Nature never goes out of style

My love for nature started at an early age. I simply love the colors, texture, sights and sounds of the outdoors. That's why I LOVE the opportunity to take my design outside this time of year. I'm able to use nature's beauty to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space for families to enjoy. Over the years some great new products and outdoor designs have popped up, but I still love to integrate natural products whenever and wherever possible.

+Freshome recently published an article on some of this years hottest outdoor design trends. I have to admit, I love them all! A yard is an extension of our living space. It doesn't have to be big to be useful. Having a smart, beautiful design outside is just as important as having one on the inside. Your exterior is the first impression of your home. It should reflect your personality.

So where do you begin?

You can never go wrong with a fire pit. There is nothing better than sitting around a fire with family or friends and looking up at the stars. A fire pit can serve you well through many seasons, make s'mores in the summer or chase the chills away in the fall.
 

Enjoying the evening outside, possible with a fire pit – Rick O’donnell Architect

I am just loving the shape and placement of this firepit! 

I'll take the view that goes with this firepit too please!

I love to take any opportunity I can to use natural materials and there's no more fitting place to do so than in your yard. I am not going to lie to you...it's more costly upfront to use stone, or real wood materials but they will last longer and in the end, you'll actually come out ahead.

Beautiful natural stone bench from Finnerty LLC

 If you are short on space but want to be big on style, try installing a wall garden like this one by Debora Carl

Wonderful example of a neat wall garden – Debora Carl



We installed this wall garden at the York Decorators Showhouse. Instead of looking at a blank wall of siding this wall stands out as if there's a beautiful piece of artwork hanging there! Much easier on the eyes!

You should also remember to use plantings that are native to your region. No sense in planting something pretty, only to find out it won't survive long in your local climate. Native plants will be happier in your garden and thus thrive.

 

Most importantly, we should all remember to unplug and go outside. Breathe in the fresh air, soak up some sunshine, listen to the birds.

 

Best,

Renee

Ready to take your design outside?

Spring has finally sprung...I think!

I don't know about you, but for me these past few days with bright sunshine and warmer temperatures in New Hampshire have surely put a spring in my step and lifted my mood. With only a few patches of snow left to melt in my yard, I am inspired to begin designing outside!

I like to think of the outdoor spaces in my yard as an extension of my home. Here in New Hampshire, our season is pretty short so I like to be sure to make my space functional and pretty.

 However, there are so many things to consider before you head down the path (no pun intended!) to landscape design! Before I even meet with clients to discuss outdoor spaces, I ask that they do the following:

• Make a list of needs and wants. This is important to really think about. Do your children need a place to play? Perhaps they'd enjoy a fairy garden like the one I created here?

• If you have a dog, you may want to consider a special area just for your pet!

• Are you thinking of having a vegetable garden? Would you like a patio or a porch? Also think about where the sun is during different parts of the day and when you are likely to be using the patio or porch. You don't want for it to be blazing hot every time you head outside, otherwise it won't get used.

• Consider the direction of the sun and wind. Before you decide to construct a fire pit, you best know which way the wind comes from, otherwise you'll be left with a whole lot of smoke and not a lot of fire!

• It's also a good idea to write down the types of plants and trees you love, or even the ones you don't want to see in your yard.  Are there certain colors you like, or a certain feel that you want your yard to evoke?

Today we have so many wonderful choices in indoor/outdoor rugs, furniture and accessories. It's no longer just wicker or plastic. I love to create a space that will really get used. Whether it's to host a cookout on the porch or relax on the patio there are many ways to design.

So while the sun is shining on us think about how you want to use your yard and begin creating an inviting space for the outdoor space that surrounds you. Believe it or not, designers and landscapers begin to get booked out several months this time of year. So if you are hoping to share margaritas on your deck with friends for Memorial Day, you better get planning!

May the warm sun rays shine down on you today and every day!

Renee



A Glorious Day for Garden Tour

Thanks to all who made the first annual ECCA Garden Tour and wonderful success.  From the beautiful weather (finally!) to the charming sculptural art to the fabulous attendees, we couldn't have asked for a better day.

The waterfall was humming, the music was lyrical, and the conversation lively.

For those of you that did not get a chance to attend, here is a sampling of the garden that I designed:

If you see anything in the garden you would like to chat about, please feel free to post a comment right here or drop me a line at: Info@mandevillecanyondesigns.com

Next week I will start the color series.  Each week I will explore a great new color that I have used in one of my projects as well as the hottest new colors for 2009/10.  I invite your input and ideas!

Stay cool!

Renee