Putting in a pea gravel patio is hands down one of the best upgrades we’ve made to our yard – not only is it a great area to entertain and relax with the kids or a few friends, but it’s a low maintenance and low cost way to get a useable patio area in very little time.
This is an especially good choice if you’re looking to create a laid back, relaxed feel in the backyard.
When we bought our house, I quickly set my sites on an unused slanted side-yard that I thought would be the perfect spot for a comfy little patio. It’s a narrow area, but I could imagine setting it up with a farmhouse table, a fire pit, and enough seating for friends and family to gather.
The space did have some issues – it’s on a slope, rocky, and was overgrown with all kinds of weeds and roots. Not to mention a gigantic bush that was basically eating our house.
I’m sure it was a nice bush but there was no way we were sharing a patio with it.
Giant Bush That Had To Go
On top of that, the side yard led right into my neighbor’s driveway, which was less than ideal. So it needed some work and a vision to bring it to life.
My husband didn’t really share this “vision” with me, but the forces of Pinterest were on my side. I knew I could prevail! (And I did prevail. Otherwise this would be a weirdly anti-climactic post).
Post Giant-Bush, the Area Still Looks Terrible
Anyway, once I had my mind made up that the space could be turned into a usable area, I got to work brainstorming the best way to make that happen.
The first big question was what surface we would use on the ground.
Initially the idea of putting in a deck, or maybe even a brick patio, was appealing. But those were both in the “big project” category, and since we were already in the middle of renovating the inside of the house, I couldn’t really push for another big ticket item in the yard.
So I did a little research, and quickly fell in love with the idea of installing a pea gravel patio instead.
Pea gravel is the unsung hero in landscaping that I had been missing!
Benefits of a Pea Gravel Patio:
- Installing a pea gravel patio can easily be a DIY project if you have the inclination. Here is an easy to follow tutorial on how to DIY a pea gravel patio.
- It’s easier to install and much more budget-friendly than other patio materials.
- No matter what shape you want your patio to be, you can make it happen with pea gravel. The small stones are super easy to work with, as long as you clearly delineate the edges of the patio. Want an oval patio? By all means, be my guest!
- It’s quick. Our landscaper leveled the ground, put down a base layer, secured a fabric liner to the ground and then added 2.5 inches of pea gravel. The project can be completed over a weekend. (Again, you can DIY this. We didn’t, only because we have 3 very young children and we have our hands full at the moment).
- The stones provide for good natural drainage, and they won’t crack from freezes and thaws.
- Pea gravel is such a pleasant surface! It makes a soft crunching sound under your feet as you walk on it, which feels very vacation-y.
Bonus: a year later we still don’t have any weeds whatsoever.
(Note: you can walk on pea gravel barefoot, but it’s not soft like sand. I prefer to have flip-flops on if I’m going to be out there for long).
When I’m working on a layout (for indoor or outdoor spaces) I always start with a sketchpad and pencil, and I like to draw out the space several different ways, including arranging and rearranging the furniture on paper.
It helps to make multiple different sketches, trying out various layouts. I always have a tape measure and notepad close at hand for this!
When sketching out our new patio space, I realized I could fit not only a farmhouse table, but that I could also pull off the much loved pea gravel patio with fire pit setup that I’ve been coveting.
I’d even have room for extra seating for guests!
I knew that once we added the tall privacy fencing and the land was properly leveled, I would have exactly the blank slate I needed to get the look and feel of a finished outdoor room.
Here’s a shot of one side of the completed patio area, including our eating nook:
A wait staff would add even more to this feeling, but I don’t really have the means for that.
Eventually I’ll add a light fixture to hang over the table, but I haven’t gotten that far yet.
I’m not being whimsical with the mismatched benches, this is just what I was able to scrounge up on Facebook Marketplace, where I get most of my yard treasures. Next year I’m hoping to get a nice rustic farmhouse table and properly coordinating benches.
If you don’t have the finances to get all of the furniture you want right away, be creative and make do with what you do have! Look around your house, shop at thrift stores, and check out FB Marketplace. You can usually find something cheap that will do the trick, at least in the interim. Over time the space can evolve, and you can make upgrades as you go.
As you can see in the photo below, the pea stones get darker after it rains. They look nice both wet and dry!
Pea Gravel Works Really Well in Contained Spaces
This space is 14′ x 21′ in the main seating area, and another 6’x12′ in the “nook” for the table. There’s also a small section where the stairs lead into the patio, and we’re able to fit an old table and a grill there.
I knew that the pea gravel would be a good way to go as long as it was properly contained and had a clear perimeter from the rest of the yard. Having that clear perimeter is essential when using pea stones.
Styling Your Pea Gravel Patio
When planning a design and choosing furnishings for your patio, it helps to think of your outside space the way you think of your inside spaces.
Pea gravel is an unpretentious, casual option for a patio. It makes sense to have furnishings that are similarly laid-back, to keep a consistent style and feel to the area.
In your patio, the ground surface is like the carpet, or hardwood floor, in your house. And you want to make sure that the other elements work with the floor!
Whereas a brick patio might lend itself to a more formal feel, pea gravel goes in the opposite direction. It’s a natural, movable surface, and the resulting feeling is decidedly more casual than brick. So use that vibe to your design advantage! You want to find outdoor furniture and accent pieces that come together in a cohesive way, without needing to be “matchy-matchy.”
You can choose outdoor furniture and layer your space with design elements that compliment both the feel of the pea gravel and the function of the space, just like you would layer decorative elements indoors (plants, patio umbrellas, throw pillows, blankets, lighting, etc.).
Not all surfaces need to be shiny and new – rugged, aged wood and chipping paint look perfectly at place in lots of outdoor settings, including in a pea stone patio.
I wanted to incorporate a few important things into the pea gravel patio design: a fire pit, wooden Adirondack chairs, a grill, and a farmhouse table.
All of the elements I just listed maintain the informal feeling that you get from the pea gravel ground surface.
Fire Pit on a Pea Gravel Patio
I knew that I wanted a fire pit as a feature in the patio. Fire pits are so cozy! I love the smell of the fire and the crackling sound on a cool night. What’s better than that?! Plus, fire pits work great with pea gravel surrounding them, since you don’t have to worry about sparks from the fire causing any issues.
We opted for a moveable fire pit versus a permanent structure, and I’m glad we did. I’ve already moved the fire pit several times – to make way for a coffee table holding appetizers, to host a brunch, etc. I imagine we will be using the space in lots of different ways over the years, and this gives us max flexibility. When it’s time for a cozy fire, we just move the fire pit right back into its place!
I love the look of wooden Adirondack chairs around a fire pit, and these chairs are a great match for a pea gravel patio too. They share a relaxed, laid-back look, so they’re a natural style match.
One issue with a lot of wooden Adirondacks is that they’re bulky to store during the winter. The Plant Theatre Adirondack Chairs that we have are foldable, which is a huge plus.
This winter I’ll store them inside, which will protect them from the elements and make sure that they stay in nice shape for years to come. And because they’re foldable I don’t need to worry about them taking over valuable space in the basement.
I also love these farmhouse blue and white striped throw pillow covers as an alternative to the full seat cushions, or even to layer on top of the full chair cushions.
Enclosing a Pea Gravel Patio
To make the patio feel private and comfortable, I knew it needed to be enclosed. Once we had the yard leveled, we had a very small retaining wall built, and added some privacy fencing. I also like that the fence makes it easy to run string lighting!
We also added a wooden arbor to clearly mark the side patio off from the rest of the yard.
It’s really important to have a clean, clear perimeter around a pea gravel patio. We have simple pressure treated wood beams in the ground between the edge of the pea gravel and the grass, and they work well to delineate one space from the next. Medium-sized, smooth stones are another popular and attractive option to separate the patio from other parts of your yard.
One way or another, you’ll definitely need some type of boundary to contain the stones.
It’s never going to be possible to keep all the stones in their place – some are bound to make their way onto the lawn. But you want to try to keep that to a minimum. Even with three really young kids who like to mess up all of my areas, the rocks don’t stray too far into the lawn! A few here and there, but I can deal with it.
Plus, pea gravel is a low-key, unfussy type of surface. So – don’t get too fussy about it!
Tips and Considerations for a Pea Gravel Patio
There are a few things to keep in mind with a pea gravel patio:
- You’ll need a boundary to contain the pea gravel (we used pressure treated wood beams).
- Make sure you have a fairly level space to work with – the more level the better the result.
- Be sure to put down a fabric liner before laying down pea stone. You don’t want weeds to come up through your patio.
- Use approximately 2.5 inches of pea gravel to fill in the space. More than that is too shallow, but if you make it too deep it will be harder to walk on it.
- Some furniture works better than others on pea gravel. For example, benches are much easier to use around a farmhouse table than chairs, because you don’t need to constantly be pulling them in and out over the stones.
I couldn’t be happier with the way our pea gravel patio turned out.
It’s a practical and economical way to create a patio that your family can enjoy, and the look and feel of the final result is really nice, even when compared to its vastly more expensive counterparts.
If I had to do the patio all over again, I would go the pea gravel route without hesitation.
You can read a more detailed post on the side yard makeover if you’d like to see the full transformation. I don’t want to exaggerate, but it will literally blow your mind.
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In every city or county, there are always one or two neighborhoods that are the showpiece for the area. Everyone would love to live there, and often show it off to their friends and family when they visit.
North Myrtle Beach’s prize community is Barefoot Resort, and even though a home there can be quite affordable, its residents often mention the name with pride.
Four famous architects, Greg Norman, Pete Dye, Tom Fazio and Davis Love III got together in 1998 and designed four championship golf courses, making use of unincorporated land on the outskirts of North Myrtle Beach and the Intracoastal Waterway which ran through the acreage. A few years earlier, Barefoot Landing – one of the most unique and enticing outdoor shopping complexes around – was built next to the proposed site, which added even more desirability to the project.


