Page 30 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • April 20, 2011
�����������������������������
(ARA) As the weather warms and the days grow longer, who doesn’t happily anticipate opening windows and doors to let the fresh air in? Once we think about bringing the outdoors in, our imagination naturally extends to bringing the indoors out. It seems that our love affair with backyard entertaining heats up around this time every year. Whether it’s a quiet family meal under the stars or a backyard barbecue for dozens, the appeal of outdoor living is undeniable. Home improvement expert Leslie Segrete says: “Your outdoor space doesn’t have to be uncomfortable just because your favorite couch isn’t there. With an expanded selection of outdoor pieces available now - and at all price points - it’s easier than ever to set up a charming space that can serve as the perfect backdrop for small family gatherings or the big neighborhood bash.” 3-2-11 karen/janine Segrete offers some advice on how to create a beautiful, functional, and affordable outdoor room no matter what HomeImpDecBanner6x your color scheme, whether it’s apple green, citrus orange, 6 other hot or x .75” colors of the moment. With just a little work,
Create a beautiful and functional outdoor room
your outdoor area will be the family’s favorite gathering spot from spring through fall. Start with the basics. The hot trend right now is to make your outdoor space as put together as your indoor living spaces. Outdoor pieces can include upholstered cushions, a fast-drying sling chair, and items made from resin, aluminum or steel. Follow the same design rules you use in your home. Look for big items (such as sofa and chairs) in a neutral palette and add a pop of color with accessories. For example, cushions can provide a welcome splash of color, and make the space more comfortable and inviting. Just as it is in indoor spaces, lighting your outdoor space is key: Add a lighted chandelier or string a few party lights to illuminate the area. An outdoor fire pit can provide heating and light at the same time; it’s a perfect way to handle cool evenings. Consider how the space will be used. If your entertaining will be primarily adult-centric dinners and gatherings, you can decorate your space in a more polished way. If, however, your shindigs will be kid-friendly family affairs, a more rugged, irreverent vibe (with all unbreakable accessories) may be the way to go. For smaller areas, a bistro set would be ideal, and there are furniture sets that would be perfect for a larger dining area, a bar setup or simply a comfortable seating area. For music, find one of the many portable speakers on the market - these can be whimsical and fun or smart and chic, whichever matches the tone you’ve set in your space. Don’t be afraid to use design in your landscaping. For an outdoor space, landscaping is a fantastic way to expand your color palette. Perennial flowers and shrubs cost more in the short term, but will last for years. Maximize annuals,
DESIGN • INSTALLATION • REPAIR
Member N.J.L.C.A & N.J. Turf Grass Assoc. Home Improvement Contractor # 13VH 02695300
too; they are a great way to add a splash of color. Choose interesting planters, such as copper pots or eco-planters, or decorative plant stands to create a focal point. Remember, you already have beautiful greenery to set the stage, and you don’t have to break the bank to create a gorgeous outdoor space that will be like adding a room to your house for six to eight months of the year. Whatever your personal style, and however you plan to use your newly designed outdoor room, making the space an appealing destination will ensure that you and your family and friends will be clamoring for the warm weather - and the good company and fun to be had in your new backyard entertainment spot.
SINCE 1982
START-UPS AS LOW AS 49.95
201-447-LAWN (5296)
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INSURED • BONDED www.landscapeworks.net
������������
���������������� ����������������
���������������������������������
������������������������������������������������ ����������������������������������������������������� �����������������������������������������������
������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������ ������������ ������������������������������ ��������������� ������������������������������� �������������� ������������������������� ������������������� ������������ ��������������������������������� ��������������� ���������������� ����������������������� & FLOORING ���������� ����������������������
���������������
������������������ �����������������������
������������ ������������
�������������
��������������������������
4-13-11 pat/janine LandscapeworksIrrigationColor2x3.5(4-13-11) 2 x 3.5 Rev1
The Scotts Annual Program Provides Nutrients Your Lawn Can Grow On! ������������������������
Scotts 4-step annual lawn care ���������������������� program takes ���������� the confusion for and guesswork out of caring your lawn. Each step provides your lawn with a constant supply of nutrients throughout the growing season, and at the same time, takes care of problems like crab- grass, weeds and insects. Best of all, the average 5,000 square foot lawn takes about 30 minutes, four times a year. Imagine a great looking lawn with only a 2-hour investment in time!
Scotts 4-Step Program
with mail in rebate
Exp. 4/30/11
Save up to $ 49 on
March/April
May/June
July/August
Sept./Oct.
������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������� ������������������������ �������������������� ��������������������������� ����������������
����������������������������
Scotts EZ Spreader for only
Reg. $49.95
(with ad only)
Buy the Scotts Lawn Pro 4-Step Program and get the
Special Sale
$29.95
������������
�������� ��������� ����� ����� ����
Mon-Wed 7:30-6, Thurs & Fri 7:30-8, Sat 8-5, OPEN SUNDAY 9-3 www.homehardwaresupply.com
27 Franklin Tpke, Waldwick • 201-652-5666
��������������������������