When this homeowner’s neighbor removed two, two- story-high Ficus trees, her side-yard became baron and sunbaked. Concrete covers virtually the whole area from the house to the property line, but because the side-yard has a lot of foot traffic and serves as a sitting area to the basement apartment, the owner did not want to remove any of the concrete. The solution was to put up fencing to block the view of the neighbor’s house, then upcycle wine barrels and 55-gallon drums into huge planters. The drums are large enough to accommodate a full-sized tree and provide the added advantage of giving height to smaller trees to provide further screening of the neighbor’s house. Everything was painted in bright colors to give the space a cheery Caribbean feel. The neighbor’s tree removal ended up as a blessing in disguise, because what had been a drab trough-way was transformed into a happy patio.

In this design concept, Sarah Barnard, WELL AP + LEED AP developed two variations of objects, furniture, and artwork for the entryway of a home by the ocean. All of the materials and objects selected for this home project are Vegan. This option features a deep blue dutch door reflecting the color of the sea and a glass window that floods the space with natural light. These blue tones carry through the room in imagery and forms from the natural world, such as the painting of a Blue Heron installed above the sideboard. This option features a collection of contemporary ceramic objects, such as the stylized flush mount ceiling light and the ceramic lamp that resembles the form of a sea urchin. These objects are grounded by the vintage ceramic bowl and planter containing flowers. The sideboard, made from Danish oiled walnut, offers tidy storage options, while the tone of its wood finish harmonizes with the soothing blue of the room to create a welcoming entrance.

For years, early morning walks past this 1910 Craftsman in Houston's historic Avondale neighborhood left the new owners with lingering fantasies of making it their future home. When it became available, they acquired a home rich with history, but one nearly abolished. The home was once inhabited by Texas Governor (1931-1932) and founder of Humble Oil, Ross Sterling. But, renovations subdivided the home into multi-family rentals and destroyed original finishes. The developer driven modifications were abruptly halted by city red tags in 2018 after original windows were demolished and replaced with vinyl substitutes. With a nearly clean slate on the interior, the HRDD renovation aims to be respectful to the original context while providing coplimentary modern surprises atypical to the era. One such example is a new opening that punctures through the second floor, extending to a roof skylight. Situated at the transition between formal and informal rooms on the first floor and common space on the second floor, this subtraction is lined with a scalloped wood screen. The screen is one of multiple moments within the home where texture will combine with minimal white surfaces, providing a backdrop to the owners' collection of antique Indian furniture pieces. Additionally, a new detached replaced an existing dilapidated garage apartment and contains the owner's photography studio. Windows and a skylight are placed to capture coveted north light, ideal for photographing and editing. The main room remains an austere slate, with ceiling vaulting to a single aperture to create a dynamic moment that carries a dialogue to the opening in the main home.

The front of the Zinke Wine Tasting Room flanked by two Greek bottle pots that were customized by Eye of the Day Photo by Rich Cox Photography
This is an example of a rustic landscaping in Santa Barbara.

Michael Ossola
Kitchen - coastal kitchen idea in Tampa

Located in Sultan, Washington this barn home houses miniature therapy horses below and a 1,296 square foot home above. The structure includes a full-length shed roof on one side that's been partially enclosed for additional storage space and access via a roll-up door. The barn level contains three 12'x12' horse stalls, a tack room and wash/groom bay. The paddocks are located off the side of the building with turnouts under a second shed roof. The rear of the building features a 12'x36' deck with 12'x12' timber framed cover. (Photos courtesy of Amsberry's Painting) Amsberry's Painting stained and painted the structure using WoodScapes Solid Acrylic Stain by Sherwin Williams in order to give the barn home a finish that would last 8-10 years, per the client's request. The doors were painted with Pro Industrial High-Performance Acrylic, also by Sherwin Williams, and the cedar soffits and tresses were clear coated and stained with Helmsmen Waterbased Satin and Preserva Timber Oil Photo courtesy of Amsberry's Painting

Big Leaf Maple differs from the better know “hard” Maple and “soft” Maple. It can contain dramatic, highly figured grain as seen here, and a range of color tones from golden to reddish brown. The raw edge of this type of wood is as dramatic as any you will find will find anywhere. Hand rubbed oil finish was applied which looks gorgeous and will provide years of protection. This live edge beauty is the center of attention at dinner parties and other gatherings. Greenwood Bay is custom woodworking studio that specializes in live edge furniture. We create stunning furniture widest assortment of unique and specialty woods available anywhere.

