Knock, Knock

Whether you live in a castle or an apartment, a door knocker is a decorative way to welcome visitors. As one of the first things in your home that greets visitors, <a href="http://www.networx.com/article/designer-picks-door-knockers" target="_blank">door knockers</a> can represent your personality. They come in many different designs and materials and can offer a classic and traditional welcome or a cheeky, good-spirited hello. I selected a collection of well-priced door knockers that definitely say, "Welcome home."<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hi.atgimg.com/img/p400/8301/vranchorus15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://hi.atgimg.com/img/p400/8301/vranchorus15.jpg" /></a></div><br /><strong>Go nautical:</strong> Copper Mountain offers a <a href="http://www.knobsandhardware.com/door-knockers/copper-mountain-vranchorus7-anchor-door-knocker_g769355.html?isku=6663186&linkloc=cataLogProductItemsImage" target="_blank">classic nautical themed anchor and rope door knocker</a> in antique brass and chrome pewter. At 5-1/2", it fits smaller and larger doors and is easy to install. (Knobsandhardware.com, $27-$29)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUX7ll9bK5AGeYhVNPiMMJZykxqnx13J1aA_M40lJOUlu4ftwefqnu6V0QivxcY-80oM-J3fYkg3PM81xTH5E3haYmzW1uD0YHAmACZtDHPysbIHT9VxiTqFYdkppe8rQsOv4aUjI7bieJ/s1600/HD+knocker.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUX7ll9bK5AGeYhVNPiMMJZykxqnx13J1aA_M40lJOUlu4ftwefqnu6V0QivxcY-80oM-J3fYkg3PM81xTH5E3haYmzW1uD0YHAmACZtDHPysbIHT9VxiTqFYdkppe8rQsOv4aUjI7bieJ/s1600/HD+knocker.png" /></a></div><br /><strong>Motorcycle metal:</strong> Get your motor running with a <a href="http://www.knobsandhardware.com/door-knockers/harley-davidson-hdl-10090-nostalgic-door-knocker-antique-pewter_g743315.html?isku=6555782&linkloc=cataLogProductItemsImage" target="_blank">Harley-Davidson® themed door knockers</a> featuring the well-known HD bar and shield logo. This is a great gift for the classic bike fan in your family. Made of heavy duty zinc and cast in an antique pewter finish, the knocker measures 4.5"W by 3"H.  (Knobsandhardware.com, $19.96)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.capecodweathervanecompany.com/images/LgProductPhotos/1640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.capecodweathervanecompany.com/images/LgProductPhotos/1640.jpg" /></a></div><br /><strong>Act crabby: </strong>Welcome your guests with the whimsical and humorous <a href="http://www.capecodweathervanecompany.com/Crabby_Crab_Door_Knocker.htm" target="_blank">Crabby Crab door knocker</a>. Made of solid brass, the legs have been finished to look like they have developed a natural bronze patina while the body retains its natural bronze color. The crab body pivots for use as a knocker. (Capecodweathervanecompay.com, $48.50)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/ab/images/dp/wcm/201139/0059/img22b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/ab/images/dp/wcm/201139/0059/img22b.