Author: Katrina Mercado

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Not a professional chef, just a hungry human who loves experimenting with food. Sometimes the results are magical, sometimes they’re… ‘learning opportunities.’ Either way, I promise to only share the good ones.

Transform your outdoor space into a stunning retreat with these inspiring backyard patio designs with pools. Whether you’re working with a compact urban lot or a sprawling estate, there’s a perfect layout waiting for you. 1. Sleek Modern Backyard Patio Designs with Pool and Minimalist Concrete This modern backyard patio design with pool embraces clean lines and sophisticated materials. The large-format polished concrete slabs create a seamless surface, while river rock fills the gaps for drainage and visual interest. A sunken conversation pit with a bio-ethanol fire line adds warmth to cooler evenings. Underwater LED lights in deep azure illuminate…

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Looking to transform your outdoor space into a stunning retreat? Whether you’re working with a sprawling backyard or a compact area, the right covered patio design can completely change how you use and enjoy your outdoor living space. From sleek modern structures to cozy rustic escapes, we’ve gathered 19 inspiring designs that showcase the best in covered patios, decks, pergolas, and fire pit areas. Let’s explore these ideas and show you exactly how to recreate each look in your own backyard. 1. The “Nordic Noir” Modern Fire Pit Lounge For those who love dramatic, architectural spaces, this modern backyard patio…

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Transforming your backyard doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Whether you’re working with a small space or dreaming of an outdoor oasis, these backyard patio designs on a budget will inspire you to create something beautiful without breaking the bank. From repurposed pallets to creative concrete solutions, these cheap DIY projects prove that style and savings can go hand in hand. 1. Pallet Wood Patio Deck (Ultra-Cheap DIY Platform) One of the most popular DIY backyard patio designs on a budget involves transforming free or inexpensive pallet wood into a stunning deck platform. Start by collecting pallets from local businesses…

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Creating a patio that stands apart from your home opens up exciting design possibilities. These detached outdoor spaces give you the freedom to position your patio wherever it makes the most sense, whether that’s catching the afternoon sun, nestled among your garden beds, or centered as a focal point in your yard. Let’s explore 18 beautiful ways to design a backyard patio that isn’t attached to your house. 1. Detached Pergola Lounge with Gravel Pathway Transform your backyard into a retreat with a freestanding pergola positioned right in the center of your space. Use thick natural wood beams to create…

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Creating the perfect backyard patio doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re working with a sprawling yard or a compact outdoor space, the right layout can transform your backyard into an inviting retreat. From sleek concrete slabs to warm wooden decks, these patio design ideas will help you maximize your outdoor living area while matching your personal style. 1. Minimalist Concrete Patio With Floating Steps Clean lines and simplicity define this Japanese-inspired design. The smooth light-gray concrete slabs create a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors, while floating concrete steps add an architectural element that’s both functional and eye-catching. Low…

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Designing a backyard patio attached to your house creates a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Whether you’re working with a generous budget or looking for cost-effective solutions, these 15 patio designs offer inspiration for every style and need. From sleek concrete layouts to cozy covered patios with pools, let’s explore how to bring these beautiful outdoor spaces to life. 1. Modern Concrete Patio Attached to the House With Minimalist Layout For a contemporary backyard patio design attached to your house, large smooth concrete slabs arranged in a geometric grid create an instantly modern feel. The key to…

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There’s something magical about earthy cottage style; It wraps you in warmth, connects you to nature, and creates spaces that feel like a gentle exhale after a long day. If you’ve been dreaming of transforming your home into a cozy retreat filled with natural textures, handmade details, and that lived-in charm, you’re in the right place. I’ve gathered 35 beautiful (AI-generated) earthy cottage ideas that celebrate organic materials, muted tones, and the kind of imperfect beauty that makes a house feel like home. Let’s explore how to bring this timeless aesthetic into every corner of your space. 1. Rustic Stone…

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A garden is so much more than just a collection of plants; it’s a living canvas, a dynamic interplay of light, form, and, most importantly, color. When you thoughtfully choose your flowering plants, you can transform an outdoor space into an emotional landscape, one that can soothe your mind, lift your spirit, or inject a burst of energy into your day. The strategic use of color in our gardens can profoundly affect how we feel. According to the principles of color psychology, different hues can create distinct atmospheres. Cool tones like blues and purples are known for their calming effects,…

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