Pool & Patio Sitemap - Page 5 2013-05-22
What is a Brick Bond? Types of Bricks
What is a brick bond? What are bond patterns? When laying a patio or walkway with brick, you will need to choose a style, pattern or design in which to arrange the bricks.
2012 Best Hot Tub / Spa Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards
The 2012 About.com Reader's Choice Awards honors the year's top hot tubs and spas, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This year's Best Pool and Patio awards seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting ends March 21 and the winner in each category will be announced on March 30, 2012.
Arctic Spas Best Hot Tub / Spa Finalist 2012 - About.com Readers' Choice Awards - 2012 Best Hot Tub / Spa About.com Awards
Best Hot Tub / Spa finalist Arctic Spas was founded in 1994 by a group of guys from rural and farmland areas of western Canada. The company's motto:
Bullfrog Spas - Finalist for Best Hot Tub / Spa - 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Bullfrog Spas is a finalist for Best Hot Tub / Spa 2012. Bullfrog International, LC, was founded in 1996 by David Ludlow and is headquartered in the greater Salt Lake City, Utah, metro area. Ludlow's main challenge was designing a spa that reduced the amount of plumbing while increasing jet power and efficiency. Ludlow developed a technology that he coined the JetPak System,â„¢ which is now a popular feature of Bullfrog spas.
Cal Spas - Finalist for Best Hot Tub Spa - 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awardss
To meet the exhibition requirements at a local county fair in 1978, Pomona, California-based pool builder California Acrylic Industries built small-scale versions of its formed acrylic pools. At the fair, the company received so many requests for acrylic hot tubs, that a new focus and product, along with a new name -- Cal Spas was established a year later. Cal Spas is a finalist for Best Hot Tub / Spa in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards.
Jacuzzi - Best Hot Tub Spa Finalist 2012 - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2012
The Jacuzzi brothers came to the United States from Europe in the early 1900s and settled in California. In 1925, the brothers revolutionized the agricultural industry by creating the first submersible pump. In the 1960s and '70s, third-generation family member Roy Jacuzzi created and marketed whirlpool baths and hot tubs. Jacuzzi became a household word. Jacuzzi is a finalist for Best Hot Tub in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards.
Hot Spring Spas - 2012 Finalist for Best Hot Tub Spa - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2012
Hot Spring Spas is headquartered in north San Diego County and was started in 1977 by Watkins Manufacturing Corp. The company offers the ACE salt water sanitizing system, the first and only integrated salt water sanitizing system using diamond technology. Hot Spring Spas is a finalist in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards.
Pentair Kreepy Krauly - Finalist in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Pentair was founded in Minnesota in 1966, and its water unit acquired Kreepy Krauly in 1999. Pentair's Kreepy Krauly is a finalist for Best Pool Cleaner / Vacuum in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards. Winner will be announced on March 30, 2012.
Hayward Pool Cleaners - Finalists in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Hayward acquired AquaVac in 2007 and now produces the TigerShark and Hayward SharkVAC robotic pool cleaners for residential pools. Hayward is a finalist for Best Pool Cleaner / Vacuum in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards.
Aquabot Best Pool Cleaner Finalist - 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Aquabot, makers of Pool Rover and Aquabot series pool cleaners and vacuums, is a finalist for the Best Pool Cleaner / Vacuum 2012 in the About.com Readers' Choice Awards. Voting ends March 21, 2012, and the winner will be announced on March 30.
Best Pool Cleaner / Vacuum 2012 Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards - Pool and Patio
If you own a swimming pool or spa, cleaning and maintenance is a big part of the package. If your pool isn't cleaned regularly, nobody will want to -- or should -- go swimming in a big green swamp of algae. Fortunately, several pool cleaners / vacuums are available and reasonably priced to make pool cleaning less of the back-breaking chore it once was. The most popular models are automatic or robotic pool cleaners, which comb the surfaces of your pool and climb the walls, hopefully sucking up debris and algae along the way. The five finalists represent top companies in the pool and spa industry.
Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner / Vacuum - 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Baracuda, by Zodiac, is a Best Pool Cleaner / Vacuum finalist in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards. A total of five finalists are competing for the award, which will be announced on March 30, 2012.
Polaris Robotic Pool Cleaners - Finalist for Best Pool Cleaner / Vacuum - 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Polaris has been making pool products for more than 40 years and is now part of the Zodiac Pool Systems family of products for pools and spas. Polaris is a finalist for Best Pool Cleaner / Vacuum in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Pool and Patio Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Pool and Patio Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Decking Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Best Decking Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Pool and Patio Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Decking Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Decking Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Decking Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Best Hot Tub/Spa Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Hot Tub / Spa About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 honors the year's top hot tubs and spas, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
Philips Forecast - 2012 Best Outdoor Lighting Finalist - 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards' Best Outdoor Lighting finalist Philips Forecast began in Southern California in the early 1970s. In 1992, Lightolier acquired Forecast and relocated the company to its current headquarters in Elgin, Illinois. In 2010, the Forecast Lighting line became part of Philips Consumer Luminaires, a business unit of Philips North America.
Kichler Lighting - Finalist for Best Outdoor Lighting - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2012
Ready to vote for the company that designs and manufactures what you consider to be the Best Outdoor Lighting? The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2012 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the second year that the Pool and Patio category has participated in the site-wide About.com Readers' Choice Awards.
Best Outdoor Lighting Finalist - Hinkley Lighting - 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards - Home and Garden
One of the finalists for Best Outdoor Lighting in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards is Hinkley Lighting, which began in 1922 as a small family lighting company. Currently led by the family's fourth generation in northeast Ohio, Hinkley continues to design and manufacture top-quality lighting fixtures with a focus on energy-efficient lighting.
Best Outdoor Lighting 2012 - Foscarini - Finalists - 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
There are five finalists in the Best Outdoor Lighting category of the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards. Finalist Foscarini got its start in the early 1980s as a Murano blown glass lamp studio/company. Now located on a Venetian island, Foscarini has expanded its materials to include glass, polyethylene, wood, aluminum, an exclusive textured glass and Kevlar or carbon fiber composite. Each light or lamp is like a work of art.
Best Outdoor Lighting Brands - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2012 - Best Outdoor Lighting
Ready to vote for the company that designs and manufactures what you consider to be the Best Outdoor Lighting? The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2012 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the second year that the Pool and Patio category has participated in the site-wide About.com Readers' Choice Awards.
