Great Outdoor Getaways

Now’s the time to fling open those doors and start living outside. A patch of green, a porch to perch on, even a simple patio—follow along for 45 design ideas that can turn any of those spaces into an inviting open-air room

By Amy Hughes11 min

Ask THIS OLD HOUSE

<ALL ABOUT> Hardwood Decking

Ipe is the gold standard, but plenty of other species stack up quite nicely on looks and longevity, often at a lower price

By TOM O'BRIEN10 min

where the heart is

A series of sensitive remodels and energy-smart upgrades turns a couple’s modest 1931 starter house into their home for the long haul

By Nina Fitzgerald8 min

weekend remodel

Build a copper trellis

Transform plumbing tubing and fittings into an elegant garden accent

By PAUL HOPE6 min

THE INCREDIBLE EDIBLE LANDSCAPE

How a designer blends fruits, vegetables, and flowers to whip up a garden that’s both beautiful and bountiful

By TOVAH MARTIN6 min

landscaping

Guilt-free container roses

Disease-resistant varieties let you grow glorious roses in pots— without the chemicals

By KATE KARAM5 min

before + after: kitchen

Redesigned online

Consulting by e-mail, pin board, Skype, and telephone, a long-distance designer helps a dark but otherwise great cook space lighten up

By DEBORAH BALDWIN5 min

build it or buy it

Outdoor privacy screen

Use folding wood panels to dress up your landscape and block out its less appealing aspects

By THOMAS BAKER3 min

before + after: bath

Room to move

Reworking a chopped-up bath creates a spacious and sunny retreat

By MEGAN BAKER3 min