Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) 2025 Recap!

Each year, the Annual National Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) provides a glimpse into the future of home design with upcoming products and rising trends. Our Lead Designer, Liz Kennedy, attended KBIS last month and noted that her takeaways were all about texture, color, and customization. 

Texture and Color Take Center Stage

Across lighting, plumbing, appliances, cabinetry, and hardware, texture and color are the dominant themes. Think fluted glass shades, knurled appliance pulls, two-tone faucets, and textured cabinets. Quartz countertops are increasingly becoming one of the top choices for countertops, with more color options, natural veining, and textures becoming readily available and cost-effective.

• Lighting Embraces Variety: Milk glass and unique shapes define the latest lighting trends, adding depth and visual interest to spaces. This makes lighting serve both function and as an artistic element.

• Plumbing Gets Functional and Stylish: Filtered pull-down kitchen faucets are becoming more available, eliminating the need for separate beverage faucets. Diverse finishes, concrete elements, dual finishes, and pull-down options, along with unique tub feet, offer endless customization.

• Appliances Opt for White and Biophilia: White appliances were once the top finish choice before becoming outweighed by stainless steel; however, they are making their way back and better than ever! Biophilia (bringing nature indoors) is also making its way into the kitchen. Textured pulls add a tactile element, and interchangeable pull finishes allow for an easy way to elevate your kitchen!

• Cabinetry Focuses on Customization and Storage: Custom hoods, natural textures, smart storage solutions, and bold colors are key cabinetry trends. Refrigeration, heat, and storage are being integrated seamlessly.

Are you inspired by these trends? We’d love to help incorporate these elements into your next kitchen remodel!

A Dream Home for a Growing Family

As a young family with two energetic boys, this household was bursting at the seams and needed a home that provided space for everyone—including their beloved dog. What began as a cramped 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house was transformed into a spacious 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home, complete with a large living area, playroom, and office.

The renovation preserved the foundation and front elevation wall while the rest of the home was demolished to start anew. The homeowners envisioned bright, open spaces, ample storage, and a design that balanced beauty with everyday living.

Kitchen & Mudroom: A Functional Haven

For a busy working mom, a well-organized kitchen was essential. This space needed ample storage and counter space for cooking, entertaining, and after-school activities. Designed for efficiency, the kitchen features accessories such as a trash pullout, cutlery pullout, cutting board storage, and a concealed dishwasher with a panel front to blend seamlessly into the island. Alabaster painted cabinets, quartz countertops, and champagne bronze fixtures add a touch of classic elegance, while statement light fixtures provide just the right mix of modern and traditional.

Adjacent to the kitchen, the mudroom serves as a landing zone for the family. With two little boys, this space needed to be practical yet stylish. A built-in bench with storage cubbies provides a convenient place to put on shoes, while tongue-and-groove paneling enhances the aesthetic. Additional pantry storage was incorporated into this area, ensuring small appliances and everyday essentials remain easily accessible but neatly tucked away.

Living Room: A Space for Gathering

The family had several key requests for their living space: an inviting area to watch football, an open connection to the kitchen, ample windows, and a dedicated spot for their Christmas tree. These elements were carefully considered throughout the design process. The vaulted ceiling, adorned with stained beams, adds warmth and dimension. A brick tile fireplace facade seamlessly integrates with custom built-ins, which echo the cabinetry in the kitchen. Large windows along the rear elevation flood the room with natural light while offering a clear view of the backyard—perfect for keeping an eye on the kids at play.

Powder Room: A Statement Space

The powder room provided an opportunity to introduce bold character without feeling overly feminine. This colorful wallpaper brings a fun and vibrant touch, while a brass and marble console vanity, brass sconces, and a detailed mirror complete the look.