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><strong>Classic act:</strong> Pottery Barn offers a <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/oval-door-knocker/" target="_blank">classic oval door knocker</a> finished in bronze, brass or pewter. Personalize the knocker, and your front door, with a custom monogram. At 4.5" wide by 6" tall, this is a substantial piece that will dress up any door. (Potterybarn.com, $39)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.houseofantiquehardware.com/door/doorset-accessories/door-knockers/r-06sb-4138/r-06sb-4138-fin-pb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img.houseofantiquehardware.com/door/doorset-accessories/door-knockers/r-06sb-4138/r-06sb-4138-fin-pb.jpg" /></a></div><br /><strong>Foxy:</strong> The fox is guarding the hen house with this heavy <a href="http://houseofantiquehardware.com/s.nl/it.A/id.3401/.f?sc=10&category=44" target="_blank">cast brass Fox door knocker</a>. Lacquered to maintain its finish, the knocker is over 6" tall by 2" wide.  Stylistically, it fits with Arts and Crafts or Victorian architecture, but would certainly work well with any decorative house style. (Houseofantiquehardware.com, $12.79)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.251907897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.251907897.jpg" /></a></div><br /><strong>Garden-style:</strong> Bring a little of the outdoors right to your door with this whimsical r<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76246610/farmhouse-red-cast-iron-door-knocker?ref=sr_gallery_4&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=door+knocker&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_noautofacet=1&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade%2Fhousewares" target="_blank">ed cast iron door spade-shaped door knocker</a>.  Just the right touch to rustic fun, the red paint would play well off of a white, gray or natural wood door. (CamillaCotton on Etsy, $16)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.anthropologie.com/is/image/Anthropologie/19921022_028_b?$product410x615$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.anthropologie.com/is/image/Anthropologie/19921022_028_b?$product410x615$" /></a></div><br /><strong>Urban jungle:</strong> Sure to be a great conversation starter, Anthropologie offers this adorable antiqued copper <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=19921022&catId=HOME-HARDWARE&pushId=HOME-HARDWARE&popId=HOME&navCount=38904&color=028&isProduct=true&fromCategoryPage=true&isSubcategory=true&subCategoryId=HOME-HARDWARE-DOORS" target="_blank">Giraffe door knocker</a>. This piece is so cute that you and your guests will find yourselves petting its nose while coming and going. (Anthropologie.com, $32)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.doorknockers.info/new/images/Thistle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.doorknockers.info/new/images/Thistle.jpg" /></a></div><br /><strong>A work of art: </strong><a href="http://www.doorknockers.info/new/item.php?cat=Botanicals&item=Thistle" target="_blank">Colby Smith's handmade "Thistle" door knocker</a> is truly a work of art. As such, it's a pricey choice for a door knocker, but the quality is top notch and the design truly unique. The thistle is a well-known symbol of Scotland, which makes this a lovely choice if you have Scottish ancestors. The top half is sand-cast red or yellow brass, the base comes in a choice of nickel plate, oiled bronze or verdigris finish. (Doorknockers.info, $174)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><em>Written by Linda Merrill for <a href="http://www.networx.com/article/designer-picks-door-knockers%20">Networx.com</a>. Reprinted with permission. </em><em></em></div><br /><br /><div style="background-color: #d5a6bd;">If you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!</div><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