Vote Now - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2012 Pool and Patio - About.com Awards 2012 Home and Garden - Readers' Choice Awards 2012
Awards season is in full swing, and it's time to let your voices be heard again. About.com's annual Readers' Choice Awards showcase the best outdoor living, pool and patio and home and garden products -- the things that make your outdoor world look, feel and work better -- maybe even fantastic in some cases! Think of it as the People's Choice Awards for home and garden, pool and outdoor living and design products. There aren't any prizes for the winners, nor is there the red carpet interviews and star-studded awards ceremony -- just the bragging rights that come with getting recognized by the readers of one of the biggest networks on the Web.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2012 - Best Decking - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
Best Decking finalists have been determined in the 2012 About.com Reader's Choice Awards. Learn more about the finalists and cast your vote for Best Decking 2012. Winners will be announced on Friday, March 30, 2012.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Decking Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2011 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
Best Decking Finalist - DuraLife - About.com 2012 Readers' Choice Awards - Pool and Patio
Vote now for Best Decking in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards. One of the decking finalists is DuraLife, which includes hardwood blends and composites. DuraLife is part of the GAF company.
Vote for Best Decking - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2012 - About.com Readers' Choice Awards Best Decking Finalists - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
It's time to vote for Best Decking in the 2012 About.com Reader's Choice Awards. Best Decking five finalists include Fiberon, a manufacturer of wood-plastic composite decking that's been around since 1997.
Best Decking: About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2012 - Voting for Best Decking
Vote for Best Decking. GeoDeck is one of the finalists in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards, with voting ending March 21, 2012.
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Best Decking Finalists - About.com Readers' Choice Awards 2012 - Best Pool and Patio Products About.com Awards
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2012 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting is Feb. 22 to March 8, 2011.
Sea Gull Lighting - 2012 Best Outdoor Lighting Finalist - About.com Readers' Choice Awards
About.com Best Outdoor Lighting finalist Sea Gull Lighting began as a small lighting specialty shop in Philadelphia in 1919 -- right after World War I. Owner Henry Siegel designed and hard-wired portable lighting fixtures, patenting them with an eye to the future. The Hirsch and Solomon families continue the philosophy of Siegel's family-run business -- design and build quality and fashionable products. Sea Gull Lighting's plant is now based in Riverside, New Jersey. The company also maintains operations in Philadelphia; Houston and Las Vegas
Winners of the About.com Readers Choice Awards 2012 - About.com Award Winners 2012 - Pool and Patio Award Winners
2012 was the second year for Pool and Patio's participation in the awards. About.com announced on March 30, that the following products and companies have been selected as the About.com 2012 Readers' Choice Award winners for the Pool and Patio site. Ready to meet the winners?
2012 Best Decking Winner - About.com Readers Choice Awards - Best Decking Winner GeoDeck
As with the Best Decking awards contest for 2011, many readers were quite vocal about their reasons for voting for certain decking finalists. In fact, the conversation will continue. Congratulations to our winner for 2012 -- GeoDeck! And a shout-out to the finalists these decking companies and products have vocal many fans out there!
Thanks to Verna Oller, a Washington Town Will be in the Swim
The citizens of Long Beach, Washington -- near Seattle -- have a kind, hard-working and frugal woman to thank for their future livelihoods. Verna Oller, who
Readers' Choice Awards 2013: Best Decking
Vote for your favorite brand of decking in this year's About.com Readers' Choice Awards.
What is a Cactus? - Cacti in Landscaping
In desert climates, homeowners spend much of their time outside year 'round. Cooking, dining, entertaining, relaxing and exercising often take place outdoors, and yards and outdoor living spaces are designed to accommodate and enhance the outdoor lifestyle. Plants suited for arid landscapes include succulents, some of which may be cactus.
Australian Words - Pool and Patio Living in Australia and New Zealand
Australians enjoy their pools and patios or homes and gardens just as much as their American counterparts. And with a mild, subtropical climate, residents in Australia and parts of New Zealand enjoy an outdoor lifestyle similar to folks living in California, Florida and other sunny climates. One thing that's different is their expressions, although Australians and New Zealanders get a kick out of American expressions too, If you find yourself in Australia or New Zealand at an outdoor bbq or pool party, you might hear some of these words.
Australian Words - Pool and Patio Living in Australia and New Zealand
Australians enjoy their pools and patios or homes and gardens just as much as their American counterparts. And with a mild, subtropical climate, residents in Australia and parts of New Zealand enjoy an outdoor lifestyle similar to folks living in California, Florida and other sunny climates. One thing that's different is their expressions, although Australians and New Zealanders get a kick out of American expressions too, If you find yourself in Australia or New Zealand at an outdoor bbq or pool party, you might hear some of these words.
Australian Words - Pool and Patio Living in Australia and New Zealand
Australians enjoy their pools and patios or homes and gardens just as much as their American counterparts. And with a mild, subtropical climate, residents in Australia and parts of New Zealand enjoy an outdoor lifestyle similar to folks living in California, Florida and other sunny climates. One thing that's different is their expressions, although Australians and New Zealanders get a kick out of American expressions too, If you find yourself in Australia or New Zealand at an outdoor bbq or pool party, you might hear some of these words.
Australian Words - Pool and Patio Living in Australia and New Zealand
Australians enjoy their pools and patios or homes and gardens just as much as their American counterparts. And with a mild, subtropical climate, residents in Australia and parts of New Zealand enjoy an outdoor lifestyle similar to folks living in California, Florida and other sunny climates. One thing that's different is their expressions, although Australians and New Zealanders get a kick out of American expressions too, If you find yourself in Australia or New Zealand at an outdoor bbq or pool party, you might hear some of these words.
Finalists Announced in the 2013 Pool & Patio Readers' Choice Awards
Nominations have been counted and considered in each of the four Pool & Patio categories, and we are proud to announce three finalists in each category of the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
The Top 12 Luxury Homes and Pools for 2012 - Celebrity Real Estate - Luxury Homes
We've always loved to take a peek at how the other half lives, although that
Luxury Homes - Indoor Pools Most Tweeted in 2012
Did you happen to get a peek at those indoor pools someone might have shared with you on a social media site in 2012? They are real, and belong to a house that was for sale in Connecticut. Take a look.
Mel Gibson's Old Mill Farm for Sale Again - Luxury Homes for Sale
Mel Gibson's house is on the radar again, only this time old Mel is not attached to it. The most recent owners of the Greenwich, Connecticut, estate were only there for a year or so before listing it. The house had been on the market for a few years prior. Let's take a look at the grounds, including the lovely pool.
NBA Star Gilbert Arenas Lists DC Shark House
Among the changes NBA star Gilbert Arenas made in 2012 was to move on, and to act upon this he listed his remarkable DC-area mansion in July for $3.5 million. The former Washington Wizards basketball player definitely made a design statement on the property. A highlight: a custom-built shark tank.
Waterfront Florida Villa for Sale - Luxury Homes and Pools
>Known as Torretta, this Destin, Florida, waterfront estate has been modeled after villas in Tuscany, on a grand, Florida-style scale, of course. The bay-front lot is located on a sprawling 1.8 acres, with water frontage on the Choctawhatchee and Jones Bayou. Let's take a look at the house and pool.
Drake's Disneylike Grotto Estate - Celebrity Homes and Pools
Canadian hip-hop artist/songwriter/actor Drake reportedly paid about $2.8 million for a sprawling compound in Hidden Hills, California. The star attraction of his new home is the elaborate pool, complete with a torch-lit grotto.
