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Designing a Private and Secluded Outdoor Space

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With all of the distractions and stresses that come along with working, having a family, and just living everyday life, it’s nice to take some time out for yourself every once in a while. Private alone time is more valuable that people realize, and it’s a thing that many people often take for granted. Don’t allow yourself to be one of those people. Be sure that you take time out to relax and center yourself whenever you need a break. A great place to relax is a secluded outdoor environment. Create an environment like this in your own home with a type of fence or wall, the right outdoor furniture, and a soothing fountain or spillway.

Setting Your Boundaries

To create a place of seclusion and privacy, there must be boundaries. There are several options and styles available for you to keep your scene separate from the outside world. You can choose to have a privacy fence installed if you would like to separate your entire yard. If you are looking to create a small location within the confines of your yard, you can choose to install a few trellises around your space and grow vines on them, making them more like walls. You can even use chain link fence, which is fairly inexpensive, and improve the look with vines.

Outdoor Furniture

A necessary component in your outdoor relaxation space is furniture. After all, how else will you truly be able to relax with nothing on which you can relax? With all of the choices out there, it can be hard to narrow it down. A good place to start is by considering how you’ll be spending your time there. If you’ll be sharing your space with loved ones and close friends, you may opt for outdoor seating and a table to accommodate 2-4 people. If you’re going to be spending time there alone in full relaxation mode, you can even consider installing a hammock in your space.

Fountains and Spillways

One of the best things you can do to create a space that is soothing and secluded is by installing a fountain or other water feature. The right water feature will create a relaxing and steady sound with the flowing of the water. This sound is not only relaxing, but it helps to mitigate unwanted noise surrounding to place of privacy. If you live on a busy street, or in an active neighborhood, this can be a definite life-saver. With all of the many styles of fountains, ponds, and spillways, there is sure to be something to fit perfectly in your scene.

Take some time out  for yourself. Many people miss out on valuable lessons that can only be learned when spending time alone in a calm environment. And, sometimes, you just need to get away. Create a space where you can do just that. With the appropriate boundaries, the right outdoor furniture, and a soothing water feature, you can have the perfect secluded and private outdoor area.

How to Build the Perfect Studying Environment

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Sometimes, one of the most difficult things to do is just buckle down and finish a task or assignment. There are often too many distractions to even focus on the task at hand. Whether it’s a paper for school, an assignment from work, or a bit of personal research time, it’s important that you make the most of your studying time. This means that your studying environment must be a place that facilitates the studious mindset. To create the perfect studying environment, start with the perfect location, rid the space of unnecessary distractions, and support your concentration with an indoor fountain.

Location

Choosing the right place to sit and study is one of the more important choices in the process. You will want a place that is calm and tranquil, but not one that is too relaxing, otherwise you might begin to get too comfortable and allow your concentration to slip. For this reason, try not to create your studying environment in your bedroom. The habits and energy that are connected with that space all tell you to kick off your shoes, put up your feet, and eventually go to bed. If you don’t have a room to develop an office space, consider studying in your dining room or living room.

No Distractions

Once you have chosen your space, you must rid the location of distractions. If there are TVs in the room, they are unplugged; cell phones and mobile devices are turned off; if there are children or other distracting people around, set a strict boundary. The less objects you have in the room, the better. A cluttered location makes for a cluttered mindset. Rid the space of excessive decoration to create a space that gives you room to think without having your thoughts drawn, all of a sudden, into another direction.

Indoor Fountain

When it comes to ridding your space of distractions, there is only so much you can do. If you live in a noisy neighborhood, or next to a busy street, the unexpected sounds of the outside world can be a huge impediment on your concentration. One of the best ways to mitigate this unwanted noise is by installing an indoor fountain with a steady, tranquil water flow. The flowing sounds of the water help by making those other noises much less distinct, and adding a constant sound that provides no distractions. There are options for your wall, your desk, and some that stand on their own.

Cracking down on those assignments can be easier if you set yourself up for success. Many people struggle with focus and concentration. It’s important to build an environment that allows your mind to work without distractions. By choosing the right location, simplifying the space, and installing an indoor fountain, you can read and focus in a distraction-free zone.

