Deep soil preparation is the foundation for the newly-installed landscape in this 2016 Parade of Homes residence. Improving soil structure not only ties in to the new county codes for these homeowners. It creates a better soil structure better for roots of lawn and plants, allows better movement of water through the soil better, and helps break down clay. This is the perfect example of pieces a high-quality landscaping company does that aren’t visible but play a crucial role in the success of the end product. The over-seeded lawn will flourish due to high soil structure. Large flowerbeds have been carefully mulched for beauty and water retention. Fresh plantings are carefully spaced to allow mature growth in coming seasons. Use of accent rockery and boulders throughout the landscape give texture and dimension. A high-quality drip irrigation system around the shrubs saves money and water. Rain sensors shut down irrigation during wet spells--environmentally friendly and sustainable. Large flowerbed near the front porch is built around an eye-catching, 4-columned bubbler water feature.

When it comes to choosing tiles and cladding, it’s hard to match the beauty and timelessness of natural stone. As a natural element quarried in the tropical area of Surabaya, the Indonesian Dolomitic Limestone is known for its durability, high density, high resistance to water and to acidic content of rain and soil. Our products are tested and certified to meet the highest quality of architectural specifications. Our Split Face is 6",4" and 12" x random pieces for easier installation. The Width varies from 4" to 24". Perfect for any interior and exterior project. Grade 1, Natural Dolomitic Limestone for Wall use. It is recommended you purchase a minimum of 10% waste to account for design cuts and patterns. Add Long Term Value to your Project, without any need for maintenance.

copyright 2015 Virginia Rockwell
Elegant home design photo in Richmond

To transform this backyard from weeds to a family-friendly place to relax together, we removed trees and enlarged the usable space. We also brought in better quality soil and re-graded, installed the walkway and patio with fire pit and sitting wall. We finished off with plants and new sod, put in the natural stone walkways, and completed the project with mulch. In addition, during an earlier phase, we installed new plants in the front yard. The owners were so pleased they had this to say “Thank you so much for the awesome job you did. We love it and look forward to making many memories in our new backyard! You rock!”

The 722 Ash Street residence consists of a 1500 sf primary house with a contiguous 500 sf accessory dwelling. The project is set in the rich culture of North Lawrence, its rear property line abuts the Lawrence levee trail which runs for nine miles along the north bank of the Kansas River. North Lawrence is known for its quality soil, large trees, curbless streets and random size parcels before it breaks into larger farms further from the urban center. It is built on the typical orthogonal grid of American development, but it represents the older growth of the city prior to urban planners and zoning regulations. The rumble of freight trains and farm trucks in the shadows of the towering grain elevators are only blocks away. It is home to many who enjoy being only a bridge crossing away from Lawrence’s vibrant downtown but are far enough away to maintain their independence from many of the restrictions on living near the historic district. They can work in their large gardens and toiling in their garages and shops in a manner more rural than urban. The house on 722 Ash St. is imbued with the character of North Lawrence and the Levee Trail area. The design was inspired by the Midwestern farmstead vernacular of the region. These timeless vernacular qualities house all the accommodations necessary for modern, sustainable living. A unique feature of this house is the Accessory Dwelling Unit permitted in the zoning district. It is a small separate residence on the same lot that can be used for income property or for extended family members. It also supports the city of Lawrence’s goals of increased density close to downtown rather than continued sprawl into the countryside. The buildings use technology and common-sense design to reduce the building’s footprint and assure the owners low energy use and costs. A 4.9 Kw solar collection system is located on the only south facing gable and the super insulated envelopes (r-62 roof and r-35 walls) of all three forms easily exceeds the standards. Studio 804 continues their long standing pattern of maintaining the highest level of sustainable design while remaining contextually sensitive to the surrounding community. This house, like every Studio 804 project since 2008, is USGBC LEED Platinum Certified.

When it comes to choosing tiles and cladding, it’s hard to match the beauty and timelessness of natural stone. As a natural element quarried in the tropical area of Surabaya, the Indonesian Dolomitic Limestone is known for its durability, high density, high resistance to water and to acidic content of rain and soil. Our products are tested and certified to meet the highest quality of architectural specifications. Our Split Face is 6",4" and 12" x random pieces for easier installation. The Width varies from 4" to 24". Perfect for any interior and exterior project. Grade 1, Natural Dolomitic Limestone for Wall use. It is recommended you purchase a minimum of 10% waste to account for design cuts and patterns. Add Long Term Value to your Project, without any need for maintenance.

Hazel nut soft path leading to rose garden. Joanna D'Asaro
Photo of a rustic landscaping in Seattle.