Knock, Knock

Whether you live in a castle or an apartment, a door knocker is a decorative way to welcome visitors. As one of the first things in your h...

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An Outdoor Kitchen Goes Environmental and Edible!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-G11330_7QNVy5SnscQ0RYOZ6pOKtzY2uJgw3mtjb3Hh3tkKur1ThM9-0P6AEH3tsayMg9dMzGkEXYkFGlJwgiUvQdxO5wZJ1jr1UDAIcAMFnE_DvoeQ1lehnBabAhlCtfyPr8UmdQrO/s1600/loripic2SML.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-G11330_7QNVy5SnscQ0RYOZ6pOKtzY2uJgw3mtjb3Hh3tkKur1ThM9-0P6AEH3tsayMg9dMzGkEXYkFGlJwgiUvQdxO5wZJ1jr1UDAIcAMFnE_DvoeQ1lehnBabAhlCtfyPr8UmdQrO/s320/loripic2SML.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Contributed by <a href="http://web.mac.com/ldolnick/iWeb/my%20website/Welcome.html">Lori Dolnick</a><br /><br /><br />What happens when 28 talented and creative high-end designers come together? A masterpiece is created. Plain and simple. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.pasadenashowcase.org/">The Pasadena Showcase House</a>, a non-profit organization based in California chooses a home for an indoor, and outdoor makeover every year and the results are well, pretty amazing. The transformation process from basic and plain interiors to an incredible & stylish home complete with a stunning outdoor garden area, takes about 8 months to plan and finish.  The process not only involves time, hard work and passion but also the creative talents of these selected designers who have a special insight into what will “click” with the kind of space and materials they have to work with. <br /><br />This year the team turned a private home owned by the American Red Cross into a dream house capturing the attention of almost 40 thousand visitors who helped raised money through the entrance fee for The American Red Cross.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/Showcase%20West%20to%20East/web.jpg?ver=12893353060001" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/Showcase%20West%20to%20East/web.jpg?ver=12893353060001" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(before)</div><br />The brains behind the outdoor kitchen design is Jan Ledgard, certified kitchen designer, owner and designer of <a href="http://www.yorkshirekitchens.net/About%20Jan.html">Yorkshire Kitchens, Inc.</a>  who conceptualized and designed the entire outdoor kitchen space for The Pasadena Showcase Home.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_1/web.jpg?ver=12893349500001" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_1/web.jpg?ver=12893349500001" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />LD: How did you get involved in the Showcase House this year?<br /><br />JL: Well, I just happened to tag along with a couple of other designers this year for the Designers’ Peek Day and just casually mentioned to someone that I did outdoor kitchens and well, the rest I guess is history!! LOL!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_3/web.jpg?ver=12893349410001" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_3/web.jpg?ver=12893349410001" width="426" /></a></div><br /><br />What I really wanted to do was to create an area that could be used for weddings, parties, etc but at the same time create a space that virtually anyone could look at no matter what their budget or space is and say “I could do this in my yard!”<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_2/web.jpg?ver=12893349340001" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_2/web.jpg?ver=12893349340001" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_4/web.jpg?ver=12893349230001" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_6/web.jpg?ver=12893348940001" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>LD: Where did the inspiration for the design come from?<br /><br />JL: The idea for the space was that it would be a complete outdoor kitchen and kitchen garden. Everything planted was either edible or medicinal with a just a few exceptions. All the products we used were either recycled or recyclable or at least environmentally friendly. <a href="http://www.outdoorkitchensbyatlantis.com/">Atlantis Outdoor Kitchens</a> supplied the cabinetry and appliances and I used as many local products and suppliers as possible including local lumber yard, local garden nurseries, etc. <br /><a href="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_4/web.jpg?ver=12893349230001" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_4/web.jpg?ver=12893349230001" width="640" /></a><br />LD: What was the most challenging in terms of trying to create a fun but useful place? <br /><br />JL: I wanted to create something that was fun and exciting, yet functional. Keeping in mind ways for families and friends to entertain and at the same time being able to enjoy some private time - which is why I added the Martini sink so you can just relax in your own yard sipping away on a Martini.<br /><br />We build a deck for ultimate family dinners and a bar for those special social nights with friends or neighbors. It’s very cool because the deck is built over the roots of a Liquid Amber tree that adds a natural shade canopy. I also designed the retractable awning - each panel pulls on and off separately using a very low energy “pole” so you just hook the pole in a ring and pull! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_6/web.jpg?ver=12893348940001" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://gallery.me.com/ldolnick/100710/LA%20Showhouse_6/web.jpg?ver=12893348940001" width="426" /></a></div><br />I also finished off the space bringing all the elements of the wood and glass together using recycled glass as accents in all the candle holders, teak on the hand rail, natural stones and crystals (a passion of mine) were dotted around the entire space and a couple of whimsical elements, like the “moon gazing hares,” were also added.<br /><br />LD: Sounds like you had the “Go Green” effect in mind when planning the space. <br /><br />JL: I did actually. The planters are all edible, herbal or medicinal including tomatoes, grape vines, etc. We added small planters around the space to show people how they could have an herb garden in a small space – and it is visually appealing as well. <br /><br />LD:  Well, you did an amazing job this year. Any idea of what visitors can expect next year? <br /><br />JD: Not sure yet. We’re still trying to rest up from the last one!!<br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />Photos courtesy Pasadena Showcase House 2010.</span><br /><br /><br /><br />See all Lori's posts <a href="http://chameleon-interiors.blogspot.com/search/label/Lori%20Dolnick">here</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

An Outdoor Kitchen Goes Environmental and Edible!

