, while still allowing you to enjoy your favorite appliances whenever you need them. (See more on organization tips on page 10)

Modern cozy

For renovators who want their home's interior to be warm and inviting, they should opt for a modern cozy style. This trend is inspired by the shabby chic style of the '80s but updated with fewer overthe-top embellishments, paired with darker paints and a focus on coziness and nostalgic familiarity.

New flooring can serve as an anchor design for the rest of the kitchen. Consider installing luxury vinyl plank flooring in your kitchen — a durable, affordable and water and stain-resistant option that's also easy to clean. Pair it with a cabinet renovation to achieve this style in your home. (BPT)

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Two new fireplace trends to inspire your next design OUR HOUSE | INTERIOR

In the past few years homes have become vital sanctuaries — places where you and your family want to feel comfortable, cozy and serene. Recent shifts in home design are responding to this need, while also reflecting a desire for beauty and luxury. As a result, fireplaces are seriously trending — not just for living rooms or bedrooms, but even kitchens and bathrooms.

Thanks to recent innovations such as beautifully designed, easy-to-install electric fireplaces, you can add the warmth and charm a fireplace brings to almost any room without undergoing major renovations or having to worry about things like chimneys, piles of wood, screens or gas lines. You can select features like driftwood log sets and a variety of finishes, plus whatever flame color options and fire bed materials and colors suit your mood and style.

Heart of the home

The kitchen is possibly the most crucial room in every home. Because kitchens needed fireplaces for cooking functions in olden days, it seems like a natural fit to add a fireplace here. Today's kitchens are the heart of the home in more ways than one, especially with open plan home designs allowing plenty of space for the entire family — and guests — to gather around and cook meals together. A personal spa

The bathroom has become a sought-after oasis in contemporary homes, inspiring spa-like features from heated floors or towel racks to deluxe standalone tubs that create an aura of comfort and luxury. Adding a bathroom fireplace is one more way to design the ultimate personal retreat. What could be more calming?

Electric fireplaces can supply light as well as being able to offer some heat, but the glow and warmth are created without an actual flame. With the press of a button, you can use a remote control to adjust both the "flame" and other effects, including the heat level, thermostat, timer, brightness, ember bed lights and accent lighting. Turn up the heat to take the chill off during wintry days, or turn the heat down and enjoy the fireplace just for its calming ambiance when the weather's warm. Whether you choose to hire a professional or completely DIY it, electrical fireplace installation is remarkably easy. While a few special safety precautions need to be taken for bathroom applications, following your product instructions and local code restrictions will ensure that your fireplace will be as safe as it is enchanting.

Did you know?

A joint study from researchers at the University of Alabama and the University of Texas at Arlington found that curb appeal can have a significant impact when selling a home. That study, which examined Google Street View photos and sales data from more than 88,000 properties, found that homes with high curb appeal sold for an average of 7 percent more than similar homes with less inviting exteriors.

The study also revealed that, in slow markets with greater housing inventory, homes with high curb appeal sold for as much as 14 percent more than homes with uninviting exteriors. Homes defined as having high curb appeal for the study included those with features including well-maintained lawns and professional landscaping.

How to get more organized OUR HOUSE | INTERIOR

When spring arrives, many people focus on changes that can be implemented in the months of come. This time of year is a popular one to make resolutions to clean and organize homes and offices.

There are plenty of things that can use a little organizational attention. There’s no ideal way to get organized, but the following are six strategies to help individuals clear the clutter.

UTILIZE TO-DO LISTS

People tend to be less productive when they’re storing all of their tasks in their brains. The first step to getting organized is to remove those plans from the head and put them down on paper or in some other tracking tool. A digital to-do list manager, for example, enables you to see all of your tasks, deadlines and due dates in one place so you can get things done more efficiently. Carry around a notepad or use the digital notes app on a phone to jot down thoughts and needs as they come up.

CORRAL YOUR 'SMALLS'

Smalls are keys, phones, chargers, wallets, headphones, and other accessories. When these items are grouped together, they’re easier to find so you can stay on track. Invest in an attractive organizer and install it by the front door or another high-traffic area. You’ll cut down on trying to find those smaller items when running errands.

CONQUER CLUTTER REGULARLY

It’s easy to be put off by cleaning and organizing when clutter has gotten out of control. Instead, by cleaning up items on a daily or weekly basis, it’s much easier to keep ahead of clutter. Treat it like a daily job, including sorting mail and tossing unnecessary items; emptying waste pails; dusting the desk; deleting emails; and putting items back where they belong.