Artificial Turf At the center of the landscape is a vibrant green area covered with high-quality artificial turf. The turf is meticulously installed to ensure a seamless and natural look, providing a low-maintenance, year-round green space. The artificial turf is bordered by concrete to maintain a clean and defined edge, preventing the turf from fraying and maintaining the overall neat appearance. Natural Planter Adjacent to the artificial turf is a beautifully designed natural planter. This planter is filled with a variety of thriving plants, including colorful flowers, ornamental grasses, and small shrubs. The planter is constructed from concrete, matching the style of the surrounding hardscaping. It has a slightly elevated design, which helps in highlighting the plants and provides an interesting visual contrast to the flat turf. Concrete Patios On one side of the turf, there is a spacious concrete patio. The patio is designed with a smooth, polished finish, offering a modern and elegant look. It's an ideal area for outdoor furniture, making it perfect for dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing outdoors. The concrete patio is connected to the house by a series of stepping stones that blend into the landscape seamlessly. Sidewalks Concrete sidewalks meander through the landscape, connecting different areas and providing a clear path for navigation. These sidewalks have a brushed finish, adding a subtle texture that enhances both safety and aesthetics. They are bordered by lush greenery and flower beds, which soften the hard edges of the concrete and create a balanced look. Concrete Border Surrounding the entire landscape is a concrete border that ties the various elements together. This border is slightly raised, providing a clear demarcation between different areas, such as the artificial turf, natural planter, and the surrounding greenery. The border also helps in containing soil and mulch within the planter areas, maintaining a clean and organized appearance.

When it comes to choosing tiles and cladding, it’s hard to match the beauty and timelessness of natural stone. As a natural element quarried in the tropical area of Surabaya, the Indonesian Dolomitic Limestone is known for its durability, high density, high resistance to water and to acidic content of rain and soil. Our products are tested and certified to meet the highest quality of architectural specifications. Our Split Face is 6",4" and 12" x random pieces for easier installation. The Width varies from 4" to 24". Perfect for any interior and exterior project. Grade 1, Natural Dolomitic Limestone for Wall use. It is recommended you purchase a minimum of 10% waste to account for design cuts and patterns. Add Long Term Value to your Project, without any need for maintenance.

When it comes to choosing tiles and cladding, it’s hard to match the beauty and timelessness of natural stone. As a natural element quarried in the tropical area of Surabaya, the Indonesian Dolomitic Limestone is known for its durability, high density, high resistance to water and to acidic content of rain and soil. Our products are tested and certified to meet the highest quality of architectural specifications. Our Split Face is 6",4" and 12" x random pieces for easier installation. The Width varies from 4" to 24". Perfect for any interior and exterior project. Grade 1, Natural Dolomitic Limestone for Wall use. It is recommended you purchase a minimum of 10% waste to account for design cuts and patterns. Add Long Term Value to your Project, without any need for maintenance.

CONSERVATION BEST PRACTICE: Native Plants catch, slow down, sink in runoff from street and driveway copyright 2015 Virginia Rockwell
Example of a huge classic home design design in Richmond

Color: Harmony Oak Soil
Living room - mid-sized contemporary open concept dark wood floor living room idea in Chicago with beige walls

The Owners of a home that had been consumed by the moving dunes of Lake Michigan wanted a home that would not only stand the test of aesthetic time, but survive the vicissitudes of the environment. With the assistance of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality as well as the consulting civil engineer and the City of Grand Haven Zoning Department, a soil stabilization site plan was developed based on raising the new home’s main floor elevation by almost three feet, implementing erosion studies, screen walls and planting indigenous, drought tolerant xeriscaping. The screen walls, as well as the low profile of the home and the use of sand trapping marrum beachgrass all help to create a wind shadow buffer around the home and reduce blowing sand erosion and accretion. The Owners wanted to minimize the stylistic baggage which consumes most “cottage” residences, and with the Architect created a home with simple lines focused on the view and the natural environment. Sustainable energy requirements on a budget directed the design decisions regarding the SIPs panel insulation, energy systems, roof shading, other insulation systems, lighting and detailing. Easily constructed and linear, the home harkens back to mid century modern pavilions with present day environmental sensitivities and harmony with the site. John Allegretti

The Owners of a home that had been consumed by the moving dunes of Lake Michigan wanted a home that would not only stand the test of aesthetic time, but survive the vicissitudes of the environment. With the assistance of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality as well as the consulting civil engineer and the City of Grand Haven Zoning Department, a soil stabilization site plan was developed based on raising the new home’s main floor elevation by almost three feet, implementing erosion studies, screen walls and planting indigenous, drought tolerant xeriscaping. The screen walls, as well as the low profile of the home and the use of sand trapping marrum beachgrass all help to create a wind shadow buffer around the home and reduce blowing sand erosion and accretion. The Owners wanted to minimize the stylistic baggage which consumes most “cottage” residences, and with the Architect created a home with simple lines focused on the view and the natural environment. Sustainable energy requirements on a budget directed the design decisions regarding the SIPs panel insulation, energy systems, roof shading, other insulation systems, lighting and detailing. Easily constructed and linear, the home harkens back to mid century modern pavilions with present day environmental sensitivities and harmony with the site. James Yochum

