Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Every Southern garden should have a fig tree. These small trees or shrubs produce delicious fruit with flavors best experienced ripe from the tree. Unlike other fruits, figs ripen entirely on the branch, so planting your own allows you to harvest the freshest fruit. The common fig tree (Ficus carica) thrives in warm climates and usually does not require pollination to bear fruit. Some varieties of fig trees rely on wasps to pollinate.

Despite bearing delicious fruit, fig trees can be invasive, as the roots spread widely in optimal growing conditions. Additionally, fig trees are not safe for animals and are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Symptoms include gastrointestinal issues and skin irritation. The fruit from fig trees is generally considered safe for human consumption, but some people have a negative interaction with fig leaves and sap. Rashes or skin irritation can occur in some individuals after exposure, so wear gloves when maintaining this tree. Here's a guide to growing your own delicious common fig tree and the growing conditions that will help it thrive.

Figs are self-fruitful, so you need only one plant to produce fruit. Mature fig trees can be 10 to 30 feet tall. If you have more room, plant several. Choose early, mid and late-fruiting selections to extend your harvest from summer into early fall. Some figs will produce bonus fruit early in the season, called a "breba" crop, and the main crop. Figs can vary in size, shape, flavor, texture, and harvest time and can be black, green, brown, violet, yellow, or purple. Figs trees are invasive in some areas like Florida because optimal growing conditions encourage the tree's roots to spread widely.

Full sun is essential for an abundant harvest and the sweetest fruit. Ideally, you should plant fig trees in an area that receives six to eight hours of direct, daily sunlight. Less sunlight will prevent trees from producing as many figs compared to those planted with adequate light.

Fig trees grow in various soil conditions, but slightly acidic and well-drained soils are best. Soil with rich, organic matter helps supplement growth. Regular potting mixes work well for fig trees in containers as long as it retains moisture and is well-aerated. These plants grow well near coastal regions but also tolerate loamy, clay, or sandy conditions as long as soil is well-drained and retains some moisture.

When fruit is developing, it's important to water regularly. Check daily, and pick just as the fruit ripens. During the first year, as plants become established, water regularly and mulch. Once established, figs can be very drought tolerant.

Figs trees need warm conditions and subtropical climates to thrive but will tolerate some cold in winter as long as it remains above 15F. Areas with harsh winters are unsuitable for this species, but you can grow figs in big pots and overwinter them by storing them in a cool garage or basement. Since fig trees need well-drained soil, a dry climate is preferred, but some varieties have been bred for the humidity of the Southeast. Water-logged environments can prevent proper fruit development as too much rain causes fruits to split and possibly spoil.

Fig trees thrive in the Lower, Coastal, and Tropical South heat. Plant near a wall with southern exposure in the Middle South so they can benefit from reflected heat. Mulch well for winter and go with cold-hardy selections, such as 'Brown Turkey' and 'Celeste,' if you live in Zone 6 or 7.

Fertilize your fig with a balanced fertilizer in early spring when growth first starts to appear or at planting time if the tree is actively growing. Especially if you have soil with poor fertility, fig trees will benefit from an application of fertilizer each year. Fertilize a second time in late spring for 1 or 2-year-old plants.

Fig trees have small, inconspicuous flowers, but produce different colored fruits depending on the variety. Most varieties grown in home gardens bear female flowers that develop into fruit without pollination. Here are some specific types that you can grow in your own garden:

Fig trees don't need a lot of pruning throughout the year but can benefit from pruning during their dormancy (late winter or early spring) because it promotes new growth, healthier branches, and better fruit. Fig trees that aren't pruned will naturally develop a shrubby form.

To maintain a tree-form, establish a single trunk and remove suckers at the base. Alternatively, you can select three or more widely spaced leaders. Prune out crossing branches or branches that are too parallel to the ground and can't bear the weight of fruit. After the first year of growth, prune lightly during the dormant season, removing weak side shoots and dead or diseased wood. Excessively long and heavy branches can also be cut back by 1/3.

The easiest way to propagate fig trees is through cuttings. Here's how to propagate fig trees:

Growing a fig tree from seed is possible, but it is more challenging than propagating from cuttings. Seed propagation does not produce a duplicate plantthis can only occur from cuttings. For more experienced gardeners, here is how to grow fig trees from seed:

If you live in Zone 6 or cooler, you'll want to grow the tree in a container to ensure its survival. Smaller fig varieties like 'Little Figgy,' 'Brown Turkey,' and 'Chicago Hardy' can successfully be grown in a container. The container will naturally limit the size of the plant. Move up one container size larger than the nursery pot when planting your tree. Use a container with multiple drainage holes. A wheeled plant stand can be helpful if you need to move your container around.

Fill the container with high-quality potting soil with plenty of organic matter and plant the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil, then water well. Keep in mind that containers dry out quickly and require more frequent watering. You can prune the tree to keep it to a more manageable size. Repot the tree to the next size up when the roots outgrow the container. Bring the tree indoors in winter, as described below.

