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Hot Design for Keeping Cool

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Written by Guest Blogger Kayla Harvey

Its summer, its hot, and its not showing signs of stopping.  Wouldn’t it be nice to enjoy some cool breezes rather than bake in the sun?  If you are trying to beat the heat here are some helpful tips to keep your outdoor spaces cool as the dog days drag on.
1. Green is Cool
Energy efficiency is always a good idea, but in this case literal greenery will help to keep you cool.  We all know that shade trees reduce heat, but did you know that grass and other plants can help to keep temperatures regulated in your yard as well?
Take a look at the driveway and patio shown in these images.  Concrete and pavement absorb heat and radiate it back long after the sun sets.  The use of grass and concrete pavers together helps to limit the amount of water needed as well as reduce heat retention.  This creates a more comfortable outdoor space, and happens to be a sharp looking design.
2. Catch the Breeze, Block the Rays
If your outdoor space receives frequent afternoon sun a shaded area is a must. A patio with an overhang provides an excellent opportunity to utilize outdoor curtains. Your best bet for keeping cool is to open up cross ventilation so that you can enjoy the breeze.  Be sure to hang the curtains with a bar or wire that allows you to move them as needed.  This way you can make the most of the wind while blocking any direct sunlight.
If outdoor curtains are not for you, try this novel planter wall.  The wall and plants provide shade, and the slats through the middle will allow air to circulate.
3.  Light Up the Night
When the sun goes down so do temperatures, so make the most of your yard with illumination.  There are a variety of ways to create outdoor rooms through the use of solar powered light fixtures, outdoor lighting, and even illuminated furniture.
If you are unsure you want to commit to new furniture or lighting try this simple trick to light up your yard.  Take oversized balloons filled with air, and just before you tie them off add a small neon glow stick to the inside.  These are great tossed into a pool for parties, or if anchored, to line a driveway.

Now that you know these tips, get on out there and enjoy your summer!

Spring Outdoor Furniture & Color Trends

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Written by our guest blogger Kayla

Our Design Guide Article on Spring 2013 Outdoor Design – See the article on the

Design Guide Online Editorial.

Dip Die Bench / Photo Credit: Decorativity

Spring is in the air and it’s time to start thinking about your outdoor living spaces.  This year’s trends lend themselves to nature, nurture and cocooning. There’s texture and color, the warmth of woods, and sleek lines of metal. Comfort and style come in one package with outdoor furniture designs found in the 2013 lines of Brown Jordan, Sutherland and DeDon to name a few.

Photo Credit: Swingrest

Sutherland-Chair-and-Table

Emerald_Fabric

Sutherland Table Chair / Emerald Textiles from Perennials / Photo Credits: Kayla Harvey

Selecting the right furniture to sit and enjoy the sunshine is only the beginning. Exploring the colorful world of outdoor fabrics like the new lines of Robert Allen, Perennials, and Sunbrella will give you the opportunity to add some personality and vibrance to your outdoor space. Schlosser Design Group especially loves the new Schumacher fabric by Trina Turk.

Photo Credit: Robert Allen Upholstery Fabric

Photo Credit: Perennials Outdoor Fabrics

Emerald green is the Pantone color of the year. So why not work the trend and add a splash of colored fabric with this tranquil hue? Or even incorporate emerald with the raging trend of dip dye for your outdoor accessories. Check out this simple image of dip dyed blocks that can be used as outdoor embellishments, and require a lot less watering than flowers.

Dip Die Blocks /Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Dip Die Outdoor Accents / Photo Credit: Charlottes Fancy