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June 03.2025
3 Minutes Read

How to Transform Your Yard: Insights from One Homeowner's Journey

Beautifully transformed garden with seating area and pool.

Transforming Spaces: A Journey to a Dream Backyard

For many homeowners, the journey of transforming their outdoor space into a lush paradise can be both exhilarating and exhausting. Embracing the ebb and flow of landscaping can feel like an ongoing project, especially if the initial choices didn’t turn out as anticipated. Homeowners Brian and Emily learned this firsthand. When they purchased their property, the backyard was dominated by a massive, crumbling tennis court. After years of patience, planning, and pivoting to better designs, they have finally realized their dream landscape.

Navigating Initial Missteps and Challenges

In their quest for the perfect backyard, Brian and Emily first hired a designer separately from a construction team. This decision, while seemingly practical, resulted in longer timelines and increased complexity. Their original plan, which included a wild-flowery design, ultimately didn’t mesh well with their evolving vision. As Brian describes it, turning the backyard into a functional and aesthetic space became a “where is the end of the string” panic.

The necessity to shift gears became clear as time went on. Emily reflected on how the sports court didn’t quite meet their needs—bigger wasn’t necessarily better. This realization marks a common theme in homeowners’ journeys: too often, we assume that more space means more relaxation or entertainment, but thoughtful design can yield a more inviting atmosphere.

The Decision to Redesign

In early 2023, the couple made a significant decision: to downsize the oversized sports court. This realignment of priorities allowed them to focus on creating a more versatile space filled with greenery, flagstone, and picnic tables. They chose to hire Dennis’ 7Dees, a design-build firm known for its efficiency and expertise.

Emily noted how the experience of working collaboratively with a single design-build team streamlined the process, enhancing communication and ensuring that every detail was aligned with their vision. This approach reflects an emerging trend among homeowners: choosing integrated services can lead to quicker results and more satisfied customers.

Bringing Nature Back: The Role of Evergreens

A vital part of their redesign was the inclusion of evergreen plants. Many homeowners tend to overlook the impact of evergreen landscaping, especially in climates where seasonal changes can dramatically alter a space's appearance. The decision to incorporate evergreens resulted in a visually appealing design that provided year-round interest and resilience. With these plants, Emily and Brian can enjoy their renewed space throughout the winter months, a factor they learned to appreciate over the years.

Celebrating Progress

As Emily shared updates through social media, the transformation of their backyard not only improved aesthetics but also provided a newfound joy in outdoor living. The final space was more than just an area for recreational activities; it became a natural setting for family gatherings and celebrations.

The couple’s experience emphasizes an important lesson for homeowners: progress is often measured by the ability to pivot and adapt, ultimately leading to a space that fosters connection and comfort.

Your Turn to Transform

Inspired by Brian and Emily's journey? If you’re thinking about tackling your backyard transformation, remember to consider hiring an integrated design-build team to streamline the process. Make sure to focus on not just aesthetics but functionality, and don't hesitate to shift direction as your needs evolve.

Explore the possibilities in your own backyard. Whether it’s creating a cozy lounging area or incorporating more greenery, every step can lead to your dream outdoor living space. Happy remodeling!

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02.23.2026

Transform Your Living Space: The Secret to Choosing the Perfect Media Cabinet Size