TerraGuard erosion control blankets hold seed in place, while absorbing rainfall impact and wind forces. Their three-dimensional structure absorbs water while maintaining close contact with the soil. This provides the ideal environment for seed germination and reduces the risk of burn-out after germination. The organic materials (straw or coconut) decompose as the vegetation matures. Thereby providing the vegetation with necessary nutrients for growth. The blankets perform this in direct correlation with the site’s ability to re-vegetate itself. In cool, dry places where vegetation develops rapidly, the blanket will degrade faster. This process ensures the vegetation will receive nutrients as they are needed.


CSX and the City of Atlanta are proving that some old rail corridors never die, they just keep connecting.
Railroad and city officials announced at a joint press conference March 15 that CSX had agreed to sell 4.5 miles of inactive rail corridor, covering 63 acres, to become a key segment in the Atlanta BeltLine project, which eventually will encircle the city with 22 miles of trails, transit and parks.
“Since the Atlanta BeltLine was first conceived nearly 20 years ago, CSX has worked to support the vision behind it — the vision of a more connected community, with sustainable growth opportunities and efficient transportation solutions,” said Craig Camuso, CSX regional vice president, who spoke at the media event.
CSX has participated in numerous high-profile projects for repurposing abandoned or underused rail property, including the High Line linear park in New York, for example. But the Atlanta project may be setting an even higher standard.
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms noted that the Atlanta BeltLine project is the largest and most-comprehensive urban redevelopment effort ever undertaken by the city and one of the most-ambitious projects of its kind in the nation.
In thanking CSX for its cooperation on the initiative, Bottoms noted that the 4.5-mile corridor, purchased for $25.8 million, represents by far the largest piece of the BeltLine’s Southside Trail segment. It connects 18 neighborhoods, five schools and three parks, and includes five bridges and three tunnels, one of which is a 120-year-old original stone railroad tunnel.
Atlanta BeltLine representatives said they expect removing old rail and ties from corridor will take approximately six months, and they plan to open it as an interim hiking by the end of the year. Fully developing the corridor with paving, stairs and retaining walls will take several years, they said.


This week on Jan. 27marks the one-year anniversary of Portland City Council voting to allow the Portland-Suzhou Sister City Association (PSSCA) to transfer a Benson Bubbler to Suzhou, China, honoring the 15-year anniversary of Lan Su Chinese Garden.
In May 2015, the Portland-Suzhou Sister City Association (PSSCA) requested that the City provide a Benson Bubbler in honor of the 15-year anniversary of the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a friendship project between Portland and Suzhou. The Lan Su Chinese Garden is today one of the great cultural treasures of Portland. According to the Lan Su Chinese Garden, it is the most authentic Ming Dynasty Garden outside of China.
Happy anniversary to Suzhou, China’s very own Benson Bubbler!


Once you’ve decided to put your landscaping or garden design project into our capable hands, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without us! We’ll work with you through every project phase from pre-planning to after-care. And at every stage, we’ll never lose sight of your individual wishes and requirements.
Examine our expertly creative way of working: you’ll be delighted!
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Dan’s Garden Services provides professional support for every phase of your project. We take care of everything, from providing advice at the outset to providing support after completion.
Choose from a variety of options, ranging from a full planning service to individual advice, from the practical integration of existing elements to a complete redesign. Our work is always of the very highest standard – original ideas included!


The significance of out of doors lighting can’t be undermined mainly in towns wherein it might no longer be feasible in order to walk or drive if there were no outside lighting fixtures. Today outdoor lighting is gradually making its presence felt even in our normal houses as a way of beautifying them and enhancing their aesthetic appeal. You can use lawn lights and other varieties of outdoor lighting to make your home and garden appearance extra attractive and unique.
For outdoor lighting, LED lighting fixtures are a preferred choice because they are durable and electricity efficient. These lights just like the sun lighting fixtures help to significantly reduce down on power prices. Lighting up your home can display your creativity and elegance, and how you design your lawn lighting fixtures can speak volumes about the way you design your house. While some like a dimly-lit walkway with a stunning mild at the entrance, others may need flood lights or reflected lights for their entrances. Lighting allows to feature protection to your environment and on this sense safety lights are a must have in case you want to defend your home from illegal entries and spoil-ins. Some out of doors lights is ready with movement sensors which additionally help to protect your house from perpetrators.
Spending time on your lawn is a good manner to revel in the beauty and serenity of nature, and when that lawn is embellished with lovely lights, the feeling is even greater unique and enjoyable. Proper garden lighting is really vital if you need to be able to spend pleasant time with family and pals in your garden. Garden lighting fixtures are available diverse designs depending on their makes use of. With a unique and appealing set of lawn lights you could make your private home stand proud of the relaxation of the houses in the neighborhood. A superbly landscaped garden seems incomplete with out an similarly lovely lawn lighting fixtures machine. You can pick from unique lights patterns to do up your patio or outside or swimming pool or pathways.
Among the various distinctive sorts of out of doors lighting, the most usually used in recent times are run via energy. However, solar lights are slowly becoming popular amongst house owners due to the fact these are cheaper and extra efficient. Solar lawn lighting uses solar energy for illumination and facilitates to lessen the month-to-month power charges. Moreover, solar lighting do no longer require wires and cables and are fantastically vivid due to the fact they incorporate LED lamps.


The Kraker Home was Featured in Fix Magazine!
FIX AUGUST 2013
A NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD
By Molly Fromkin | Photos by Nathan Berry
I love New Orleans, I’ve always loved New Orleans,” says homeowner Wes Kraker. What was once an overgrown, functionally useless piece of land abutting the Kraker home has been transformed into a little bit of the French Quarter right here in East Memphis. Wes and his wife, Becky, have been in their home for fifteen years, but it wasn’t until another remodeling project two years ago that they committed to transformig their outdoor space into the stunning, comfortable courtyard it is today. “The area was just kind of overgrown, all azaleas and monkey grass. Not a lawn we could use or enjoy…
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Guides to Native Landscapes and Natural Yards
A Guide to Landscaping with Native Plants in Northern New Jersey. Click on Download File to view or print a copy
Native Plant Guide and Resource List. Click on Download File to view or to print a copy
More guides and handouts can be found on the Sustainable Yards tab on this website.


The decoration of home and other commercial places is majority done to attract others. In this era, the lights are the best option when it comes to decorating any area. There are creative brains in the field which produce lights with various features and qualities that can help one get the best look of the area with just switching the lights on. For different areas, there are different types of lights that can enhance the charm and look of the concerned place wherever the lights are fixed. The outdoor lighting is as important as the indoor lighting as the outdoor light fixtures illuminate various commercial spaces such as buildings, offices, parks, stores, malls, warehouses, schools and the likes. Commercial spaces rely on outdoor lighting for added security as well. Aesthetics has a great role to play while deciding the indoor lightings but for outdoor lights, functionality is the priority, and aesthetic appeal is secondary.
Irrespective of the industry, commercial lighting compliments the buildings and adds security during the night time. While, all of us know that, outdoor lighting is essential, finding the right kind of lighting for your specific needs is much important.
Here’s a look at the different options for commercial outdoor led flood light fixtures:
The floodlights offer wide-spanning lights and cover a large space along with nooks and corners which are usually difficult to illuminate. These lights are helpful in protecting the property from robbery as well as vandalism. Floodlights are a common sight in huge public places such as stadiums and parking lots which use LED for amazing lights. Choose the floodlights as per the brightness required.
- Landscape lights
The landscape lights are an amazing option for outdoor lighting as they can be used for both private and public space. The landscaping lights are most popularly used at verandahs, terraces, parks, offices, and the likes. The landscaping lights consist of globes, LED light fixtures, and spotlights for public enjoyment as well as security.
The landscape lights are all about organic design, less pollution, and LED use. These lights are used for highlighting greenery and flowers along with outdoor industrial spaces as it highlights the architecture of the structure.
- Motion sensor lighting
The motion sensor lighting is the lighting with motion sensors. The sensors have a small electronic piece that detects infrared waves which are radiated when things move. The motion sensor lights up automatically when it detects a significant amount of heat radiation. The motion sensor works only during the night and dark hours and gets deactivated during the daytime. These lights are usually installed in driveways, alleyways, and garages.
The spotlights provide direct and focused lights on the specific area such as signage, fixtures, and doors. These lights are different from the floodlights as they don’t spread light across a wide area. The spotlights focus their beams in narrow lines at a focal point.
Explore web for more tips on choosing industrial style residential lighting that can help one get lights for various purposes of industries.