This photo shows iron pot-and-pan pullouts flanked on either side by tall narrow pullout cabinets that contain handy storage for cooking oils and spices. It's always a good idea to store items at the point of first use....so keeping these items handy to the cooktop makes the chef's process so much more efficient. (You can see these pullout items closed in previous photos.) The photo also shows island equipment including a Wolf warming drawer, a built-in Bosch kitchen machine for food prep, and just around the corner, a prep sink. All in all a very efficient cooking space for the chef!

In this design concept, Sarah Barnard, WELL AP + LEED AP developed two variations of objects, furniture, and artwork for the entryway of a home by the ocean. All of the materials and objects selected for this home project are Vegan. This option features a deep blue dutch door reflecting the color of the sea and a glass window that floods the space with natural light. These blue tones carry through the room in imagery and forms from the natural world, such as the painting of a Blue Heron installed above the sideboard. This option features a collection of contemporary ceramic objects, such as the stylized flush mount ceiling light and the ceramic lamp that resembles the form of a sea urchin. These objects are grounded by the vintage ceramic bowl and planter containing flowers. The sideboard, made from Danish oiled walnut, offers tidy storage options, while the tone of its wood finish harmonizes with the soothing blue of the room to create a welcoming entrance.

For years, early morning walks past this 1910 Craftsman in Houston's historic Avondale neighborhood left the new owners with lingering fantasies of making it their future home. When it became available, they acquired a home rich with history, but one nearly abolished. The home was once inhabited by Texas Governor (1931-1932) and founder of Humble Oil, Ross Sterling. But, renovations subdivided the home into multi-family rentals and destroyed original finishes. The developer driven modifications were abruptly halted by city red tags in 2018 after original windows were demolished and replaced with vinyl substitutes. With a nearly clean slate on the interior, the HRDD renovation aims to be respectful to the original context while providing coplimentary modern surprises atypical to the era. One such example is a new opening that punctures through the second floor, extending to a roof skylight. Situated at the transition between formal and informal rooms on the first floor and common space on the second floor, this subtraction is lined with a scalloped wood screen. The screen is one of multiple moments within the home where texture will combine with minimal white surfaces, providing a backdrop to the owners' collection of antique Indian furniture pieces. Additionally, a new detached replaced an existing dilapidated garage apartment and contains the owner's photography studio. Windows and a skylight are placed to capture coveted north light, ideal for photographing and editing. The main room remains an austere slate, with ceiling vaulting to a single aperture to create a dynamic moment that carries a dialogue to the opening in the main home.

The second floor bathroom contains two vanities, a shower, a freestanding tub, and a separate toilet room. Contractor: Maven Development Photo: Emily Rose Imagery

Catch-all Storage Closet Transforms into Elegant Wine Cellar It was a typical unused space with bare studs and exposed insulation located at the base of the lower level stairs, next to the mechanical room. The entire lower level floor is covered with multi-color slate which contained in-floor heat. This posed a problem for the new wine cellar. The challenge was overcome by placing a layer of foam insulation with a vapor barrier over the slate floor, walls, and ceiling. Then, a plywood subfloor was glued in. A wall space vented into the adjacent laundry room was created to house a cooling unit, which maintains a perfect temperature within the wine cellar. The location of this wine cellar was a wonderful opportunity to create a showpiece that could be viewed from the upper level. An old fashioned store front, complete with two large windows and a faux painted shingle roof, was designed and built to draw attention and allow the viewer to see inside. Tami found a wall mural of an authentic wine cave and had it sized to fit the side wall of the new wine cellar, providing an illusion of continuing space and setting the tone of what was about to come. A rustic wood floor and a tongue and groove barrel ceiling, faux painted to resemble brick, were installed - all coinciding with the wall mural. Custom cabinetry filled the interior, holding wine bottles and boxes of such. A copper sink was inlayed into a wood counter top. Faux painted bricks highlight an oiled rubbed bronze faucet and a leaded seedy glass cabinet above is designed to hold various types of scotch whiskey. Ambient lighting enhances the cabinetry while a rustic mini chandelier hangs from the center of the barrel ceiling. This once “catch-all” storage closet is no more. A small, old world wine cellar has emerged and now, is quite a show piece.

Alexandria, Virginia Transitional Kitchen Design with Intriguing Zinc Accents by #MeghanBrowne4JenniferGilmer. Taking a holistic approach to the space, we moved the doorway to the garage first and created a new entrance with a mini-mud room with shelving and catch-all space that helps contain clutter as people enter the home. With the doorway removed from the center of the kitchen, we were also able to create an expansive countertop run with the zinc hood and blue range centered in the space for an ideal work zone. On the adjacent wall, we simply replaced the windows with shorter windows to allow for the sink to sit underneath and overlook the backyard. Photography by Bob Narod. http://www.gilmerkitchens.com/

Decorative Materials created a custom mosaic back-splash out of onyx, glass and marble stones. This back-splash contained colors that tied in the hues from the cabinets as well as the counter-top. The durable heirloom custom counter-tops compliment the beige cabinetry that is topped off with oil rubbed bronze cabinet hardware.

