What better reason to throw a soirée than to celebrate the return of summer? Now that the dormant winter months have waned, your backyard is full of life again and presents itself as the picture-perfect backdrop for a party. Prepare for a season worth celebrating by arranging your own outdoor entertaining area. You’ll be ready to party in no time. Positioning and Foundation.  Photo: Houzz Start by assessing your outdoor space, deck, or patio to determine the best location for your setup. Although you can position furniture differently for each event, start with a spot that provides plenty of room...

Kitchen counters serve as more than places to store appliances. You prepare food, wash dishes and perform other duties at the counter and its height makes a big difference in your ergonomic comfort. Standard heights have been adopted for the different countertop surfaces in the kitchen but your personal preferences and needs may make alternative measurements preferable. Some builders will create the bar or island from cabinetry and top it with a countertop. Building a knee wall (some call it a pony wall)-- a short wall made from dimensional lumber -- is more affordable and looks just as good.      ...

Modern homes are all about blurring the lines between the indoors and the world outside. This constant push to extend the living space outdoors has led to the emergence of whole new trends in home design. Much like the luxurious lounge next to the pool or the gorgeous pergola, modern outdoor kitchens are all the rage as they allow you to ‘take the party’ completely outdoors! Completing the fun and relaxed pool deck or the fabulous rooftop terrace with amazing views, an outdoor kitchen allows you to entertain friends and family in a far more stylish fashion.  - Chicago Green...