The back yard patio is the new living room. Let’s discuss. If you’ve tried to purchase an outdoor, propane heater, new grill, or even outdoor seating in the past six months, this is not news to you. We’re all doing our best to manage through the pandemic while still enjoying social connections and time with family and friends. The solution that so many of us have adopted is to spend more time outside. There’s a Norwegian saying that says, “there is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” It’s a mantra worth adopting these days. We have a lot of customers who are ready to bundle up and enjoy their back yards as much as they enjoy their living rooms. But these lucky homeowners have had that opportunity for the past six months. Reading any further may make you pretty jealous, but we hope that it inspires you for a future project in your own back yard.

Situated on the edge of New Hampshire’s beautiful Lake Sunapee, this Craftsman-style shingle lake house peeks out from the towering pine trees that surround it. When the clients approached Cummings Architects, the lot consisted of 3 run-down buildings. The challenge was to create something that enhanced the property without overshadowing the landscape, while adhering to the strict zoning regulations that come with waterfront construction. The result is a design that encompassed all of the clients’ dreams and blends seamlessly into the gorgeous, forested lake-shore, as if the property was meant to have this house all along. The ground floor of the main house is a spacious open concept that flows out to the stone patio area with fire pit. Wood flooring and natural fir bead-board ceilings pay homage to the trees and rugged landscape that surround the home. The gorgeous views are also captured in the upstairs living areas and third floor tower deck. The carriage house structure holds a cozy guest space with additional lake views, so that extended family and friends can all enjoy this vacation retreat together. Photo by Eric Roth

The layout of this bathroom was reconfigured by locating the new tub on the rear wall, and putting the toilet on the left of the vanity. The wall on the left of the existing vanity was taken out.

This masculine master bedroom exudes a vibe of strength and calm. That's exactly what this client wanted to at the end of a long day; calm after the day and the strength to face the next.

Showcase Photographers
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless master medium tone wood floor bedroom remodel in Nashville with gray walls and no fireplace

  Phoenix's food scene is vibrant and thriving, but also one of the most closely watched in the country. Health inspectors in Maricopa County are strict, and customers expect spotless dining spaces.  To stay competitive, restaurant owners and food vendors must stay on top of evolving health codes, sanitation protocols, and food safety benchmarks. That starts with a firm grip on restaurant cleaning safety standards. Ignoring sanitation rules risks more than bad reviews. It invites citations, customer complaints, and operational shutdowns. Whether you're operating a food truck or a restaurant, following these Phoenix cleaning standards helps you stay compliant, pass health inspections, and build customer trust. Importance of a Clean Phoenix Restaurant that Follows Food Health and Safety Standards The restaurant industry in Phoenix operates under strict oversight. The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department conducts regular inspections, and violations can result in fines or closures. In this climate, restaurant cleaning is not just a hygiene standard. It is a business-critical measure. Proper food handling and establishment cleaning protocols reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, control pests, protect equipment, and keep your staff safe. Inconsistent practices, on the other hand, can quickly become liabilities. Start With the Food Code Phoenix food vendors must comply with the 2017 FDA Food Code as adopted by Maricopa County. This includes rules on:

• Sanitizing food-contact surfaces after each use
• Maintaining proper water temperatures for dishwashing
• Cleaning restrooms frequently and keeping them stocked
• Storing cleaning chemicals away from prep areas

Each violation tier, from Priority to Core, has consequences. Priority violations (like improper sanitization) trigger repeat inspections and possible permit suspensions. Establish a Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Cleaning Routine for Phoenix Restaurants and Commercial Kitchens High-performing food vendors operate with cleaning checklists categorized by frequency:

• Daily: Wipe prep tables, mop floors, clean grills, sanitize cutting boards
• Weekly: Deep clean kitchen hoods, polish cooking equipment, disinfect drains
• Monthly: Check pest control measures, clean freezer coils, and inspect HVAC filters

Your routines should align with the facility’s risk level and menu complexity. A meat-heavy kitchen faces a higher risk of contamination than a coffee cart. Build your cleaning schedule accordingly. Train Staff on Cleaning Protocols Staff must be trained to clean as effectively as they cook and do food preparation. This includes:

• Using the right sanitizers and PPE
• Logging cleaning times and who performed the task
• Identifying signs of mold, grease buildup, or rodent activity
• Conducting thorough surface cleaning to ensure all food-contact surfaces are sanitized regularly

Training is not one-time. Update it quarterly and post protocols in shared areas. Use EPA-Approved  Cleaning Products for Arizona Food Business Phoenix regulations call for cleaning products that meet EPA standards. These should be:

• Food-safe and non-corrosive
• Effective against norovirus, salmonella, and E. coli
• Clearly labeled and stored in original containers

