Two-car garages facing the street have become an all-too-common feature of contemporary houses. But there are many ways to fight their overwhelming prominence. Paint tricks, architectural details, colorful plantings and garden elements, and creative paving designs can do a lot to mitigate an overbearing garage and driveway while creating new focal points to attract the eye.

What garden is truly complete without the sound and beauty of water? Think of the beautiful gardens you have visited: a water feature of some form is probably an integral component to many of your favorite garden spaces.

With today’s emphasis on sustainability and resource conservation, many people are rethinking the large expanses of lawn so prevalent in suburban front yards. Lawns are generally considered high-maintenance, requiring fertilizers and pesticides, weekly mowing, and regular watering throughout the dry season.

Remodeling or renovating to create useable outdoor living spaces is a growing trend in the Pacific Northwest and across the country. A less expensive alternative to renovating or building, creating an outdoor living space is an option many homeowners choose to add value and interest to their home.