Kelly Wearstler sells Old Hollywood Estate - Celebrity Homes and Pools
Interior design icon Kelly Wearstler parted ways with her former mansion in Beverly Hills. The estate was built in the 1930s and once home to William Powell, Carole Lombard and James Bond producer Albert
Ronald Reagan Pacific Palisades House for Sale - Luxury Homes and Pools
For the late President Ronald Reagan, it was all about the view. The Reagan family's home in Pacific Palisades, which is currently for sale, boasted a panoramic view. It was also a GE Showcase House.
Stone Eagle Retreat Backyard Water Theme Park - Luxury Homes
A home in the Malibu hills has an amazing swimming pool that looks like a water theme park, with boulders, caves, slides -- and classical statuary.
Los Feliz House of Ryan Reynolds and Scarlett Johansson for Sale
Ryan Reynolds and Scarlett Johansson listed their Mid-century modern Los Feliz home in January of 2012 for $3.65 million. The house features a geometric-shaped pool with sweeping views of the LA skyline.
Hollywood Glam Meets Big Game Deco - Luxury Homes
Villa Raphael, a 1925-built Hollywood mansion, was put up for sale at $2.49 million in 2012. While there's no big name attached to this West Hollywood mansion -- at least as far as we know -- it stands out for its fusion of vintage Hollywood fixtures and features so many of us love. And don't forget to check out that pool!
Dick Clark's Flinstone House for Sale in Malibu
About a month before he passed away in April of 2012,
Reese Witherspoon's Historic Ojai Estate for Sale - Sweet Home Ojai
That gorgeous Wallace Neff-designed house that served as the backdrop for Reese Witherspoon's wedding and was Robert Pattinson's hideaway when he and Kristen Stewart split is up for sale. The Ojai, California ranch estate is historic and features a pool that blends in with the natural landscape.
Treehouse and Playhouse Plans - Ideas and Plans for Children's Playhouses
From basic sheds with a few embellishments to miniature Colonial mansions with all the architectural details, you're sure to find a plan for a DIY playhouse project. Some of these plans are for dedicated and patient beginners with minor carpentry skills, others state that the projects are difficult.
What is Terracotta? Definition of Terra Cotta
Terra Cotta is used for many outdoor purposes and products, including bricks, architectural features, roof tiles and garden containers.
What is an Olympic-Size Pool? - How Big are Olympic-Style Swimming Pools?
For obvious reasons, Olympic-size swimming pools are built big. The first Olympic swimming competitions of the
What are Thrillers, Fillers and Spillers? - Plant Types for Patio Garden Containers
While there is no hard and fast rule for container gardens, the popular concept of thrillers, fillers and spillers has made it easier to approach the design task of which plants to put in a pot. The idea is based on the theory that an odd number of plants -- three is a good number for an average-sized container -- looks natural, well-balanced and interesting.
Psssst, a Secret: Holiday Ornaments Can Be Used as Patio Decor During the Summer
Here's another reason to shop those post-holiday sales at our favorite stores, like Pier 1 Imports, Target and Crate and Barrel: some ornaments and decorations
Decorating Outside With Pantone's Emerald, 2013 'Color of the Year'
Last year was all about the vibrant Tangerine Tango. This year's Pantone Color of the Year is Emerald, associated with growth, renewal and prosperity. As things start to warm up outdoors (well, in the next few months), designers and consumers may find themselves gravitating toward this vivid, verdant green, which enhances our sense of well-being further by inspiring insight, as well as promoting balance and harmony, as Pantone so eloquently describes 2013's it hue.
It's Almost Here: The 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
What are the best pool and patio products on the market? This year, About.com Pool and Patio is participating is the annual About.com Readers' Choice
Who Makes the Best Hot Tub Spa? Nominate Now
It's freezing outside, and a soak in a hot tub would be invigorating. The dash from the house to the tub in a swimsuit -- even with a terry robe -- doesn't
Nominate Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum: 2013 Readers' Choice Awards
Do you clean your own swimming pool? Are you happy with your pool cleaner / vacuum? If so, nominate your favorite model, brand or manufacturer in the Best Pool Cleaner / Vacuum category of About.com's 2012 Readers' Choice Awards.
Nominate Now: Polls Close Tonight for 2013 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Just a quick reminder: if you want to nominate a pool and patio or outdoor living product or company for the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards, the deadline is tonight at 11:59 p.m. EST
The Top 12 Luxury Homes and Pools for 2012
t's official. I just saw the ball drop, so it's 2013. Before you continue with your noisemakers and champagne, Portlandia or Twilight Zone marathons or turn in for the night, you might want to take a look at something you missed in 2012. 12 for '12: The Top 12 Luxury Homes and Pools for 2012.
Nominate Now: 2013 About.com Readers' Choice Awards - Pool and Patio
For the third year in a row, About.com Pool and Patio is participating in the annual About.com Readers' Choice Awards. We are currently accepting nominations in the following categories: Best Hot Tub/Spa
Inauguration Day: A Look Back at The White House Grounds
While that much-discussed dog will most likely join the Obama White House in coming months, a trip back in history reveals that United States presidents have
Cabin Happy? Plan or Even Build a Playhouse
Cold days make you want to bundle-up indoors and read a book. Check out this list of books I've compiled about DIY playhouse, treehouse, shed and backyard
Winner for Best Outdoor Lighting 2012 - About.com Readers Choice Awards - Pool and Patio
A winner for Best Outdoor Lighting has been chosen in the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards. Appropriately, Best Outdoor Lighting honors the year's top outdoor lighting brands and manufacturers. Solar and LED lighting is a way for consumers to save energy and be more environmentally minded, and each of the finalists offer products that are eco-friendly.
Wordless Wednesday: Mod Disc Chairs on Faux Grass
These chairs are not among the finalists for Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, but they're certainly worth a look. Or two. They were at the 2010 Dwell on Design
Inside the White House Grounds: Patios, Porches, Porticoes and Other Outdoor Living Spaces - A Historical Photo Gallery of the White House Grounds
Much has been documented about the interior of the White House, but what about the exterior? With a residence that large, it must have an amazing yard, with lots of patios, terraces, porches, pools and private retreats the average person knows nothing about. Take an historical tour of the White House's outdoor living spaces -- the places where the president and first lady might enjoy a quiet lunch outside, or where president's children can just be kids.
Inside the White House Grounds: Patios, Porches, Porticoes and Other Outdoor Living Spaces - A Historical Photo Gallery of the White House Grounds
Much has been documented about the interior of the White House, but what about the exterior? With a residence that large, it must have an amazing yard, with lots of patios, terraces, porches, pools and private retreats the average person knows nothing about. Take an historical tour of the White House's outdoor living spaces -- the places where the president and first lady might enjoy a quiet lunch outside, or where president's children can just be kids.