Over-the-counter products won’t always meet the grade. Confirm that all cleaning products meet EPA standards by checking them against the official List N for food-contact disinfectants. Maintain Clean Air and Water Systems Your HVAC system can be a hidden contamination source. Dirty filters affect air quality and can lead to dust settling on surfaces. Water lines used in ice machines and beverage dispensers must also be sanitized. Schedule routine inspections with licensed technicians and keep maintenance logs. Phoenix’s dry climate compounds dust issues, making this step even more essential. Waste Management Is Part of Cleaning Waste bins should be emptied multiple times a day and sanitized regularly. Grease traps, in particular, require strict oversight. Phoenix plumbing codes demand regular removal of grease buildup to prevent clogs and contamination. Document waste pickup schedules and trap cleanings to show inspectors you take this seriously. Be Pest-Prevention Oriented Phoenix’s warm climate creates a year-round pest risk. From roaches to rodents, pest sightings during inspections can instantly tank your sanitation score. To avoid this:

• Seal gaps around doors and pipes
• Store dry goods in sealed, elevated containers
• Keep outdoor waste bins locked and distanced from entry points

Implement a pest control plan that follows local best practices. Proactive prevention will save your operation from reputational damage. Comply With Local Licensing and Inspections Food establishments and vendors must display current food permits and be ready for unannounced inspections. In Phoenix, inspectors from Maricopa County use a digital scoring system, and all inspection results are publicly available online. That means your customers can see your cleaning track record before ever placing an order. If you want to access your past inspection scores or understand local codes better, refer to the official Maricopa County site. The Role of Digital Logs and Compliance Software Many Phoenix-based vendors now use cleaning log apps or digital food safety checklists. These tools:

• Record cleaning completion in real time
• Alert managers when tasks are missed
• Keep a historical record for inspections

Adopting digital systems minimizes human error and provides credibility when auditors review your procedures. Monitor Cleaning Performance Through Internal Audits Routine cleaning is only effective when verified. Conduct regular internal audits to identify missed steps, correct improper practices, and maintain accountability. Assign a team member to perform weekly sanitation checks using a standardized checklist. Focus on key areas like surface residue, properly labeled chemicals, and temperature logs. Document each audit and review the results with your team during pre-shift meetings. This ensures your staff stays inspection-ready and fosters a culture of vigilance. In Phoenix’s competitive food market, consistent self-checks help prevent issues before inspectors arrive. When to Hire Restaurant Cleaning Services in Phoenix Some cleaning jobs go beyond what your in-house team can handle. Tasks like vent hood cleaning, ceiling dusting, or chemical deep cleaning are best left to commercial cleaning services. Choose a cleaning vendor who:

• Is certified and understands the Arizona food codes
• Provides documented service reports
• Offers customized cleaning plans
• Offers flexible scheduling around your operating hours

Outsourcing specialized cleaning ensures your facility stays compliant without interrupting your business flow. Cleaning Practices for Food Prep Areas In Phoenix, with its dry climate and year-round warmth, food prep areas are especially vulnerable to contamination. To comply with restaurant cleaning safety standards, these areas require focused cleaning efforts to prevent cross-contamination and maintain food safety. Here’s how to integrate cleaning into your food prep protocols:

• Cross-contamination prevention: Regularly clean food prep surfaces and tools, and use separate equipment for raw meats, vegetables, and ready-to-eat foods. Proper cleaning prevents any contact with food that could lead to cross-contamination and affects food quality.
• Temperature monitoring: While not directly related to cleaning, maintaining proper food temperature is essential. Hot foods should be stored above 140°F, and cold foods below 40°F. Regularly monitor temperatures and clean temperature gauges to ensure accuracy.
• Proper storage: Use clean storage containers and shelving for food storage, keeping items off the floor. Ensure all food is sealed and labeled to avoid contamination risks and comply with food safety standards.

Food Safety Starts With What Customers Can’t See In Phoenix's food service industry, cleanliness is essential to your success. But cleanliness goes deeper than shiny tables and spotless floors. It’s the behind-the-scenes work: the sanitizing, logging, and double-checking that keep your kitchen safe and your customers confident. When you take both sides seriously, your business doesn’t just stay open; it thrives. Meta Title: Restaurant Cleaning Safety Standards for Phoenix Food Vendors Meta Description: Explore Phoenix-specific restaurant cleaning safety standards so your food business stays compliant, avoids fines, passes inspections, and earns customer trust.  