Contributed by Lori Dolnick What happens when 28 talented and creative high-end designers come together? A masterpiece is created. Plain and...

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Getting in on the outside

I've been noticing all the new lines of outdoor furniture that have hit the stores and catalogs recently. We have a kind of love/hate feeling about the outdoors here in New England. We do have great weather, but all those fabulous year round California outdoor rooms just don't work here. We get excited about 3-season porches! I was recently gifted with a lovely wicker patio set that I'm very excited about. More to come on it (lots of cushions to recover!). In the meantime, I can't help but swoon over all the beautiful outdoor furniture available today. And at so many different price points too!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://janusetcie.com/">Janus et Cie</a> furniture epitomizes outdoor living, Mediterranean style. Price range: $$$$<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxW5PWFzum3iEokZo7LKXqsKkb6EZWb6-90SwM-yr4f05UwQcmRQ8kaIE2hMNJgq7x8zaaaaq3XkmhXygm-LKstHHb-dDYw7aGlEnMXghjIOv0mFNdvcFA2jLMdC0kOQbC_yG3J7-Eekl/s1600/JetC3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxW5PWFzum3iEokZo7LKXqsKkb6EZWb6-90SwM-yr4f05UwQcmRQ8kaIE2hMNJgq7x8zaaaaq3XkmhXygm-LKstHHb-dDYw7aGlEnMXghjIOv0mFNdvcFA2jLMdC0kOQbC_yG3J7-Eekl/s640/JetC3.png" width="508" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQ_lQ2P9gLKBaqo6jrXifToRSBQSjuR5U9wjUKzoEumy0wj1BwaWU3Z74l82cEEFi9Fj72tlfjnxql276TzQad3BpKgSPCdb5b6l-oum-sqSLGzWxi0bXole_rVl_LvbbwEaAC7GEEKQW/s1600/JetC1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQ_lQ2P9gLKBaqo6jrXifToRSBQSjuR5U9wjUKzoEumy0wj1BwaWU3Z74l82cEEFi9Fj72tlfjnxql276TzQad3BpKgSPCdb5b6l-oum-sqSLGzWxi0bXole_rVl_LvbbwEaAC7GEEKQW/s640/JetC1.png" width="508" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOIPDitA9j9VpowvNCmKELRX6IZ2l9ivTmE_94puW_DHyu8M5zbBEq0P2ToUTKWWG5KhsyAlwTT1xIoC9s7yxPP87i1T2n6b4jqRqt_Lzgvneg8ifMoD0uiRQVjxOJLVLcQQ7hrbLiUee/s1600/JetC2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOIPDitA9j9VpowvNCmKELRX6IZ2l9ivTmE_94puW_DHyu8M5zbBEq0P2ToUTKWWG5KhsyAlwTT1xIoC9s7yxPP87i1T2n6b4jqRqt_Lzgvneg8ifMoD0uiRQVjxOJLVLcQQ7hrbLiUee/s640/JetC2.png" width="508" /><br /><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipE0MfLWf6t_xS0LY9RCxSH3nz6fGhelLNVQuZMWA4zCJJqBmbHi3rHbE4ZBpUQcTPkt4x1-WhOc7R1Ol7HDZQeIE_zsvJLs_UPoI7tZI5MHN78e94YCOW2gbzJhXGc0VntQAM_6AQX18s/s1600/JetC4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipE0MfLWf6t_xS0LY9RCxSH3nz6fGhelLNVQuZMWA4zCJJqBmbHi3rHbE4ZBpUQcTPkt4x1-WhOc7R1Ol7HDZQeIE_zsvJLs_UPoI7tZI5MHN78e94YCOW2gbzJhXGc0VntQAM_6AQX18s/s640/JetC4.png" width="508" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2hmqY7NyRyKtT4Kg38w3l6tjOQFCkDS4zjOtArbwsgBdr3NlGQWQzr-jA3lFvIMnWMrMuUTsrCQsXtNDMZa5ypJRBeP8SQwMydJ_wtyS1Gk5qbZn33ys1EJqQzb6O9cBo-O6jLxrbfJZ/s1600/JetC5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2hmqY7NyRyKtT4Kg38w3l6tjOQFCkDS4zjOtArbwsgBdr3NlGQWQzr-jA3lFvIMnWMrMuUTsrCQsXtNDMZa5ypJRBeP8SQwMydJ_wtyS1Gk5qbZn33ys1EJqQzb6O9cBo-O6jLxrbfJZ/s640/JetC5.png" width="508" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.brownjordan.com/">Brown Jordon</a>. Price range: $$$-$$$$<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brownjordan.com/products/images/location/CampaignGrande.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="369" src="http://www.brownjordan.com/products/images/location/CampaignGrande.01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brownjordan.com/products/images/location/Kensington.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://www.brownjordan.com/products/images/location/Kensington.01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brownjordan.com/products/images/location/Madrid.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://www.brownjordan.com/products/images/location/Madrid.01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brownjordan.com/products/images/location/Monaco.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://www.brownjordan.com/products/images/location/Monaco.01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2102785055"><br /></a><br /><a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/">Restoration Hardware.</a> Price range: $$-$$$<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_2_belvedere?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_2_belvedere?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_30_antibes?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_30_antibes?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_34_lajolla?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_34_lajolla?