Primary Suite: A Relaxing Retreat

After long days at work, on the golf course, or chasing two energetic boys, the homeowners needed a retreat to unwind. The primary suite delivers just that. The en-suite bathroom features elegant marble hexagon flooring, custom cabinetry, and thoughtful storage solutions—including a built-in pullout for hair tools with an integrated electrical outlet. A cast-iron pedestal tub, set beneath a sunlit window, pairs beautifully with a champagne bronze wall-mounted tub faucet. Marble tile extends across the shower floor and walls, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere.

Upstairs: A Haven for the Boys

The upstairs was designed with the boys in mind. Their bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom, where Evergreen Fog-painted walls complement custom-stained vanities and black fixtures. A large playroom with hardwood flooring provides the perfect space for Legos, trucks, and imaginative play—plus, it’s easy to clean up after inevitable spills.

A hidden bookshelf door at the top of the stairs conceals valuable attic storage while also serving as a unique design element.

A Home with Heart and Thoughtful Details

A key safety feature was the storm-safe room, designed to provide peace of mind for a storm-conscious child. Hidden beneath the stairs, this steel-reinforced space is accessed through a secret door and offers a secure place to wait out bad weather—with plenty of room for snacks and games to keep spirits high.

Another meaningful touch? To make the addition possible, a hickory tree in the backyard had to be removed. Instead of letting it go to waste, the homeowners had it milled and repurposed as ceiling planking for their vaulted back porch—creating a stunning natural feature that ties the home’s design to its roots. Cedar columns and beams further enhance the warm, inviting feel of this outdoor living space.

From the welcoming foyer to the tucked-away home office, every detail of this home was thoughtfully curated to create a functional, stylish, and family-friendly retreat. This transformation truly represents a dream home come to life— and we’d love to help make yours a reality too!

Our Favorite Paint Colors for 2025 (and Beyond)

As a design-build construction company, we know that the right paint color can transform a space. Whether you’re planning a full remodel or just looking to refresh your home, choosing the perfect shade is an essential step in creating a space that reflects your style. Here’s a look at some of our favorite colors for 2025 and beyond!

1. Pale Oak (OC-20)

Combining just the right amount of gray and beige, this versatile shade can be used everywhere from doors and trim to kitchen cabinets. It is perfect for creating a light, airy space while also providing depth.

2. Riviera Azure (BM 822)

This vibrant and refreshing blue brings a bright, coastal feel, with plenty of personality. Pair it with natural wood tones and playful wallpaper for a fun, inviting atmosphere that stands out.

3. Urbane Bronze (SW 7048)

This rich, warm charcoal with bronze undertones is ideal for exteriors and spaces that crave a dramatic elegance. It pairs beautifully with soft neutrals and natural wood tones, adding a modern, grounded feel to any room.

4. Alabaster (SW 7008)

Our favorite white here at ELM! Alabaster is a soft white with a hint of warmth without feeling too creamy or stark. Whether on cabinets, walls, or trim, it creates a sleek, clean look—especially in bathrooms.

5. Chelsea Mauve (SW 0002)

A soft, muted mauve with warm undertones, Chelsea Mauve adds a touch of fun and sophistication to spaces. It’s a beautiful choice for color-drenching a powder room or butler’s pantry-and for a daughter’s bedroom that she can grow into through the years.

6. Desert Twilight (BM 2137-40)

This soft, neutral olive green has a grounding quality that brings peace and balance. Beautiful on cabinets, trim, and paneling, Desert Twilight elevates any room and blends perfectly with natural materials and fabrics.

7. Dove Wing (BM 960)

A creamy off-white with subtle gray undertones, Dove Wing adds a soft elegance to any room. Perfect for matching walls, ceilings, and trim, this color complements both contemporary and traditional spaces. Pair it with rich neutrals and earthy tones to create an inviting, cozy atmosphere.

How to Choose the Right Paint Color

When selecting a paint color, consider:

• Lighting: Observe how lighting affects the room and test samples on the wall. Does the room have a lot of natural light? Do the light fixtures within the room lean more warm or cool toned?