Sandy Agrafiotis
Bathroom - coastal kids' multicolored tile and stone tile ceramic tile bathroom idea in Portland Maine with green cabinets, an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets and blue walls

Transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen photo in Boston with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, blue cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and multicolored countertops

Scot Gordon Photography
Example of a huge classic beige two-story stone house exterior design in Philadelphia

This sophisticated home is located in the highly sought after Westlake Village, and ideally situated at the end of the most private Cul-De-Sac lots with pocket views. Enter through custom iron gates and stone walkway, into a tranquil courtyard w/ fountain, and step inside this rare gem. Reap the benefits of SoCal living in this single story Ranch home, boasting abundant natural light, vaulted ceilings, and a refreshing connection between the interior/exterior spaces. Attention to luxurious detail throughout! Relax to the sound of the majestic stone waterfall, which pours into the Pentair and PebbleTek pool and spa-all operated by mobile device. Flanking the custom pool are two fire feature structures: A stacked stone gas fireplace with fireglass, custom iron gates, and hearth AND a stacked stone firepit with fireglass and ceramic sphere. Stamped, stained, and sealed concrete, professional landscape lighting, high-end American made artificial grass, and lush landscape. Attached Cabana boasting tongue & groove pine ceilings, Infratech electric heaters, ceiling fans, dimmable can lights operated via mobile device, string lights, and split-faced travertine stacked stone! Cook like a pro both inside and outside! INSIDE: Gourmet kitchen w/custom cherrywood cabinets, cabinetry lighting, Ubatuba Brazilian granite counters, Viking professional hood, Viking 6 burner + griddle range w/double oven, Viking Warmer, GE compactor, Miele dishwasher. Showcase your private vino collection with the built-in 178 bottle temperature dual regulated Wine Refrigerator. OUTSIDE: Enjoy preparing meals and entertaining al fresco, with the new entertainer's back yard oasis. Built-in Memphis Elite-Wifi compatible BBQ and convection oven, dual fridges, Hot/Cold plumbed Sink, additional storage cabinets, and an oversized stained concrete island- all crowned by an attached redwood pergola with twinkle lights. Perfectly sized master suite featuring paper glazed metallic walls, oversized French doors, expansive walk-in closet with built-ins, and a crème de la crème master bathroom. Skip the day spa and step into your Kohler Steam shower with rain head, artistic imported granite, dimmable lighting, pebble flooring, bench seat & frameless glass enclosure. Custom cabinetry with sleek counters, dual sinks, dimmable lighting & views of the private yard. Additional Features/Upgrades: Paid Solar panels, Tesla ready charging port in garage, Tankless water heater, Concrete roof, Indoor laundry, Dual pane windows, plantation shutters, crown molding, recessed lights, classic French doors, Santos Brazilian wood flooring, Interior/Exterior built-in Bose speaker system, Interior/Exterior security camera system, venetian plaster/designer wall finishes, new silent garage door motor, newer HVAC system, and more. Don't miss this opportunity to have it all!

Rikki Snyder
Inspiration for a timeless kitchen remodel in DC Metro

This sophisticated home is located in the highly sought after Westlake Village, and ideally situated at the end of the most private Cul-De-Sac lots with pocket views. Enter through custom iron gates and stone walkway, into a tranquil courtyard w/ fountain, and step inside this rare gem. Reap the benefits of SoCal living in this single story Ranch home, boasting abundant natural light, vaulted ceilings, and a refreshing connection between the interior/exterior spaces. Attention to luxurious detail throughout! Relax to the sound of the majestic stone waterfall, which pours into the Pentair and PebbleTek pool and spa-all operated by mobile device. Flanking the custom pool are two fire feature structures: A stacked stone gas fireplace with fireglass, custom iron gates, and hearth AND a stacked stone firepit with fireglass and ceramic sphere. Stamped, stained, and sealed concrete, professional landscape lighting, high-end American made artificial grass, and lush landscape. Attached Cabana boasting tongue & groove pine ceilings, Infratech electric heaters, ceiling fans, dimmable can lights operated via mobile device, string lights, and split-faced travertine stacked stone! Cook like a pro both inside and outside! INSIDE: Gourmet kitchen w/custom cherrywood cabinets, cabinetry lighting, Ubatuba Brazilian granite counters, Viking professional hood, Viking 6 burner + griddle range w/double oven, Viking Warmer, GE compactor, Miele dishwasher. Showcase your private vino collection with the built-in 178 bottle temperature dual regulated Wine Refrigerator. OUTSIDE: Enjoy preparing meals and entertaining al fresco, with the new entertainer's back yard oasis. Built-in Memphis Elite-Wifi compatible BBQ and convection oven, dual fridges, Hot/Cold plumbed Sink, additional storage cabinets, and an oversized stained concrete island- all crowned by an attached redwood pergola with twinkle lights. Perfectly sized master suite featuring paper glazed metallic walls, oversized French doors, expansive walk-in closet with built-ins, and a crème de la crème master bathroom. Skip the day spa and step into your Kohler Steam shower with rain head, artistic imported granite, dimmable lighting, pebble flooring, bench seat & frameless glass enclosure. Custom cabinetry with sleek counters, dual sinks, dimmable lighting & views of the private yard. Additional Features/Upgrades: Paid Solar panels, Tesla ready charging port in garage, Tankless water heater, Concrete roof, Indoor laundry, Dual pane windows, plantation shutters, crown molding, recessed lights, classic French doors, Santos Brazilian wood flooring, Interior/Exterior built-in Bose speaker system, Interior/Exterior security camera system, venetian plaster/designer wall finishes, new silent garage door motor, newer HVAC system, and more. Don't miss this opportunity to have it all!