Update Why Your Media Cabinet Size Matters More Than You Think Finding the right media cabinet for your television can greatly affect not just the aesthetics but also the functionality of your living space. Traditionally, guidelines suggested that the size of your media cabinet should be 3-6 inches wider than your TV on each side. This means if you own a 55-inch television, your cabinet should be at least 61 inches wide. However, design expert Emily Henderson challenges this norm by proposing that your media cabinet should match the width of your sofa. This not only ensures better balance in the room but also enhances visual appeal, especially when dealing with larger TVs. Setting Room Balance As a Priority Creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing room requires thoughtful consideration of proportions. By suggesting the cabinet width should align with your sofa’s dimensions, Henderson emphasizes the importance of room balance over rigid adherence to outdated rules. Think of your media cabinet as a supporting actor in a well-directed play; it should not overshadow the main attraction—your TV—but rather complement it. The Practical Aspects of Media Cabinet Size In addition to aesthetics, size plays a crucial role in the practicalities of equipment arrangement. As outlined in media console guides, one primary rule is that the cabinet needs to provide ample support and storage for your TV, soundbar, and other devices. Proper height and width dimensions can also help prevent issues like neck strain from TVs placed too high. For optimal comfort, the center of your TV screen should ideally align with your eye level while seated, approximately 42-48 inches from the ground. Blending Style With Functionality When selecting a media cabinet, it's essential to consider both functionality and style. Media cabinets come in various materials—from wood to metal—and each can bring a different aesthetic quality to your room. Integrated storage solutions, such as soft-close drawers and open shelving, can add convenience without compromising on style. Consider which materials best match the overall design of your room; a cohesive look can significantly enhance your living space. Addressing Common Misconceptions About Media Cabinets Many homeowners fall victim to the misconception that bigger always means better in terms of media cabinet sizes. While large cabinets can make a bold statement, they can also overwhelm smaller rooms. In tight spaces, low-profile, wide cabinets not only provide the necessary support but can also help open up the area, creating a more spacious feel. Understanding the layout of your room can guide you in choosing a cabinet that complements, rather than clutters, your living space. Smart Cable Management: An Overlooked Factor Another key element often overlooked when purchasing a media cabinet is effective cable management. Poorly managed cables can detract from the sleekness of your design. Look for cabinets that include built-in cable cutouts or management panels. These features not only keep your setup looking tidy but also promote better airflow for your devices, which can prolong their lifespan. Future-Proof Your Purchase As technology continues to evolve, media sizes are getting larger and more numerous. When choosing a media cabinet, consider not just your current setup but potential future upgrades. It might be wise to select a cabinet that can accommodate a larger TV or additional devices down the line. This foresight avoids the need for frequent replacements and ultimately saves money in the long run. In conclusion, purchasing a media cabinet is not a trivial decision. Balancing your needs for functionality and aesthetics, understanding your room’s dimensions, and future-proofing your purchase can lead to a satisfying result that elevates your home. So next time you shop for a media cabinet, remember to ask yourself: Is this piece not only stylish but also a well-fitted architectural element in my home?

02.22.2026

Unlocking Creativity: Discover Justina Blakeney’s New Book and Must-See Home Tour

Update Exploring Creativity and Connection in Home Design As homeowners, many of us are always on the lookout for fresh inspiration that combines creativity with functionality. In this vibrant week filled with creative endeavors, we dive into three standout elements: an inspiring new book by Justina Blakeney, essential supplies for budding artists, and an impressive YouTube home tour that promises to ignite your passion for design. The Unveiling of Grow: A Journey in Spirituality and Creativity This week, there's much excitement around Justina Blakeney's latest release, Grow: Pathways to Passion, Purpose & Peace. Co-authored with her mother, Dr. Ronnie Blakeney—a psychologist well-versed in personal growth—this guide and oracle deck are designed to help readers engage in self-exploration through daily exercises and insights. Through its imaginative blend of self-help wisdom and artistic cards, Grow encourages individuals to explore their inner world and connect with their passions. As Emily Henderson shared, Justina’s work is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared wisdom, further highlighting how personal stories are woven into creative expression. The book serves as more than just a guide; it's a nurturing tool for anyone looking to reconnect with their true self. Art Supplies for Young Creators In addition to inspirational reads, having the right tools can spark creativity in home environments, especially for children. Emily highlights Lakeshore Learning, a go-to resource for unique and educational toys, particularly in arts and crafts. Their collection includes proprietary items that stand out in quality and creativity, making them fantastic choices for parents seeking something memorable for gifts. With products like no-spill paint cups and carefully curated art supplies, Lakeshore Learning ensures that little hands can explore their artistic side without the associated stress for parents. This makes them an invaluable resource for fostering creativity in children, helping them express themselves through fun and educational mediums. A Must-Watch Home Tour: Transforming Spaces Another exciting feature is the home tour of a recent project by Victoria Sass from Prospect Refuge Studio, which emphasizes the playful yet sophisticated use of color and texture. This one-hour YouTube tour stands as a compelling exploration of design, where every corner of the space tells a story, embodying creativity and functionality. The tour is perfect for any homeowner seeking to refresh their living space or simply draw inspiration from innovative design choices. Sass's ability to blend artistry with practical living is a reminder that our homes can be both beautiful and resonate with our personal narratives. Capturing the Moment and Moving Forward As the week unfolds, we encourage homeowners to embrace inspiration wherever it appears—through books, quality art supplies, or exquisite home tours that redefine our understanding of space. With each interaction, whether it's engaging with Justina's Grow, finding creative outlets for children, or revamping our own living spaces, we enrich not only our homes but our lives. Each resource offers a chance for growth, whether personally or within our spaces. What’s Next for Your Home? Act on Inspiration! Homeowners, take this moment to explore. Whether you choose to delve into the pages of Grow, stock up on educational supplies for your kids, or embark on your own home makeover inspired by Sass’s tour, each choice paves the way toward a more fulfilling living experience. It's about transforming your houses into homes filled with creativity, love, and connection. So, what will you choose today?

02.21.2026

Why Homeowners Should Embrace Unique Corporate Retreats in Palm Springs

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