Transitional family room is tranquil and inviting The blue walls with luscious furnishings make it very cozy. The gold drum chandelier and gold accents makes this room very sophisticated. The decorative pillows adds pop of colors with the custom area rug. The patterns in the custom area rug and pillows, along with the blue walls makes it all balance. The off white rustic console adds flare and a perfect size for large Media wall T.V. The gold console lamps frames the Media center perfect. The gold floor lamps, and and gold chandelier brings a contemporary style into this space. The Large square ottoman in a neutral grey offsetting the carpet color makes it nice to prop up your feet. The gold drink tables in quite trendy and so functional and practical.

Best of Houzz Kitchen Design 2016 winner. A custom kitchen remodel was one of the final projects for this beautiful Georgian Century Home. All the details were part of the effort to maintain the feel of an old kitchen but with all the most current conveniences. Notice the glass cabinet hung in front of a window, granite counter top repeated as the back splash, porcelain tiles that mimic wood and marble on the floor, a stunning island light and the coffered ceiling. Michael Jacob Photography

Kitchen with black cabinets, white marble countertops, and an island with a walnut butcher block countertop. This modern kitchen is completed with a white herringbone backsplash, farmhouse sink, cement tile island, and leather bar stools.

Bedroom - coastal light wood floor bedroom idea in DC Metro with beige walls

Stacy Zarin Goldberg Photography
Inspiration for a transitional bedroom remodel in DC Metro

Casey Dunn
Inspiration for a contemporary powder room remodel in Austin with a vessel sink and beige countertops

Composed of Ward + Blake Architect’s patented EarthWall post-tensioned steel rammed earth wall construction, the earthen walls literally rise from the soil that was used in their construction. Photo Credit: Roger Wade

Mid-sized trendy wooden straight open staircase photo in San Francisco

Inspiration for a mid-sized mediterranean wooden straight concrete floor and open staircase remodel in Santa Barbara with white walls

Jon Eady Photographer
Living room - rustic open concept light wood floor living room idea in Denver with a ribbon fireplace and a stone fireplace

Designed with frequent guests in mind, we layered furnishings and textiles to create a light and spacious bedroom. The floor to ceiling drapery blocks out light for restful sleep. Featured are a velvet-upholstered bed frame, bedside sconces, custom pillows, contemporary art, painted beams, and light oak flooring.

Composed of Ward + Blake Architect’s patented EarthWall post-tensioned steel rammed earth wall construction, the earthen walls literally rise from the soil that was used in their construction. Photo Credit: Roger Wade