• Existing Elements: Consider your floors and existing furniture. Will it blend the old and new elements, or will you need to replace more than anticipated?

• Mood: Think about the feeling you want to experience in the space. Should it feel relaxing and moody, or bright and cheery when you walk in?

Need Help Deciding?

Our design team is with you every step of the way, guiding you through each design decision—including choosing the perfect paint color! That’s what sets us apart as a design-build company: we make the process seamless for you, the client!

Remodeling your kitchen or bath? Avoid these mistakes

Newly remodeled bathroom with ample storage

A kitchen or bathroom remodel is an exciting opportunity to make your house feel more like home. It gives you the chance to design a space that meets all your unique wants and needs since you are in control.

However, even though most homeowners do tons of research before making major remodeling decisions, some areas tend to get overlooked.

There is no shortage of advice on what you should “do” during a kitchen or bathroom renovation. But not much about what you should avoid.

Here are some things we don’t recommend doing in a kitchen or bathroom remodel.

Don’t put aesthetics above functionality

You have probably scrolled through a billion pins on Pinterest and know what you want design-wise, but your focus should be on creating a more functional space. In the kitchen, your sink, stove, and refrigerator should be close together to make cooking more efficient.

You'll also want to make sure you have easy access to heavier items like a stand mixer or crock pot, so including an appliance garage or appliance lifts should be considered, even if it detracts from the picture-perfect image you have in your mind.

In the bathroom, of course, you want a spacious and luxurious space, but it also needs to be practical. Above anything else, the layout must be considered to optimize space and privacy.

If you don’t have a separate toilet closet, you should make sure your toilet is not the first thing you see as you walk in the door. You could also consider nixing the tub and opting for a larger walk-in shower to maximize floor space.

Under-range storage for pots and pans

Don’t underestimate your storage needs

One of the biggest regrets and complaints we hear from homeowners is that there needs to be more storage space for all of their belongings. This is especially true in the kitchen and bathroom, so don't underestimate your storage needs while you are remodeling.

Installing cabinet drawers in the kitchen is one way to maximize your storage space and can be designed to give you plenty of room for your pots, pans, dishes, and kitchen gadgets. Including a pantry is another great idea to ensure all your food items and extras have a designated home.

Insufficient storage in the bathroom can lead to clutter, which is not what you want to see in what's supposed to be a relaxing spa-like space. Simple storage solutions include floating shelves or a recessed medicine cabinet where you can keep beauty products and other essentials.

You could also include a closet with plenty of shelving for towels and bath items or an oversized vanity with under-sink storage space.

Downdraft ventilation range hood

Don’t ignore ventilation

Ventilation is not exciting, but it is an important health component in the kitchen and bathroom.

A range hood is needed in the kitchen to control odor, smoke, and grease. Without it, your kitchen could feel dirty, and your indoor air quality could be impacted. Fortunately, decorative range hoods are a huge design trend we will be seeing more of, so it should be easy to find one that works with your kitchen design.

Ventilation is just as important in the bathroom since the bathroom is a high-moisture area. Without proper ventilation, you could be faced with mold and mildew, which can damage your home and impact your indoor air quality. Choosing an exhaust fan that is large enough for your space is pretty easy and will make a big difference.

We can help!

If you have an idea of what you'd like in your kitchen or bathroom remodel, we can bring it to life! We will also guide you through the parts that you may have overlooked, like ventilation and storage. Give us a call so we can get started!

Kitchen Design: Add Zones for Style & Function

Kitchens are where families cook, gather, and socialize, so they need to be functional and aesthetically pleasing. Finding that balance can be difficult for many homeowners.

If you’re one of them, here's the secret courtesy of our own designer, Liz Kennedy: Create designated spaces throughout your kitchen!

Kennedy noticed that most traditionally designed kitchens don't have designated spaces. These spaces can help with organization, and with the right design, they can also add character and charm to the kitchen.

