Accessorizing your Outdoor Areas

Legacy Models 065 (1)When designing a backyard pool space, often your focus is on the pool itself to the detriment of the rest of the area. This yard, from the O’Connor model at Legacy, shows how some careful attention to the furniture and features of your pool space can turn your yard into an appealing haven for family and friends.

Throughout this yard, clean lines and a contemporary style combine to make this yard clearly the result of a designed approach. The rectangular pool is echoed by the choice of rectangular stones for the hard surfaces. By continuing this same stone at the back of the pool with the raised area that holds the fountains, this yard maintains an inviting consistency.

Legacy Models 060 (1)Take a look at the lounge chairs surrounding the pool. Built for comfort, the blue cushions also add style by mirroring the color of the pool in a darker shade.

The planter shown in the photo to the right combines the sharp lines of every element of this yard with some height and color to break up the generous pool deck. Notice also the dark square next to the furthest lounge chair. Pieces such as these can be moved into various locations as needed, recruited to hold drinks or snacks around the pool.

Altogether, this minimalist approach with its clean lines and limited color palette lends itself to a contemporary approach to your yard. By taking this angle, the outdoor space for this home has the same design aesthetic as the rooms in the home itself. This yard demonstrates that design doesn’t need to stop at the back door.

 

Summer fun Means Observing Pool Safety

15845300_SIn July’s heat, a pool turns the backyard into an enjoyable place no matter the temperature. At the same time, pools pose a risk, particularly for toddlers. According to U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Chairman Inez Tenenbaum, “drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children between the ages of 1 and 4.”

Follow these steps to secure your pool to minimize the risk for your children and others in your neighborhood.

  • Make sure your pool fence is at least four feet tall or taller, with self-closing and latching gates.
  • If you have a spa, use a lockable safety cover over it.
  • Install door alarms on any doors that lead directly to your pool.
  • Use pool and gate alarms to alert you when children go in or near the pool.
  • For extra security, consider a surface wave or underwater alarm to notify you if a child or pet falls in the pool.

During parties and gatherings, include these steps in your planning to keep children playing in the pool safe.

  • Walk through basic pool safety tips with the children before the party starts – things such as no running near the pool, no hitting or kicking at each other, and no horseplay on the diving board.
  • Have the adults take turns serving as the designated lifeguard to watch when children are in the pool.
  • Check the pool or spa immediately if a child is missing.
  • Make sure that you or someone in your family has basic CPR training

The best way to keep your children safe around a pool is to make sure they know how to swim. Even very small children can learn basic floating techniques. With just a little effort, you can do your best to keep your family safe and happy and swimming all summer.

A Fulton Neighborhood

Finding the right home can be exciting and fun. And it’s just as important to find the right neighborhood for you and your family.

Fulton Homes recognizes that, and focuses its efforts to creating each community to suit the needs of its homebuyers.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a neighborhood as well as a home.

Location: Are you close to good schools for your children and shopping to meet your family’s needs? You may also want to drive your commute to work, so that you know how long it will take and can plan accordingly.

Amenities: Does your community offer parks, pools or other features that your family will use and enjoy? With a community pool such as the one shown above from Fulton’s Ironwood Crossing that includes a splash pad for the younger ones separated from the main pool area with a fence, children of all ages can enjoy this center. Parents can appreciate the benefits of this neighborhood pool without the cost and effort of owning one.

Neighbors: With a new home community, everyone moves in at about the same time and many people will look forward to getting to know others on their block. Consider starting a block party with pot-luck food and games for the kids to help them get comfortable with each other. This is also a great chance to find babysitters and learn more about restaurants and shops close by.

Take the time to explore your options when it comes to neighborhoods as well as houses. Look for a place that will work well for you and your family and you will feel as at home outside your front door as you do inside.