Container-grown trees must be brought indoors for the winter or buried in the ground and mulched. Wait for fig trees to go dormant for the season before moving them indoors. You'll know this has happened when all the leaves fall from the tree. Place the tree in a basement or garage that will protect it from freezing weather and strong winds. Keep watering dormant plants, but only about once a month when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil has dried out.

If you plan to keep fig trees outside and live in the colder part of the tree's range, wrap the trunk and roots in burlap or a tent to protect them from frost. Before covering the tree, tie the branches with a rope or twine to help protect the primary growth. In any climate that experiences frost, add mulch around the roots, like hay or wood chips, to protect roots from freezing temperatures.

The nematode is a pest that can impact a fig tree's longevity by attacking the roots, eventually stunting growth and the amount of fruit. Uncover some roots and inspect for swellings. Infected trees cannot be treated and should be removed. Don't replant in the same area, and consider having your soil checked for nematodes before planting another fig.

Pests including carpenter worm, sap beetle, and fig tree borer can prevent a fig tree from growing properly. To avert a fig tree borer infestation, use a net around the base of the tree to stop this pest from laying eggs near the fig tree. Spoiled fruit also encourages pest infestations and even fungal diseases that can occur after the fruit ripens. Harvesting ripe fruit immediately can also help prevent pests from attacking the branches and leaves.

To deter birds from eating your fruit, hang reflective tape or plant figs that stay green when ripe such as 'Marseilles' or 'Green Ischia.' Finally, cleaning up fallen leaves and fruit in autumn helps discourage pests and disease.

There are a few reasons why fig tree leaves might curl. The first is that under watering can scorch or burn the leaves. If you've had a dry spell, live in a dry climate, or have a newly planted tree, it is time to water if the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Fig rust can also cause leaves to curl, as described below.

Various fungi can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and eventual wilting or dying of stems. Remove diseased leaves and twigs and rake up and dispose of any fallen leaves to promote your tree's health. If fig rust causes heavy defoliation, spray the new leaves with a copper fungicide at three-to-four-week intervals (or more often in rainy weather).Fig rust starts as small yellowish-green spots that grow and turn brown, with leaves eventually yellowing or curling and falling off the tree.

Sunken, discolored spots on fruit are usually a sign of anthracnose. Infected figs will eventually drop to the ground. Remove any diseased fruit from the tree and the ground beneath the tree.

Late freezes and dry weather can also prevent fruit from developing or cause it to drop before ripening. During long dry spells while the tree is producing fruit, water your tree deeply. For established trees, once every 10-14 days is typically enough.

Figs can turn sour because of fermentation by yeasts, fungi, and bacteria. Pick the fruit as it ripens. Sometimes a lengthy wet spell can cause souring, in which case you may have no option but to dispose of the fruit.

The fruit of the common fig is edible and can be eaten fresh, dried, baked, or cooked in preserves. Birds, insects, and other wildlife also enjoy eating figs.

In their native range, common fig trees can grow 30 feet tall or higher. Colder temperatures in the U.S. usually keep the trees to 15 to 25 feet. Compact varieties like 'Little Figgy' top out at 4 to 8 feet tall.

Many species of fig are pollinated by fig waspstiny insects that crawl inside the fruit to pollinate the flowersbut most home-grown fig trees are self-pollinating. Popular varieties have small or closed openings that make it more difficult for wasps to enter.

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How To Grow And Care For Fig Trees - Southern Living

Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes

Thinking about refreshing your kitchen or bathrooms? If so, what is your style preference? Maybe you're looking for something traditional, or maybe you're looking to update your kitchen for a sleeker, modern look and feel.

While everyone has a different style, there are some trends that cut through groups. Here are four kitchen remodeling trends that may spark your interest. Best of all, they all easily incorporate marble, granite, and quartz countertops.

The modern farmhouse style has been all the rage for the better part of three or four years. It's not going away, but more homeowners are taking a break from the modern farmhouse in the kitchen including all-white color schemes. This year, the trend appears to be more natural wood in darker colors.

Natural wood cabinets complement beautifully with quartz and marble, especially in darker colors. The right quartz or marble enhances the beauty of natural wood. Throw in a hardwood or natural stone floor and you have a stunning makeover.

The island has been a hot trend for more than a decade. These days, homeowners are looking for more functionality from the islands. They don't want large islands that provide merely extra seating space or a place to stack stuff during the week. Many are looking to utilize the space under their islands for storage. Think functional drawers and cabinets.

Improving storage space in an island has minimal impact on countertop choice. However, consider eliminating any lip or overhang if you're going to install doors. An overhang will get in the way. A better choice is to have the countertop edge flush with the drawers.

One of the more interesting trends in 2024 is adding refrigeration space. Homeowners want a traditional refrigerator for most of their daily-use items, but they also add small refrigerators under counters to store things like beverages and special treats. Even small refrigerators built-in an island work well.

Smaller refrigerators are ideal for items that get replenished regularly, especially within reach of the kids. The bonus is that an extra fridge is always handy for entertaining a crowd.

Finally, kitchen renovators are seeing a trend toward statement-making stoves and hoods. Rather than a plain white or stainless-steel stove and nondescript hood, homeowners are choosing to go big and bold with their hood-stove combinations.