Gardening is enjoyable regardless of whether you are into flowers, plants or a combination. The process is more than just enjoyable, it is also fulfilling. A garden that is planted well can bring great life to a dull environment. If you want to improve what your garden looks like below are some tips on getting a fantastic garden started.
Check What You Should Improve Outdoors
You should get outside and take a look at what needs to be done before planting. Numerous activities can be done to make this garden look fabulous. You should bear in mind that you are working to make an environment that your guests, family, and neighbors will love. Before doing anything else, you should first clean up where necessary. The outdoors are equally as important as the indoors. The driveway, the veranda, and floors are some of the places you can clean up.
Plant Some Lovely Flowers
The next stage is a little evident. You need to find lovely flowers, which will brighten up your yard. You can look for a fresh batch of flowers if you already have some planted in the yard.
Add a Water Feature
Nothing makes a gloomy day better than the sight of nature. If you feel that your garden looks plain, you can always consider incorporating a beautiful water feature. It is a very nice idea to have such a feature because your garden tends to appear livelier. Moreover, a trip to such a beautiful garden turns out to be a very enjoyable one for your family. Adding a pond to your garden gives it a very tranquil atmosphere. You can even decide on various designs such as adding some fish or some vegetation. If you are thinking of breeding some fish, you can always go online and look for some koi fish prices. This makes the garden livelier and beautiful.
Create the Kid’s Play Space
If you have children, you know how important it is for them to spend some time outside playing. When it comes to creating a play are for your children, having a garden should not be an excuse. You can get some suitable ideas online about different garden designs for children. These ideas may involve building a beautiful slide or swing for the children
Take Care of Your Garden Dining Area
A summer Spent with friends and family in an outdoor garden is great. If you love a good barbeque, you obviously understand the importance of a good dining set. Therefore, sorting out your garden dining area is important. You can put up the dining set and fix the grill together as you prepare for your banquets.
You can browse online for several garden plans. Pinterest is one of the places you can get some neat ideas.


Our decorative Living Willow in dekopots is beautiful in the gardenbeds and the pots on the terrasse.
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With sizes from 100 cm to 200 cm there is a wide selection that will fit any garden. Choose between our yellow trees that are made of Salix Alba and the red trees which are made of Salix Fragalis.
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When it comes to selling your home, the first thing potential buyers will see is your landscaping. This can be an opportunity to make an excellent first impression and create interest in your property. The right landscaping choices can make all the difference in how your house looks to possible buyers.
It’s not difficult to find articles with tips on designing a beautiful garden, but what about when you want more than just flowers? There are many ways to make your space stand out, so take these tips and get designing!
What to Plant in Your Garden
The first step to designing your perfect garden is deciding what you want it to look like. Do you want a calming and serene space or one with more of an edge? Do you want something natural and earthy or something more formal? Once you decide what the look of your garden will be, it’s time to think about what plants you’ll need.
Flowers are a popular choice as they bring color and life to the space. Floral arrangements have been shown to increase a home’s selling time by as much as 20 percent over other plants— a good garden will help you sell your home more quickly.
A good lawn is the key to a successful garden. Lawns are relatively easy to maintain and can be mowed with a push mower. If you don’t have time for that, you can hire someone else to do it for you! Planting grass seed is an inexpensive way to revitalize your lawn by providing oxygen and nutrients for new grass to grow. You can also use fertilizers to help strengthen and promote the growth of your lawn.
Trees and Shrubs
If you’re looking for something that will add a lot of natural beauty to your yard, trees and shrubs are a great way to go. There’s no better way to set the mood for your yard than by adding a tree or two. They can also be used as windbreaks or as a privacy barrier. If you have an open space in your yard, try planting a row of hedges.
Vegetables and Fruit
One way to make your landscaping more exciting and useful is to include vegetables and fruit. Consider growing vegetables vertically on trellises or fences if you want to grow them but don’t have much space.
Fruit can also be grown in containers or hanging baskets. You can get creative with these and add color using flowering plants like impatiens.
Sell Your Home for Cash to Zech Buys Houses LLC
It can be challenging to sell your home. You might not want to fix up the interior, or you might not have the patience to wait for months on end before finding a buyer. In this situation, selling your home for cash is a great way to get out of a bad situation quickly and without hassle.
Zech Buys Houses LLC will buy your Colorado Springs house when you need cash fast, regardless of condition. If you are looking for an easy way out, give us a call!


Eden Manor in Thorpe, Shortlisted for Housing Design Awards 2021
Eden Manor, Eden Retirement Livings flagship development in Surrey has been shortlisted for the Housing Design Awards 2021. The submission for Eden Manor was made along with Pearl House Newbury, Eden’s first development based In Newbury Berkshire by architects ACG (Both have been shortlisted).
The proposals for the spectacular Eden Manor site include the restoration of the existing Grade II and Grade II* listed 18th, 19th and 20th century buildings and the addition of a new building. Together, these will house 79 apartments and a variety of recreational facilities within a new later living village.
The existing listed buildings are being sensitively converted into 1 and 2-bedroom apartments and the recreational facilities from the award-winning architect, Ted Cullinan’s original office scheme will be restored to create a community heart. The front of house area is to be reinstated and the swimming pool and spa, squash courts, restaurants and dining areas are to be refurbished. Additional facilities will include a residents’ lounge and library, staff accommodation, guest suites and two winter gardens. Landscaping will enhance the parkland setting and further outdoor recreational areas such as kitchen garden allotments, a boating lake and clubhouse will enrich the campus community.
New pathways will give residents access to the entire site and improved planting will significantly enhance the existing ecology and biodiversity.
The new build is conceived as a 21st century complementary addition to the current campus, carefully integrated with the landscape to reduce the visual impact on the green belt. The 23 apartments are arranged in two clusters with front doors opening out onto one of three public mews courtyards. Green roofs house further communal spaces while picture garden courtyards to the south of the properties offer views to the landscaped grounds. It is intended that a selection of the communal areas will be opened up for use by non-residents in order to increase the variety and vibrancy of the development. The design moves away from the traditional ‘gated development’ to provide 21st century later living.
The Housing Design awards were launched in 1948 and are the longest running. World class judges who are experts in their field, range from planning to design and are highly respected here in the UK and overseas.
These are the only Awards promoted by all 5 major professional institutions – RICS, RIBA, RTPI, Landscape Institute and Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, meaning the awards are genuinely a cross industry partnership between various arms of government, the private sector, and all key professional institutions.
Managing Partner Liam Kelly commented ‘we are delighted to have been shortlisted for this prestigious award, especially as we have both the Pearl House Newbury and Eden Manor submissions shortlisted. We have worked closely with ACG who have produced superb designs and we are thrilled their work has been recognised. Although Eden Retirement Living is a young company, we all come with significant knowledge and experience of the sector and out intention is to take things on a stage, we really hope people will enjoy living here and at our other carefully selected sites we are in the process of developing.’
For further information:
Alison Lidderdale T: 07767 491 527 E: firstname.lastname@example.org


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This is life on the prairies. Wide, sweeping vistas of gently rolling grass. And through it cuts the lush valley of the Oldman River, the home of Lethbridge. A former rail town for Canadian Pacific, today the garden town is a great gateway to the Rockies, the Canadian Badlands and tons of outdoor activities including world-class golf. One highlight not to be missed is the Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens.


These three strategies supply stamped concrete that has a color and shape just like the organic creating substance. In addition it is for a longer time-Long lasting than paved stone, and nonetheless resembles the appear.
Stamped Patios Get structure Tips for stamped patios and examine samples of stamped patios installed across the country.
When this property was recently produced, the yard was nothing but a colorless, flat expanse of Filth. On this barren canvas, the homeowners created an inviting outside space for entertaining by setting up a stamped concrete patio with different zones for a big pergola along with a stone-confronted fireplace.
The accent coloration is produced by implementing colour launch into the concrete. Colour launch has two needs. Coloration launch is really a pigment utilised to color the concrete and shade launch is usually a non-adhesive applied to avoid the concrete stamps from sticking towards the concrete.
This may be a fun attribute close to the pool and in close proximity to a back stairway to an upper grasp. - stantonmccomb
For this lovely one,200-sq.-foot patio and outdoor entertaining space, travertine stamps and stone-textured type liners were being utilised to copy actual stone, developing a large-close try to find an inexpensive cost. An ashlar travertine stamp was utilized for the most crucial area and also a hammered-edge form liner was used to impart a stone-like texture alongside the perimeters.
Houzz has the most important selection of dwelling style pictures and inspiration, which includes Stamped Concrete Concepts, on your following task.
Huge vaulted outdoor residing area. The centerpiece is often a custom designed and hand plastered monolithic fireplace surrounded by cozy furnishings, BBQ space and large La Cantina folding doorways and direct move-as a result of from kitchen to BBQ spot.
The nice and cozy terra-cotta coloring with the concrete patio was obtained by making use of integrally coloured concrete in a very canvas shade and boosting it by using a dry-shake shade hardener within a sun-baked clay hue. The surface was then stamped with texture skins inside of a Roman slate sample.
The bottom coloration is the key color used in stamped concrete. The base colour is preferred to replicate the colour of the organic making material. The base color is produced by incorporating a shade hardener into the concrete. Coloration hardener is a powder pigment used to dye the concrete.
Stamped concrete patios offer you a vast array of attractive choices not possible with other patio components. The patio can be poured in any shape or size to fit the space, and you will Choose between many various stone and brick designs as well as wood-grained textures.
The colour hardener could be utilized using one of two techniques; integral shade or cast-on colour. Integral colour could be the technique in which the whole quantity of concrete is dyed the base shade. The whole quantity of concrete is coloured by adding the colour hardener towards the concrete truck, and allowing for every one of the concrete within the click here truck to generally be dyed.
These homeowners regarded as building the patio with natural Pennsylvania bluestone, but were being intrigued by many of the new developments remaining pioneered with stamped concrete.
This new patio and set of steps is coloured in beige with walnut accent coloring, plus the borders are stained using a darker ebony acid stain. An ashlar slate stamp was useful for the pattern and texture.
A Cape Cod style get more info property having a yard patio inspired with the East Coastline. A casually stylish Hamptons design and style deck lends to household BBQs and relaxing while in the afternoons.
7170, 13216 Pond Springs Rd suite e
( 512) 271-4347


I want a place out in the country. Not too big, just a couple hundred acres is all.
I’d put the house in the center, away from all roads and some place private.
We’d have a nice, big garden and walking paths. I think and relax when I go for walks, and I think country walks would be very relaxing.


