Karen Swanson of New England Design Works Designed this Pennville Kitchen for her own home, and it won not only the regional Sub-Zero award, but also the National Kitchen & Bath Association's medium kitchen of the year. Karen is located in Manchester, MA and can be reached at nedesignworks@gmail.com or 978.500.1096.

Deergrass, a California native accent grass, creates magical golden wands in fall. When trimmed back, it forms lovely true green mounds. It provides an excellent alternative to highly flammable and invasive plants like fountain grass.

Hawthorn, Thompson Yucca, Russian Sage, Turpentine Bush, Red Yucca, adobe walls with inset coyote fencing panels, Arizona Buff flagstone pool paving (me)

An umbrella shades the homeowner's favorite place to take in views. The addition of the ember resistant rock and stone close to the home and fence made it possible to add deeper seating. Because the furnishings are metal, only the cushions and umbrella fabric need to be stored on red flag days.

indoor-outdoor space, nana door, bbq area,
Arts and crafts deck photo in Seattle with a roof extension and a bbq area

Mid-sized trendy backyard patio photo in Austin with a bbq area

Inspiration for a cottage patio remodel in Austin

shared outdoor seating area for bungalow complex. photo credit: Brandon Shigeta
Mid-sized trendy backyard decomposed granite patio photo in Los Angeles with a fire pit and no cover

Mid-sized transitional backyard concrete patio photo in Denver

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Our clients and their three teenage kids had outgrown the footprint of their existing home and felt they needed some space to spread out. They came in with a couple of sets of drawings from different architects that were not quite what they were looking for, so we set out to really listen and try to provide a design that would meet their objectives given what the space could offer. We started by agreeing that a bump out was the best way to go and then decided on the size and the floor plan locations of the mudroom, powder room and butler pantry which were all part of the project. We also planned for an eat-in banquette that is neatly tucked into the corner and surrounded by windows providing a lovely spot for daily meals. The kitchen itself is L-shaped with the refrigerator and range along one wall, and the new sink along the exterior wall with a large window overlooking the backyard. A large island, with seating for five, houses a prep sink and microwave. A new opening space between the kitchen and dining room includes a butler pantry/bar in one section and a large kitchen pantry in the other. Through the door to the left of the main sink is access to the new mudroom and powder room and existing attached garage. White inset cabinets, quartzite countertops, subway tile and nickel accents provide a traditional feel. The gray island is a needed contrast to the dark wood flooring. Last but not least, professional appliances provide the tools of the trade needed to make this one hardworking kitchen. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Mike Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This "locker room" off the door from the garage is the perfect landing spot for the family when coming home. With lockers for each family member, they can stay organized in style. A custom walnut bench, eye-catching striped wall and colorful accessories, this is a locker room that should be the center of the home. Photography by John Valls

A wood burning fireplace surrounded by stone and an antique wood mantle hides storage below the hearth.
Example of a large arts and crafts enclosed medium tone wood floor and yellow floor living room library design in Denver with green walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

While most trees are fire defensive, Eucalyptus trees like these are an exception. Similarly, a second structure on the property poses proximate fire danger to the home. The Catalina Cherry hedge serves as a barrier to embers that may be generated by either ignite, and the patio offers ample, safe space for fire fighters to work. As outdoor comforts are often flammable, the owners store the cushions on the dining chairs when they are not in use.

Round Ecofireplaces Fire Pit with ECO 35 burner in copper pot encasing. Expanded clay and volcanic stones finishing. Thermal insulation made of rock wool bases and refractory tape applied to the burner.

Natural elements such as the mangaris wood door enclosed in a black steel frame, the 1 ½” thick Sweetwater multi-blend flagstone, and the Country Cypress Ridge stacked stone by El Dorado Stone along the columns, create a warm array of tones to compliment the residence. This casual dining area is lit by this beautiful 6-Light Wine Barrel Chandelier from Gracefully Restored, mounted to the Pergola which offers shade during the summer sun. Tom Clary -Clarified Studios

Mary’s floor-through apartment was truly enchanting . . . except for the tiny kitchen she’d inherited. It lacked a dishwasher, counter space or any real storage, items that have all been addressed in the makeover. Now the kitchen is as cheerful and bright as the rest of the home.

Living room - cottage light wood floor and beige floor living room idea with white walls and a standard fireplace

Featuring a 5-Piece Terrace Collection L Sectional from All Backyard Fun. This gorgeous L sectional is seated next to a Tropical Elegance 40" Square Oriflamme Fire Table.

Patio - mediterranean patio idea in Seattle