18 plain-English guides on ideas, planning, cost drivers, process, hiring, permits, drainage, maintenance, kitchens, fire, lighting and more, written for Middle Tennessee owners.
Every guide is written to be useful whether or not you ever call us.
6 min readOutdoor Living IdeasPopular outdoor living ideas for Middle Tennessee yards, from dining patios and fire pits to kitchens, shade and lighting, and…Read the guide 
6 min readPlanning GuideA step-by-step way to plan a patio, from goals and layout to materials, drainage, utilities and timing.Read the guide 
6 min readCost GuideThe factors that move the price of a patio, from size and materials to base work, drainage, access and extras…Read the guide 
6 min readProcess GuideWhat happens from first call to final walk-through on a patio and outdoor living project, with a typical order of…Read the guide 
6 min readHiring GuideWhat to ask, what to look for and how to compare patio and outdoor living contractors in Middle Tennessee.Read the guide 
5 min readPermits GuideHow permits, HOA reviews, setbacks, easements and utility marking can affect a patio or outdoor living project.Read the guide 
5 min readSize GuideRules of thumb for sizing dining, lounge, fire pit and kitchen areas so a patio feels comfortable, not cramped.Read the guide 
5 min readDrainage GuideHow water moves across a patio and yard, and the slope, drains and base details that keep outdoor spaces dry.Read the guide 
5 min readMaintenance GuideA simple season-by-season routine for caring for patios, decks, kitchens, fire features and plants in Middle Tennessee.Read the guide 
5 min readComfort GuideHow to make a patio comfortable in sun, heat, wind and view with structures, plants, screens, fans and heaters.Read the guide 
5 min readEntertaining GuideHow to lay out a patio for parties, with flow, seating, food, lighting, music and comfort for guests.Read the guide 
6 min readOutdoor Kitchen GuideHow to plan an outdoor kitchen, from layout and appliances to utilities, counters, storage, shade and safety.Read the guide 
6 min readFire Feature GuideHow to choose and place fire pits, fire tables and outdoor fireplaces, with notes on clearances, fuel, local rules and…Read the guide 
5 min readLighting GuideHow to light patios, paths, steps and gardens with layers of soft light that is safe, beautiful and easy to…Read the guide 
5 min readDeck vs Patio GuideHow decks and patios compare for sloped and flat yards, upkeep, use, view, drainage and cost drivers, and how to…Read the guide 
5 min readSlope GuideWays to create level outdoor space on hills with walls, terraces, steps, decks and drainage, and what to plan first.Read the guide 
5 min readMyths GuideCommon beliefs about patios, pavers, concrete, sealing and outdoor living that are only partly true, and what to know instead.Read the guide 
5 min readSeller GuideQuick outdoor improvements that help a home show well, from cleaning and planting to patio repairs and lighting.Read the guide Call and describe your yard and what you would love to do outside. A designer will listen, talk through the options and give you a clear written estimate.