Inside the White House Grounds: Patios, Porches, Porticoes and Other Outdoor Living Spaces - A Historical Photo Gallery of the White House Grounds
Much has been documented about the interior of the White House, but what about the exterior? With a residence that large, it must have an amazing yard, with lots of patios, terraces, porches, pools and private retreats the average person knows nothing about. Take an historical tour of the White House's outdoor living spaces -- the places where the president and first lady might enjoy a quiet lunch outside, or where president's children can just be kids.
Inside the White House Grounds: Patios, Porches, Porticoes and Other Outdoor Living Spaces - A Historical Photo Gallery of the White House Grounds
Much has been documented about the interior of the White House, but what about the exterior? With a residence that large, it must have an amazing yard, with lots of patios, terraces, porches, pools and private retreats the average person knows nothing about. Take an historical tour of the White House's outdoor living spaces -- the places where the president and first lady might enjoy a quiet lunch outside, or where president's children can just be kids.
Inside the White House Grounds: Patios, Porches, Porticoes and Other Outdoor Living Spaces - A Historical Photo Gallery of the White House Grounds
Much has been documented about the interior of the White House, but what about the exterior? With a residence that large, it must have an amazing yard, with lots of patios, terraces, porches, pools and private retreats the average person knows nothing about. Take an historical tour of the White House's outdoor living spaces -- the places where the president and first lady might enjoy a quiet lunch outside, or where president's children can just be kids.
Drought Tolerant Landscaping - Recycled Art in Waterwise Landscaping - Xeriscaping with Repurposed Art
Drought tolerant landscaping can be attractive with well-chosen plants mixed with hardscaping, garden structures and garden art. And like the conservation-minded gardens that focus on using less water, natural fertilizers or organic pest control, some of the best garden art comes from ordinary objects that have been recycled, reused, or repurposed. Let these photos of landscape designs inspire you to look at that old sculpture-class bust or architectural relic in an entirely different light.
Drought Tolerant Landscaping - Recycled Art in Waterwise Landscaping - Xeriscaping with Repurposed Art
Drought tolerant landscaping can be attractive with well-chosen plants mixed with hardscaping, garden structures and garden art. And like the conservation-minded gardens that focus on using less water, natural fertilizers or organic pest control, some of the best garden art comes from ordinary objects that have been recycled, reused, or repurposed. Let these photos of landscape designs inspire you to look at that old sculpture-class bust or architectural relic in an entirely different light.
Rococo - Definition of Rococo - What is Rococo - What Does Rococo Mean
Rococo is a style of French design and decor that originated in the mid-18th century. Rococo was the last part of the French Baroque style and is characterized by rich decoration and a variety of motifs, incuding deep swirls. In exterior design, rococo-style balconies are made of detailed ironwork, such as interlacing scrolls supported on ornate brackets. These were a change from classical stone balustrded balconies.
Wordless Wednesday: Cactus or Succulent?
Good idea: don't plant sharp, spiny cacti or succulents in the pathway of swimmers near a pool or in high-traffic areas of the patio or deck. Photo by
Chicago-Area Man Slain After Dog Pees on Neighbor's Lawn
Another reason to rethink the lawn. A Chicago man was fatally shot Sunday after his dog urinated on a neighbor's well-manicured lawn. Ex-Marine Charles
Sears Garden Party Room Contest Ends Sunday
Sunday, May 16, 2010, is the deadline to enter Sears' Your Day, Your Way, Your Home $10,000 sweepstakes. Prizes include a $4,000 garden party room (a
'Field of Dreams' For Sale in Iowa
Pool and Patio Property of the Week Week of May 17, 2010 If you list it, they will come. The iconic, much-loved and much-visited cornfield and baseball
Wordless Wednesday: Privacy Fence Can't Stop the Beagle
Vines and trees that try to cover up a chainlink fence can't keep Luna Bella from peering into the neighbors' yard looking for the rabbit she got a whiff of.
Not so Fast: Read This Before Taking the Season's First Plunge
Memorial Day Weekend is upon us, the official unofficial start of the summer. Everyone in the pool! No so fast. The U.S. Centers for Disease and
Contest: Backyard BBQ Makeover From Branson Silver Dollar City
Do your patio and outdoor kitchen areas need a makeover? Branson Silver Dollar City's Backyard BBQ Makeover Sweepstakes is your ticket to a new, enviable
Wordless Wednesday: BBQ Man-nequin - Ready for Memorial Day Cookout
Many of you will ignite your favorite season this weekend by playing host to a Memorial Day backyard barbecue cookout. Our hunky BBQ Man-nequin is ready for
Taking it to the Backyards: How to 'Pool Safely'
Many of you are familiar with Google Alerts: you submit a certain keyword search term and the service sends you pertinent news articles, blogs, videos, etc.
Hurry: Contest Ends Monday for Pottery Barn $10k Outdoor Giveaway
Hurry: you have until Monday, May 31, 2010 -- that's Memorial Day -- to enter Pottery Barn's Outdoor Giveaway contest. The one-and-only grand prize winner will
Wordless Wednesday: Iced Tea in the Garden
June is National Iced Tea Month. While it's my own personal favorite every month of the year, I'll certainly be enjoying my daily glasses of the world's
CPSC Issues Massive Maytag Dishwasher Recall
OK: I know you probably don't have a dishwasher in your outdoor kitchen, not when the indoor kitchen is just a few steps through a door from your patio dining
Wordless Wednesday: Garden Party
Garden Party -- host one, go to one. At a loss for what to serve your guests? Try one of these amazing bbq or summertime recipes from About.com's expert food
Nominate Your Favorite for 'Top Swimming Pool Scenes in Film'
While the big red carpet event last weekend was at the MTV Movie Awards, just a reminder that we've had our own film-related nominations going on in The
Wordless Wednesday: Footprints in Cement
Mark the day and year by putting the family's footprints in cement for Father's Day. Afterwards, enjoy a backyard barbecue, and some carefully chosen
Before You Dive Into Summer, Read This
Summer is officially here, and before you don your favorite swim suit and dive into a swimming pool, read these facts and tips regarding diving safety. Did
Wordless Wednesday: Michael Jackson's Neverland Statues
It's been a year since Michael Jackson's death. So what does the self-proclaimed King of Pop have to do with the Pool and Patio site? In April of 2009 I had the
Dwell on Design This Weekend in Los Angeles
Go West this weekend and head for Dwell on Design, billed as the West Coast's largest design event. This will be my third year to attend the modern design mecca
Dwell on Design: Let's Get Vertical
On Friday, I attended the Dwell on Design event at the L.A. Convention Center, where I met lots of nice design and company reps and enjoyed looking at
Wordless Wednesday: 4th of July Porch
A bright blue house with a porch and American flag: it's not traditional, but it definitely works and has lots of personality. Photo © Lisa Hallett
Highlights From Dwell on Design 2010
Those who love modern outdoor patio furniture and garden accessories got their fill at the Dwell on Design 2010 event, held downtown at the Los Angeles
Try One of These Easy 4th of July Table Centerpieces
You don't have to run out and buy a centerpiece for your outdoor patio table. Look through your cupboards for red, white or blue vases, pitchers, glassware or
Wordless Wednesday: Vintage Concrete Lawn Ornaments
Two knee-hugging concrete lawn ornaments, captured in the backyard of an antique store in Orange, California. The garden statues were either painted over or
Summer Sale Alert: Outdoor Patio and Garden Furniture
It's early July: time for stores to clear out all that patio furniture and those accessories, right in the midst of the peak of the season. The reasoning?
