A barren back yard is no place for a beautiful bride. With an outdoor wedding in mind, these homeowners enlisted the help of California Custom Decks to design their dream deck in time for their spring nuptials.

On a breezy summer evening, there is no better place to end the night than on your front porch gazing at the stars. Spruce up your porch with a swing, upholstered chairs and potted plants. Bringing a little style to your porch not only boosts curb appeal, but it also extends your living space to the outdoors.

one: Oakbrooke, IL, porch, by Bertrand Landscape Design.
two: Traditional porch, by Rockwood Custom Homes.
three: Brookmont bungalow front porch, by Richard Leggin Architects.
four: MapleLawn Farm.

Transparent Landscape, Seoul, South Korea.
Photography by Fernando Guerra.


For our June/July Outdoor issue, we asked local professionals if composite decking is a classic or a craze. Have wood-alternative decks replaced the traditional stained wood? Here's what they had to say.

Classic
“It is my opinion that composite decking is both less expensive and more maintenance free than wood. Therefore, I imagine clients would prefer this option and it would be a classic.” Tom Manche, Tom Manche Interiors.

one: Tilt-a-wire mirror, available at Dau Neu.

two: 1-light pendant, The Wright Stuff collection, by Varaluz, available at Holt Lighting Depot.

three: Cricket brass folding lounge chair, by Brown Jordan, available at KDR Designer Showrooms.

four: Brandy side table, available at Savvy Surrounding Style.

Incorporating a natural element like stone into your home decor adds texture and earthiness. Not just for flooring or countertops, stone has made its way into furnishings and accessories.

one: Pacific opal earrings, from Santa Monica, available at The Porch by Nettie White.

two: Osaka Obelisk, available at Savvy Surrounding Style.

three: Brass ring with overlay, available at The Porch by Nettie White.