The Owners of a home that had been consumed by the moving dunes of Lake Michigan wanted a home that would not only stand the test of aesthetic time, but survive the vicissitudes of the environment. With the assistance of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality as well as the consulting civil engineer and the City of Grand Haven Zoning Department, a soil stabilization site plan was developed based on raising the new home’s main floor elevation by almost three feet, implementing erosion studies, screen walls and planting indigenous, drought tolerant xeriscaping. The screen walls, as well as the low profile of the home and the use of sand trapping marrum beachgrass all help to create a wind shadow buffer around the home and reduce blowing sand erosion and accretion. The Owners wanted to minimize the stylistic baggage which consumes most “cottage” residences, and with the Architect created a home with simple lines focused on the view and the natural environment. Sustainable energy requirements on a budget directed the design decisions regarding the SIPs panel insulation, energy systems, roof shading, other insulation systems, lighting and detailing. Easily constructed and linear, the home harkens back to mid century modern pavilions with present day environmental sensitivities and harmony with the site. James Yochum

Coco coir is a versatile and sustainable growing medium that is gaining popularity among gardeners. Made from the fibrous husk of coconuts, it’s an eco-friendly alternative to peat moss and can greatly enhance the quality of your soil. In gardening, it is often utilized in systems like Coco Coir Hydroponic, where it helps create an efficient water and nutrient delivery system. What is Coco Coir? Coco coir is a natural fiber extracted from coconut husks. It has a neutral pH, excellent water retention, and is reusable, making it a favorite among gardeners who prefer organic and sustainable practices. It is available in different forms such as blocks, bricks, or loose coir, each requiring some preparation before use in gardening. Benefits of Using Coco Coir in Gardening Coco coir offers several advantages for gardening. Here are the benefits of using coco coir in gardening: Holds up to 10 times its weight in water, ensuring plants have consistent moisture. Promotes oxygen flow to plant roots, leading to healthier root systems. Coco coir is a renewable and eco-friendly alternative to peat moss. It can be washed, rehydrated, and reused, reducing waste. Naturally pH neutral, making it suitable for various plants without major adjustments. Enhances the texture and moisture retention of garden soil. How to Prepare Coco Coir for Planting Preparing coco coir for planting involves a few essential steps. First, you need to hydrate the coir block, as it typically comes in a compressed form. Place the block in a large container and add warm water, allowing the block to expand and absorb the water. Once fully expanded, the coir should be fluffed up by breaking it apart with your hands or a tool to ensure it becomes loose and airy. After the coir has been fluffed, it is important to drain any excess water, as overly wet coir can lead to root suffocation. Finally, since coco coir is inert and does not contain nutrients, it’s a good idea to add organic compost or liquid fertilizer to enrich the coir before planting. Do You Need to Soak Coco Coir Before Planting? Yes, soaking coco coir before planting is necessary. Since it comes in a compressed form, it needs to be broken down and hydrated for proper use. The soaking process allows the coir to expand and release the fibers, making it usable as a growing medium. After soaking, the coir should be fluffed to ensure the water is evenly distributed. Draining any excess water is crucial because overly wet coir may impede plant root health. How to Prepare Coco Peat for Planting Coco peat, a fine, powdery form of coco coir, is highly beneficial for seed starting and improving water retention in soil. To prepare coco peat, it first needs to be hydrated, similar to how you prepare coir blocks. Slowly add water to the peat in a container and allow it to absorb and fluff up. Once hydrated, coco peat can be used on its own or mixed with other growing media such as perlite or vermiculite for added aeration and drainage. It is advisable to check the pH level of your final mix, as coco peat generally has a neutral pH, but adjustments may be necessary depending on the plants being grown. Can You Use Just Coco Coir for Plants? Yes, coco coir can be used by itself to grow plants, especially in hydroponic systems or as a seed-starting medium. However, because coco coir does not naturally contain nutrients, you will need to provide regular fertilizer to support plant growth. This makes it particularly suitable for plants grown in controlled environments, such as hydroponics, where nutrient solutions can be carefully managed. In traditional soil-based gardening, mixing coco coir with other organic materials like compost is recommended to provide essential nutrients and improve the overall soil structure. How to Use Coco Coir in Hydroponics Coco coir is widely used in hydroponic systems due to its water retention and aeration properties. To use coco coir in hydroponics, it first needs to be soaked and hydrated, as discussed earlier. Once the coir is fully prepared, it can be placed in the hydroponic system. Since coco coir does not contain natural nutrients, you will need to supply a balanced nutrient solution tailored for hydroponic plants. Regular monitoring of water and nutrient levels is essential to prevent nutrient imbalances or root rot. One of the benefits of coco coir in hydroponics is its reusability. After completing a growing cycle, the coir can be washed, rehydrated, and used again in future plantings. Using Coco Coir as a Soil Amendment Coco coir is also an excellent soil amendment, as it improves the texture and moisture retention of garden soil. To use coco coir in this way, mix loose coir with your existing garden soil at a ratio of one part coco coir to two parts soil. This will help retain moisture without compacting the soil, improving both water drainage and root growth. For optimal results, you can also add organic compost to the mix, ensuring that the nutrient levels are sufficient for plant growth. Coco coir works particularly well in raised beds, where it helps maintain proper soil structure over time. Advantages of Using Coco Coir Over Peat Moss While peat moss has been traditionally used as a growing medium, coco coir offers several advantages over it. Coco coir is a renewable resource, as it is a byproduct of coconut processing, while peat moss is harvested from peat bogs that take centuries to regenerate. Coco coir is also more durable, as it can be reused multiple times without breaking down, while peat moss disintegrates after a single use. Another key benefit is its neutral pH, whereas peat moss is more acidic and may require balancing to meet the needs of specific plants. Conclusion Coco coir is a highly versatile and sustainable growing medium that benefits both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Whether you are using it for hydroponics, as a soil amendment, or as a standalone medium for growing plants, knowing how to properly prepare and use it is key to maximizing its benefits. By following the steps detailed above, you can improve water retention, aeration, and overall plant health in your garden, all while contributing to eco-friendly gardening practices.