These are some of the designated kitchen spaces Kennedy loves to incorporate into a kitchen design.

Appliance garage

The appliance garage is a newer kitchen design trend that we are loving. Basically, it's an additional kitchen cabinet that sits on the countertop where you can store small appliances like the toaster, mixer, and even the microwave.

The appliance garage eliminates the problem of having too much countertop clutter while allowing easy access to frequently used items.

Roll-up, lift-up, or retractable doors provide easy access to the space. They can also have pull-out shelves to make heavy appliances more accessible. They're such a smart solution to kitchen storage without compromising the kitchen's aesthetic.

Wet bar

If you enjoy hosting dinner parties and get-togethers, the wet bar is another designated space to include in your kitchen. A wet bar is an area complete with a sink and storage dedicated to keeping cocktail essentials organized for entertaining guests.

Adding a wet bar to your kitchen design will also add to the space's aesthetic appeal. Using complimentary cabinetry and finishes will allow the wet bar to blend seamlessly with the kitchen design.

However, you could also give the wet bar its own personality. This could include bold accent colors, decorative or metal finishes, antique mirror, decorative tile, or accent lighting to make it a standout feature of your kitchen.

Coffee bar

Most people start their day with a big cup of coffee. Why not create a functional kitchen space just for coffee, dress it up, and make it a focal point of your space? 

Finding a nook in your kitchen can showcase that expensive espresso maker and create a practical and stylish coffee bar.

Kennedy is currently converting a small pantry into a coffee bar in her own kitchen. She noticed that the pantry had a lot of wasted space that could be used in a more meaningful way. Her coffee bar will include a space for everyday items like K-cups, coffee mugs, making her morning routine much easier while freeing up useful countertop space.

The goal in designated spaces is all about function. In today’s society we’re always running to get to the next place, so we really want to make the most of the time we have at home. Whether it’s a busy school morning or family Christmas dinner, zones create an aesthetically pleasing and functional kitchen you can truly enjoy.

If you need help creating designated spaces in your kitchen, give us a call. ELM is an award-winning design/build company based in Vestavia Hills, AL. We would love the opportunity to see how we can work together to create the kitchen you've been dreaming of.

ELM Construction’s Liz Kennedy is a Woman to Watch

At ELM Construction, we are proud that our own Liz Kennedy has been named one of the Birmingham Business Journal’s Women to Watch in 2024.

The goal of the Women to Watch program is to recognize women who are making an impact in their industries and communities. Liz is the perfect example of this, as she brings her leadership, innovation, and dedication to everything she does.

We all know Liz to be a talented designer. The projects she leads have made an impact on countless families in the Birmingham area, providing them with beautiful, elegant homes they can take pride in and enjoy for generations.

She achieves this by working closely with her clients, listening to their needs, and helping to make sure that projects are executed according to their vision. Her work reflects her passion for creating growth opportunities and her commitment to excellence.

Driven by Family and Faith

For Liz, the foundation for her success and perseverance lies in her family and her faith. She has leaned on her faith and the support of her loved ones to push through moments of doubt and adversity.

Her family motivates her to continue striving for excellence, while her faith provides her with the strength and guidance to pursue her goals, both professionally and personally. It is through this powerful combination that she gets the determination to make an impact in her work and in her community.

Leadership and Innovation

Liz has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. Her strategic vision and ability to inspire her team have led to beautiful, inspiring designs that her clients have loved.

With Liz leading our design team, ELM Construction has received recognition at both the local and even the national levels. Her leadership style has helped us foster a culture of collaboration and forward-thinking that serves our clients well.

Liz's approach to leadership is rooted in her belief that innovation is key to staying competitive in today’s fast-paced market. She has implemented strategies that have streamlined processes, improved client relationships, and bolstered our reputation as a market leader.

Championing Women in Business

Liz’s recognition as one of the Women to Watch in 2024 is a result of her professional achievements, and more importantly, her role as a mentor and advocate for women in business. She understands the unique challenges women face in the corporate world and sees it as her responsibility to support the next generation of female leaders.

