Backyard Design Ideas: Sunken Patios

Have a completely flat area or a hill for your backyard?  Spice it up by adding a hidden sunken patio.  Create a cozy hidden area that is ideal for entertaining or just getting away that has a sense of privacy and welcoming style.  With a sunken design you create a sense of privacy allowing you to for-go installing tall fences, retaining the outside view.

Incorporate pools or water features, fire pits, outdoor cooking areas and entertaining area, built in seating or planting section.  The Allan Block products are versatile enough for any design and will last for years of enjoyment. 

Create a sunken patio area to connect between other levels in the backyard or with a lower level entry to your home. Enjoy a cup of coffee in a hidden backyard garden, or have a large party without disturbing the neighbors - the possibilities are endless.  

An 8 Year Old's Tips for Retaining Wall Construction

Summer is made for swimming reading, camping, boating and in some cases building a 160 ft. Allan Block retaining wall.  Using the talents and brawn of 4 generations, our 4 ½ ft. high wall was completed in 10 straight days.  The three youngest of the family crew, ages 2, 7, and 8 were able to help shovel gravel, try out the tamper and watch various large machines negotiate our lakefront yard. 

The wisest of the family didn’t let 90 years slow her down from helping prepare food and wash dishes for the unbelievably ravenous pit crew of 11 (little ones included).  The experience brought together three grandchildren, three sisters, two brother-in-laws, two parents, and one great grandmother.

Through the work, frustrations, beer, creativity, sore muscles, perseverance and laughter, we built the Great Wall of Nakamun. It was a wonderful opportunity to see the gifts and strengths of each family member put into serious action!  Out Great Allan Block Wall was an amazing accomplishment that reminds us that summer is made for swimming.

Backyard Design Ideas: Lighting

With the busy schedules of today, many still want to enjoy the great outdoors long after the sun goes down.  Outdoor lighting will help you enjoy the ambiance of your landscaped patio well into the evening with family and friends. 

The use of lighting around your outdoor spaces provides not only safety and security, but offers a warm and inviting feel.  Accenting your home or walkway adds beauty and character with the functionality of a well-lit outdoor space. 

There are many options available to install lighting within the AB retaining wall units or the pavers as well as within the landscaping itself.  Be creative with low voltage lighting. 

Want just an outdoor accent build a patio encircling an outdoor fire pit.  Enjoy years of entertaining and story-telling with your welcomed guests.  Build an outdoor bar and/or kitchen area with under counter or pergola lighting for a stunning effect.

10 Budget Friendly Home Improvement Ideas

You don't have to break the bank to turn your house into a home where you feel happy and comfortable. Often times when you think of improvements for your home all you think of is a bunch of $$$$$ when in fact all it will take is a simple facelift and a little TLC to make it feel new and better. 

Doing it yourself is the most budget friendly way to go about a project but it will require time and knowledge.  With the help and instructions available on the internet, you can learn the steps on how to tackle your project. YouTube is a favorite, also manufacturer’s website where you can find information specific to the products you are using. If anything, you will be able to get ideas and understand the scope of your project. You will also find out when you might need to seek professional help. 

Here are some ideas for budget friendly home improvements:

1. Paint: a fresh coat of paint can go a long way. Whether you are looking to brighten a room, add color or simply clean up these walls from the kids and pets prints. Painting will sure give your room and great feel of newness and cleanliness
2. Adding architectural accents to your room: crown molding or ceiling medallions can give architectural definition to the room by creating contrast and depth
3. Dress up your doors and windows
4. Give your cabinets a facelift with paint or new hardware
5. Adding backsplash to your kitchen or bathroom counters
6. Accessorize the room with candles, mirrors, artwork etc…
7. Change or add light fixtures
8. You cannot afford to change your floor, paint it
9. Add laminate flooring that looks like wood, easy to install and float over existing flooring
10. Add curb appeal to your front entry with plants, flowers and garden accessories.