This LDK custom guest or kids bath contains all the unique features from the rest of the home! The custom shower tiles mimic the stone walls and arches, and the medium wood cabinets reflect the homes kitchen and offices!

Coastal Style-Completed with 4 blue pillows convert your outdoor area into a lazy retreat,which fits with any Outdoor/Indoor living space.Let's join together to feel the feeling of beach vacation. High-end Olefin Fabric - Our cushions are crafted from Olefin fabric, which is easily degradable and 100% recyclable to support 3 years. Zipper construction for easy cleaning covers when the cushion generates stain. Sturdy Aluminum Frame- Frame surface with good polish surface treatment. with surface Akzonobel powder coating for enhanced weather resistance. Sturdy aluminum frame make it durable and able to hold up to 300 lbs. Grade A Teak - Featured with the Teak element in the chair armrest and coffee table.Teak wood contains sufficient oil, and is not easily discolored when used in a wet and dry environment, but only requires regular maintenance. Environment&Child Friendly - These outdoor sofa are made of the frame with high strength 100% recyclable, Also including fabrics and carton boxes. Zero Risks of HIGOLD Patio Furniture Sets - We provide the strongest packing to protect the goods from damage. Frame fracture warranty period 2 years, Fabrics damage warranty 1 Year, Installation Kits warranty 1 year.

Maintaining a pest-free home requires attention throughout the year. Seasonal changes affect pest behavior, and understanding these patterns can save homeowners from costly damage and health hazards. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies for spring pest prevention tips, ensuring your property stays protected through every season. From spotting early signs to implementing proactive measures, these steps empower homeowners to take control before infestations occur. Understanding Seasonal Pest Patterns Pests adapt to changing weather, and knowing their patterns helps prevent infestations effectively. Spring: Awakening Pests Spring signals the end of winter dormancy for many pests. Rodents, ants, and termites start seeking food and warmth. Effective spring pest prevention tips include: ● Cleaning gutters and removing debris ● Sealing cracks and gaps in exterior walls ● Inspecting wood piles and compost areas ● Monitoring early signs of termite activity Pro Tip: Conduct a termite inspection or a professional evaluation to catch infestations early before they spread. Summer: Peak Pest Season Warm temperatures accelerate pest breeding cycles. For a comprehensive summer pest prevention guide: ● Maintain lawns and trim vegetation away from homes ● Check window and door screens for tears ● Store food in sealed containers ● Inspect water sources that attract mosquitoes Do You Know? Mosquitoes can lay eggs in a teaspoon of water. Eliminating stagnant water is crucial to reducing their population. Fall: Preparing for Winter As temperatures drop, pests search for warm indoor spaces. Key actions include: ● Inspecting for winter rodent entry points ● Sealing attic vents, crawl spaces, and foundation gaps ● Cleaning storage areas to minimize hiding spots ● Checking chimney and fireplace openings Quick Fact: Rodents can enter homes through openings as small as ¼ inch. Seasonal Pest Checklist for Homeowners Creating a structured seasonal pest checklist simplifies preventive measures and ensures nothing is overlooked. Season Key Actions Spring Inspect for termites, seal exterior gaps, clean gutters, and check compost Summer Repair screens, trim vegetation, remove standing water, and secure food Fall Seal entry points, inspect attic/crawlspace, clear debris, and prepare storage Winter Monitor indoor activity, keep firewood away from walls, and maintain traps Inspection & Maintenance Tips ● Schedule annual pest inspections by professional Virginia pest control consultation to detect hidden problems ● Keep a log of pest sightings and treatment dates ● Regularly replace weather stripping and caulk cracks Note: Even small preventive steps, when consistently applied, drastically reduce infestations. Common Pests and Their Seasonal Behaviors Understanding how different pests behave each season helps homeowners take timely action to protect their property. ● Ants and Termites: Ants emerge in spring seeking food, while termites become active and can damage wood unnoticed. Early detection is critical. ● Rodents and Mice: Fall and winter increase rodent intrusions. Block all entry points and keep food sealed. ● Mosquitoes and Flies: Summer creates the ideal breeding environment for mosquitoes. Eliminate standing water and use physical barriers like nets. ● Spiders and Other Insects: Seasonal shifts cause spiders to move indoors. Regular vacuuming and decluttering reduce hiding spots. Eco-Friendly Prevention Methods ● Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or diatomaceous earth ● Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to reduce pest populations ● Plant pest-deterring plants near home boundaries, like marigolds or lavender Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Adopt an IPM approach by combining physical barriers, monitoring, and environmentally safe treatments. This minimizes chemical use while maintaining a pest-free home. Quote: “Prevention is the most effective form of pest control.” – National Pest Management Association Seasonal Pest Prevention Tools ● Snap traps and humane rodent traps ● Sticky traps for insects ● Outdoor perimeter sprays (eco-friendly) ● Moisture meters to detect early termite or mold problems Pro Tip: Keep tools organized and accessible to act quickly when pest activity is noticed. Planning: Annual Pest Calendar Month Recommended Action March-April Spring pest prevention tips: Inspect, seal, clean gutters June-July Summer pest prevention guide: Screens, standing water, food storage September Seasonal pest checklist: Seal entries, declutter, prep storage November Winter rodent entry points: Monitor indoors, maintain traps Key Takeaways ● Seasonal awareness prevents infestations and property damage ● Consistent inspections and maintenance are essential ● Simple eco-friendly measures can significantly reduce pests ● Use a structured checklist and calendar for effective prevention Conclusion Homeowners who stay proactive and follow spring pest prevention tips, along with year-round monitoring, ensure their properties remain safe and comfortable. Using a summer pest prevention guide, checking winter rodent entry points, and maintaining a seasonal pest checklist ensure your home remains safe and comfortable. Remember to combine inspections, physical barriers, and environmentally friendly methods for the best results. FAQs Q1: How often should I perform a termite inspection? A1: Conduct inspections annually, especially in spring, to detect early signs of termite activity and prevent extensive damage. Q2: Can pests enter my home during winter? A2: Yes, rodents and insects seek warmth and shelter indoors. Sealing entry points and monitoring for activity is crucial. Q3: What is the most effective eco-friendly method for pest prevention? A3: Using natural repellents, encouraging beneficial insects, and eliminating water sources effectively reduces pest populations without chemicals. Ensure your home is ready for every season. Schedule a professional Virginia pest control consultation or a termite inspection in Suffolk, VA, today and stay ahead of potential infestations.