You might not be in the market to replace your stove, but changing out the hood could make an enormous difference. By choosing a similar and complementary color, you can also coordinate your new hood with a quartz, marble, or granite countertop. A bold hood makes a huge statement in the modern kitchen.

Bedrock Quartz has the high-quality countertops you are looking for, regardless of your style or plans for your remodeling project. Visit them and see their full selection of countertop materials, edges, colors and custom backsplashes. They're confident you'll find something that works perfectly. Remember, they install what they sell and back up every transaction with the customer service you expect and deserve.

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4 kitchen remodeling trends to watch in 2024 | KSL.com - KSL.com

In the South, the kitchen is the headquarters of the home. It's the place where food and family come togethertwo important parts of any Southern household. Even with its high status and heavy foot traffic, you don't need a huge kitchen for a big impact on your home. When your home layout features a kitchen on the smaller side, there are plenty of opportunities to have ample space and storage without sacrificing any style. Get inspired to bring function and flair together for clever layouts and designs with these beautiful small kitchen ideas.

Brie Williams

If you don't want to keep just one color but love that clean and bright look, mixing whites and neutrals is a great way to achieve this. In this kitchen, designer Molly Williams painted her cabinetry a bright white and added a neutral bamboo wallpaper for visual interest.

French interior design is defined by its classy and charming style which can help make a small kitchen feel like the perfect size. This Nashville condo used black and white checkerboard flooring to make a statement among the clean, neutral color palette of the rest of the elements.

Small kitchens have a tendency to feel cramped due to their size, but making sure it is light and bright can help alleviate this issue. This kitchen makes the window the center of the room and has the wall and cabinets painted white to make it as bright as possible.

Jillian Guyette

In small kitchens, it's hard to pack in a ton of decoration without feeling cluttered. In this South Carolina kitchen, the bold and vibrant tile was used as the focal point to avoid putting a ton of tiny decorations in the space.

When your kitchen doubles as your dining area, creating a cohesive look is key in making it feel less cramped. In this kitchen, the wood tone of the dining table in the center is similar to the brown countertops and the decorative paintings.

This Cape Cod style cottage has a stunning vintage-inspired color palette among vintage decor to make a cohesive aesthetic. The island holds refrigerator drawers and a bookcase for cookbooks for effective storage.

If you want your small kitchen to feel larger but don't love the idea of painting everything white, a light sage green is a great, colorful alternative. This historic Savannah kitchen painted all of the cabinetry green and it still feels bright and open.

Small kitchens were the norm in the past, so don't be afraid to take the retro look and run with it. This South Carolina cottage incorporates retro elements like the skirted sink, curtain over the window, metal cut cabinet fronts, and vintage decorations.

When the island is used frequently, making sure it looks great is important. This kitchen painted the island a lovely shade of green to add visual interest and make the seating area look inviting.

Open shelving, especially in small kitchens, can make the space look cluttered. In this Nashville kitchen, the open shelf above the fridge has dishes of the same family and design so it looks cohesive while still being functional.

The coastal aesthetic has been a huge trend recently, and for good reason. The happy blue mixed with bright white is a gorgeous combination to make a colorful yet light kitchen. This kitchen balanced the blue and white elements beautifully to make an open and airy look.

Choosing a backsplash is for your kitchen is important, as it can be focal point of your design. In this kitchen, the backsplash is taken up to the ceiling to make the kitchen look larger.

Glass cabinets are a great way to show off your dishes, but they also reflect light from the window to make the kitchen brighter. In this kitchen, the glass cabinets are white and reflect light to illuminate the kitchen.

Too much pattern in a narrow space can be overwhelming, so make the focal point floor-level. This kitchen uses bright geometric tiles to create visual interest without having too many small decorations.

If you kitchen has a lot of wood elements, use that your advantage. This kitchen kept the natural color of the wood and added neutral paint to the rest of the kitchen to make an inviting vibe.

When it comes to decorating small kitchens, dishes and dinnerware can sometimes act as the decor. If you have cookbooks, putting them on display adds a unique element that isn't so typical. In this kitchen, the cookbooks are placed at the top to make a bright decorative display.

Keeping the primary color in small kitchens light and bright is helpful when making the space look larger, but a vibrant color is nice to have for visual interest. This kitchen used a multi-colored rug to contrast nicely against the white paint.

When your kitchen is in the same room as your dining area, keeping the aesthetics similar is a great way to make your space feel larger. In this kitchen, adding identical pendants makes the rooms blend seamlessly together.

Contrast is a great way to make your kitchen design look appealing to the eye, This kitchen contrasts black elements like the countertops and island with white elements like the cabinets and shelves to create a satisfying look.

If your house layout is on the smaller side, functionality is important in making house feel like a home. Even with this, you can use styling to your advantage to make functionality a breeze. This kitchen uses appliances that are all similar in look so you can't even tell that a laundry machine is sitting to the left.

Adding a surplus of artwork can make a small kitchen feel cluttered and overwhelming. In this kitchen, one large and simple painting siting on top of the stove hood to create a sleek and tasteful look.