Create a Theme with the Right Garden Fountain

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Spring is here, and in full swing, and there’s nothing like taking the time to get outside and tend to your gardening and landscaping. A beautiful fountain or water feature is the perfect addition to any landscape, and there are countless possibilities available for your own backyard. When deciding which elements you would like to implement, be sure to remember that they all fit within a central theme. People often make the mistake of choosing elements that clash, creating an energy that doesn’t flow properly. Begin by deciding if you would like a classic, natural, or contemporary look, and choose a fountain to inspire the style of your space.

Classical

There is no denying the elegance and beauty of a well-designed classic garden. With the right elements, it transports you to a place that feels timeless and soothing. The most appropriate fountains for this type of setting are classic tiered fountains. With their round finials, and simple, but detailed, design, they are capable of evoking an old Roman style. Many options even have sculptures or figurines, such as lions, gargoyles, cherubs, and maidens. Complement this type of fountain with beautiful urns, and stone benches, and your setting will be complete.

Natural

A natural setting is one of the most peaceful and relaxing settings. When designed correctly, the natural setting evokes an old-world feel that reminds you of the true beauty of Mother Nature. If you are looking for a water feature to accent this kind of space, a waterfall installation, or even a small pond is best for adding water into your landscape, rather than on top. Whether you’re planning on relaxing at your pond, or meditating next to your waterfall, your natural scene is sure to be well on its way. Accent this type of scene with simple stone planters, rocks, or stone benches.

Contemporary

We do live in a new millennium, and some people have no problem accepting that. A well-designed contemporary space is a place of simplicity, where less truly is more. One of the best choices of fountains or water features for a more modern space is a new spillway. A spillway pours a smooth sheet of water into a basin below, creating a look that is sleek and stunning. The way that the water flows in such a steady shape creates a look that is simple, yet mesmerizing. Take your contemporary look to the next level by installing LED lights to illuminate your spillway and landscape.

When you are tossing around ideas for design in your head, be sure to remember that theme is crucial. You wouldn’t want to have a scene that evokes all kinds of conflicting feelings, leaving the energy unsettled and confusing. Whether your theme is classical, natural, or contemporary, be sure to stay within the realm you have chosen. Once, your landscape is complete, you’ll see how choosing a theme is what truly created the look.

Set Yourself Up for the Perfect “Stay-cation”

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Everyday life can certainly become a burden at times. When all of the stresses from work and family issues begin to build up, it’s important to take some time out to unwind and get away. It is at those times when a good old-fashioned vacation can come in handy. But, sometimes that isn’t your best option. Maybe you don’t have the time or resources to plan and execute a trip, or maybe you just don’t want to experience the stresses and responsibility that come along with traveling. Sometimes, all you need is a little vacation in your home, or a stay-cation, if you will. Prepare for your stay-cation by stocking up on great foods, installing a relaxing water feature at home, and setting out a couple of no-work rules.

Foods

While at home, it is easy to get into the same food routines. We make our eating decisions based on convenience and habit. When you are on vacation, it is totally different. One of the best things to enjoy in a new place is all of the new and different food you might be exposed to. Be sure to keep that spark even in your hometown. Try to find a new restaurant nearby, or look up an exotic new recipe to try out. Make your familiar surroundings seem new and exciting by experiencing new flavors!

Water Features

If you have a little time to plan for this stay-cation, a great thing you can do is to schedule your time off with a fresh new change in your surroundings. You won’t have to travel far to experience to steady and relaxing effects of flowing water. You can have fountains, spillways, or waterfalls installed right in your home. Choose the perfect water feature for your setting, and your home will be more like a resort when you’re done. You can spend hours of your stay-cation relaxing next to a waterfall or reading next to a soothing fountain. There will be no need to endure the road trip or plane rides.

Absolutely No Work

Executing the perfect stay-cation can be a tricky endeavor. One of the easiest mistakes to make is to fall back into your hard-working habits. During your time off it is important to remember that it is just that: time off. If you need to, create a few ground rules to keep your behavior in order. Sign out of your email accounts, put time limits phone and computer use, and turn off the cell phones for most of the day. Remember to seek out new or relaxing experiences and remember that the work can wait.

Take some time off, and make sure you make the most of it. You don’t have to travel far to have a good time. Sometimes, the best way you can enjoy your time off is by staying at home. With the right foods, the right atmosphere, and the lack of work, you’ll be stay-cationing in no time! You’ll never want to go home again, until you realize you never left.