Scott Buley, High Tech Turf & Trees, LandscapeMakeover.biz, Rain Garden Nursery. Lion's Mane Japanese maple from Treephoria Nursery, and MidWinter Fire shrub dogwood add to aura of quality at this site. Soil mixes here engineered to plant-specific requirements: Compact Rhododendron and groundcovers that like some water planted above to take storm run-off, with Xerophytes Rosemary and lavender planted in well-drained rock garden slope.

All Seasons Pool knows a pool is the perfect venue for quality family time, and we enjoy helping kids, parents, grandparents, and more share special moments and make lasting memories.

What You Should Know About Fuel Tanks Home heating solutions can encompass electrical, gas, solar and oil based systems. When one talks about oil tanks that are used as home heating systems, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Start with the installer A high-quality, professional and expert installer of oil or fuel tanks can certainly help you make the decision on which type of tank is the best for your property. When you decide on underground fuel tanks, you should make sure that they are: • Compliant with all statutory requirements. • Made of steel and polyurethane. • Covered by guarantee. • Supported by backfill material, leak detection systems and tank supports. Aboveground fuel tanks are easier to maintain simply because they are more accessible. Even the smallest of oil or fuel leaks can be detected almost immediately. But even here, an installer should give you premium quality tanks. These tanks: • Should have secondary containment. • Should be corrosion resistant. • Should have proper support as well. Installation Installation for both – underground and above ground tanks is a technical and complex process. The installation process for both will start with a technician visiting your home and making an assessment of aspects such as: • Measuring the space. • Taking stock of the distance from your home to the tank, pipes and so on. • The supports needed for the tank and so on. If it is an above ground tank, then it may also need bollards to protect it from vehicles. An underground tank will need containment sumps and drop tubes and so on. The combination of components will be decided by the installer and you can certainly ask for a complete breakup of the same and get the costs for the same as well. Remediation Repair and remediation of above and underground tanks is a critical task. In fact, many problems associated with underground fuel storage tanks can be eliminated if the home owner invests time and resources into periodic analysis and examination of the same. A fuel tank that has been installed above the ground will be easier to access but repair and remediation of both types of tanks will entail: • Soil sampling. • Extent of oil contamination. • Assessment of leaks and the extent and number of the same. • Drawing up a plan for dealing with all problem areas. Removal Every fuel tank has a shelf life. At some point of time or the other, the fuel tank will need to be removed. When it comes to above ground installations, the removal company will need to assess the type of fuel and the knowhow on emptying the tank completely. The tank will also need to be cleaned completely before being loaded on to a vehicle that can take it away to a recycling unit or disposal unit. Underground tanks can be removed or closed or treated as abandoned depending on the condition of the tank and official licenses. For instance, a tank can be treated as closure in place if the removal of the same is going to compromise the safety of structures above the ground.