The rustic look is truly timeless and can make a small kitchen feel cozy and inviting. This kitchen embraces the wood cabin look and adds more rustic elements like cafe skirts and rattan baskets for storage.

Laurey W. Glenn, Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

For homeowner Catherine Gibbs, a childhood spent on sailboats meant that a galley kitchen in her Inlet Beach, Florida, home offered obstacle-free convenience: I can walk from one appliance to another in two steps without having to circumnavigate a great big island."

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23 Small Kitchen Ideas To Make The Most Of Your Space - Southern Living

The most popular kitchen paint colors come and go, some stick around for decades before being replaced and some are gone in less than a season. And while we always say to follow trends with caution, when it comes to your kitchen color you do want to pay some attention to what's in style to ensure your space doesn't look dated.

So what kitchen paint colors are on trend for 2024? And which kitchen colors are out of style this year? We asked the experts for the color trends to avoid in your kitchen this year and which shades you should be using instead.

Color, especially kitchen color, is one of the most fundamental design decisions you can make in this functional space. Finding the right painted kitchen ideas can help you avoid making disastrous color mistakes.

Here decorators and designers reveal what kitchen paint colors are going out of style for 2024, and how to approach choosing paint ideas for kitchens using the color wheel, the latest kitchen trends, and paint trends.

(Image credit: deVOL)

'In more recent years, neutrals with colder undertones have been replaced with warmer shades of the hue alongside altogether bolder color choices. Kitchens are the perfect place to introduce more saturated colors, particularly if the rest of your homes palette leans more toward light neutrals,' explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore.

'Opting for a bold color on walls or cabinetry is a great way to renew the whole room and make the space pop. Deep earthy tones like burgundy and terracotta shades enhance the rustic warmth of a wooden kitchen look, where deep greens and navy walls will perfectly contrast a cool marble surface.'

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Helen Shaw is part of Benjamin Moore's UK division. Color expert and international marketing director, Helen and her husband Craig are founders of Shaw Paints, acquired by Benjamin Moore in 2020.

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)

'Say goodbye to bland and tone-on-tone palettes in 2024,' says designer Julie Anne Burch.' Kitchens will embrace fresh, clean designs with pops of intriguing colors. Alternatively, bold and unique color palettes will take center stage, offering a departure from the ordinary. The key to kitchen design in 2024 lies in creating sharp contrasts either embracing timeless traditional elements or venturing into uncharted territories with innovative ideas.'

Bringing in accent colors into a kitchen color scheme does have a bit of a knack to it however, in order to nail this trend you don't want it to look overly considered. Avoid pops of color that perfectly match because it can look staged and flat, instead opt for a tonal approach adding in different shades of the same color throughout the room to ensure there's depth.

(Image credit: deVOL)

Red is a strong and bold color for the kitchen the workhorse of the home but lately we've been witnessing a color shift to a softer, subtle hue enter pink.

Rich, elegant, and nuanced pink is undisputedly the color trend of the moment. A warm pink, like the one above, lends sophistication to a scheme. A versatile hue, it can veer into a playful pastel or brighten into deep coral.

This tone works perfectly in a small kitchen that is rather dark, or which suffers from a lack of natural light,' says Elizabeth Hay, founder, of Elizabeth Hay Design. 'Not only does it inject a space with brightness and cheer, but it will also bring out and highlight any accent colors in the room.

With its clear ties to the natural world, warm pink is used for painting accent walls and brightening a kitchen or dining area with splashes of color that symbolize and promote health and vitality.

Due to its close relationship with pink and orange shades, the color is mood-boosting and energy-stimulating without becoming overwhelming like many red kitchen shades. On the other hand, with more muted and subtle tones, pastel pink can become a good choice to enhance quiet confidence and serenity, enthuses Sarah Lloyd, senior brand manager at Valspar.

(Image credit: Davonport)

Once a tried-and-trusted neutral, gray has since fallen out of favor when it comes to kitchen cabinet colors. Instead, more designers and decorators are reaching for beige the new neutral in interior design.

The power of a beige kitchen color palette to add warmth and elegance to the heart of our home should not be underestimated. A soft scheme of harmonious neutrals creates a reflective backdrop to the ever-changing light of the seasons.

The broad spectrum of neutral, earthy shades they conjure up offers rich inspiration for creating a soothing scheme. From creamy limestone shades and the oaty tones of untreated linen to the grayish-browns of weathered oak and warm earthenware ochres, neutral shades can be as captivating as color.

(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)

Another former favorite, white kitchens are no longer the desirable kitchen trend they once were. These days, designers and clients are reaching for mood-boosting hues to add a touch of joie de vivre to their kitchens.

'We are specifying and seeing fewer pure white and gray kitchens lately,' explains Jennifer Walter, founder of Folding Chair Design.'The bright white and gray trend saw its day, and kitchen cabinetry is seeing a resurgence of light woods and deep colors. People arent as afraid to use color in their kitchens, and with the popularity of the English kitchen, deep blues, yellows, and even cranberry palettes are becoming wildly popular.'