Home Improvement Spending to Rise in 2011, Says Harvard Study
Recovery in home improvement spending for 2011 has been forecast by experts at Harvard University's Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing
Wordless Wednesday: Artist's Undersea-Inspired Garden Bench
From the San Diego Botanic Gardens, a beautiful garden bench that captures the lively spirit and amazing colors of life under the sea. Photo © Lisa
Marilyn Monroe's Brentwood Hacienda for Sale
Marilyn Monroe's personal belongings and documents -- including a hospital chest x-ray -- have been auctioned off recently. Fans with extra money in their
Wordless Wednesday: Jesse James' Pool, for Sale
This tricked-out swimming pool is part of the beach house that Jesse James is selling. The tattooed motorcycle customizer is relocating to Austin with his
Saturday is 'Enjoy Your Deck Day': So, Do It
Deck party at your house -- and all of the United States will be celebrating. Not just on your deck -- but on decks from coast to coast and everywhere in
Halfway Into Swim Season: More Than 210 Drownings & Submersions So Far
We're just about halfway into the summer swimming season, and there have been more than 210 child drownings and non-fatal submersion incidents in pools and spas
Pool Not in the Budget? Install an Outdoor Shower
Swimming pools have always been expensive, and during the Great Recession, building a new one may seem like a distant dream. The desire to refresh your body
Wordless Wednesday: Playhouse for the Horsey Set
An ultimate playhouse, built with a Western theme, will be auctioned off in September to benefit HomeAid, a homeless assistant nonprofit. Tour the 2010
Growin' Crops in a Kiddie Pool
Those kiddie pools on sale at discount and corner drugstores have another use besides cooling off your feet and ankles. Kerry Michaels, About.com's Guide to
NWF Has Ideas: Be 'Out There' With Your Kids
Do the proverbial hairs bristle on your back when you see your kids sitting in front of the TV or computer screen? The National Wildlife Federation has a whole
Wordless Wednesday: World's Biggest Swimmers
The world's largest swimming pool is at the San Alfonso del Mar resort in Algarrobo, Chile. But where can you find the world's biggest swimmers? My guess is
Why I Want to Go Swimming
This summer, we've been making a few minor repairs to our mid-1960s-built pool. We wouldn't really be able to use the pool anyway, because, while much of the
Is Your Yard Party-Ready? Seriously?
Besides general clean-up and sprucing up the backyard and deck before an end-of-summer bash, you might want to take a look at those deck boards and hardware.
Wordless: Terrace at Grand Canyon
The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is harder to access than its southern counterpart, but sees 1/10th the number of visitors and is nearly 3,000 feet higher than
The World's Biggest Aluminum Patio Chair
Don't ask me how I found this -- because I wasn't looking for it -- but yesterday I came across the World's Largest Aluminum Patio Chair. This oversized
Finally: It's Swim Season at Our House (Maybe)
No, I don't live in Australia (it would be spring there about now). And we haven't been procrastinating, I swear. We just filled out pool with nice clean water
Tuscan-Style Patio on a Smaller Scale
The less-is-more philosophy applies to outdoor design, so long as you don't try to cram everything into that small space. Like Tuscany or other Mediterranean
What are Your Labor Day Weekend Plans?
What do you have planned for Labor Day weekend? Will you be staying close to home or hightailin' it out of town for one last vacation? Whatever your plans,
Do You Live in a Wildfire-Prone Area?
Brush fires and wildfires aren't just a Southern California thing, as evidenced by the recent outbreaks in Boulder, Colorado; Detroit and New York's Staten
Quick: Think of 10 Reasons to Use a Pool Cover
Well -- an obvious reason that comes to mind is to keep all that yard debris and drowned insects out of the swimming pool. Less mess, less work for you or
Write a Review: Pool Vacuum Cleaners
If you don't have a pool maintenance service clean your pool, you probably take care of it yourself. Which means you have some kind of pool vacuum to help you
Wordless Wednesday: Buddy's End-of-Summer Romp in the Pool
Buddy enjoys one last dip in the doggie pool on his private deck before the summer season comes to an end. Photo © Herb Thompson More Wordless Wednesday
Weekend Poll:What's Your Outdoor Project for the Fall?
Next Wednesday, September 22, is the first day of fall. That means any fall outdoor projects should at least be in the planning stages by now. Take this poll --
Outdoor Fall Decorations: Start With a Wreath
Maybe the pumpkins and gourds haven't shown up yet at the local roadside stand or grocery store where you usually buy them. So, until they do, you can look no
Wordless Wednesday: Pimpled Pumpkins for First Day of Fall
Pimpled or dimpled pumpkins and gourds won't need any acne cream, since that rough and bumpy surface is supposed to be there. Photo © Lisa Hallett
Jump in the Poll: How Often Do You Use Your Pool?
This weekend's poll takes a look at swimming pool usage, like how many months out of the year do you enjoy your in-ground or above-ground pool? //
Fall? LOL! L.A. Breaks Record for Hottest Day Ever
Forget about fall. Summer has finally arrived in Southern California, and it's as if someone opened up the door of a giant brick pizza oven and blasted all
Wordless Wednesday: Starting the Halloween Season on the Right Foot
Or is it the left foot? Photo by Lisa Hallett Taylor More Wordless Wednesday on About.com
Show Us Your Outdoor Halloween Decorations
Do you get a chill or thrill out of decorating your house for Halloween? Maybe it's a festive door, entryway, patio, porch or yard. Perhaps the entire
Chihuly's Pool Sculpture for Neiman Marcus: It Won't Be Mine, & I'm OK With That
As a child, I'd pore through the pages of the Sears Wish Book Christmas catalog and circle all those dolls and playhouse accessories I desired. My parents were
Video: How to Build a Framed Lattice Panel Fence
Here's a fairly easy and straightforward project: a framed lattice panel fence, that you can use as a privacy screen or fence for larger areas. Check out the
Skeleton Bought at Florida Yard Sale is the Real Thing
The skeleton a Tampa couple bought along with other Halloween decorations at an estate sale a few weeks ago was a really good replica. Bone-chillingly good.