The interior planning starts after the grey structure of your building erect properly. But prior planning of the building interior or finishing is also necessary as in the other design phases. The basic finishing services include designs and consultancy for kitchen, bathroom, lighting, doors, windows, ceiling, flooring, tiles, woodwork, front elevation, water tanks, wardrobes, main gate, and any other custom design needs.We have the art of making your surroundings aesthetically pleasing and colorful with lots of textures, designs and paving options. With years of experience in landscaping areas into a beautiful, luxurious and lively place is one of our fortes. We also provide concrete pavement and concrete blocks installation of different sizes and styles for front elevation, fountain, delineation, pathways, and any other custom need.


Hebe Landscaping Ideas For Your Garden
In the event that you need a low support, straightforward line for your yard, you might need to think about utilizing hebes. With almost no exertion, you will find that hebes can add magnificence and a hint of shading to your yard and home. You will track down an extraordinary assortment in hebes to permit you to track down the one that best accommodates your yard and your finishing plan.
- Various Types of Hebes
There is an extraordinary assortment of hebes that you can use in your finishing plan. These Hebe plant help give your grass tone and surface to help make it all the more outwardly appealing. Some basic hebes incorporate dogwood, azalea, lilac, solid hebe rose, and hydrangea. A line with brilliant hebes will make a lovely point of convergence around your home or walkway. The finishing hebes can likewise assist with adding tallness to your garden and yard.
- A Great Border
A delightful boundary will comprise of a wide range of layers of shadings, stature, and surfaces. It does not make any difference what hebe that you pick, it will add tone and surface to your grass and scene. Hebes can likewise be utilized to line your property line among you and your neighbors. They will make a line without shutting in the space as trees do. They are an extraordinary decision for this specific reason that you and your neighbors will appreciate and appreciate.
- Dealing with Your Hebes
Great soil that channels well is crucial for keep your hebes sound. It could be important to add some manure to your dirt to make it better before you start planting your hebes. At the point when you are prepared to plant your hebes, check to ensure that the roots are not root bound. On the off chance that they are, you just need to relax the roots utilizing a blade to prepare them to plant. Ensure that your hebes get a lot of water so they will remain green and sound.
Be that as it may, the dirt prerequisites for most hebes fall in the middle of the two soil types. The dirts where hebes are to be developed ought to be in every case all around depleted. The other development factors, like shade, wind openness, elevation, and the dirt’s overall richness levels, shift extraordinarily with the particular sort of soil that will be planted. Try not to be concerned if your arranging hebes do not glance filled in from the outset. Before you know it, the hebes will develop and fill in those holes. That is one of the advantages of utilizing hebes in arranging. It is not important to plant a lot of hebes to cover a territory. You can utilize more modest blossoms or plants to fill in the holes. Utilize your inventiveness to make an arranging plan that works for you and your necessities.


Color pineapple garden
From the first door to the second door Besides the two sides of the road, there will be palm trees planted around each other. At the base of the tree you will see a variety of colored pineapples Until arriving at the parking lot You will see the colored pineapples tangled together in large branches under the Phayasataban and palm trees on the island in the middle of the road. The varieties that we plant are pineapples with red stalks. Matchstick pineapple Emia Fassieda Mogana Pictures Emia Patinata Pineapple Pineapple, Pink Starlite, Redstar Eliane, White Speckled Pineapple, Dwarf Pineapple, Brushing Bride Charm, etc.


The invention of a special system of irrigation from the abundant springs of Battir allowed for the development of the mountainous landscape of the agricultural terraces, which have been inscribed on the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites. Over 5,000 years ago, millions of locally-made stones were used to construct the man-made terraces on the hillslopes of Battir. The terraces extend along Al Makhrour valley, all the way to Battir.
The technique used in building the terraces involved the development of sanasel, or dry-stone walls, which were systematically arranged to create flat surfaces to prevent the erosion of the soil and uphold its moisture. In addition to the different types of vegetables, the terraces are mainly planted with olive trees, which are not only significant on the agricultural, sociocultural and symbolic levels, but also play an important role in the development of cultural landscapes in Palestine.
- About Bethlehem
- What's Happening in Bethlehem
- Top Historical Sites To Visit
- The Most Popular Villages\ Towns Of Bethlehem
- Best Landscape Sites
- Top Religious Sites to visit
- Top Cultural Sites to Visit
- The Most Famous Palaces In Bethlehem
- Most Popular Appetizers
- Most Popular Main Dishes
- Most Popular Sweet
- Most Popular Soups


Hardscape Connection specializes in sourcing only the finest products and materials that bring added enjoyment, beauty and value to our customers homes. We partner with professional certified architects, contractors, installers and landscapers experienced in elegant outdoor and indoor living spaces. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that you are completely satisfied with the end result of your project.
Our company pays special attention to the details of every project to ensure the complete satisfaction of each client. Our goal is to enhance the living areas of your home for optimum pleasure and property value.
Your satisfaction is our priority and we strive to provide a service we are proud of. We start every project by providing a thorough consultation to understand your goals and the needs of the project. We do this to guarantee that the project is completed according to your preferences.


Tessa, Environmental Designer
Seeking an Environmental Designer that’ll knock it out of the park? Tessa comes with over four years of experience and has completed compelling projects for clients like Cisco and Charles Schwab. She has in depth experience designing for large scale events, creating signage, and developing unique concepts to adhere to the surrounding environment. Don’t wait – make the choice to enhance your team with Tessa today!


Imagine you’ve been given a garden.
It’s your garden, and you’re responsible for its care. You decide what grows in it. You decide what it looks like. And you get to partake of the fruit that comes from it.
Like any garden, it’s gonna be prone to sprout weeds. Undesirable seeds will occasionally be blown in, and you won’t know it until they sprout. But you get to decide how long those weeds stay—how tall they get.
But be careful, because left untended, weeds have a way of taking over.
In fact, it’s often the case that after prolonged neglect, we look at our garden and see nothing but weeds.
In these times, it’s easy to curse the garden we’ve been given.
It’s also easy to look at the weeds in our garden, and think that it’s too late, or that this is how it was meant to be, and that there’s nothing we can do about it, at least not now.
When you look at your garden and see only weeds, it’s hard to forget that it’s still a garden. The weeds do not define it. They are merely the visible evidence of what you’ve allowed to grow there.
If you don’t like it, change it. It’s your garden.
Now reread this, and substitute “garden” for “LIFE.” What resonates with you?


Concept Concrete WA
74 Stirling St, Perth WA 6000, Australia
2VX7+RH Perth, Western Australia, Australia
+61 407 073 040
With that, it could be harder to offer a precise match towards the color and pattern of the original substance each time a repair is necessary.
Putting Regulate joints – Concrete expands and contracts with the setting. Management joints support aid this without cracking. Skilled contractors know wherever these joints should be positioned (inside corners are the most common destinations for cracking).
In addition, a stamped concrete patio is lower-maintenance — the “stones” gained’t settle over time, developing uneven surfaces, and there aren't any grout or joints that can open nearly Enable grass and weeds sprout.
Homeowners stop by HomeAdvisor.com to find a top rated-rated Professional to finish their home improvement venture or repair.
Slopes and drainage – When your patio will be up in opposition to your house, you’ll want to include drainage. This will likely be completed by integrating a slope into the design. If this will almost certainly put the lowest end of your patio underneath your yard stage, you’ll want to acquire some drainage there too. If utilizing a made drainage process, the drain should be set up before the pouring begins to prevent plenty of digging up and re-pouring.
The installer employs a considerable wood frame or maybe a frame produced from An additional product, which lets the concrete slowly and gradually dry and treatment. Though Learn More the concrete remains damp, the installer locations a stamp about the surface area that gives the concrete its closing pattern.
Being an investment, concrete patios generally cost below patios manufactured from brick or all-natural stone given that they are fewer labor-intense to install.
There are numerous steps involved with stamped concrete that should be executed carefully and rapidly to achieve uniform success throughout the complete slab before the concrete sets. The pattern need to be pre-prepared and diagrammed, tools and labor wanting to go.
Curb Charm – There’s no doubt that a attractive patio, walkway, or driveway will draw in people today far more than a simple, grey slab will. If you’re thinking about putting your house out there, most outside enhancements recoup about 50%.
Hand-tooling places a tough, hand-carved look to the perimeters with the “stone”. This offers any exposed edges a natural appearance and might be manufactured to imitate freshly Slice stone or stone that has long been weathered with age.
You could have a brick, flagstone, More hints European enthusiast; random stone, and herringbone, and so forth. just by acquiring the design and style you ought to be stamped on to the concrete with your selection of color tones.
High Finish – If you would like that purely natural look complete with hand-stained versions while in the “stone”, the high-stop stamped concrete patio has lots to supply. Elaborate designs including borders, compasses and also other noticed-Lower designs can add a very stylish, customized look for your patio.
Homeowners also should consider the why not try here pattern that they choose. A fancier pattern with flowing lines and spaces with a custom design will cost more than a plainer Area that only works by using straight strains. Hand-detailing can also boost the cost.
This gives the looks of inlaid garden stones of varied designs. The surface area texture is smooth and flat and the sides are rounded and worn for an exceptionally warm look.