Creating a comfortable outdoor living space is a priority for many homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. With rising summer temperatures, installing a shade tarp in your backyard offers an affordable and effective solution for sun protection. We’ve developed this detailed, step-by-step guide to help you confidently install a shade tarp that not only shields you from the sun but also adds aesthetic appeal to your outdoor area. Benefits of Installing a Backyard Shade Tarp Before diving into the installation process, let’s explore the key benefits of having a backyard shade tarp: Provides UV Protection: Keeps your family and guests safe from harmful sun exposure. Reduces Outdoor Temperatures: Creates a cooler, more enjoyable outdoor space. Protects Outdoor Furniture: Extends the life of patio furniture by reducing sun damage. Enhances Outdoor Aesthetics: Adds a modern, stylish look to your yard. Budget-Friendly: More affordable compared to permanent structures like pergolas. Materials and Tools You’ll Need To begin your DIY backyard shade project, gather the following materials and tools: Materials: Shade tarp (UV-resistant and breathable) Sturdy posts or existing structures (trees, fences, walls) Mounting hardware (eye bolts, D-rings, turnbuckles, snap hooks) Nylon or polyester rope, or stainless-steel wire Concrete (if installing new posts) Tools: Power drill Measuring tape Level Ladder Wrench or adjustable spanner Post hole digger (if installing new posts) Step 1: Plan Your Shade Tarp Layout The first step in installing your backyard shade tarp is careful planning. Take time to assess your outdoor area and answer these key questions: Where is the sun’s path throughout the day? What size and shape of tarp best suits your space? Will you anchor the tarp to existing structures or install new posts? What height do you want the tarp to sit at for maximum shade and airflow? Pro Tip: Use string or garden hoses to visualize the tarp layout on the ground before making permanent decisions. Step 2: Measure and Mark Anchor Points Once you’ve determined the tarp’s location and orientation: Measure the tarp dimensions. Mark the exact points where each corner of the tarp will be anchored. Ensure that the anchor points are at least 5–10% longer than the tarp size to allow for tensioning and slight adjustments. Consider slope angles for water runoff. Aim for at least a 20-degree angle to prevent water pooling on the tarp. Step 3: Install Support Posts (If Necessary) If your backyard lacks existing anchor points like trees or fences, you’ll need to install sturdy support posts: Dig post holes at least 24 inches deep and 8-12 inches wide for stability. Set posts in concrete, making sure they remain plumb and level. Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24–48 hours before applying tension from the tarp. We recommend using pressure-treated wood, galvanized steel poles, or aluminum posts for longevity and strength. Step 4: Install Mounting Hardware With your anchor points ready, it’s time to install the necessary hardware: Attach eye bolts or pad eyes securely into walls, posts, or other fixed structures. For added flexibility and adjustability, install turnbuckles or tensioners to fine-tune the tarp’s tightness. Connect snap hooks, D-rings, or carabiners to make assembly and disassembly easier. Make sure all hardware is rated for outdoor use to prevent rust and corrosion. Step 5: Attach and Tension the Shade Tarp Now it’s time for the most satisfying part—mounting the shade tarp: Begin by attaching one corner of the tarp to an anchor point. Gradually attach the remaining corners, moving diagonally for even tension. Adjust each connection point using your turnbuckles, ropes, or cables. Pull the tarp tight enough to avoid sagging, but not so tight that it risks tearing. Check that the tarp maintains the desired slope for rainwater runoff and adjust tension as needed. Step 6: Final Adjustments and Safety Check Before enjoying your new shaded area: Inspect all anchor points and hardware for stability. Test the tarp’s tension and make adjustments for even distribution. Ensure that no sharp edges or loose connections remain that could damage the tarp or pose a safety hazard. Confirm that the tarp is secure in windy conditions by giving it a gentle tug. If you live in an area with frequent high winds, consider removing the tarp during storms to prevent damage. Step 7: Enjoy Your Shaded Backyard Oasis Once installed, your backyard shade tarp provides a comfortable and protective space for outdoor gatherings, relaxation, or family activities. You can decorate underneath with outdoor furniture, string lights, or potted plants to create a personalized outdoor retreat. Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Shade Tarp Performance To extend the life of your shade tarp, follow these maintenance guidelines: Regularly check for wear and tear, especially around anchor points and seams. Clean the tarp periodically with mild soap and water to prevent mildew buildup. Store the tarp indoors during harsh weather seasons if it's not designed for year-round use. Tighten hardware as needed to maintain proper tension and avoid sagging. By following these simple care steps, your shade tarp will continue to deliver years of sun protection and outdoor comfort. Conclusion: Upgrade Your Outdoor Space with a DIY Shade Tarp Installing a shade tarp in your backyard is a cost-effective and rewarding DIY project. With careful planning, quality materials, and proper installation techniques, you’ll enjoy cool, shaded outdoor living all season long. This step-by-step guide ensures your project goes smoothly from start to finish.

John Lee
Deck - contemporary deck idea in San Francisco

Photo: Lucy Call © 2014 Houzz Design: Imbue Design
Inspiration for a contemporary open concept concrete floor living room remodel in Salt Lake City with blue walls, no fireplace and no tv

A new light-filled kitchen transforms a historical 1880s barn into family friendly living

The opening to the left of the server leads to the Kitchen. Photo by Glen Grayson, AIA
Example of an arts and crafts medium tone wood floor dining room design in New York with beige walls

Bates Masi Architects LLC
Example of a trendy wooden straight medium tone wood floor staircase design in New York with white walls and metal risers

City living can lead to creativity, like this complete remodel that also included a rooftop patio. A NARI Contractor of the Year award winner, this contemporary design relies heavily on straight lines and metallic accents.