Laura Moss Photography
Mid-sized transitional formal dark wood floor living room photo in Boston with gray walls, a standard fireplace and no tv

The swimming pool features a beach entry, swimming area, and Olympic regulation size lane. Complete with a hot tub and pool house that can sleep 8, the house is ready to entertain.

Inspiration for a small craftsman open concept medium tone wood floor living room remodel in San Francisco with no fireplace and white walls

This sophisticated home is located in the highly sought after Westlake Village, and ideally situated at the end of the most private Cul-De-Sac lots with pocket views. Enter through custom iron gates and stone walkway, into a tranquil courtyard w/ fountain, and step inside this rare gem. Reap the benefits of SoCal living in this single story Ranch home, boasting abundant natural light, vaulted ceilings, and a refreshing connection between the interior/exterior spaces. Attention to luxurious detail throughout! Relax to the sound of the majestic stone waterfall, which pours into the Pentair and PebbleTek pool and spa-all operated by mobile device. Flanking the custom pool are two fire feature structures: A stacked stone gas fireplace with fireglass, custom iron gates, and hearth AND a stacked stone firepit with fireglass and ceramic sphere. Stamped, stained, and sealed concrete, professional landscape lighting, high-end American made artificial grass, and lush landscape. Attached Cabana boasting tongue & groove pine ceilings, Infratech electric heaters, ceiling fans, dimmable can lights operated via mobile device, string lights, and split-faced travertine stacked stone! Cook like a pro both inside and outside! INSIDE: Gourmet kitchen w/custom cherrywood cabinets, cabinetry lighting, Ubatuba Brazilian granite counters, Viking professional hood, Viking 6 burner + griddle range w/double oven, Viking Warmer, GE compactor, Miele dishwasher. Showcase your private vino collection with the built-in 178 bottle temperature dual regulated Wine Refrigerator. OUTSIDE: Enjoy preparing meals and entertaining al fresco, with the new entertainer's back yard oasis. Built-in Memphis Elite-Wifi compatible BBQ and convection oven, dual fridges, Hot/Cold plumbed Sink, additional storage cabinets, and an oversized stained concrete island- all crowned by an attached redwood pergola with twinkle lights. Perfectly sized master suite featuring paper glazed metallic walls, oversized French doors, expansive walk-in closet with built-ins, and a crème de la crème master bathroom. Skip the day spa and step into your Kohler Steam shower with rain head, artistic imported granite, dimmable lighting, pebble flooring, bench seat & frameless glass enclosure. Custom cabinetry with sleek counters, dual sinks, dimmable lighting & views of the private yard. Additional Features/Upgrades: Paid Solar panels, Tesla ready charging port in garage, Tankless water heater, Concrete roof, Indoor laundry, Dual pane windows, plantation shutters, crown molding, recessed lights, classic French doors, Santos Brazilian wood flooring, Interior/Exterior built-in Bose speaker system, Interior/Exterior security camera system, venetian plaster/designer wall finishes, new silent garage door motor, newer HVAC system, and more. Don't miss this opportunity to have it all!

The swimming pool features a beach entry, swimming area, and Olympic regulation size lane. Complete with a hot tub and pool house that can sleep 8, the house is ready to entertain.

Like your favorite athletic wear, SHEEX® performance fabric sheets are made of high performance material that wicks moisture, stays cool to the touch, breathes easily, and dries quickly. Maintaining a cooler core body temperature is essential to restful sleep, and SHEEX® sheets regulate temperature, helping you to wake up more rested and ready for the day. High performance fabric sheets developed with your must-have technical performance qualities. This ultra-stretchy fabric is lightweight, breathable, temperature regulating, sweat-wicking and quick drying [just like your favorite athletic wear].

Like your favorite athletic wear, SHEEX® performance fabric sheets are made of high performance material that wicks moisture, stays cool to the touch, breathes easily, and dries quickly. Maintaining a cooler core body temperature is essential to restful sleep, and SHEEX® sheets regulate temperature, helping you to wake up more rested and ready for the day. High performance fabric sheets developed with your must-have technical performance qualities. This ultra-stretchy fabric is lightweight, breathable, temperature regulating, sweat-wicking and quick drying [just like your favorite athletic wear].