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In a Baltimore rowhouse in 2010, Jennifer Walter founded Folding Chair Design Co. with a baby on her hip and one on the way. Her mission from the start has been to enhance the lives of her clients by realizing the greatest potential in their homes.

(Image credit: Plain English)

Navy blue will always be popular, but lately, designers have been considering softer, subtler, serene variations in the modern kitchen. A shade that's always been popular in the world of interiors, ocean blue is set to be 2024's kitchen paint color du jour.

From the alluring aquamarine hues of sandy Caribbean shores and the glistening teal tones of pebbled Mediterranean beaches to the inky blues and midnight notes of deep Atlantic waters, the colors of the ocean are as serene as they are striking and offer a versatile spectrum for decorating a contemporary and country kitchen alike.

Ocean blues, like lapis and cerulean, are the most wonderfully gender-neutral paint colors,' says Nicole Salvesen, co-founder, of Salvesen Graham. However, avoid using cold blues in north-facing rooms. Instead, find those that have some warm tones in them and they will be a brilliant backdrop for artwork, texture and timber.

(Image credit: Caesarstone/Kate Feather Kitchens / Birgit Mons Photography)

Dark kitchen cabinet colors were once considered the best paint palettes for kitchens. They were bold, strong and hid a multitude of decorating sins. However, we've gone full circle, like most trends, and are now welcoming back the pastel hues that previously graced 1950s kitchens up and down the country.

From peaceful pinks to blissful blues, pale sugary shades will give the illusion of space and create a restful atmosphere in the home.

'Pastel colors offer a charming alternative to neutrals or dark shades; they are calm but embracing, soothing but uplifting, and can give added life to a room without being overpowering', says Ruth Mottershead of Little Greene.

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Ruth Mottershead is the creative director of the family-run paint and wallpaper businesses Little Greene and Paint & Paper Library, which specialize in creating luxurious paint and wallpaper that represent 300 years of decorative history.

What all of these shades indicate is that while 2023 was the year of bold and bright colors, 2024 is more about warmer, softer, more liveable colors. That's not to say these kitchen colors are bland, they are just easier on the eye pinks and rust red instead of primary shades, grown-up pastel blues instead of the ever-popular navy, and warm beiges instead of cooler grays.

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Kitchen paint colors going out of style in 2024 | - Homes & Gardens

When you think of porcelain, you might think of fragile, traditional dinnerware and ornate teapots, but the ceramic is now being used more frequently as a building material in kitchens and baths. In countertop form, porcelain is actually quite durable, stain-resistant, and easy to maintain, which might explain why its growing in popularity. According to Google Trends, interest in porcelain countertops began to rise in 2017and its still rising steadily, with searches for the topic more than doubling over the past seven years.

Gail Conroy, vice president of marketing for Caesarstone in the Americas (which produces a line of porcelain countertops), says that while porcelain for countertops is still a relatively new idea, it has been popular in Europe because of its thin 12 millimeter edge profile, but we are seeing porcelain gaining momentum here in the U.S. We see people get excited about achieving the rich look of natural stone but with the durability you need to hold up in the kitchen. So the pros of porcelain countertops far outweigh the consfind out why they're so great and how they compare to other popular materials like quartz and granite.

Because theyre porcelain, a man-made material, theyre technically considered engineered countertops. Conroy explains that the countertops are made pretty much the way most people would expect of traditional porcelain manufacturingwith a lot of high heat.

They are made through a process that involves mixing a blend of raw minerals, forming slabs, and firing them at high temperatures. After firing, the porcelain slabs may be subject to an additional step, undergoing polishing and honing to achieve the desired finish and texture, she says. That extreme high heat (over 2,650 degrees Fahrenheit) is precisely why its so durable and heat-resistant.

Porcelain is technically stronger than granite, thanks to the extreme heat and homogenized combination of raw materials used in the production process. Its pretty scratch resistant, too, on par with quartz and granite. Its only weakness is sharp ceramic knives, which may leave behind a few nicksthough you shouldnt really be chopping foods directly on top of any countertop, regardless of the materials!

Like we mentioned, porcelain is produced in super high temperatures, meaning it can withstand piping hot pots and pansno trivets required. And on a related note, it can also stand up to the suns intense warmth. UV rays dont affect the surface, so it wont fade over time, making it an excellent choice for outdoor kitchens.

Porcelain countertops are essentially non-porous and nearly impervious to water, meaning staining shouldnt be an issue. Plus, they dont require any specialized cleaners. Conroy says, You can easily clean it just with soap and water. For tougher messes we recommend using a soft cleanser like Bar Keepers Friend. And unlike natural stone countertops, you never need to reseal them either, so long-term maintenance isnt a hassle.

Porcelain is incredibly light compared to other countertop materials, so its easy to handle for installation. Plus, because its typically very thin, you can install it on top of an existing countertop. However, porcelain countertops installations are not something you should DIY because theyre so thin. Once installed theyre very tough, but handling the thin material during installation without any experience is very risky and may lead to cracking mid-installation.

