Outdoor Living, Fire Features, Amenities & Lighting
Today’s compact technology has made designing and installing outdoor sound systems more accessible than in years past, says Scott Cohen. It’s not rocket science but, as he explain, knowing a thing or two about sonic amenities can go far in elevating client enjoyment.
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Forever Bamboo (San Diego, CA) makes a family of bamboo sealants and stains to protect and add color to bamboo structures including fences, poles, slates and borders, It can contain oils and pigments, depending on the individual product's purpose. When you use a stain or sealant, you apply it to bamboo like you would paint. This application results in a more vibrant, glossy and durable structure. Sealant also adds waterproofing and extends the life of bamboo structures. Learn more here.
Designing spaces for human use -- especially those of the recreational variety -- starts by understanding that the primary goal is to generate a positive emotional response, regardless of style, the size of the property or the client’s budget. That’s why Mike Farley considers the ways that different spatial configurations make his clients feel.
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Fire has been integral to the outdoor experience all along. In backyard environments, the market has seen expansion over the past several years, both in terms of number of fire features sold, and the creative designs of those features. Using today’s beautiful fire elements safely and effectively means following well-established guidelines.
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British design firm, Splinterworks (Bath, UK) has made a mark in the watershaping world by reimagining waterslides. Taking a truly daring design approach, the company combines form and function into structures that are as much works of sculptural art as they are pieces of poolside play equipment.
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Solus (New Westminster, BC) offers the Water Dome. These water bowls feature polished metal domes that appear to float inside a concrete vessels. Water flows up through the center of each dome to run over the reflective surface of the hand-spun metal and then drops off the edges into the surrounding water creating sound. Each metal dome is handmade and unique. Learn more here.
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Are dark clouds gathering on the economic horizon? Many people think so, and are feeling that way with growing frequency and deepening levels of concern. As Eric Herman points out, based on past experience in periods of looming financial strife, this is the time to plan for a changing business landscape.
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Pentair (Minneapolis, MN) makes MicroBrite Color and White LED Lights. For new pool and spa designs, their compact size adds dynamic lighting in tight places. The 12V LED plastic lights are only 3.5 inches long, fit into narrow walls and tight spaces and require no niche. Learn more here.
Lazy rivers have become a mainstay in countless waterparks and resort pool facilities. As Eric Herman points out here, it is vitally important that when properties advertise the presence of a lazy river, that it actually fits the definition. As he recently discovered, it’s a surprisingly big disappointment when that turns out to be untrue.
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Pickleball Comes Home