Choosing the Right Fountain for Your Garden

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Your garden is a place that is full of beauty, life, and energy. One way that many people accentuate those features is by installing a garden fountain. There are a wide range of styles and designs to choose from, including wall fountains, tiered stone pieces, small tabletop units, and more. With the wide array of choices, it can be hard to decide on the right style for your personal space. A well-placed water feature can bring together the entire scene you’ve created, but the wrong choice can stick out and ruin the energy. There are many factors to consider, especially size, style, and material.

Size

The size of your gardening space is probably the first thing you will want to consider. Do you have a small patio setup that may only allow for a small free-standing piece? Or maybe you have a large garden that can handle a grand, commanding centerpiece. When deciding on the size of your piece, be sure to choose something that complements your space. You want the fountain to accent the beauty and set the atmosphere. If you choose a fountain that is too large for your small space, it will be overwhelming. Alternatively, a piece that is too small for a large space will seem out of place. Avoid a setting that is awkward and distracting.

Style

Cultivate a charming, comfortable setting. The style of fountain you choose plays a large role in creating that scene. If you have a large, classic garden, a tiered stone fountain could be a great choice. If there is a wall in your garden, there are also a wide range of wall mounted pieces that serve as a beautiful accent. For more contemporary styles, there are waterfalls and spillways that allow the water itself to serve as a work of art. Tabletop designs work for small settings that are accented with a stone table setting.

Material

Before making a final decision, you should consider the material of your garden fountain, and your home’s climate. Fountains come in a wide range of materials, like stone, concrete, earthenware, glass, and more. Be sure that the piece you choose can handle the weather that your landscape will endure. Some materials need extra care or protection from winter weather. Once, you have chosen the style and material, be sure to look into taking care of your chosen material. There are several techniques and products available to maintain and preserve the various materials there are.

Your garden can be taken to the next level with one main addition. A perfectly placed water feature accents the visual, and creates an atmosphere that is soothing and welcoming. After you have examined the size of your space, and considered the style and material of your fountain, you can narrow down your decision. Your garden will be flowing with new energy in no time!

Experience The Lively Seasons All Year

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For a lot of us, springtime is the absolute best time of the year. Old man winter is finally retreating, and life returns to the earth. The spring rain comes in to refresh the land and the breezes begin to warm, giving people a sense of comfort and renewal. Eventually, summer rolls around and the breezes get even warmer, until fall and winter are back, almost as quickly as they were gone. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if it could be springtime all year? We may not be able to control the weather, but we do have pretty good control over the conditions in our homes. There are a few ways you can always have that refreshing sense of life and rejuvenation that come along with the springtime.

Floor Fountains

One of the most outstanding characteristics of spring weather is the refreshing rain. There is something special about that steady, yet gentle rain. This feeling can be recreated with a number of different floor fountains. They are available in a wide range of styles and designs, including sleek modern designs and even abstract artistic styles. Many statuary fountains are designed to simulate the sound of falling rain, and offer a beautiful visual accent to your interior space. Listening to the spring rain is one of the most calming parts of the season; find that peace all year.

Wall Fountains

If you would prefer not to have a floor fountain, wall fountains are a wonderful indoor choice. Wall mounted fountains take up no floor space, and are a great alternative to hanging art on your walls. There are a wide selection of wall fountains, many of which are made from copper, slate, and stone, which are great for bringing that natural feeling inside your home. The steady flowing sounds of the cascading water will complete the feeling of your new atmosphere.

Plants and Greenery

Another great way of evoking the natural outdoor feeling, so closely associated with spring, is by having plants and greenery inside of your home. Plants are a great way of bringing that fresh sense of life to your home everyday. In a way, this is one of the most transformative changes you can make. Living plants offer many benefits, and contribute nicely to the air and scents that surround you everyday. There are many designs of planters that fit with almost any style, and lots of plants that can survive inside all year.

When the time comes, we eventually do have to say goodbye to springtime. But, we can still hold on to some of our favorite elements. The calm and refreshing feeling we get from steady spring rain, and the life we feel from the budding plant life are feelings we can try to cling to. With the installation of a floor or wall fountain, and indoor plant life, we can hold on to the best of springtime all year.