Unlike natural stone, you can pretty much make porcelain look like whatever you want since its a man-made product! Essentially, you can get the look of marble at a fraction of the cost and with way more durability.

According to Angis 2024 estimates, porcelain countertop installation can range from $1,500 to $3,800. A slab is typically $50 to $120 per square foot, while tile costs between $10 and $50 per square foot. (So if youre trying to cut back on costs, opting for tile is a good way to do that.)

Porcelain is roughly on par with quartz when it comes to stain resistance, maintenance, and appearance, since both are engineered products and can mimic just about any natural stone. Porcelain is a bit more heat-resistant though, while quartz is slightly more durable. Both materials are tougher and easier to care for than granite, although granite is just as heat-resistant as porcelain. In terms of cost, porcelain is generally less expensive than quartz and granite.

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All About Porcelain Countertops, the Latest Kitchen Trend - Real Simple

The material used for the cabinet doors in your kitchen is a key design consideration, given that the door and drawer fronts usually make up the single largest element of the room. While many of us are tempted to have painted kitchen cabinetry and joinery for its wipe-clean ease, varnished natural wood, with its innate beauty, sets an artisanal and interesting tone.

'The demand for wood kitchen ideas is growing to meet the desire for a connection with nature indoors,' says Paul Welburn, senior designer, at Roundhouse.

The use of natural materials has increased considerably during the pandemic and will strengthen in appeal as unpainted kitchen cabinets become a firm fixture. Not only do they have a rich aesthetic quality, but they are increasingly being recognized for their health benefits (reducing the amount of chemically treated items in the home).

With this beautiful yet simple design, Mexican-American actress and film producer Salma Hayek demonstrates how oak cabinet kitchen ideas can add warmth and depth to a kitchen.The latest wood kitchens are forgoing painted cover-ups and revealing their true beauty.

The freshest way to do wood? As natural as possible. Wood kitchens have always waxed and waned when it comes to kitchen cabinet trends. Now, rich walnuts and the unusual linear patterns of wenge and zebrano are making way for paler textural timbers. Wood suits contemporary and classic schemes, from smooth flat-fronted modern cabinetry to rough-sawn country-style cabinets, so there is a timber look for everyone.

Unpainted kitchen cabinets have fallen out of favor in recent years, yet they can bring warmth and character to a space that may otherwise feel cold and clinical. However, take care not to overwhelm the space with wood finishes consider adding painted elements, and contrast tones and textures to prevent the space from looking homogenized, as in this design by Sims Hilditch.

Consider ways to bring interest to the kitchen with lighting, hardware, and countertops. This way you will still have some personality in your space, says Georgia Zikas, founder of Georgia Zikas Design.

If you're considering investing in wood kitchen cabinets for your kitchen remodel, you're in good company. Many experts believe we'll be seeing this kitchen trend in 2025. Wooden kitchens are a simple blank canvas from which you can experiment with your dcor.

As a natural material, the tone and pattern of wooden cabinets may vary from the samples you first saw. You should allow for this when planning your scheme, says Leila Touwen, co-founder of Pluck Kitchens. Also the color may change subtly over time. Celebrate these differences as theyll make your kitchen unique.

Glass Cloche with Wooden Base

Acacia Medium Cheese Board

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Salma Hayek's kitchen cabinets will dominate in 2025, say experts | - Homes & Gardens

Dark kitchen cabinets receive a lot of bad press. Considered outdated and gloomy, the more popular aesthetic among current designers is for a light and bright wood or stain that feels fresh and minimalist. This family home in Studio City, Los Angeles, proves that it's not always the case, with a once dark and dilapidated 80s-style kitchen brought to life by Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn of House of Rolison.

The team opened up the kitchen and created a light and airy feel, using dark wood cabinets to their advantage and grounding the design with a neutral palette, textured materials and statement pendant lighting that hangs over a custom-made fluted island. To find out more about the decision to embrace the dark side, I speak to the designers of this modern home.

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: House of Rolison)

Before the designers got to work on renovating the space, the kitchen was drab, dark, and seriously dated. The palette showcased the worst of wooden kitchen cabinets, mixed with near-black countertops and kitchen backsplash that only created a color clash. Despite large windows looking out onto the backyard, the space was dimly lit, and in real need of a revamp.

The brief was to create a space that felt cocooning and cozy. 'If you ever have the intention of bringing warmth and having a sense of space that's livable and cozy - incorporate dark woods,' advise Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn of House of Rolison.

'This project, in particular, was on more of a kitchen than we typically do so we wanted to bring in some rich textures and depth to really warm the space up creating an inviting environment.'

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: House of Rolison)

The result is a modern kitchen that feels airy and elevated and banishes rumors that dark wood is outdated once and for all. 'Dark wood is absolutely not outdated,' say Amanda and Taylor.

'Designers are finding ways to reimagine and reintegrate dark woods all of the time. Natural material never goes out of style and we are actually seeing the want for darker woods more and more.'

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: House of Rolison)

To achieve the desired effect, the designers opted for Querkus white oak with a custom stain. 'Depending on the stain you use, it will highlight different parts of the grain. We chose Rubio Monocoat,' say Amanda and Taylor.