Halloween Decorating is Up This Year, Reports NRF
Consumers aren't spooked about decorating for Halloween, nor are they afraid to spend more than they did last year on decorations, according to a survey
Wordless Wednesday: Big, Hairy Spider
This is one big spider: it has a 6-foot leg span. Read the review of Grandin Road's Flashing Eye Spider. Photo by Lisa Hallett Taylor More Wordless
The Pumpkins of Cobble Hill
I love all the original ideas people come up with for decorating their yards at Halloween. This house in the Cobble Hill neighborhood of Brooklyn is especially
Last-Minute Halloween Ideas
Unlike the winter holidays, if you don't decorate for Halloween, nobody will call you a Scrooge. Still, it wouldn't kill you to show just a little bit of
Wordless Wednesday: Chinese Lanterns on the Patio
A brightly colored orange Chinese Lantern Plant (Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii) is an intriguing fall container plant for the patio or front porch.
Couple Do Early-Morning Soak-'n'-Dash in North Dakotan's Hot Tub
What do you have to do in this economy to enjoy a nice, quiet relaxing soak in a hot tub? Apparently, a North Dakota couple thought they'd found a way to
Your Neighbors are Dropping Hints: It's Time for a New Wreath
As you unpack it for the holidays, take a serious look at your ragged, falling-apart holiday wreath. Does it bring you and others joy? Does it shout out Happy
Home Depot Offers Discount on LED Holiday Lights
Last holiday season I crossed over to the green side. This Halloween I became green also -- and no, it wasn't because of a Jolly Green Giant or Frankenstein's
Show Us Your Outdoor Holiday Decorations
Halloween decorations are discounted to 75% off in stores, making room for Christmas and winter holiday decorations. Have you started to decorate or at least
America Recycles Day: Take the Pledge and Make a Tree
Since 1997, eco-minded Americans have been observing America Recycles Day each November 15 through public awareness, community and individual efforts.
Wordless Wednesday: Relaxing at Turducken Ranch
One week before Thanksgiving, these turkeys appear to be their typically quirky selves, and are as relaxed as they can be...for turkeys. However, these aren't
It's Time to Buy Outdoor Hanukkah Decorations
With Thanksgiving kicking off the holiday season next week, you may not be aware that Hanukkah comes early this year, starting on December 2. Got outdoor
It's World Toilet Day: What Can You Do to Help?
The name is an attention grabber, but the meaning behind its formation is nothing to be taken lightly. Simply put, World Toilet Day celebrates the importance of
Wordless Wednesday: Real Orange Poinsettia
A poinsettia from the Paul Ecke Poinsettia Ranch in Encinitas, California. Yes, it's orange. Designing & Decorating Outdoors with Poinsettias More
Flora Grubb Open House Thanksgiving Weekend
In the event that you find yourself in San Francisco over the Thanksgiving weekend and don't want to be mixing it up with the throngs of shoppers looking for
Light the Menorah: Hanukkah Begins Tonight at Sundown
Hanukkah begins this evening at sundown, with Jews and those who observe the eight-day holiday lighting the first candle of the Hanukkah menorah. Happy
Take a Cruise: Outdoor Holiday Lights
One of my favorite holiday traditions is driving through neighborhoods looking at Christmas lights and decorations. It's even more fun if you're wearing
Get Ready for the 12 Days of Christmas
Starting tomorrow, December 14, About.com's Home & Garden channel will be presenting a multitude of ways to prepare for and celebrate the days leading up to
Front Porch Alert: How About an Outdoor Snow & Ice Heated Doormat?
It actually is snowing in some inland parts of Southern California right now. While I don't have snow and ice greeting me at the door on these cold winter
What's Your Favorite Brand of Patio Furniture?
I was discussing patio furniture with my brother the other day -- what else? -- and he mentioned his favorite outdoor patio furniture brand is Brown Jordan,
Wordless Wednesday: Hot Tub Snow Day
Photo: Ryan McVay / Getty Images Nominate your favorite hot tub/spa brand or manufacturer in About.com's 2011 Readers' Choice Awards. Official
CPSC Recalls Safety Vacuum Release System Due to Potential Entrapment Hazard
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Vacless Systems, Inc., announced yesterday a voluntary recall of the Pool Safety Vacuum
Oscar Nominations Announced; But It's Not Too Late to Nominate for About.com's Readers' Choice Awards
As the nominations for the 83rd Oscars are announced this morning, you might be disappointed that your favorite films or actors have been left out of the
Wordless Wednesday: Cougar Wall
I'm not sure what kind of catlike creature this is, carved in stone on this wall in Monterey, California. My guess is a cougar. What's your take? Photo:
Best Outdoor Patio Furniture: 2011 About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Our readers have chosen what they consider to be the brand / manufacturer that makes the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture. And the winner is... Check out the
Where There's Heat, There's Always a Hot Tub
The Jersey Shore mob. Any number of pro-football and basketball players. Philandering golfers. The cast of Hot Tub Time Machine (pictured). Whenever there's
Wordless Wednesday: Patio Set Frozen in Time
Instead of a barbecue on the deck, snow cones will be on the menu this weekend at a friend's house in Arvada, Colorado. The storm came through quickly, dumping
Nominations Until Midnight: About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Tonight's the night. But don't procrastinate -- take a minute to nominate your favorite pool and patio products now in About.com's 2011 Readers' Choice Awards.
What's Romantic? A Hot Tub for 2 or 8?
While hot tubs packed full of friends consuming chips, bean dip and beer is definitely a Super Bowl thing, you definitely don't want that same crowd hanging in
Wordless Wednesday: Jayne Mansfield and Her Heart-Shaped Swimming Pool
Actress Jayne Mansfield was the first person to have a heart-shaped inground swimming pool built in her own backyard. At least, nobody has contested that
Vote for Best Pool Test Kit: About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Our readers have chosen what they believe to be the company that makes the Best Pool Test Kit / Strips. And the winner is... Check out the winners in the
Minneapolis Home & Garden Show This Weekend
When it rains it pours. There are loads of patio, pool, home and garden shows scheduled pretty much every place it's spring (in a few weeks). Getting a head
Usher Brings Hot Tub on Tour
R&B star Usher has the perfect remedy for battling homesickness and stress while on the road performing. He hangs drapes in his dressing room and inflates
Wordless Wednesday: Charlie Sheen's New Pool
How could Charlie Sheen possibly be wordless? He has so many rants to share; so many catch phrases to create. So, how do you think Sheen would describe the
Meet the Best Decking Finalists: About.com Readers' Choice Awards
Did you see the Grammy Awards last night? Lady GaGa in her pod, Mick Jagger strutting for the first time on the Grammy stage and Justin Bieber doing his Bieber
Last Day to Vote for Readers' Choice Awards
It's been more than a heated contest in a couple of the Pool and Patio categories of the About.com Readers' Choice Awards. Spirited and lively don't begin to
Will 'Sims 3: Outdoor Living Stuff' Give You a Backyard Makeover Fix?
