patios Archives - At Home in Arkansas

From Providence Design: Getting Back to Our Roots

May 21, 2014 by ark_admin

This time of year it seems like all we can do is think about is being outdoors, especially after the winter we just had. Its so nice after spending so much time indoors to finally just get out and get back to those roots! At Providence Design we love creating outdoor spaces that really are an extension of the home.

We love this quote….

“Trees and Plants always look like the people they live with, somehow” – Zora Neale Hurston

That got us thinking, what does our outdoor space say about us? Here are some simple tips for sprucing up those spaces and some images to get you inspired to get back to those roots and garden!

First, choose your space and what it is going to be used for.

Are you more of a formal garden type person?

Do you want your backyard to be the perfect place for a Saturday Afternoon nap?

How about a relaxing place to entertain friends?

Whatever it may be, picking the right landscape and quality materials will help you achieve your goal with lasting results.

Choosing the right plants for your outdoor space can be an overwhelming thought. There are so many beautiful options how does one decide? Think back to the kind of space you are after, and choose plants that fit that space. Just make the landscape what works for you.

Choosing higher quality furnishings is also key to enjoying your outdoor space for a long time. The higher the quality the less maintenance you will have and the more time you will spend enjoying your hard work. Remember this when choosing your furniture, rugs, fabric, and even your landscape materials.

Finally, make it special, unique, interesting. Adding that exciting element to any outdoor space will make it over the top.

Maybe tuck a mirror in your garden somewhere!

How about an unexpected place to have your morning coffee?

Or a place to curl up by the fire!

We will be spending this weekend outside, in our own little special places, getting back to those roots. How about you?

Providence Design is Mona Thompson and Talena Ray, a sister duo who are antiques dealers and interior designers. Learn more about them on their website, providenceltddesign.com.

friday favorites: patios, pools and summer fun

February 9, 2014 by ark_admin

From assistant art director Laura LaRue: “We are wanting to redo our patio, so I am taking in everything from this post. Looks so relaxingâ€¦this is great inspiration!” (“Handmade Home: Creating my Dream Patio” from Decor8)

From account executive Stevi Jackson: “I had the great pleasure of owning a small Cliff May home in Dallas, TX once. It is my understanding that he did many of the houses on my block early in his career–before he headed west and became known for his classic California style. Every time summer rolls around, I long for the wonderful glass walls and courtyard of that tiny house! (“Cliff May: Classic California Ranch” from California Home + Design)

From art director Mandy Keener: “I’m so excited about this! Huge fan of both Charley Harper & Todd Oldham, and now I can add to my collection of fun dishes. There will be many happy mornings drinking my orange juice from these glasses!” (“Todd Oldham’s Charley Harper Collection for Fishs Eddy” from Apartment Therapy)

From editor in chief Diane Carroll: “If you haven’t discovered Mrs. Lilien yet, it’s a must read blog– always obliges with just the right visual inspiration for every season, trip or event! Booking my summer trip to the beach, and I spy some lovely finds I’d like to pack in my bag.” (“Take Me To…” from Mrs. Lilien–Styling House)

poolside paradise

February 9, 2014 by ark_admin

It’s press day at the At Home office, with our April issue heading out the door, to return in a few short weeks as our print and digital editions. I have just the place in mind to go wind down this afternoon.

How about a visit to Frank and Jana Sharum’s Fort Smith home and garden, and their poolside paradise.

Frank’s landscape design firm is the team behind some of the largest scale gardens in the state, including the grounds of the newly opened Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. And he’s brought that know-how to his own relaxing retreat.

The tranquil sounds of water would surround us.

These chaises would be an ideal spot for a glass of something bubbly to toast the beautiful surroundings.

(photography by Rett Peek)

Or relaxing perhaps at another tranquil spot, by a fountain from the couple’s Sharum’s Garden Center. See more of this poolside paradise here. And find additional inspiration for outdoor living areas in our March issue, here.

8 fun ways to spend Memorial Day weekend

February 9, 2014 by ark_admin

Memorial Day Weekend is almost here! How do you plan to spend this favorite holiday? We’ve got seven tips for making the most of this long weekend. Just remember to have fun and be safe!