To make the wood pop and balance it all out, the designers picked an off-white kitchen emulsion paint that feels neutral yet warm. Hardware was selected in a brassy metal for warming pops of metallic. 'Wood is versatile. We find warmer colors are easier palettes to accessorize because so many colors have warm hues,' say the designers. 'We prefer black and brass metals with a warm wood.'

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: House of Rolison)

Fluting is another kitchen trend we're seeing incorporated into lots of designs, including this one, seen on the surface of the island. In this instance, it works alongside the dark wood to bring added texture.

'Fluting just provides another layer of texture that tends to always compliment wood very well,' say Amanda and Taylor. 'Texture on texture is something that allows the eye to jump from one space to the next in a way that flows seamlessly, and it's just a fun little subtle detail to discover when looking at a space.

The kitchen island is fully custom. 'We first assembled boxes and established size and layout, then worked our way backward from there,' the designers say. 'The stone feeling like one cohesive component wasnt easy, and we didnt want the island to feel like it was overfilling the room, so adding the round edge softened it.'

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: House of Rolison)

To add drama, pendant kitchen lighting hangs over the island. 'We love when light fixtures are almost obnoxious and on the overstated side,' say Amanda and Taylor.

'It instills a sense of confidence in the delivery of the design and gives a here I am, look at me stand-out feeling,' say Amanda and Taylor. 'Watching peoples reactions to these types of elements is always fun.

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: House of Rolison)

Cozifa Walnut Wood Cutting Board

Material: Walnut Price: $76.59

Material: Ash wood Price: $195

Laguna Nigel Fluted Wooden Console

Material: Rubberwood and MDF Price: $250

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Before & After: A Kitchen Remodel That has us Convinced Dark Wood Cabinets are Back For 2024 - LivingEtc

Just as your yard has four seasons of growth and rest, it has four seasons of landscape maintenance. Of course, what's needed depends on the time of year and the type of tree or plant you're looking to take care of. These landscape maintenance checklists make the work easy to tackle, no matter what you have in your garden.

While following our guide to seasonal landscape maintenance is essential to keep your garden in tip-top shape according to its own natural course, having basic care year-round will help to make things easier for when each of these seasons comes around. Something as simple as watering when necessary, pruning, or shaping shrubs or trees, layering pea pebbles for a quick edge redo, cleaning up debris or branches, and perhaps more importantly, taking care of pests, insects, and plant or flower diseases as they come instead of just waiting for the right season to do a proper clean-up or weed-out.

Read the original here:
The Ultimate Guide to Seasonal Landscape Maintenance - Better Homes & Gardens

For years, many homeowners have thought of clover as a

Allison Messner, founder of online landscape design platform Yardzen, says there are plenty of reasons to consider clover as a lawn alternative. "Clover lawns require less upkeep in the way of water and mowing, don't require fertilizer, and they offer significantly more habitat value. Their seasonal blooms attract important pollinators like bees and butterflies," Messner tells House Beautiful.

But does that mean you should rip out your traditional lawn right now? There's plenty to consider first before converting to a clover lawn. Here's what you need to know:

A clover lawn uses clover or a hybrid of clover and grass instead of traditional grasses alone. "The process for seeding is very similar to that of grass seed. With lower maintenance costs, it's more economical than planting and maintaining grass turf," says Messner. Some owners also like the fact that clover can be mowed less frequently than traditional turf.

Grass has gotten a bad rap in recent years. "Grass lawns are typically the most maintenance-intensive part of a yard's landscape, requiring regular mowing, fertilization, and heavy irrigation to look good," says Yardzen's expert. "Add to that the fuel consumption and exhaust mowers produce, water pollution from fertilizer and pesticides, lack of habitat value, and major water consumption, and you've got a feature that's ripe for change."

Generally, clover is drought tolerant, so it typically stays green during dry spells with little to no irrigation (though it may die back in hotter climates during drought).

As legumes, clover is a "nitrogen-fixer." This means clover plants have a symbiotic relationship with soil-dwelling bacteria. The bacteria take nitrogen from the air in the soil and feed it to the clover, keeping it green. In exchange, the plant provides carbohydrates to the bacteria. "If you want to keep an area of green lawn, but want to lessen your environmental impact, clover is a beautiful alternative to traditional turf lawns," Messner notes.

Clover lawns also attract and support pollinators. Although, you'll need to limit mowing, which will remove the flowers that attract these beneficial insects.

In many situations, clover is not as durable as traditional grass lawns. "Tough, low groundcovers like clover make for attractive substitutes to decorative lawns, but nothing can quite take foot traffic like a lawn," explains Messner. If you have kids or pets, clover won't stand up to intense traffic like a traditional lawn.

Because clover doesn't form a dense canopy, you also may be able to see the soil in places, especially in winter when it dies back. And because it does attract pollinators, that can be an issue for people and pets playing on the lawn. For example, if a family member has a bee sting allergy, then it's probably not a great idea to plant a clover lawn.

Finally, if weeds creep into your clover lawn (we're looking at you, dandelions!), there is no selective product you can use that won't kill the clover, too.

