Outdoor Living, Fire Features, Amenities & Lighting

Achieving Realism: Finishing Techniques for Cast-Concrete Rocks
It’s true that some artificial rock installations are not convincing. In an effort to solve those disconnects, today’s cast-concrete rock panel systems are taken from natural stone. When installed and finished correctly, rock panels can look like the real thing. ...
Making Rocks Work
The marriage between rockwork and architecture can be a contentious one, especially when the visual relationship isn’t thought out ahead of time. Making rocks work in built spaces requires strategic thinking, says Terence Thornton and Kevin Kraft, with an eye toward the way nature does things. ...
Real Advantages of Artificial Turf
Artificial turf has rapidly grown in popularity in recent years, and especially so in its use beside swimming pools and other bodies of water, says turf specialist Nick Ogilvie. Water conservation, radically reduced maintenance and great appearance are all reasons for the movement toward grass that never grows and never dies.  ...
Riding the Tides (25 years of WaterShapes)
Since its debut in February 1999 as an innovative print magazine, WaterShapes has spent the past 25 years exploring the art and science of water – and the oceans of possibilities waiting to be discovered along the way. As Eric Herman shares in this special retrospective, the long journey through the world of water has been its own unique reward.   ...
Pebble Tec Introduces Artisan Planter Line
Pebble Technology International (Scottsdale, AZ) has introduced Artisan Cast Stone Patio Planters. The planters are made of Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC), providing industry leading PSI strength, the company says. They feature natural pigments to provide organic and enduring color that is integrated throughout the cast stone. A penetrating sealer gives extra protection from the elements and enhances the richness of color. Read more
Designing Outdoor Soundscapes
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. ...
Forever Bamboo Offers Sealant Product Line
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.
Spatial Emotions
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. ...
Pickleball Comes Home
As homeowners look to expand their at-home recreational options, sports courts are becoming more and more popular. While they’re not overtaking pools , says Scott Cohen, one game in particular, pickleball, is rising on his company’s list of popular menu items. ...
Fire Feature Function & Safety
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.  ...