Urbanization and Green Urban Planning
In an informative and interactive lecture on 26 January, Andrea Bulloni, a respected green architect in the architectural domain, engaged classes with perspectives about urbanization, green urban planning, urban regeneration and transformation. It provided the classes with valuable knowledge and perspective from a professional about urbanization and architecture that can further invigorate and reinforce their knowledge.
Andrea Bulloni has become a director in international company LAND, based in Milan. LAND values greener cities, nature and urban-ecological co-existence and that includes green landscape architecture, agronomy and engineering, they have transformed several districts in Milan and beyond Italy. In the lecture, it included captivating visuals about urban regeneration and transformation projects, issues encountered during their projects, managing and planning the projects and the final results. It gave the classes a chance to recognize and realize the importance of urban planning and management, and further improve their understanding of the demands and duties of being an architect. If they intend to pursue a career in architecture or engineering, it might become invaluable.
In their curriculum, Grade 10 have studied and researched urbanization, including the transformation of urban areas, urban models, land zoning, urban structures and urbanization issues, extending their knowledge and inquiry. At the conclusion of their studies about urbanization, the class conducted a research and investigation before collaboratively designing and assembling elaborate magazines that included content and articles about urbanization in Milan. Before the conclusion of the lecture, the class had the chance to ask and debate questions with Mr. Bulloni about urbanization and they presented their magazines. It was a very academically fulfilling lecture.
Mr McGowan - Individuals & Societies Teacher


One of the neat things about moving the chickens around on the pasture over the years has been watching the soil change as a result. The chickens loosen the soil as they dig around in and scratch it, as they bathe in it. They aerate it and, as a result, rainwater is better absorbed. It used to be that the pasture’s dirt was so hard-packed that rainwater would sit on the surface or would run off in areas where the ground isn’t level. That isn’t the case anymore; now the rainwater is actually absorbed and used by the soil instead of running off of it. The chickens also fertilize the soil with their waste. Even from the first time we put chickens on the pasture, we could tell the difference in the grass. That keeps improving with every season. Watching this natural way of improving the soil actually work is an inspiring thing.


Gardens by the sea
Legambiente and the Unipol Group launch a new project on the Sicilian island to promote its precious landscape and agricultural heritage
16 June 2020. Monitoring and carrying out a survey of the gardens of Pantelleria, created on the Sicilian island using the art of the dry stone wall in order to protect the plants from strong winds. Promoting these green spaces through itineraries and walks through the most significant “gardens”, but also providing useful information, via a handbook, so the gardens of Pantelleria can be replicated in similar environments.
This is the threefold goal of the new Gardens by the sea initiative that Legambiente, in collaboration with Ente Parco Nazionale Isola di Pantelleria (Pantelleria National Park Authority) and the Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences of the University of Palermo, and the Unipol Group plan to launch as part of the Bellezza Italia project aimed at recovering and redeveloping areas of Italy of inestimable value and beauty and, in this case, promoting the precious landscape and agricultural heritage of Pantelleria. In fact, the Sicilian island is famous for its intelligent use of resources which, over the centuries, has enabled it to carefully develop a complex and structured agricultural system which has set the standard in terms of adapting to the climate in an area where water is scarce - a situation in which many areas of the Mediterranean will find themselves in the coming years.


Design Of Sarda Fall.pdf
How to Design a Sarda Fall for Your Garden: A PDF Guide
If you are looking for a way to add some beauty and elegance to your garden, you might want to consider designing a Sarda fall. A Sarda fall is a type of waterfall that has a raised crest and a vertical impact. It is named after the Sarda canal in Uttar Pradesh, India, where this type of fall was first constructed. A Sarda fall can create a stunning water feature that will enhance the look and feel of your garden.
Design Of Sarda Fall.pdf
But how can you design a Sarda fall for your garden? What are the steps and principles involved? How can you make sure that your Sarda fall is safe and efficient? To answer these questions, we have prepared this PDF guide that will teach you everything you need to know about designing a Sarda fall for your garden. In this guide, you will learn:
What is a Sarda fall and why is it beneficial for your garden
What are the components and dimensions of a Sarda fall
How to calculate the discharge and crest level of a Sarda fall
How to design the body wall, cistern, and impervious floor of a Sarda fall
How to test the stability and efficiency of a Sarda fall
How to construct and maintain a Sarda fall
Some examples and tips for designing a Sarda fall
This guide is based on the design principles for Sarda type and straight glacis fall by YourArticleLibrary.com , the design of Sarda fall numerical with design steps by Study with Civil Buddy , and the design of Sarda fall by Scribd . It is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or assistance. You should always consult with an expert before designing or constructing any water feature in your garden.
If you are ready to learn how to design a Sarda fall for your garden, download this PDF guide now and follow the instructions carefully. You will be amazed by the results.
What is a Sarda Fall and Why is it Beneficial for Your Garden
A Sarda fall is a type of waterfall that has a raised crest and a vertical impact. It is named after the Sarda canal in Uttar Pradesh, India, where this type of fall was first constructed. A Sarda fall can create a stunning water feature that will enhance the look and feel of your garden.
A Sarda fall has many benefits for your garden, such as:
It adds beauty and elegance: A Sarda fall can create a beautiful focal point in your garden, with its graceful curve and splash of water. It can also attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife to your garden, adding more life and color. A Sarda fall can also complement the theme and style of your garden, whether it is modern, rustic, or tropical.
It improves the microclimate: A Sarda fall can help to cool down the air temperature in your garden, especially in hot and dry seasons. It can also increase the humidity and oxygen levels in the air, making it more comfortable and healthy for you and your plants. A Sarda fall can also reduce the noise pollution from the outside, creating a more peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
It conserves water: A Sarda fall can help to conserve water in your garden, as it recirculates the same water over and over again. You only need to add water occasionally to compensate for evaporation and leakage. A Sarda fall can also use rainwater or greywater as its source, reducing your dependence on municipal water supply.
These are some of the benefits of having a Sarda fall in your garden. A Sarda fall can not only improve the aesthetics and functionality of your garden, but also your well-being and happiness.


The driveway to this 4 acre farmhouse is cobbled with Raj Green Sandstone moving towards the Goa Sandstone and Teracotta Slate clad facade. The feature walls and backdrops to sit-outs are covered with a combination of grooved and chiseled Sandstone and Pietra Dura Mosaics. Water cascade from uneven height pillars in Forest Brown are the focal point of this farmhouse.
Architect: Samak Landscape
Duration: 06 months
Material Used: Raj Green Cobbles, Forest Brown, Etah Gold Antique, Classic Gold (Shotblasted), Varied Mosaics, Goa Sandstone, Terra cotta Slate.


Design & Dignity Projects
At its simplest Design & Dignity aims to create warm, welcoming and dignified environments in hospitals for people at the end of their lives. But Design & Dignity is also about inspiring hospital staff and designers to create places of beauty through ‘exemplar’ projects.
‘Exemplar projects’ can be achieved through the careful use of colour, lighting, artwork, acoustics, fabrics, furnishing and planting. Exemplar projects should include ‘something beautiful’ as a focal point to the space, such as a piece of artwork, sculpture or if space permits a small garden. The rooms should be inspiring, places of beauty.
With Design & Dignity projects well underway throughout the country we are beginning to see cluttered rooms and dreary facilities transformed into tranquil spaces where families may gather or can be with a deceased relative in appropriate surroundings.
Projects completed to date include:
- family rooms on medical wards that can be used to break bad news or as a place of retreat
- mortuary renovations
- viewing suites in the Emergency Department, where the bereaved can be with their deceased loved one
“This building has. . . given us a space that is dignified, that is bright, that is airy, that’s embracing of all religions and none”
Margaret McKiernan, Director of Nursing, Mercy University Hospital


Congratulations to Matt Routhier, ASLA, PLA
Northpoint congratulates Matthew Routhier on his recent achievement in passing the Landscape Architect licensing exam and obtaining his Landscape Architect License in both New Hampshire and Maine. Matt has been with us here at Northpoint since the summer of 2012 as a Project Manager. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts where he received a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture in 2001. He has been working in the civil engineering industry in New Hampshire since that time. Matt is also a licensed designer of subsurface disposal systems and he is a certified septic evaluator. He is a member of the Granite State Landscape Architects (GSLA) and the Granite State Designers and Installers Association (GSDI). We look forward to Matt continuing to diversify his knowledge and experience here at Northpoint in the coming years.


a popular shutterbabe snapshots locaton for a photoshoot
Located in Issaquah Washington, Confluence Park is a hot spot for photoshoots. It's a large park that is off of Front Street in Downtown Issaquah. This park features many beautiful photo spots such as the bridge, a patch of birch trees, a willow tree, private areas of grass, and even access to a river.
This park is a popular spot for photos during any time of the year because of it's beautiful versatility. It's also a popular location for Fall sessions as it does have a lot of changing colors and leaves during that time of year.
It should be noted that this park is also on the more busier side, as it's a popular spot for walking, playing, picnicking, watching the salmon in the river, as well as a popular spot for other photographers during busy photo seasons. But the fact that there are so many areas to take photos within this park makes it pretty easy to navigate around others - we just may have to wait a bit and do a bit of stop and go when taking photos on the bridge as people pass by.