Many experts recommend using a combination of clover and grasses. That's because clover goes dormant in the winter, so planting 100 percent clover may result in soil being exposed. Exposed soil can become a great place for weed seeds to germinate as well as lead to potential soil erosion. Microclover, which has smaller leaves, fewer flowers, and a lower growth habit compared to white clover, can be a good choice.

But to find the right seed combination for your lawn area, Messner says, "It's best to check with your local nursery or garden supplier on the variety that will thrive in your local climate and geography." Or check with your local university coop extension service for more guidance (find yours here).

When planting seed, rake up debris such as branches and leaves first. The seeds need to make good contact with the soil in order to germinate. Sprinkle seeds by hand or use a broadcast spreader to distribute them evenly across your lawn. Apply a light layer of topsoil over the seeds (but don't overdo it, or the seeds will not get enough oxygen to grow).

Lastly, like any plant, clover and clover mixture lawns will need sufficient irrigation (if you're not receiving sufficient rain) as you're trying to get it established.

You love finding gardening tips. So do we. Let us share the best of them.

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How to Plant a Clover Lawn, According to Landscape Experts - House Beautiful

Succulents are gorgeous, versatile plants that are easy to care for. Though succulents can generally be planted in most climates, they are best suited to regions in USDA zones 9 and 10 and make a fantastic replacement for grass yards in very hot, dry areas. And, of course, adding succulents to your landscape adds a unique degree of dimension and texture amidst your perennials and annuals. Whether you have a big yard or a small balcony or porch, there are plenty of ideas for creating and growing a beautiful succulent garden around your home.

"Succulents come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, offering endless possibilities for creative garden designs," says Amy Hovis, principal and owner of Eden Garden Design. "Whether used as focal points, ground cover, or accents in containers, succulents can be incorporated into virtually any garden style or theme."

Ahead, our experts share their favorite succulent garden ideas to incorporate into your own landscape design.

Greg Thomas / Landscape Design by Amy Hovis, Eden Garden Design

Designing a landscape with succulents is an easy way to create a beautiful space with minimal upkeep, such as with this modern garden, which includes a Buddha statue and a water feature. "Succulents effortlessly elevate any space with their chic shapes, textures, and hues," says Hovis. "They add an element of sophistication, layering a sleek contemporary feel to any landscape or garden project."

Greg Thomas / Landscape Design by Amy Hovis, Eden Garden Design

Landscaping with succulents offers a way to have a beautiful front yard without the hassle of continuous upkeep and constant watering. "A low-maintenance idea to provide more curb appeal is to build a rock border just off the curb and then plant drought-tolerant and sculptural plants, as well as cacti and succulent gardens for sunny areas instead of grass," says Hovis. "Succulents are generally easy to care for, requiring little attention once established."

Noelle Johnson

Have a bright-colored ceramic container that you want to show off? Plant flowering succulents with contrasting hues for a statement garden piece. "A blue planter adds welcome color when filled with the orange stems of Sticks on Fire euphorbia, and the arching stems of elephant's food (Portulacaria afra)," says Noelle Johnson, AZ Plant Lady, horticulturist, landscape consultant, and author of Dry Climate Gardening.

Noelle Johnson

If you have an unused garden fountain, consider repurposing it into a beautiful succulent planter, like Johnson did here. "An old, unused fountain is repurposed for use as a planter with golden-toothed aloe (Aloe nobilis), and ghost echeveria (Echeveria lilacina)," she says.

Greg Thomas | Landscape Design by Amy Hovis, Eden Garden Design

Adaptable and versatile, succulents are an easy addition to an existing garden or patio space. "For this project, we tucked in succulents directly into the landscape," says Hovis. The design was based on her stylish clients in their modern home. "The succulents add a sculptural element to the more wild and billowy perennials," she says.

Noelle Johnson

Made from stainless steel, galvanized planters are durable and designed to withstand various outdoor weather conditions. Planting succulents in a galvanized planter takes advantage of the width and depth they offer while giving them height to create visual layers. "Succulents, such as Blue Elf aloe, Blue Glow agave, Sticks of Fire euphorbia, dwarf elephants food, andSummer Snow prickly pear make an excellent alternative to thirsty annuals in a metal galvanized container," says Johnson.

Noelle Johnson

It's easy to add even more dimension, interest, and character to your succulent garden with fun garden ornaments, like this pigeon."Hens and chicks, along with sedums, make a textural base for a decorative stone pigeon," says Johnson.

wulingyun / Getty Images

Liven up a wooden fence with a rectangular planter box that will create more dimension in your back, front, or side yard. By planting different shapes and sized succulents with cascading foliage, you'll have a vibrant mini garden. Adding colorful kalanchoes will brighten any succulent arrangement.

Courtesy Dummen Orange

If you love vintage bins and boxes, use one to plant your favorite types of succulents. Mix and match different-shaped plants and unique foliage, like the string of pearls above, to create a one-of-a-kind garden piece.

See the article here:
9 Succulent Garden Ideas That Will Add Sculptural Dimension to Your Landscape - Martha Stewart