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_52_nantucket?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_52_nantucket?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" width="400" /></a><a href="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_24_antigua?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://image.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/od_d1_2010_seating_24_antigua?wid=978&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" width="400" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/">Crate and Barrel.</a> Price range: $$-$$$<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.crateandbarrel.com/is/image/Crate/outdoorTemplate?$trendFeature$&$image=Crate/outdoor_10_ventura_H2&$text=1+of+5" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.crateandbarrel.com/is/image/Crate/outdoorTemplate?$trendFeature$&$image=Crate/outdoor_10_ventura_H2&$text=1+of+5" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.crateandbarrel.com/is/image/Crate/outdoorTemplate?$trendFeature$&$image=Crate/outdoor_img_09_trovata_5&$text=1+of+5" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.crateandbarrel.com/is/image/Crate/outdoorTemplate?$trendFeature$&$image=Crate/outdoor_img_09_trovata_5&$text=1+of+5" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.crateandbarrel.com/is/image/Crate/outdoorTemplate?$trendFeature$&$image=Crate/outdoor_10_alfresco_H&$text=1+of+5" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.crateandbarrel.com/is/image/Crate/outdoorTemplate?$trendFeature$&$image=Crate/outdoor_10_alfresco_H&$text=1+of+5" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2102785076"><br /></a><br /><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/">Pottery Barn</a>. Price range: $$-$$$<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/products/201019/0007/img69m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/products/201019/0007/img69m.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/products/201017/0027/img32m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/products/201017/0027/img32m.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/products/201018/0008/img54m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/products/201018/0008/img54m.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/products/201019/0029/img68m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.potterybarn.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/products/201019/0029/img68m.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/">Ballard Designs.</a> Price range: $-$$<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/12335/6h/s7ondemand1.scene7.com/is/image/ballarddesigns/SO553_1?rgn=0,0,2000,2000&scl=5.434782608695652&fmt=jpeg&id=0TTBuqVHBlNNfQUZWINs3V" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/12335/6h/s7ondemand1.scene7.com/is/image/ballarddesigns/SO553_1?rgn=0,0,2000,2000&scl=5.434782608695652&fmt=jpeg&id=0TTBuqVHBlNNfQUZWINs3V" /></a></div><br /><span id="goog_2102785084"></span><span id="goog_2102785085"></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/Outdoor-Living/c/images/us/local/page_specific/2010OutdoorLiving/021910Outdoor/collage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/Outdoor-Living/c/images/us/local/page_specific/2010OutdoorLiving/021910Outdoor/collage1.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.walmart.com/">Walmart</a>. Price range: $<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/72/29/38/07/0072293807421_500X500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/72/29/38/07/0072293807421_500X500.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/66/79/30/61/0066793061811_500X500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/66/79/30/61/0066793061811_500X500.jpg" /></a></div>And here's my new wicker set at its last home. I was lucky to be given this - it's huge and in great shape. New cushions are underway! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpDJ62GxSUYalIW0odqCVFwjydVdDpy8QyQIx2s_Q9-WBA6UwA06KtKEJGnv2Cst1CfwjLhkea9_dP7CQSizjWa3KXTpaLFQVUTSlxuznnQTOrqKwKdSXCz_wK5D-JB58LSVPcl42RuBv/s1600/lindaswickerset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpDJ62GxSUYalIW0odqCVFwjydVdDpy8QyQIx2s_Q9-WBA6UwA06KtKEJGnv2Cst1CfwjLhkea9_dP7CQSizjWa3KXTpaLFQVUTSlxuznnQTOrqKwKdSXCz_wK5D-JB58LSVPcl42RuBv/s400/lindaswickerset.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />How do you spend your outdoor time?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/40/61AD69B5456EE9E48D48218DA34439B1.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a> <br /><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

