Tuesday, June 2, 2009

A Lavish Get-Away Just Outside Your Door


With the first day of summer looming larger and larger on the horizon, many Southern Californians are already taking advantage of the gorgeous weather ahead. A recent article in Sunset Magazine entitled "Bargain Bali" outlines some quick and easy tips to make your front porch into a tropical sanctuary. Malibu locals can easily follow these tips with many of their local businesses.

Tip #1: Fresh Paint
Our showroom carries Yolo Paint, a 0 voc paint that carries no odor and spreads flawlessly (see the blog below for further information). A gallon or two of their rich hues can make any plain wooden arbor seem exotic. For more information, visit: http://www.yolocolorhouse.com/

Tip #2: Bargain Plants
One of the greatest outdoor design centers in Malibu is Malibu Market and Design. Located on Pacific Coast Highway, just a tad North of Pepperdine University, Malibu Market and Design is basically an outdoor showroom. The "display" is arrainged on 3 tiers of land on a hillside, connected by charming wooden steps. The three tiers have an eclectic array of products ranging from outdoor furniture to tropical plants.

Tip #3: Recycled Furniture
ArtifacTree, a popular second-hand store located in the famous Cross Creek complex, has a ton of recycled furniture at affordable price. Here is their website: http://www.artifactree.org/

Tip #4: Colored Concrete
A nice stain adds character dusty, bland concrete. Although our company can provide these services for you, if you would rather the DIY route, SoyCrete would be the product of choice. SoyCrete is a non-toxic, acid-free, concrete stain that can be used indoors or out. It can be used on a variety of materials such as: masonry, brick, stucco, and cement. SoyCrete comes in six vibrant colors. For more information, visit this link: http://www.ecoprocote.com/SoyCrete-Concrete-Stain-s/92.htm

Tip #5: Mood Lighting
The abovementioned, Malibu Market and Design, carries a variety of eclectic hanging ornaments and lighting instruments. From tiki torches, to gigantic spheres of impersonated cow-hide, you'll find the best lanterns, candles, etc. for your evening ambiance. Although not particularly close to Malibu, Lamps Plus in Chatsworth released a new line of eco-friendly outdoor lamps. These lamps cast light downward, and prevent excess amounts of spill light. Experts and nature advocates have said that these lamps will help reduce light pollution and save energy. To visit their website, follow this link: http://www.lampsplus.com/

Tip #6: Accessories
The accessories are truly up to the individual. Only yourself and your patio can dictate what you will supply for it. Any of the above stores would be helpful in your request for accessories. Outdoor cushions, wicker baskets, and mini-sculptues can add a lot of character, with a little effort.

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