What's almost as fun as barbecuing in your own backyard, lounging on your patio furniture, doing some yard work or designing an outdoor deck? Making the Sims
About.com Readers' Choice Awards: Best Pool and Patio Winners Revealed!
After thousands of votes were cast, the Best Pool and Patio Products are now revealed in the 2011 About.com Readers' Choice Awards. About.com's 2011 Readers'
10 Ways to Convince Yourself It's Spring
You'd never know it's spring in my corner of the universe. After a mild and springlike winter, the past couple of days have brought us wild and weird winds,
Wordless Wednesday: Sitting on the Grass...Bench
Happy spring. A time when grass is sprouting everywhere. Have a seat and ponder it. Photo by Lisa Hallett Taylor More Wordless Wednesday Fun on
Remembering Elizabeth Taylor's Mexican Paradise
While sad to learn of Elizabeth Taylor's death today, I couldn't help but think of the amazingly full life she lead. She packed a lot of glamour, love,
Water Walking Balls Pose Drowning Danger, Says CPSC
The idea of a water walking ball sounds like some sort of April Fool's joke, except it's real, and it's no laughing matter, according to the U.S. Consumer
Ideas Wanted: Gazebo Replacement Canopies and Covers
Need ideas for gazebo replacement covers and canopies
Wordless Wednesday: Come Float on a Lily Pad
This particular species of lily pad has perfectly turned-up edges, making them look like shallow rafts for floating small animals or babies across a pond or
Rain or Shine, Do the Garden Tour Thing
During the past few weekends, gates have been flying open for the first spring home and garden tours of the season. They shift into high gear this month in
Earth Day Countdown: Get Green in Your Own Backyard
celebrate earth day in your own backyard by planting a tree in a container.
Wordless Wednesday: Poolside Mermaid Mannequin
Picture of mermaid mannequin for poolside.
Legionella Bacteria Found in Playboy Mansion Hot Tub
Legionella bacteria found in a hot tub at L.A.'s Playboy Mansion may have been the cause of an outbreak of a flulike illness in February 2011, officials report.
Dive in the Poll: What's No. 1 on Your Outdoor 'To Do' List This Spring?
This poll is quick, easy and doesn't take three cups of coffee to prepare for. Here it is, in a nutshell: If you're on a budget (nice way of saying
Wordless Wednesday: Cartwheels on the Faux Grass
Girl doing cartwheel on synthetic turf.
Another Place to Find Inexpensive Patio Furniture: Best of Craigslist
Best of Craigslist ad answers plea for outdoor patio furniture in Philadelphia.
10-Foot Alligator Wrangled From Florida Resident's Pool
Florida man finds 10-foot alligator in his swimming pool.
Sam's Club Patio Makeover Contest Ends Friday
Sam's Club Patio Makeover Contest Ends Friday
Wordless: What's the Smartest Way to Celebrate Arbor Day?
Picture of cork tree, in honor of Arbor Day.
You are Cordially Invited to the Royal Weeding
E-vite in cyberspace? Participate in Royal Weeding Day this Friday.
What to Do Before a Tornado Strikes
The deadly tornadoes that ripped through the Southeastern United States this week occurred in a region of Southern states known as Dixie Alley. But with 300
Bin Laden's Privacy Walls: The Extreme in Hideout Landscape Architecture
Take a look at the compound and privacy walls of Osama bin Laden's mansion in Abbottabad, Pakistan.
Mom's Day Gift Hint: Take Her on a Garden Tour
Give Mom the gift of a garden tour. The Venice Garden and Home tour is this weekend, for those who might be in the LA area.
(Almost) Wordless Wednesday: One Less Artichoke for the Dip
My artichoke, up close and personal. Grow this on your patio and enjoy its splendor as it blooms into a beautiful thistle-like flower. Photo © Lisa Hallett
Taylor Swift Buys House in Beverly Hills
Taylor Swift buys a house in Beverly Hills so she doesn't have to stay in hotels when she visits LA.l
Countdown to 'National Enjoy Your Deck Day'
I was able to share my
Gwyneth Paltrow Throws Rotisserie, Burnt Duck in Pool
Cookbook author/actress Gwyneth Paltrow reveals that she burned a crispy duck and singed her eyebrows during the mishap.
Former Schwarzenegger House for Sale in Pacific Palisades
What's so significant about Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver's former house being listed for sale? It's possibly where Arnold's
Wordless Wednesday: Dry Garden in Venice
Instead of a patch of dry lawn that serves no purpose, this area between a sidewalk and curb in Venice, California, has become a tapestry of textures and colors, with artfully arranged succulents and stones.
Swimming Pool Season Unofficially Starts Memorial Day Weekend: Is Your Pool Ready?
Pool season may have already started in many regions where temperatures have soared in recent weeks, but for areas that experience four seasons, there's a
CPSC Kicks Off Summer Swim Season With Startling Stats
At a press conference near San Diego Thursday, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Chairman Inez Tenenbaum kicked off summer swim season, which officially begins each year during Memorial Day Weekend. Tenenbaum revealed that 113 drownings or near-drownings have been reported during the first five months of 2011.
CPSC Issues Massive Recall of Pool & Spa Drain Covers
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a massive recall of approximately one million pool and spa drain covers.
You're in Luck: Mel Gibson's Malibu Mansion Has Been Re-Listed
Second -- make that third -- chances do happen! You will be able to buy Mel Gibson's 2.5-acre Mediterranean Malibu mansion after all, now that the price has been chopped by another million.
Are Hot Tubs Legal in Front Yards?
New neighbors recently moved into a house down the street from me and plopped a hot tub / spa right in the front yard.
Hey, Happy Campers: Get Ready for the Great American Backyard Campout
The only plan you need to make this Saturday evening, June 25, is to get your yard or outdoor living space cleaned up for the campout you're going to enjoy
Father's Day Gift Ideas for the Outdoor-Living and -Loving Guy
Father's Day is next weekend, which means you have about a week to find something to let him know he's special. This year more than most, it's the thought that
Outdoor Pillows and Patio Cushions Add Extra Oomph
Among the many great sales on outdoor patio furniture and garden accessories this month, it's a smart time to at least look at the outdoor pillows and cushions at a few stores or online.
Wordless Wednesday: 1960s 'Mad Men' Pool Dad
A reminder that Father's Day is this Sunday, June 19. The ideal family of the early 1960s enjoys the day -- let's just say it's Father's Day -- in their own in-ground backyard built-in swimming pool.
Diving Into Dad's Day, But Think Before You Do It
Today is Father's Day. The first day of Summer is two days away, and before you don your favorite swimsuit and dive into a swimming pool, read these facts and tips regarding diving safety.
Wordless Wednesday: School's Out For Summer
School's probably been a distant memory for several days or weeks in most parts of the United States, but today is the last day of school for many young students in Southern California
Outdoor Gel Fire Pot Fuel Recalled
The CPSC had issued a recall of gel fire pot fuel due to a potential burn hazard.