Getting in on the outside

I've been noticing all the new lines of outdoor furniture that have hit the stores and catalogs recently. We have a kind of love/hate fe...

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Contributor Lori Dolnick on The Morris Arboretum

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRaD59DQZmupumBh_Muu_Rey7q1JuDEHeyImd9PYMIH2IXK36jQuEPheOj2yBCi3Sg_pi8XCHMPENVOS0r-f8RFsSuVYDtgxL-zCpKdsnTLznVLkfR8-fkzHICuyQNyiVfuP5BZWCabkt/s1600-h/3797179316_d1be97bc80.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367053263732405010" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRaD59DQZmupumBh_Muu_Rey7q1JuDEHeyImd9PYMIH2IXK36jQuEPheOj2yBCi3Sg_pi8XCHMPENVOS0r-f8RFsSuVYDtgxL-zCpKdsnTLznVLkfR8-fkzHICuyQNyiVfuP5BZWCabkt/s400/3797179316_d1be97bc80.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 194px; height: 144px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-G11330_7QNVy5SnscQ0RYOZ6pOKtzY2uJgw3mtjb3Hh3tkKur1ThM9-0P6AEH3tsayMg9dMzGkEXYkFGlJwgiUvQdxO5wZJ1jr1UDAIcAMFnE_DvoeQ1lehnBabAhlCtfyPr8UmdQrO/s1600-h/loripic2SML.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280613870814583778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-G11330_7QNVy5SnscQ0RYOZ6pOKtzY2uJgw3mtjb3Hh3tkKur1ThM9-0P6AEH3tsayMg9dMzGkEXYkFGlJwgiUvQdxO5wZJ1jr1UDAIcAMFnE_DvoeQ1lehnBabAhlCtfyPr8UmdQrO/s200/loripic2SML.jpg" style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 86px; height: 72px;" /></a><br />Contributed by <a href="http://web.mac.com/ldolnick/iWeb/my%20website/Welcome.html">Lori Dolnick</a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2472/3796360589_68d83394f8.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2472/3796360589_68d83394f8.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 375px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Out on a Limb gives you a heightened awareness of trees – from scaffolding that’s 50 feet above the forest floor. One of the Arboretum’s oldest living oaks grows within the exhibit. It’s lineage dates back over 250 years.<br /></span></div><br />If you live anywhere near Philadelphia, PA, you really must take a day trip to The Morris Arboretum - a 92-acre horticulture display garden that features a spectacular collection of rare and mature trees in a Victorian landscape. Beyond the Arboretum’s picturesque spots such as a formal rose garden, Japanese gardens, swan pond, meadows and the elegant Fernery, it also features a new exhibit called Tree Adventure. This dramatic installation explores the relationship between plants and people with its central theme, we need trees, and trees need us.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3520/3797179070_95d0692e7a.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3520/3797179070_95d0692e7a.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 500px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Industrial design meets nature. A path of discovery takes you to a human-sized bird nest complete with eggs.