WHAT WE LOVE
Escape... to your own backyard!
What could be more satisfying than feeling the sand beneath your toes as you get lost in your own poolside paradise? Grab a margarita and bring your best beach reading to your own little slice of beach. This built-in sand bar and take-me-away poolscape with custom water features make this the ultimate staycation.
Thomas Pools 667-4220

photography by Ted Dayton

WHAT WE LOVE
Kitchen Cabinetry with a Fresh Aesthetic
If an inspired statement kitchen makes your heart beat a little faster, then swap out your current kitchen cabinetry for something custom - just in time for a fresh spring update. After all, if it's going to be your statement, it should be one-of-a-kind.
Dannick Design 775-7430

WHAT WE LOVE
Let the Sunshine In
Some homes really know how to shine - this one is a star. The beautiful window shutters bring in the prettiest natural light and the best of the outdoors. Can we talk about this swing? We all need to sit and swing awhile because there's nowhere else to be.
Blinds & Shutter of All Kinds 298-1230

WHAT WE LOVE
Stand your Ground with Statement Flooring
Beautiful flooring is more than just a decor choice; it's a vital piece of design that sets the tone for your whole home. Stand your ground by putting something beautiful underfoot like these rich medium-toned wood floors paired with a statement black-and-white patterned tile.
Brent's Carpet One 255-3337

WHAT WE LOVE
Go All Out on Outdoor Living
Calling all wine lovers! Though travel may be grounded, your taste of Tuscany is waiting for you at home. Grab your best bottle of Chianti because a bright patio setup like this one is begging for an impromptu wine tasting. This isn't the time to hold back on design in your outdoor living spaces. After all, your best charcuterie board deserves to be served in style.
Oasis Garden & Patio 255-9909

WHAT WE LOVE
Mixed Materials Make the Statement
Need a fresh scene? Bring a commonly neglected room to life by freshening up your dining room decor. A simple switch-up of materials can make all the difference, and we love the combination of the geometric mirror, soft candles and textured wood buffet. Dinner at home has never felt more special.
Rebecca Rollins Interiors 367-4394

WHAT WE LOVE
Functional Is Beautiful
Look. At. All. These. Drawers! As if the walnut-topped island and glass-view cabinetry isn't enough to make this kitchen the envy of Pinterest, the storage space to spare adds function to beauty. Pair this culinary dreamscape with rustic wood accents and vintage-inspired serving pieces for seamless elegance.
Woodward Kitchen & Bath 251-3865

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
This must-have recipe is straight from the Betty Crocker kitchen. Be prepared to watch them disappear!

• 1 ½ cups butter, softened
• 1 ¼ cups sugar
• 1 ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 4 cups flour
• 2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350ºF.
Mix butter, sugars, vanilla and eggs in large bowl.
Stir in flour, baking soda and salt.
Stir in chocolate chips.
Drop rounded tablespoonful of dough, about 2 inches apart, onto ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until light brown.
Cool slightly on cookie sheet, then move to wire rack.