Well, there is no doubt that this is going to be one of the strangest years of school. With SO much uncertainty, it can feel anxiety-producing. The conversation is complex about going back or not. Yet, where my heart hurts for the children who have been suffering at home with neglect needs to get… Continue reading Holding on to Summer as the kids go “back” to school
Author: Centrus
The patio vs deck controversy
Are you considering adding an outdoor space to enjoy nature while entertaining (and yes, making social distancing more enjoyable)? Often the question is whether to install a patio or a deck so let’s review some details about both options. The PATIO A patio is a great way to add natural materials to your outdoor space… Continue reading The patio vs deck controversy
Letting Go!
I had to drive my daughter Kate, a Sophomore, to the University of Kansas – KU Jayhawks, “Rock Chalk”- this week. We wanted her to have a car being so far away from home… as the Covid saying goes, “Control the things that you can control.” As we packed the car, I realized that there… Continue reading Letting Go!
How to Make a Home Sunnier & Brighter
Everyone wants a home that is sunnier and brighter, right? After all, the sun streaming in through the windows not only lifts our mood and maximizes our connection to the outside world but also acts as passive solar. The request is common among most new clients, “Can we get more light into my home?” When… Continue reading How to Make a Home Sunnier & Brighter
How I Got Started as a Designer & Landed Where I Am
I’m often asked how I got started as a designer and landed where I am when I have someone job shadowing me. I’m happy to share my journey as long as it helps someone else’s journey and I thought you may or may not find it interesting. My undergraduate degree is from DePauw University in… Continue reading How I Got Started as a Designer & Landed Where I Am
How to Repair & Upgrade Stone in your Home
Did you know that not all stone is created equally nor will wear as expected in certain applications? True! As a matter of fact, we face this issue multiple times a year with old and new projects. Here are some truths when it comes to stone: If you want a natural stone (ie, marble or… Continue reading How to Repair & Upgrade Stone in your Home
My Favorite Plant List
Are you looking for some beautiful plants, shrubs, and trees that work well together? I thought I would share with you my favorite plant list. FOUNDATION PLANTINGS It’s important to have plantings against your home to buffer between the ground and structure. There should be a drip edge of gravel or river rock that is… Continue reading My Favorite Plant List
When to Hire a Landscape Designer vs DIY and Why Landscapers are Important
Are you looking at a landscaping project in the future? Since we are spending more time at home during Covid, people are looking at doing projects that are sustainable and productive that they can do on their own. So, how do you know when it is time to hire a landscape designer and landscaper or… Continue reading When to Hire a Landscape Designer vs DIY and Why Landscapers are Important
How to Build a Fence Around Something Ugly
Do you have something on your property that is simply ugly, and it can’t move… like a propane tank or AC condenser? On our property in Maine, the gas company had to install the propane tanks next to the garage on the north side of the property due to code and proximity to appliances. While… Continue reading How to Build a Fence Around Something Ugly
The Ins & Outs of Planting a Garden
Planting a garden is simple once you get into the groove – it’s the preparation that it difficult but the end result is rewarding. Throughout this summer of Covid, many people have joined me in planting a garden. In March, when our world was so uncertain that we didn’t know if we would be able… Continue reading The Ins & Outs of Planting a Garden