</span><br /><br /></div>The iconic centerpiece of the Morris Arboretum’s Tree Adventure exhibit is Out on a Limb, a striking 450-foot long walkway that soars 50 feet above the ground, and give visitors a bird’s eye view of the forest. From Out on a Limb, visitors can cross a swaying Suspension Bridge to the Bird’s Nest, scamper onto the Squirrel Scramble’s rope-netting skirting two towering trees, head to the top of the Wissahickon Vista platform for sweeping views or just wander along the Canopy Walk rising high above the forest floor.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3527/3797179176_1f8793b4e7.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3527/3797179176_1f8793b4e7.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 375px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Ingenious netting gives you a “bird’s eye view”.</span><br /><br /></div>Tree Adventure is not limited to Out on a Limb though. It’s really a tour within the garden and its exhibits are masterfully seeded throughout the displays. A passport guides you through the “adventure” and will leave you feeling inspired and ecologically aware. For updated information about the Tree Adventure exhibit, visit <a href="http://www.morrisarboretum.org/">www.morrisarboretum.org</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2555/3797179316_d1be97bc80.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2555/3797179316_d1be97bc80.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 375px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Be sure to visit the Arboretum’s other exhibits like The Summer Palace.</span><br /><br /></div>Beyond this exhibit – be sure and visit The Summer Palace – a 25-foot seasonal sculpture made of sticks and saplings by renowned artist Patrick Dougherty. And if you have children, there’s a model railway with electric trains running through the gardens. It’s especially festive around the holidays. When my son was a toddler – he wouldn’t leave that area no matter how cold it got. Watching the model trains weave in and around the plants is mesmerizing. Members are permitted to have private tours with the Arboretum’s staff or volunteers. We took a public tour the day we were there and learned much about the native plants that do well for backyards in our area. It’s really a jewel for gardening tips, beautiful vistas and inspiring design.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDFvwWNvUVVNV7wRciRYUMEPO83iuk8V8mfy3xY2zlm-nJvl1apBoylIKfJ4u9MYPL2D9PMlkEmmyxNTbK6hSJ-_JI1fym4Dc4WOPYXB4UwEe5nx4Tvfcd8sV6opMpkVytPPw7Ia4s5lLV/s1600-h/loripic2SML.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253863744380485666" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDFvwWNvUVVNV7wRciRYUMEPO83iuk8V8mfy3xY2zlm-nJvl1apBoylIKfJ4u9MYPL2D9PMlkEmmyxNTbK6hSJ-_JI1fym4Dc4WOPYXB4UwEe5nx4Tvfcd8sV6opMpkVytPPw7Ia4s5lLV/s200/loripic2SML.jpg" style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" /></a>Contributed by <a href="http://web.mac.com/ldolnick/iWeb/my%20website/Welcome.html">Lori Dolnick</a>.<br /><br />Click <a href="http://chameleon-interiors.blogspot.com/search/label/Lori%20Dolnick">here</a> to read all of Lori's posts.

Contributor Lori Dolnick on The Morris Arboretum

Contributed by Lori Dolnick Out on a Limb gives you a heightened awareness of trees – from scaffolding that’s 50 feet above the forest floor...

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