SPECIAL SECTION: HOME DESIGN TRENDS: INSPIRED UPGRADES
This space saver can help expand the options for your
furry friend’s tub or basin, toys and bed.
Carpeting and flooring are also a top consideration—the
more durable and easy to clean, the better. The list of musthave flooring includes laminate, stone, marble, bamboo and
cork. For homeowners leaning toward hardwood, bamboo
or carpet, each will need to be properly pre-treated to
protect from soiling. If you want to provide your pet with
the ultimate in luxury, there is furry-friendly furniture that
will make your dog sit—and stay—including
chic, fur-lined chairs, cool cat trees and exercise
or pop-up playpens. While pet pampering is
all the rage for inside, it doesn’t stop at the
screen door. When it’s time to gather the family
outside for a backyard picnic, lemonade on the
deck, or a dip in the pool, your dog or cat can
stay cool shaded under a pavilion pet gazebo,
a way to keep pets close by without the worry
of them getting away or having to be put in the
doghouse.
INDOOR-OUTDOOR CONNECTIVITY
Decked Out
Your living space doesn’t have to be contained within the four corners of your home. Discover
the flow of open-concept living that expands from beyond the kitchen and den and into the
great outdoors. Creating an all-in-one space—where there is an indoor-outdoor connectivity—
is more on trend than ever. From a design perspective, you can start at the door with a grand
entrance. If you don’t
already have a suitable
entryway, consider
building Frenchstyle doors that lead
onto your deck. You
want the outdoor
space in your home
to transform into
another living room
with the addition of
a few key pieces and
accessories.
Start from the
floor up and begin
sectioning off areas
to create more interest and to give the illusion of more space. The easiest way to accomplish
this is with area rugs. A natural jute rug is one of the most outdoor-friendly styles you can use.
From here, you can position a decorative table and accessorize by placing lanterns and potted
plants along its center. Grouping chairs and ottomans together to build cozy nesting spots
is an easy way to add comfort to the outdoors. One of the most popular outdoor furniture
materials is wicker, especially paired with chic
cushions. Others include wood, resin, sling and
metal. Each one is a great option in terms of
durability and affordability. Beyond the design
and texture you can create outdoors, you can
build on bringing the inside out with lighting,
entertainment and music. n
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