By creating opportunities for women to thrive and succeed, Liz is helping to level the playing field in construction. Through her mentorship and professional development, she has empowered many women to break barriers and achieve new heights in their careers.

Making a Difference in Birmingham

Outside of work, Liz is passionate about giving back to her community. She has spearheaded several philanthropic initiatives aimed at supporting local organizations and causes. Her dedication to making Birmingham a better place for everyone exemplifies her belief that business leaders have a responsibility to contribute to the communities in which they operate.

Liz does all this because she wants to create a lasting, positive impact. She is always looking for ways to make a difference and trying to inspire others to do the same.

Above all, Liz is humble. So if you work with her on your home renovation, or you see her around town, be sure to say congratulations.

We’re very proud to have her on the ELM Construction team!

Gold Fixtures Are Back…But Are They Already Leaving?

For years, sleek finishes like chrome, brushed nickel, and even black have dominated. But now gold is making a comeback. Is it here to stay?

Gold finishes used to be associated with 1980s excess, and anything gold made a space feel dated. But now with new ways to incorporate gold, it can make a space feel more delicate and sophisticated.

However, many homeowners who are planning a remodel ask us if we think gold in the home will go back out of fashion as quickly as it came in. The answer is complicated - let's discuss.

Why we love gold

Gold is a more versatile finish than you might think. It can take on many different personalities and work in a variety of design styles.

You can choose from options like timeless antique gold, rustic aged brass, feminine rose gold, classic shiny gold, and modern matte gold. Each brings a unique style element to a space.

Depending on the type of gold you choose, the finish can be a subtle detail that ties a space together or a bold statement that stands out.

Gold also pairs well with most colors and materials. It looks just as stunning next to white marble tile as it does with wood or natural stone. It warms up a space and makes it feel complete, which many homeowners hope to achieve during a remodel.

How to use gold in your home

If you're worried that gold’s new popularity is a fleeting trend, you can use it sparingly in the bathroom or kitchen. Faucets and cabinet pulls will give you a hint of the elegance that gold provides without overdoing it.

The key is to be tasteful and use gold fixtures to fit the vibe and style of the home. On the other hand, if you are not planning on updating anything else in your home but go through and replace all of the faucets with gold, then they will look out of place.

Another way to incorporate gold is to use muted tones. We are using and seeing a lot of brushed brass instead of the polished brass that looks like it came right out of the 80s and 90s.

As long as it is used correctly, whether that is in light fixtures, plumbing, cabinet hardware, or exterior details, gold and brass finishes can really provide an upscale detail throughout your home.

On the other hand, if you just love the look of gold and aren’t concerned about it going out of style, you can go big. Some options include a gold range hood, appliances, or light fixtures that will take command of the space. You can install backsplashes or wallpaper with hints of gold that will sparkle in your space.

It’s your home, after all, and if gold makes you happy, use it as much as you like!

Is gold here to stay?

Trends in home design move quickly, so it's not a surprise that we are seeing fewer homeowners asking for gold than we did a few years ago. Many designers are pushing the mixed metal style where gold, silver, and chrome work together to create a more balanced look.

However, that doesn't mean you should avoid gold altogether.

We believe that as long as you carefully and intentionally include gold in your home design, it can feel like a timeless addition to your home. If you consider the rest of the features of the space that is being remodeled, make sure that the gold touches you include don't make the space feel overwhelming or tacky.

If you can do that, we think gold is here to stay!

And if you need help with your project, our designers are ready to help you choose the materials, surfaces, and finishes that suit your style.

Wallpaper is Hot Again! But Will You Regret Installing It?

Few home design products provoke such an emotional reaction as wallpaper. Whether it’s due to the memory of ugly wallpaper from a childhood home, or the frustration of trying to hang it yourself in an ill-fated project, many people have sworn off of it forever.