BY RICH REZLER
Located on the site of a former apple orchard, Washtenaw Community College’s main campus has a long alliance with trees. Nearly 50 years after the transformation of the Franzblau family’s farm began, the college was recognized for its continued management of the 295-acre campus as an urban tree forest.
WCC recently became one of four colleges in the state of Michigan to receive Tree Campus USA certification from the Arbor Day Foundation and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
On Tuesday, April 11, WCC Landscape and Grounds Department manager Holly Herman and landscape planner Donna Reincke attended a full-day event at the University Club of Michigan State University in Lansing, during which Tree City USA and Tree Campus USA certification recipients were recognized and keynote speakers discussed urban forest management topics.
According to Reincke, receiving the certification was an honor, lunch was good, and the speakers were insightful; but she found herself itching to end the formalities and get back to campus and the kind of tasks that helped WCC earn the award in the first place.
By 9:30 a.m. the following morning, she was behind a podium on stage at WCC’s Towsley Auditorium, giving an Urban Trees Day lecture to students, faculty, staff and community members. An hour later, she was outside – with a new ‘Tree Campus USA” baseball cap topping her more familiar work clothes – overseeing a group of students as they planted a river birch tree outside of the Morris Lawrence Building.
That new river birch, a white buckeye tree planted later in the day, and the apple trees that remain since ground was broken for the first campus buildings in the summer of 1967 are all part of a roster of approximately 1,600 trees that the WCC facilities management department inventories and maintains. That total doesn’t include the hundreds of trees in natural forest areas located outside the campus’ 147 acres of maintained grounds.
Hunter said achieving Tree Campus USA designation demonstrates a commitment to proper care of the urban forest by the Landscape and Grounds Department and the entire campus community. She is also quick to point out that achieving the honor is one of many initiatives her department has outlined toward a more sustainable practice on campus.
“As a Tree Campus USA site, we hope to set a great example for students, staff, faculty and visitors on the value of trees,” Hunter said. “We also want to ensure that the learning environment we provide in the future is more enjoyable, stimulates all of the senses, and provides greater diversity than it does today. Being a designated Tree Campus USA site means we are actively planning for the future.”
The Arbor Day Foundation is the same organization that has granted Ann Arbor with its Tree City USA status for 36 consecutive years. A total of 111 Michigan communities earned Tree City USA recognition at the April event, the eighth-most nationally.
The DNR also recertified two Michigan utilities (Lansing Board of Water and Light and ITC Holdings) through the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree Line USA program.
WCC was the only new member on the organization’s Tree Campus USA list, joining the University of Michigan, Western Michigan University and Calvin College. The WCC facilities management department received a flag, plaque and other signage to promote the certification.
Requirements for Tree Campus USA consideration include maintaining a tree advisory committee, having an overall tree management plan, having a dedicated tree care budget, providing student service-learning projects, and observing Arbor Day.
“Students are eager to volunteer in their communities and become better stewards of the environment,” said Matt Harris, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Participating in Tree Campus USA sets a fine example for other colleges and universities, while helping to create a healthier planet for us all.”


Bring a bit of nature inside your home or office! Join Old Town Flowers and learn how to build your own terrarium. Design and create your very own mini-world with ferns, woodland plants, moss, seed pods, rocks and figurines. Includes instructions for building an open terrarium, including planting mediums, plants that work together, and how to keep everything alive when you bring it home. You can plant your terrarium for an arid, sunny environment or a lower light situation.
Pricing includes a small (6-8 inch), open top glass container, as well as planting materials and a set of coordinating plants. A choice of soil cover and a variety of planting decor will be available. Add-on options will be available during the class (choice of larger containers, soil covers and crystals).


Congratulations to Blue Stone Pools on winning Pool of the Year at SPASA Awards of Excellence, plastered by Extreme Concrete Pool Renovations.
Blue Stone Pools took home the years most coveted award for ‘Pool of the Year’. This pool was plastered by Extreme Concrete Pool Renovations, utilising our quality Aqwa Glass diamond range on the surface. SPASA (Swimming Pool & Spa Association of WA) recognises quality workmanship, design and excellence in the pool industry.
Zorzi Homes designed and built this luxury Mount Pleasant residence. Set high upon the river escarpment with city views, set the canvas footprint to design a swimming pool that not only took advantage of the river/city views, but also a central hub that truly reflected a lifestyle feel.
The overall lifestyle design had to be exceptionally modern and sophisticated, that complimented the building’s contemporary luxury architecture, and capture the breathtaking views.
The pool builder worked very closely with Zorzi’s team of architects who designed and fitted the hardscape surrounds and high-end appliances, to ensure it all worked seamlessly with the new swimming pool design, that will ultimately frame the views and enhance an already spectacular vista, a prerequisite design discipline.


With the Summer in full swing, let’s talk about how to enjoy your outdoor spaces with the help of outdoor tiles! With tile, you can create an outdoor space that is unique to your style! Whether you need a space that acts as a relaxing retreat or a space to entertain big families and pets, tile can keep up with you and your life activities!
Porcelain tiles allow for a beautiful and safe pool area. Porcelain tiles are the most slip-resistant, durable, and stay true to their color in the harsh sun. Solid colored tiles create a sleek look while shaped tiles can add dimension and match your unique style.
Glass tiles come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, textures and finishes. Some common colors are deep blue, turquoise, or green, but they can be customized to your liking to create a vibrant, colorful space! They can be added to pools, hot tubs, or walls, combining with water and sunlight to create a stunning visual effect.
Tile can be used to turn your plain walls into focal points. You can create the perfect gathering space for summer nights by adding tile to a fireplace, fire pit, or the main wall, drawing people together.
Pavers are also a popular way to create a guided entrance into your outdoor spaces. Pavers can be personalized, as they come in a variety of shapes and colors! They are more durable than other materials and can be easily replaced. By dividing them up by grass, gravel, or other tile, you can create a stunning pattern.
Take a look at what's in store for PDI in the coming future, and don't miss the sale of a lifetime!!
Change is in the air at PDI! And we've also got some tips on how to choose the best ceiling for new construction projects.
Designer Spotlight: Vicki


Letölteni New indoorpool design könyv ingyen pdf, epub, mobi, rtf és fb2
For many years, water has been an essential element for life and for the evolution of man. Countless examples throughout history present an interaction between this liquid element and man’s way of life. In Roman times, the domus was built around a patio with a small pool, which became the centre of the house. However, with the passing of time, its original function as a place to collect rainwater has given way to another much more thought-provoking one, which contributes to improving people’s quality of life. Swimming pools, especially those found inside the home, such as the ones in this book, have become a popular feature for architects and designers, who see the creation of these spaces as a great ally for their most innovative architectural projects.


Boring is not beautiful. Planted Earth Columbus knows that you want a backyard which is as unique as your family. That is why they treat every design as if it was going to be featured in a home magazine. The designers, professional builders, and landscape engineers at Planted Earth are passionate about turning your dream outdoor spaces into reality.
What Makes Our Hardscaping and Landscape Designs so Unusual?
- Passion for excellence.
- Depth of Experience.
- Working with Customer to Create Designs.
- Thinking Outside the Box.
- Innovative and Creative Designs.
- Making the Most of Your Space.
- Treating Each Project as a Special Design Challenge.
Let Award Winners Design Your Home Hardscape and Landscape
When you choose Planted Earth, you can be assured that you have a company which has experience and expertise in both design and construction. For over 10 years, the professionals at Planted Earth Columbus have designed amazing backyard spaces which have won many prestigious awards including:
- Building Industry Association 2011 Best in Show
- Building Industry Association 2010 Gold Award
In addition, their designs have been featured in periodicals like Dublin Life Magazine. The designers at Planted Earth Columbus are used to winning awards, but more importantly, they treat every project with the same care, and imagine every customer's yard or garden space as one that might be featured in a magazine.
Unique Designs Using a Variety of Materials
Whether you love brick, concrete, stones, or pavers, we can use the materials you love. Our designers will match your home, or your style ideas. Want a unique design of interlocking paving stones? Endless possibilities of colors and designs are available with Unilock pavers. Planted Earth Columbus is proud to be Unilock certified as an authorized contractor.
Why Settle For Anything But the Best?
With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and many customer testimonials of satisfaction you know that you can trust us to provide:
- Excellent Customer Service
- Guaranteed Satisfaction.
Why have a backyard that looks just like everyone else? Choose Planted Earth Columbus for award winning landscaping and hardscaping in your yard!


The famous Japanese architect will prepare a project for the reconstruction and development of Irpen
The management of the company "Brave" and investment group "MOLODIST" together with the city administration met with a famous Japanese architect and founder of the international architectural and urban planning bureau "MADMA urbanism + landscape" and "MASA architects" - Hiroki Matsura
Important issues of reconstruction and development of Irpen were discussed at the meeting. Hiroki shared his own vision of the development of modern urban planning and his first impressions of the city
The meeting resulted in an agreement on cooperation. Subsequently, Hiroki Matsura presents to the city authorities a "master plan of the city" with calculations and deadlines for its implementation. Volodymyr Spivak, CEO of Vavazhnykh and MOLODIST investment group, was the project manager on behalf of the city.
It will be recalled that Hiroki Matsura, an architect of Japanese descent, works in the Netherlands. Hiroki admits that he combines Eastern Zen practices with Dutch pragmatism to create innovative architectural projects.