CATEGORIZE EMAILS

Utilize the folder creation option from popular email providers to sort your messages. Drop messages that need attention into categories of your choosing, such as school, health and receipts. Then you’ll know which folder to go into when searching for what you need, eliminating the time-consuming task of scrolling through a full inbox.

GIVE ONE; TOSS ONE

When bringing new items into the home, follow the procedure of giving away or throwing out one item for each new item that is received or purchased. This can help to tame clutter. Check out your local Freecycle and Buy Nothing groups on Facebook to donate items to your fellow community members. Simply arrange for porch pickup through private messages. Items can also be dropped off at local thrift stores or picked up by the Salvation Army or Goodwill.

If you would like to sell or trade your items, check out Facebook Marketplace, eBay or Craigslist or hold a yard sale.

MISE EN PLACE YOUR LIFE

“Mise en place” is French for “put in place.” It is used in the kitchen to refer to preparing and setting out all ingredients needed in a recipe. The same concept can be used elsewhere. Lay out clothing on the dresser for the next day at work or school. Prep the foyer of a home with items you need, like an umbrella, shoes and paperwork. Organize backpacks so they’re ready for the school day. Establish a to-go bag at work for items that need to be brought home.

Getting organized can be as simple as taking small steps that have lasting impact.

Revitalize your landscape on a budget this year OUR HOUSE | EXTERIOR

Many homeowners think they have to spend tons of green to get green in their landscape, but that isn’t necessarily so. Homeowners can improve their landscapes without digging themselves into financial holes. These strategies can help anyone save some cash and still end up with attractive gardens and more.

• Use stones or gravel for a walkway. If commercially installed pavers or cement walkways are not within your budget, there are some affordable alternatives. Flagstone or individually purchased and spaced pavers and pea gravel can be used to create pathways. Some construction sites even offer free stones when asked. Soften the look with moss or other plants on the perimeter.

• Remove some lawn. Lawns can require hours of upkeep that may involve the application of expensive fertilizers and weed-killing products that are not always so eco-friendly. Reduce the size of a lawn by putting in a mixed planting bed of perennials or ornamental grasses, or use landscape fabric and mulch.

• Look for free mulch. Municipal recycling centers may offer residents access to free mulch made from grinding up leaves, branches and other plant debris collected throughout the town. Simply bring a few containers to the recycling center and spread the mulch for an ornamental look or to insulate landscapes over winter and protect against weeds.

• Repurpose old items into planters. Old wheelbarrows, barrels, watering cans, and other items can be repurposed into container gardening vessels. Figure out if items marked for the garbage bin can be incorporated into garden features instead.

• Invest in plants that are easy to propagate. Perennials are the gardener’s friend when it comes to saving money. These plants sprout anew each year, and many, such as sedum, catmint, ferns, hostas, and black-eyed Susans, can propagate by division. Figure out the best times of year to divide the plants and start growing them in individual containers before planting the sturdy new shoots in the ground. A single variety of plants grouped together in mass plantings is affordable and easy.

• Shop end-of season sales. Take advantage of reduced costs on remaining plants and landscape accessories at garden centers in the fall. Plants can be covered or allowed to thrive indoors until they can be planted in the spring.

• Pool your resources. Homeowners planning on a big landscaping or revitalization project may want to speak with neighbors to see if they’re interested in doing the same. Contractors guaranteed business from a few homes in the same neighborhood may be willing to negotiate lower prices for the volume of work on things like driveway repaving, deck- or fence-building, or installation of paver patios.

OUR HOUSE | EXTERIOR

Consider landscaping with native plants this year

Spring and summer present ideal growing conditions for many plants, making these seasons an ideal time to tend to lawns and gardens. Though it’s easy to succumb to the temptation of exotic plants, avid gardeners and eco-conscious planters recognize the significance of native plants.

Novices may not realize that native plants are much better for a landscape and the local ecosystem it calls home.

Recognition of the many benefits of native plants can make for healthier lawns and gardens and a healthier planet as well.

Native plants are built for local climates. One of the issues gardeners who plant exotic plants run into is keeping those plants thriving when weather turns harsh. For example, exotic plants may require extra watering in areas that experience drought or even long periods without precipitation in spring and notably summer. The United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that at least 40 states anticipate water shortages by 2024. Planting native plants can help to combat those shortages by reducing the need to water plants if conditions become dry in late spring and summer.