But in the last few years, wallpaper has made a big comeback. From bold patterns to subtle textures, wallpaper has re-emerged as a versatile design element that can transform a room.

Now, many people are reconsidering wallpaper and having it installed in their homes. If you fall into this category, it might be wise to ask yourself: will you regret installing it?

Before you make your decision, you should weigh the pros and cons to determine if it’s the right choice for your home.

The Appeal of Wallpaper

One of the main reasons wallpaper is back in vogue is its ability to create a striking visual impact.

Unlike paint, which typically offers a uniform finish, wallpaper can bring in intricate designs, textures, and even a sense of luxury to a space. Whether you’re aiming for a dramatic statement wall or a soft, subtle backdrop, wallpaper provides endless possibilities.

Here in Vestavia Hills, and beyond, homeowners are increasingly drawn to wallpaper for its ability to personalize a space. With a variety of patterns ranging from floral to geometric, and from traditional to modern, wallpaper allows you to express your unique style in a way that paint simply can’t match.

Also, today’s wallpaper products are more durable and easier to maintain, eliminating many of the drawbacks that gave people nightmares in the past.

The Practical Considerations

While today’s wallpaper looks great, you should also think about the practical aspects of installing it in your home.

Despite the advancements in technology, wallpaper installation still requires precise measurements, careful alignment, and often, professional installation to achieve the best results. Any mistakes in the process can lead to unsightly seams, bubbles, or misaligned patterns, which can be frustrating and costly to fix.

Something else to think about is that wallpaper is a long-term commitment. While paint can be easily covered with a new coat, wallpaper is more challenging to remove or replace.

Durability and Maintenance

Many modern wallpapers are washable and resistant to stains, making them suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms. In fact, some wallpapers are specifically designed for bathrooms and kitchens, offering moisture resistance that can stand up to the challenges of these environments.

However, maintenance is still a consideration. While washable wallpaper can handle the occasional spill or smudge, it’s not as easy to touch up as paint. If a section of wallpaper gets damaged, repairing or replacing the damaged area can be tricky and might require replacing the entire panel.

Style Longevity

Perhaps this should have been the first factor. The reason most people have bad memories of wallpaper is because it lasts longer than design trends people’s tastes. So rooms end up looking hopelessly dated.

While modern wallpaper is often chic by today’s standards, things change. Think about whether the pattern or style you choose will stand the test of time. A bold, trendy design might look fantastic today, but will you still love it in five or ten years?

Classic designs tend to have more staying power, so if you’re concerned about longevity, it might be wise to opt for a more timeless pattern.

Today’s wallpaper is not the same as what you remember from your grandparents’ house. It’s a stylish choice that can add personality and sophistication to your home. Its resurgence in popularity reflects a broader trend towards more personalized and expressive interior design.

However, it’s not without its challenges. The commitment, installation process, and potential for future regret are all factors that need careful consideration.

If you’re thinking about wallpaper for your home, our designers can help you weigh all the options and pick what’s best for you. Even if it’s just paint.

3 Tips for Renovating Your Primary Bedroom

Your primary bedroom should be a beautiful retreat that feels equally luxurious and peaceful. It should be your private sanctuary where you can start and end your day on a high note, leading to happier and more productive days.

Renovating your primary bedroom is an exciting undertaking that can improve your home and overall well-being. If it's time to transform your primary bedroom into a luxurious suite, here are some things you should include.

Custom storage solutions

Do you have clothes piled up on your dresser? Laundry thrown in a corner—it's okay—we've seen it all.

One way to fix the mess in your space is by including custom storage in your renovation. This could look like a built-in wardrobe with plenty of shelving and organizational spaces, which could take up a good part of a bare wall. The built-in wardrobe would reflect your space’s overall style and could seamlessly blend into the room.