Creating An Outdoor Space You’ll Love
When you think about going on vacation, where do you picture yourself at? Are you on the beach with a cool drink and a book sitting beside you? Are you up in the mountains, nestled near a river with a campfire roaring around you? Do you have a large group with you or is it an intimate affair?
You may not be able to recreate a beach in your backyard, but you can certainly bring elements of your dream vacation to your home. Water features and fire pits are both very popular right now. If you can set up an environment in your backyard that makes you think of happy moments, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your evenings much more. The good news is that there are a lot of options available to you if you want to make this happen.
Set Up A Beautiful Outdoor Space
There is so much you can do outside. You can set up a sitting area that functions as an extension of your home. You can put in a fireplace or a fire pit to add in some warmth on cool nights. You can add walkways to make it easier for you to get from point A to point B.
You can even put in a bridge if you have a creek or small waterway running through your yard. You can install a man made pond and add fish. You can build a vegetable garden or have a “game area.” For example, put up a basketball court or a volleyball pit. You can make the area look beautiful by planting flowers and trees as well.
Take your personality and needs into account with everything that you do. This isn’t always easy because you also want to incorporate the existing design style of your home and any outdoor elements that you already have.
Many people now want to be able to use their outdoor living space as long as they can. Therefore, lights are necessary, as is a source of heat on cold nights.
Pave It Up
If you want your space to be around for a long time, you may want to think about putting in hardscapes. They can make all the difference in areas where the ground isn’t level. In addition, they can make it easier to maintain your space because you won’t have as much dirt or grass.
Get nostalgic with stone cobble on your driveway or walkway. Put in a splash pad for the ultimate in family fun. The options are nearly limitless, so think about what you want the most and get to work!
Get Creative With Your Outdoor Space
When you revamp your deck, it feels like you have an entirely new living space added on to your home. In addition, it gives you a starting point for the rest of the yard; after you set the deck up the way that you want, you can focus on the little details that make everything so special.
For example, if you want privacy, you can plant little trees or shrubs to create the type of atmosphere that you want. You can also make the deck more comfortable by putting in built-in seating.
A pergola is another option. While it often provides much needed shade, it also gives you a place to put up a TV or lighting. You can also install speakers and create a beautiful media space for outdoor entertaining.
There is so much you can do with an outdoor space. Chances are, you don’t have an unlimited budget to work with, though. However, you can still achieve your goals if you think through everything carefully.


Exemplary wetland and stream projects honored
Two Eugene-area projects will receive State Land Board Awards at the April 9 public meeting in Salem. The Eugene Water and Electric Board will receive the Wetland Project Award for their Roosevelt Operations Center wetland mitigation project, and the City of Eugene will receive the Stream Project Award for their Delta Ponds restoration. 2012 marks the eighth year of presenting awards for projects that promote responsible, sustainable stewardship of Oregon's natural resources.
The board also will receive the annual Common School Fund investment report from the Office of the State Treasurer, and discuss long-term sustainability of the fund.


The addition of a patio can help to increase the value and offer outdoor fun and entertainment. There are many reasons as to why adding one is advantageous. A variety of types of different materials for everyone’s taste and visual appearance is obtainable. Customization options ensure that the area is personalized to the owner’s pleasure. A patio can help to increase not just the worth of a home it can also provide cherished moments with friends and family.
Reasons to Have A Patio
Many benefits can be achieved by adding a patio to the backyard. One such gain is the use of the backyard opens more space to entertain. It can increase the value of the home by increasing the appeal. An extended existence with little to no maintenance is necessary for providing the owner with more free time. The patio can also provide a chance to relax and take it easy enjoying the sunrise or sunset. Owners can take in an afternoon sitting in the sun while enveloped in the beauty of the surrounding nature. Another advantage can be that the personalization of the patio presents a statement to others by showcasing personal design.
Types of Materials
The courtyard surface comes in a variety of textures, colors, and shapes. Six of the most common overlays are stone, paved, brick, flagstone, loose materials, and concrete. A Patio Builder in PA can assist those living in the area with the best options from them. Stone comes in a variety of materials including granite, slate, and sandstone delivering a smooth exterior with square edges. Another option is a paved surface presented in variable colors and materials such as stone and concrete however it does not require the grout or mortar that other covers need. Brick is an additional option for those looking for a sturdy, long lasting, versatile covering. A covering that is smooth in texture, available in a choice of designs, shapes, and colors is concrete. An alternative overlay is flagstone which is typically one to three inches thick, available in irregular sizes, and features a rough surface. A material that is becoming more popular is loose substances such as gravel, mulch, and decomposed granite provides a different look.
Customizing the patio can be accomplished in numerous approaches. Personalizing presents boundless design possibilities including the shape and size of the area desired. Individualizing the patio can include both the ground and top coverings. Covers that can be considered include partial shade to full shade which enables protection from weathering. Additional options to contemplate are whether to have an open or a partial or full enclosed area. The area can serve many functions from entertaining with a barbeque grill to a private oasis with a pool and fireplace. A simple patio for relaxing on a beautiful warm day or an elegant courtyard there are many choices to make the area personalized. Furniture can also be an element that can distinguish a theme with choices from the style of furnishings to the textile used to enhance the design and atmosphere.


SoFA District Demonstration Project: Completed
In 2009, SVCREATES (then 1stACT Silicon Valley) set out to demonstrate urban design principles and activation within the SoFA District of downtown San José. Working closely with SoFA District stakeholders and KenKay and Associates, a master plan for SoFA District improvements was developed and key elements were implemented. Over $3M was invested in public murals, sidewalk seating, lighting, landscaping, banners, crosswalk art, and the renovation of Parque De Los Pobladores. And today many of these “small wonders” are being implemented throughout downtown San José under the stewardship of the San José’s Downtown Business Association.


Bas Smets explains the difference between land and landscape and how this theory is inspiring his landscape designs. He recounts that Flanders’ landscape, with its minimal topographical differences, forced him, as a designer, to analyse his subject matter very carefully.
When approaching a design Smets searches for the structuring elements of the landscape in aerial photographs. This way he discovers ‘an exemplary landscape’ that captures the organisation of the new landscape he has to design.
Time is another essential component taken into account by the designer. Landscapes are subject to cycles, to the rhythm of seasons, to day and night, growth and rest. These variable aspects are incorporated in his analyses of and his design for contemporary landscapes.
This kind of approach in not limited only to Flanders, but can be utilized elsewhere as demonstrated by Smets’ approach to his designs in France. (5'55")


Ansell Lighting Design Services
Our in-house Lighting Design team have a wealth of experience in designing and planning projects for a wide range of customers. Our extensive range of past projects vary in applications from educational buildings including schools and colleges, large retail premises, hospitality and leisure facilities including hotel illumination. We also cater for outdoor lighting projects including sports fields, garden and landscape illumination, car parks and street lighting. We work directly with clients to ensure the highest level of service as well as working with architects, interior designers, outdoor landscapers and more.
Our service is free of charge and we can work with you throughout the build process, adapting designs where necessary depending on the project needs. We also work with our sales team in order to help deliver the products you require once your design is complete, supporting you throughout the process.
Our team of designers
Our team of designers use Dialux software to create your design plan, giving you 2D and also 3D renders of what your project would look like. At the end of the process we provide details of all products selected in the design as well as utilising our sales team to support you in the buying and delivering process, ensuring we are there to answer any questions throughout the installation and build.
You can contact the lighting design team directly with details of your project you would like support on. You can call them on 01942 433537 or via email on firstname.lastname@example.org. You can also view our wide range of projects our lighting products have been installed on, with links through to product information, here.


Garden art is seeing a revival. Every taste in decor can be found whether you gravitate towards rustic, English countryside, classic, elegant or modern.
- Create an interesting focal point by incorporating a statue or water effect into your landscape.
- Add a touch of whimsy with glass flowers, birdhouses, birdbath or unique metalwork.
- Carve out an inviting space to gather with outdoor furniture and a fire table.
The design possibilities are only limited by your imagination. Here are some ideas to help you get started.


Why You Need to Consider Hardscaping
It is imperative to point out that curb appeal will every so often be of great relevance to both your residential and commercial space. You will find that it will in most cases be definitive of the persons that will be attracted to your property. This can easily be handled by hardscaping. You will note that it will often incorporate various man-made features into the entire landscape. Hardscaping purposes to boost the image and reputation of the property. You will realize that hardscaping will guarantee a number of benefits to you as well as your entire property. They will every so often consist of the following. Learn about Gainesville hardscapes
You will learn that it will often assure you of elegance as well as efficiency. You will note that hardscaping will easily be maintained at a relatively low cost. This is premised on the fact that it will bring down the need to water as well as prune. This does indicate that there will be no need for you to have professional landscapers very now and then. Lesser water will be used given that less organic material will be used. This will actually save a considerable amount on your water bills. You will also find that it will make sure that you have an extra dimension on your property. This will often come as an addition to the aesthetic appeal it will grant you. It will often create more seating space and even allow team building activities.
You will note that there will be an improvement in accessibility. Easy access to your property will often be very beneficial to your potential visitors and clients. You will learn that a good number of people will often keep off places that tend to inconvenience them. With hardscaping, you will be able to easily overcome this challenge. You will also note that this hardscaping can be done in a way that enhances privacy. It will distract the view to any place where important matters are to be taken care of. This hardscaping will also last for a relatively long period of time. This is regardless of how harsh the sun might be. You will realize that hot seasons will every so often be quite overwhelming to the commercial landscape. This will time and again bring about the death of so many plants. Hardscaping will often handle this. This in itself will guarantee you affordability. See more about Gainesville lawn care
You will find that this hardscape will be quite easy to fix as well as maintain. The materials used in this landscaping have actually been used for considerably long. Natural stone is often used in this hardscape. This is among the easiest things for one to maintain. It will offer you an appealing exterior for quite a long period of time.


At Walker Excavation, we specialize in mass grading, a critical phase in large-scale development projects. Our seasoned team utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and advanced grading techniques to meticulously shape and level the terrain. From initial site preparation to the creation of building pads, roads, and drainage systems, we focus on achieving precise contours and elevations.
Our approach to mass grading involves strategic planning, considering factors such as soil composition, topography, and project specifications. We prioritize efficiency without compromising accuracy, ensuring that the land is prepared for subsequent construction phases seamlessly.
Walker Excavation is committed to adhering to environmental regulations and sustainability practices during mass grading, promoting responsible land development. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to quality, we transform raw landscapes into well-prepared sites, laying the foundation for successful and sustainable developments.