For years, early morning walks past this 1910 Craftsman in Houston's historic Avondale neighborhood left the new owners with lingering fantasies of making it their future home. When it became available, they acquired a home rich with history, but one nearly abolished. The home was once inhabited by Texas Governor (1931-1932) and founder of Humble Oil, Ross Sterling. But, renovations subdivided the home into multi-family rentals and destroyed original finishes. The developer driven modifications were abruptly halted by city red tags in 2018 after original windows were demolished and replaced with vinyl substitutes. With a nearly clean slate on the interior, the HRDD renovation aims to be respectful to the original context while providing coplimentary modern surprises atypical to the era. One such example is a new opening that punctures through the second floor, extending to a roof skylight. Situated at the transition between formal and informal rooms on the first floor and common space on the second floor, this subtraction is lined with a scalloped wood screen. The screen is one of multiple moments within the home where texture will combine with minimal white surfaces, providing a backdrop to the owners' collection of antique Indian furniture pieces. Additionally, a new detached replaced an existing dilapidated garage apartment and contains the owner's photography studio. Windows and a skylight are placed to capture coveted north light, ideal for photographing and editing. The main room remains an austere slate, with ceiling vaulting to a single aperture to create a dynamic moment that carries a dialogue to the opening in the main home.

For years, early morning walks past this 1910 Craftsman in Houston's historic Avondale neighborhood left the new owners with lingering fantasies of making it their future home. When it became available, they acquired a home rich with history, but one nearly abolished. The home was once inhabited by Texas Governor (1931-1932) and founder of Humble Oil, Ross Sterling. But, renovations subdivided the home into multi-family rentals and destroyed original finishes. The developer driven modifications were abruptly halted by city red tags in 2018 after original windows were demolished and replaced with vinyl substitutes. With a nearly clean slate on the interior, the HRDD renovation aims to be respectful to the original context while providing coplimentary modern surprises atypical to the era. One such example is a new opening that punctures through the second floor, extending to a roof skylight. Situated at the transition between formal and informal rooms on the first floor and common space on the second floor, this subtraction is lined with a scalloped wood screen. The screen is one of multiple moments within the home where texture will combine with minimal white surfaces, providing a backdrop to the owners' collection of antique Indian furniture pieces. Additionally, a new detached replaced an existing dilapidated garage apartment and contains the owner's photography studio. Windows and a skylight are placed to capture coveted north light, ideal for photographing and editing. The main room remains an austere slate, with ceiling vaulting to a single aperture to create a dynamic moment that carries a dialogue to the opening in the main home.