If your floor plan allows, we could add a walk-in closet if your primary bedroom doesn’t already have one. Some of the older homes here in Birmingham only have small two-tier closets, but with some creativity, we could move things around and create a walk-in closet with plenty of shelving and storage space. You’ll have more than enough room for your clothes, shoes, and maybe even your extra bedding and blankets.

Don’t forget about lighting

Lighting plays a vital role in creating a space that feels relaxing and completes the room's design. In your bedroom, it is a good idea to include layered lighting, which is a blend of three types of lighting: ambient, task, and accent. Each type of lighting serves a specific purpose and will also make your space feel more luxurious.

First, you could install a chandelier above your bed for ambient lighting. This will act as a design focal point around which you can base the rest of your décor choices.

 Next, you could install task lighting, like sconces or table lamps, on either side of the bed and above any artwork you may include in your bedroom.

Lastly, for accent lighting, you could include dimmable recessed lighting, allowing you to create an ambiance that makes the space feel soothing and comfortable.

Make it a smart space

While you're renovating, finding ways to include smart technology in your space is a good idea. Some examples in the primary bedroom include smart thermostats, which will allow you to control the temperature so that it's not too warm or too cool when you're ready to head to bed.

Voice-controlled lighting is another feature many homeowners love to include in their primary bedroom so that they don't have to fumble around in the dark. Both of these additions will make life easier and help you save on your utility bills since it will be easier to control energy usage.

Renovating your primary bedroom will require quite a bit of planning. Whether that seems overwhelming or you need a little bit of direction, we are here to help you with the project.

We will discuss your current space and what you hope to achieve, then transform your ideas into a luxurious space to which you can't wait to come home. Give us a call to get the project started.

How to Get Shade on Your Patio

Now that the cicadas seem to have returned to wherever they came from and the weather has been pretty nice, you may be spending more time outside on your deck or patio.

Early mornings and late evenings have been beautiful here in Alabama, but the middle of the day sun can be brutal, so if your outdoor seating area doesn’t have shade, you may want to consider adding some. Let’s look at some awnings and canopies you can add to your outdoor space.

Wood Slat

Thanks to its versatile and timeless look, the wood slat is one of the most popular types of shade fixtures. This type of shade structure can be used in several forms, including pergolas or awnings, or as a privacy fence.

Using reclaimed wood can make this option more eco-friendly, and as long as you treat and maintain the wood properly, it should last for many years.

There are plenty of options when it comes to wood slats. You could opt for light and unfinished wood, which will give your space a more laid-back look, or you could use dark wood for a more classic look.

Both options can be the perfect base to decorate around using lanterns, curtains, and plants to create a beautiful space you can enjoy all year round.

Pergolas with Retractable Canopies

Another great shade option is a pergola with retractable canopies. Pergolas add a functional focal point and structure to your outdoor area. While the canopy is extended, you can shade yourself from harsh UV rays, and once the warmest part of the day is done, you can remove the canopy to give yourself unobstructed views of the sun.

One of the best things about pergolas with retractable canopies is their versatility.  With so many different colors and textures of canopies to choose from, this option really allows you to show off your design style while keeping cool.

Green Awnings

If you’re willing to practice some patience, you could consider a green awning made from living plants. For this option, you will want to start with a trellis structure and surround it with climbing plants like ivy or grapevines.  These plants will eventually form a roof and create a picturesque shade covering for your patio.

Green awnings provide shade and reduce heat around your home. Dress up the space with twinkle lights and potted geraniums, and your patio will transform into a secret garden perfect for a midsummer soiree.

Sunshade Sails

Similar to retractable canopies, sunshade sails are UV-resistant fabric shades ideal for our harsh Southern climate. With this option, you’ll get coverage from the sun while still allowing air to circulate.

Sunshade sails can be used to provide some shade for your garden, over the pool or patio, or any other spot in the backyard that would benefit from a little protection from the sun.

How would you like to add shade to your backyard? We can help! Give us a call to so we can put some ideas together and allow you to have a more enjoyable outdoor experience this summer.