Sorby Natural History Society (Sheffield)
Lichen Meeting to Newstead Abbey Grounds
Tuesday 6th September 2022
Leader: Craig Levy
Contact: Steve Price, email: email@example.com
Our attention will be centred on the parkland and woodland in this historic setting.
Further details will be posted here nearer the date of the meeting.
a map of the area can be viewed at: http://streetmap.co.uk/map?X=454667&Y=353565&A=Y&Z=120


Nestled in the idyllic countryside of West Sussex, the charming town of Petworth is renowned for its architectural beauty, with exquisite brickwork adorning its buildings. At the heart of Petworth’s architectural allure is Petworth Brickwork, a name synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship and artistry. In this article, we will explore the outstanding services provided by Petworth Brickwork and delve into why they are the trusted choice for all your brickwork needs in the captivating town of Petworth.
Customized Brickwork Design and Installation: Petworth Brickwork specializes in creating customized brickwork designs that embody the unique vision of each client. Their skilled craftsmen work closely with homeowners, architects, and designers to bring to life exquisite brickwork installations. From intricate brick patterns to unique textures and finishes, they meticulously craft each element to create visually stunning and structurally sound structures.
Historic Brickwork Restoration and Preservation: Preserving the historical heritage of Petworth is a key focus for Petworth Brickwork. They possess extensive expertise in the restoration and preservation of historic brickwork, ensuring that the architectural gems of the town retain their original charm. With a deep understanding of traditional building techniques and materials, their craftsmen breathe new life into aged brick structures, maintaining their authenticity and historical significance.
Garden and Landscape Brickwork: Petworth Brickwork extends its craftsmanship to the outdoor spaces of Petworth, enhancing gardens and landscapes with beautiful brickwork elements. Whether it’s creating elegant garden walls, pathways, or ornamental features, their artisans blend creativity and expertise to transform outdoor spaces into captivating havens. With an eye for detail and a commitment to harmonizing aesthetics with functionality, they create enchanting outdoor environments.
Commercial Brickwork Solutions: Petworth Brickwork caters to the diverse needs of commercial clients, providing exceptional brickwork solutions for various projects. From commercial buildings to retail spaces and hospitality establishments, they bring expertise and craftsmanship to every endeavor. Their team collaborates closely with architects and developers, ensuring seamless execution and delivering results that meet the unique requirements of each project.
Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Practices: Petworth Brickwork places a strong emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency in their work. They prioritize the use of locally sourced materials, promote eco-friendly construction techniques, and embrace energy-efficient practices. By incorporating sustainable elements into their projects, they contribute to the preservation of Petworth’s natural environment and reduce the ecological footprint of their brickwork installations.
Conclusion: Petworth Brickwork stands as a symbol of exceptional craftsmanship and artistry in Petworth’s architectural landscape. With their dedication to customized design, historic restoration, landscaping, commercial projects, and sustainability, they have earned the trust of clients seeking outstanding brickwork solutions. Whether you desire a bespoke residential space, the restoration of a historic gem, or the enhancement of outdoor aesthetics, Petworth Brickwork brings a passion for excellence and meticulous attention to detail to every project, leaving a lasting impression of beauty and craftsmanship in the town of Petworth.
Want to know more ?
If you’re looking for a brickwork service that offers the highest levels of customer service and workmanship, then why not contact us today? We’ll be happy to tell you about our complete range of brickwork services for all our customers.


Article by Dale M. Richardson
Your plants really need soil with proper amount of water. Over-watering could make your plants drown. Besides, excessive level of water could also trigger the growth of fungi. This is the main reason to know well about the type of plants that you take care of, whether it needs less, moderate or more water. Besides, determining the moisture content of your soil is also very important to let you know the proper amount of water to be added for your plant. Here are some tricks in finding the moisture content of the soil easily.
The first method is hand feel. You can do it by choosing some different areas in your garden or yard to be tested. Pick a handful of soil up then grasp it into your palm. If it is powdery or does not maintain a shape or is powdery, then the soil is dry. Then, you can try to drop the squeezed dirt. Your soil is too dry when the dirt of the dropped soil shatters. However, when the dirt emits water or beards, you soil is waterlogged.
The second method is using moisture meter for soil. You will find this certain meter easily in any garden supply stores or nurseries. You will find some product that comes with cable that allows you to check the moisture level deep in the ground, especially for trees and some other plants with extensive systems of root. This meter will also give you more accurate reading on moisture content of your soil. You can simply insert the meter into the ground so to get an accurate reading.
The third method is by using rain gauge. This tool will help you a lot to determine the proper amount of water that you need to add in order to make you’re your soil in appropriate moisture level. You can simply place this gauge in your yard and dump the water out. If you do not have this certain gauge in your home, you can replace it with an empty coffee can. Usually, lawns need one inch of water for a week, unless in such a hot climate.
By using those methods, you can determine the moisture level of your soil easily. Therefore, your plant could grow perfectly in appropriate water supplies.
There are many types of soil moisture meter offered in the market and surely you can find the rapitest moisture meter that matches your needs well. You can ask some experts to get some recommendations.


Summary: As the weather starts to warm up for the spring and people spend more time outdoors it may be a good idea to think of how you can freshen your backyard up for outside activities. Consider the following reasons why you should make the investment in a gazebo.
During the warm spring and summer seasons people want to go outside and soak up the sun. If you feel like your backyard is missing something, consider building a gazebo to bring it to the next level. Below are some reasons why you should build one.
A Great Centerpiece
If you have the space in your backyard, building a gazebo may be worth the investment. Gazebo’s are unique and will surely grab the attention of visitors. Gazebos add a degree of elegance to any landscape and can help add balance to an otherwise lacking backyard scenery.
Protection From the Sun
If you plan on spending time outside during the spring and summer there is no doubting that sun protection is on your mind. If you are hosting a backyard barbeque or if you simply want to work in the fresh air, constructing a gazebo may be a wise decision. The roof of a gazebo is quite effective in blocking out overhead sunlight but curtains can be purchased to either partially or entirely block out sunlight from the sides. These may be useful if you and your guests plan on staying out for extended periods of time.
If you enjoy the tropical, luxurious lifestyle but can’t squeeze travel plans into your budget, do not worry. You can bring some of the relaxed aesthetic home with you. Gazebos offer the appeal of a beachside resort and can be a great place to unwind, reflect, and ultimately have a great time. You can set up chairs and read a book while you enjoy a cold beverage, or, if space permits, you can treat your significant other to a relaxing outdoor massage.


We design, install and maintain the landscape for you.
We offer a wide range of design services to residential and commercial clients. Whether you are a homeowner wanting to provide an inviting environment for your family and friends, or a business owner looking to set a welcoming tone for clients and customers, enhancing your property through professional home landscaping & landscape design is key. Our designers at Bell Valley Fine Gardens & Natural Stone can help you create your personal design from scratch, or completely redo your present landscaping to fit with your lifestyle and esthetics.
- Landscapes and gardens
- Hardscape features
- Patios and decks
- Stone Walls
- Water and fire features
- Outdoor living amenities
We engaged Bell Valley to put in a several hundred square foot paver-stone patio off of our back deck, tight to the footings and on an uneven surface. They did a great job and three years later still looks as it did when it was new. Diligence throughout and cleanup (including nearby regrading and planting) was great too. It went so well we asked them to put in another section a year later, and that went just as well. Fully recommend.
Gene, New Boston
We've used The Bell Valley team several times and could not be more pleased with their work. Whether it's seasonal cleanups or a large patio Allyson, Jeff, and their team are careful, thorough and do the job right. On time, on budget and willing to do the little things that make it a pleasure to work with them. We look forward to more work with the Bell Valley team in the spring!


Wetland delineation is probably the most vital aspect of the ecological assessment of a site for development. Along with a boundary survey, wetland delineation is usually the first step when beginning a project. Hydric soils, vegetation, and hydrologic indicators tell us exactly where the wetlands are. We flag the lines and coordinate with regulatory staff, surveyor, and engineer to help you begin your project.
817 East 15th Avenue - New Smyrna Beach, Florida 32169


Summer has arrived and the perfect outdoor space for you and your family can be just a few steps away. Creating a patio space that you will love is the perfect way to spend these early summer nights. When making choices about how to construct your backyard oasis, it is important to make considerations that can impact appearance, durability and functionality.
Before you start making design choices, try to envision what you want the end result to be. Take a chair out to the spot you are considering and try to start your design that way, with an idea of how you want the space to look when you are in it. Once you have your design, you will need to start to consider which materials would best bring that vision to a reality. Some of the material choices include concrete, bricks, pavers, stone, or tile.
Many homeowners choose poured concrete because it is known to be structurally sound, relatively inexpensive, and can dyed to appear as higher-end paving materials. Concrete is a great choice if you live in a warm climate.
Bricks offer the opportunity of a variety of color choices, but you should take into consideration that every brick must be set by hand, leveled and grouted. Keep in mind you’ll need to watch out for a slick surface after every rainfall if you extend your brick patio into shade.
Pavers, typically made from cement, cinder or stone, are often used for DIY projects for their low price and super simple installation. If you’re planning to lay your own patio, consider the need for a suitable substrate to keep the pavers from shifting.
Stone may be a highly desirable look, but it shows in the price tag. Flat stones can give off a calm effect, while uniform-cut slabs of granite and other stone can make your patio a little more formal. Natural stone is extremely durable, but consider opting for the nonslip type,, such as coral stone.
Tile has a wide variety of options, to include ceramic, glass, porcelain, terra cotta and natural stone. Tile can offer a cool surface under your feet in hot climates. Keep in mind that because tile is thin, it requires a concrete slab.
August 8, 2020
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