Flowers:

Lady Fern

Evergreen wood fern

Purple coneflower

Blue flag iris

New York aster

Sugar maple

Red Oak

American Sycamore

Eastern Redbud

Shrubs:

Northern bayberry

Native plants save money. It’s also important to note that native plants save homeowners money. Because they’re capable of thriving in local conditions, native plants tend to require less watering, which can help homeowners reduce their utility costs. But native plants also require less upkeep, which means homeowners can save on potentially costly, not to mention eco-unfriendly, pesticides and other amendments in order to maintain the look of exotic plants. And though it’s not always the case, exotic plants tend to cost more at nurseries than natives.

Butterfly milkweed

Trees:

Pitch pine

Gray birch

Black tupelo

Highbush blueberry

American holly

American cranberry

Spice bush Carolina rose

extra attention and effort, especially when conditions become harsh. Spending more time outdoors in harsh weather does not appeal to most gardeners.

Native plants save gardeners time. In addition to saving money, native plants don’t require as much attention. Though spring and summer is a great time to be in the yard, it’s also a great time to be out and about. Because native plants thrive in local conditions, gardeners won’t need to spend much of their free time tending to them. Exotics tend to require a lot of

Native plants blend in with an existing landscape. Native plants look natural within an existing landscape, adding some instant aesthetic appeal without breaking the bank. When planting exotics, homeowners may feel a need to redesign their entire gardens to create a certain look (think Japanese garden). That can quickly consume a budget and take up a lot of free time in both the short- and long-term.

Planting season marks a great time to revitalize a landscape. Choosing native plants when doing so pays numerous dividends for homeowners and the planet they call home.

Scarlet Bee Balm, above, is native to Long Island. A sampling of other native plants is listed below:

Siding materials to consider for your home OUR HOUSE |

Exterior renovations consistently top the list of projects that offer maximum return on investment, according to Remodeling magazine’s annual “Cost vs. Value Report.” Siding replacement is a popular exterior renovation and one that can completely transform the look of a home.

Siding comes in a variety of materials, and homeowners can explore the pros, cons and affordability of each to make the most informed decision when replacing their existing siding. Factors to consider apart from price include durability, maintenance and aesthetics.

Vinyl siding is one the most popular siding materials in North America. That popularity is perhaps due to the relatively low cost of vinyl siding replacement, which Forbes Home estimates is between $6,150 and $15,900 to install for a 2,000-squarefoot home. A wide array of color options as well as weatherproof protection makes vinyl siding worthy of consideration.

PVC, which is what vinyl siding is comprised of, also is quite fire-resistant. Potential pitfalls of vinyl are that it can fade

more quickly than other siding materials and is sensitive to excess UV exposure. Engineered materials cost more than vinyl but are considered very durable. They can be advantageous in damp climates or ones where insects are problematic. This

material can be painted if homeowners desire a change of color down the line. This siding costs around $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot for siding and all trim accessories with an additional installation cost of $5.50 to $12.00 per square foot.

Wood is one of the oldest siding materials. It can be stained or painted and comes in a variety of styles, from boards to shingles. It’s a popular choice in historical homes or ones with classic, architectural details.

It’s important to note that wood is a combustible material that can be susceptible to water and insect damage. It also needs to be maintained continuously to look its best. This makes wood siding a true commitment on the part of homeowners. The cost is midrange between vinyl and engineered sidings.

Those interested in one of the most energy efficient options in siding can look no further than metal siding. Metal isn’t just for roofing; it creates a uniquely modern appearance and comes in a variety of styles that complement homes. Unlike fiber, wood or vinyl products, metal siding reflects the sun’s rays and keeps interior temperatures cooler in the summer, a boon in hot climates but maybe not the most insulating option for cold climates. One potential pitfall is the possibility of rust, which would make metal siding a less ideal choice for those who live near the ocean. The cost of metal siding is comparable to other siding products, at around $10 per square foot.

Shedding some light on landscape lighting

Home improvement trends come and go, but one trend that has become wildly popular in recent years is recognizable in yards every night. Landscape lighting has transformed how people see and enjoy their properties at night, making it one of the more sought-after upgrades.

Curb appeal is often seen through the lens of how homes appear during daylight hours, but landscape lighting can make homes look better and more modern, and potentially safer, after the sun goes down. With such potential, landscape lighting is worth exploring for homeowners looking to upgrade their properties.

Are there different types of landscape lighting?

