Category Archives: Outdoor Living Spaces

Innovative Solutions, Outdoor Entertaining, Outdoor Living Spaces, Shade Solutions

I’m Ready For Some Shade Sail Shade

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This past Fall, sadly, I had to remove and cut back a good portion of the enormous century old oak trees I had in my backyard.  Living in east Memphis, TN, I am used to the over abundance of trees and the shade they create.  Although I was sad to lose some of my big trees, it has really opened up my backyard.  I have even planted grass seedlings which are now sprouting in 2 areas of my yard.  I am in the process of creating a better backyard atmosphere.  The first thing I am doing is putting  in a few Shade Sails. I have found shade sails to be an interesting and decorative way to “fancy” up my yard.  I am amazed at how easily they fit into almost any backyard setting, and how easy they are to install. They are great around the pool offering the kids a well deserved break from the blistering sun as well as shade contiuing from what I already have from my existing trees over to the side of my house.  I now love sitting on my porch with a nice cool drink, grilling tenderloin for dinner.  So much that I even Twitter about it…  @KarenMR, and @backyardcity.  Recently, I also purchased new outdoor patio furniture and the shade sails provide UV protection for my new furniture and whoops almost forgot….myself and my kids.

School is out in about one week, and I am so glad I have most of my outdoor decorating finished.  We are going to have a great time this summer enjoying our own backyard.

What’s In Your Backyard? Tell me about it……

What's In Your Backyard?

Innovative Solutions, Outdoor Living Spaces, Shade Solutions

Save Energy by Using Solar and Patio Shades

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Premier Rollup Shade

Exterior window shades are the ideal product for reducing temperature within your home. The best ones to invest in  are made with unique knitted all weather fabric because they block up to 90% of the sun’s UV rays yet still allow air to flow through. This breathable fabric not only significantly reduces temperatures behind the window shade, but still allows just the right amount of light transmission to ensure you can always see what’s happening outside.

You won’t have to compromise on appearance if you find the right ones. Some add a designer look to your windows, porch or patio and the price is very reasonable.

Some window shades are easily raised or lowered with a smooth action roller clutch mechanism designed to provide a smooth, even roll even when exposed to extreme weather conditions. Premier roller shades come with tie downs in the bottom rail so you can easily secure your blind especially during those windy days.  Other designs roll up with a simple cord.

Most exterior shades are made to withstand harsh weather conditions and clean easily.  I recommend them  because they are a  great investment and will add style and sun protection for your home.

Outdoor Entertaining, Outdoor Lighting Ideas, Outdoor Living Spaces

Unique Patio Lanterns Create Ambiance

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Patio Lanterns

Elegant and unique, Starlight Outdoor Patio Lanterns are made to survive the outside elements. These beautiful ornamental lights create a dramatic, ambient glow in your outdoor living spaces, on the patio, by the pool, or in the garden.

The globes of each Starlight Outdoor Patio Lantern are unique in design, ranging from contemporary to nostalgic. My favorite, the Orion Patio Lanterns, are designed to mimic old street post light globes and bring an old world character to any existing decor. A string of either 50 or 100 mini lights are used to illuminate each lantern. You are sure to find a Starlight Patio Lantern that fits your unique taste and style. Any Shooting Star Lanterns make for stylish indoor accent lighting as well.

If you are looking to add beauty and ambiance to your outdoor patio, lanterns are an excellent choice and can give any space a warm glow that neither overpowers nor disappoints. These lanterns are perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere to any outdoor occasion.

Outdoor Living Spaces

Swing Into Summer on a New Porch Swing

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Pergola Porch Swing

The gentle sway of a porch swing can soothe you after a long day or provide a comfortable setting for an after dinner conversation. Porch swings are an ideal spot for reading the morning paper, or for sipping iced tea on a hot afternoon. Handcrafted porch swings and resin wicker porch swings will whisk you away to that idyllic spot you’ve been envisioning.

If your porch is too small for a porch swing, or if you don’t have a porch at all you can use a Pergola Swing Set, pictured above. They are stylish and sturdy free-standing swings that can provide all the romance and comfort of a traditional porch swing.

Many porch swings are handcrafted with Western Red Cedar or made with Resin Wicker. Both materials look just as beautiful and are durable and sturdy.

Start relaxing this spring and into the lazy days of summer on a beautiful porch swing.

Outdoor Living Spaces

How to Clean Your Outdoor Rug

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Outdoor Rugs

Cleaning your all weather rug is a breeze. Just hose them off and let them air dry. For tougher stains, mild soap and water are all that is required. Olefin with Sunbrella fabric borders with mitered corners are easy to clean too.  For porches, verandas or busy areas of the house, spills wipe away with damp cloth and warm water. They can be washed with a water hose for heavy soiling. Most outdoor rugs are sunlight resistant, fade resistant, and non-allergenic.