Whew!  I don’t know about my subjects of the Royal Design Court out there, but I have enjoyed the very mild summer here in middle Tennessee.  The Dog Days of Summer have finally come upon us as August kicks up the thermostat.  In this heat I have a few favorite spots to hold court with our guests, enjoy a gentle breeze blowing thru my fabulous Blenheim coat or take a stroll in the dappled morning light.

Darby Watermark 72-26 I’ve designed our outdoor areas to be elegant AND sophisticated while offering the practicality that is required.  My owners do love to share a refreshing libation with their guests on the front porch.  This porch offers a great vantage point with which I can often be seen keeping a watchful eye on the goings on in historic Downtown Franklin.  When creating such a comfortable space outdoors, wicker is a must.  It has a Victorian provenance, which you know I adore, so I’ve selected swings and rockers to while away the hours in the most dreamy cappuccino distressed finish.  And the fabrics!  When you get the opportunity to select your custom fabrics, please DON’T use a solid.  Mix up the patterns so you get a more interesting look for your guests.  And, the added benefit is the patterns help hide soiling when my paws are a little dirty—which is rare, of course.

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When the weather turns chilly, the back porch will become my owners’ “go to” spot for fireside dining, the roasting of the occasional marshmallow with little friends or warming of ones paws by the hearth.  With all these needs in mind, I’ve selected seating that would swivel so I can easily lay and watch the goings on and merriment without missing anything.  Again, notice the combination of fabrics that are the perfect compliment to the stylish outdoor rug offering the latest in patio elegance.  Of course, no room is complete without incorporating some vintage and my signature colors of Blue and White.  Accessories are a must!

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No outdoor tour of my residence would be complete without a stroll down the secret path that I’ve created for my owner, Eric, to enjoy his passion for boxwoods and hydrangeas.  This is where you’ll find the special moment I created by using another trick of mine–incorporating antiques into the garden.  I have placed a vintage putti and urn amidst the boxwood border and note the Macho Fern for softness.  (In fact, the only macho thing in this garden.  Woof!)

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So, as you’ve undoubtedly heard here before…it is important to design the outdoor spaces in your home to be as gracious and welcoming as the interiors.  They truly are an extension of your home and provide a place for guests to relax and enjoy some good ole southern hospitality!

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