When considering landscape lighting, homeowners should know that there are various options to consider. According to the lighting experts at Lumens, spotlights project a concentrated and narrow beam of light that’s usually around 45 degrees. Spotlights are often chosen to highlight specific features on a property, like a component of the landscaping. Individuals who want to cast light over wider, more general areas may consider floodlights, which Lumens notes spread light up to 120 degrees.

Inground lighting is among the more sophisticated landscape lighting options. Lumens notes that inground lighting illuminates the whole of a tree or structure, often creating a dramatic look. These circleshaped lights also are great at illuminating walkways and driveways.

Post lights are another outdoor lighting option, and these are often used to light up long walkways and pathways so it’s easier and safer to navigate dark areas at night.

Is landscape lighting a job a DIYer can handle?

Many homeowners consider a do-it-yourself approach when pondering a potential home renovation, and a landscape lighting project is likely to inspire such curiosity as well. The home experts at HGTV note that the feasibility of DIY in regard to a landscape lighting project depends on the type of lighting homeowners want to install and where they want to install it. Replacing an existing electrical fixture may be well within the skill of a seasoned DIYer, but installing a new fixture is a job best left to the professionals. Solar lighting that does not require any electrical work can be installed quickly and easily by anyone, but such options may not provide the look homeowners are aiming for.

How much lighting is necessary?

The amount of lighting homeowners want to install is up to them. If the home currently has little or no landscape lighting, a consultation with a professional can help to determine how much lighting to install and where to install it. When discussing landscape lighting, homeowners may want to inquire about dimmers. Dimmers can increase or decrease lighting depending on the situation. For example, homeowners may want a little extra light during a party, but less when relaxing alone outside at night. Dimmers allow homeowners to adjust as necessary.

OUR HOUSE | EXTERIOR

Top outdoor design trends for 2023

The year 2023 is revealing a few new outdoor design trends, but two of them — mixed materials and bringing the indoors out — are maintaining their previous popularity into the new year. New trends landscape designers are anticipating include more interest in sustainability, expanding the use of outdoor spaces and maximizing cutting-edge technology.

Growing from the pandemic, interest in outdoor living is now at an all-time high — and the top 2023 trends in outdoor design reflect that continued interest, according to Joe Raboine, director of Residential Hardscapes at Belgard Pavers & Hardscapes.

Supporting sustainability

Caring for the environment is an increasing priority for homeowners, especially those who love the outdoors and want to ensure the environment is preserved for future generations to enjoy. "Homeowners are asking designers to create spaces inspired by nature that also help conserve it," said Raboine. "This can mean choosing long-lasting materials for hardscaping, finding products made from recycled materials and/or using permeable pavers to help reduce water runoff."

Extending indoor spaces

Bringing the indoors out is hardly new, but as more homeowners view outdoor spaces as extensions of their home, the trend is definitely here to stay. Creating outdoor spaces that reflect your lifestyle and design aesthetic is not only a goal for larger homes and lots, but also for smaller lots needing more privacy. Shade structures like pergolas, shade sails and screen panels offer seclusion as well as protection from the heat, helping outdoor spaces become more private and livable, no matter the size.

Today's homeowners are also equipping spaces with fully operational kitchens, quality outdoor furniture, firepits and games to upgrade their outdoor living experience. The backyard is becoming the go-to spot for fun, with outdoor games including life-size chess, billiards, mini-golf and more.

Exploring color and texture

As outdoor spaces become extensions of the home, designers and homeowners see these spaces as more than just a place to host barbecues. Mixing natural materials including wood, stone and plants (as in living walls) with man-made materials like glass and metal creates interesting variety in texture and color that transforms any space into a more attractive environment. Textured pavers are also becoming more popular, such as those that mimic natural stone or textile finishes.

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"Homeowners are becoming more adventurous with color and texture," noted Raboine. "While shades of gray are still dominant, warmer tones like browns and tans together with greens are adding depth and dimension."

Patterns can also be created using modular designs, textured pavers and hardscaping features to make any outdoor space both calming and energizing. Outdoor lighting provides more visual interest to your space while extending its usable hours — with color-changing lights turning any patio into party central.

Multi-purpose spaces

Today's backyards fulfill multiple purposes, with Zen gardens or labyrinths extending off traditional patios for additional relaxation or meditation areas. Gardening is also resurging, as homeowners are growing herbs, vegetables, fruits and flowers using raised and vertical gardens, small greenhouses or hot boxes. "You can add built-in seating and benches to create a firepit area or mini theater," Raboine added. "These can be beautiful spots for resting or entertaining, plus a practical dining area for your family."(BPT)

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