Easy No-Sew Patriotic Porch Pillow
Two flag-print scarves glued and Velcroed together make the simplest pillow covers for the 4th of July porches and patios.
Show Your Indepent Spirit All Summer Long
Sure, the 4th of July was two days ago. But there's no great urgency to fold up the flag, take down the patriotic bunting, and pull-up the red, white and blue flowers in your garden just because the holiday is in the past
Hey Bargain Hunters: Outdoor Furniture on Sale Now
The 4th of July was last week, and now retailers want to get rid of patio furniture to make room for school supplies. Deals can be found!
No-Brainer Safety Tips for Outdoor Living
On paper, rules often seem obvious. Like we all know our kids shouldn't play in the middle of the street or with matches (if anyone has matches around any more). But putting them into practice is something we forget, get casual or lazy about, or even dismiss as something that couldn't possibly happen to us or me.
Hot Dogs Need Cool Pools
I feel your pain -- or sweat (ick) -- during the heat waves that have hit much of the Midwest and Eastern United States. But you aren't the only one feeling the oppressive heat. Your best friend -- your dog -- is panting and is wearing a fur coat that, unlike you, he/she cannot just take off that coat
When the Kitchen Heats Up, Take It Outside
Temperatures are sizzling in many parts of the United States and other regions, and while everyone may want and deserve to dine out at a restaurant, it just isn't going to happen, budget-wise.
Pic of the Week: Bamboo Graffiti Love
One day, Joey proved his love for Gabriel (or is it Cabrie?) by carving Joey heart Gabriel into a bamboo plant. Has their love, like the mighty bamboo, continued to grow? Only the bamboo knows.
Preventing 'Diaper Disasters' and Other Pool Hazards
It's hotter than you-know-what, so you've generously opened your backyard pool for friends and family to enjoy a refreshing swim. Then it happens. Followed by a quick announcement:
This Week's Meteor Shower a Good Reason for Backyard Campout
It's time for sleeping bags and s'mores on the deck again: the Perseid meteor shower makes an appearance in the night sky this week.
Deadline Nears to Enter APSP Pool Awards of Excellence
Are you a homeowner who recently had a spectacular pool, spa or outdoor living space built in your backyard and feel the designer and/or contractor should receive more accolades than your sincere
DE Fossils Clean Pools, Among Other Things
What do bedbugs and swimming pools have in common? You can find both while on vacation at motels and hotels.
Online Deals Alert: CB2's Patio Furniture Slashed
I was perusing some of my favorite sites to see what they've discounted at the end of the season when I found some patio furniture deals that would make Grandma do a double flip in her porch rocker.
Picture It Wednesday: I Want a Privacy Fence Like This
My family drove more than 500 miles home yesterday after moving my son up north to college. My husband met up with us a few days ago and warned me about the bulldozing that occurred last week at the house next door.
Preparing Your Yard and Pool Before Disaster Hits
What a week! Earthquakes along the East Coast and in Colorado. Hurricane Irene is expected to hit the Carolina coast in the next 24 hours and make its way up the East Coast.
Wordless Wednesday: Coleus and Cordyline Porch Container for Fall
Purple and lime green or chartreuse are my two favorite color combinations in the garden, and this container arrangement I designed in April has lasted
Steve Jobs: 'Here's to the Crazy Ones...'
Here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes... the ones who see things differently -- they're not fond of rules... You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can't do is ignore them because they change things... they push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.
I've Got the Concrete Block Wall Blues
About a month ago I related the Privacy Fence Fiasco, in which the new owner of the home next door, a house-flipper, had bulldozed nearly 50 years-worth of mature trees, shrubs, a retaining wall, a concrete patio and the fence that separated our two houses.
Ready to Haunt Your Home?
Home haunts or Halloween yard haunts have become a way for adults and families to celebrate and prepare for their favorite holiday weeks -- sometimes months -- before October 31.
Must-Have Decorations for Halloween 2011
Home haunt enthusiasts have been working on their home-based haunted houses for several months now. As October nears, they're getting down to the wire, with most of their plans and props done or almost finished.
9/11 Remembrance: Let the River Run
Finn Straine, 12, (L), and his brother Charlie Straine, 10, (R), stand by the name of their father, James Straine Jr., who worked for Cantor Fitzgerald and died in the attacks of 9/11.
Does Your Door Say, 'Fall'?
I'm in the 100-degree heat of Palm Springs this weekend, and I've already seen several houses decked out for Halloween. It may be sundress and flip-flops weather, but no matter where you are, everyone loves to get their fall decorating fix on. Apparently, the earlier the better.
Labor Day: Wear White and Party Like It's Summer
Oh, go ahead. Be brazen -- wear white and party like it's early summer. Back before the recent weather and natural disasters gave summer a bad name. Here's my annual Labor Day Guide to Last-Minute Fun:
Happy First Day of Fall: What's on Your Project List?
Today, September 23rd, is the first day of autumn. That means any fall outdoor projects should at least be in the planning stages by now. Take this poll -- it might help kickstart that deck, patio or decorating project.
Taylor Swift Makes LA Her New Hometown
During Taylor Swift's sold-out concert last Tuesday at Staples Center in Los Angeles last week, she revealed to her fans that LA was her new home.
CPSC Gel Fuel Recall: Infernos on the Patio
When those colorful glazed ceramic gel pots came on the pool and patio product scene a few years ago, I wanted one. Well, I sort of want at least one of everything outdoor living space related -- but these seemed like a smaller, prettier more lightweight alternative to a roaring bonfire on the patio.
Forget Halloween: Let's Get On With Christmas, Already
Halloween is so yesterday, and now it's time to get on with decorating for Christmas. Here's our picks for this year's decorations.
Photo of the Week: Pumpkins Invade the Porch
Pumpkins: fat and squatty, tall and skinny, lining the porch and spilling down the steps. Waiting to be carved or made into pie. Photo by Lisa Hallett Taylor
A Trick: Make Ghosts Float in Your Yard
I suspect the creative abilities of many seasonal decorators are fueled by that last-minute rush. Especially with Halloween, which has an element of surprise
Photo of the Week: Halloween Pool Spider
Yes, people in mild-weather locales like Los Angeles actually do decorate their swimming pools for holidays, and Halloween is no exception. A giant spider
Halloween How-To: Wreath With Leaves and Crows
Every year, I try to add more crows to my stash of Halloween decorations. Why? Umm -- I don't know. I guess they look kind of cool and you can put them pretty much anywhere -- on tree limbs, porch railings, lanterns, basically anywhere. The crow silhouette is unmistakable, especially in the dark near a well-positioned spotlight. As far as I'm concerned, the more crows, the better.
Got Plans? Make That Deck Plans
Actually, late fall and winter is the best time to plan a deck-building project. Usually, you're not in a rush and have plenty of time to think about where in your yard you want to place the deck, what you'll use it for, its size, your budget, materials, and whether you will tackle building it yourself or hire a professional.