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sakuranym · 1 year
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Contemporary Patio in New York
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A large, modern front yard patio container garden design example with decking and an addition to the roof
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fy-hyungwonho · 1 year
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Landscape Natural Stone Pavers in New York Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional partial sun backyard stone formal garden in spring.
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rocioguillen · 2 years
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Rooftop in New York Examples of mid-sized, modern rooftop deck renovations with awnings
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amherstlandscaping · 3 months
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How Landscaping Can Enhance Property Value in Amherst?
At Amherst Landscaping, we understand the profound impact that a well-designed landscape can have on your property's value. Our comprehensive landscaping services not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also significantly increase its market value. By choosing the Best Landscaping Service in Amherst, you invest in a range of benefits that extend beyond simple beautification.
A beautifully landscaped property creates an inviting and appealing first impression, which is crucial for potential buyers. Features such as lush green lawns, vibrant flower beds, and well-maintained trees add to the curb appeal, making your home stand out in the neighborhood. Moreover, strategic landscaping, including hardscapes like patios and walkways, can create functional outdoor living spaces that add both value and enjoyment to your property.
Sustainable landscaping practices, like the use of native plants and efficient irrigation systems, not only conserve resources but also reduce maintenance costs, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers. Additionally, a professionally designed landscape can mitigate environmental factors, such as erosion and drainage issues, further enhancing the property's value and stability.
Choosing Amherst Landscaping means partnering with experts who are dedicated to transforming your outdoor space into a valuable asset. Trust us to deliver the Best Landscaping Service in Amherst, ensuring your property looks stunning and retains its value for years to come.
For More Details to know,
Visit Us: https://amherstlandscaping.com/
Call: +1 716-235-1333
Address: Amherst, NY, United States, New York
Maps: https://g.page/amherst-landscaping?share
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https://www.facebook.com/Amherstlandscaping https://www.instagram.com/amherstlandscaping/ https://x.com/AmherstLandsca2 https://www.linkedin.com/company/amherst-landscaping https://www.youtube.com/@amherstlandscaping3938
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glampingfingerlakes · 3 months
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Best Places to Stay Near Watkins Glen: A Comprehensive Guide
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Watkins Glen, nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of New York, is a stunning destination renowned for its picturesque landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture. Whether you're visiting for the breathtaking waterfalls, the world-famous racetrack, or the delightful wineries, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial for an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we provide a detailed look at the best places to stay near Watkins Glen, ensuring your trip is comfortable, convenient, and memorable.
Luxurious Lodging: Embrace Comfort and Elegance
The Harbor Hotel
The Harbor Hotel is a premier choice for visitors seeking luxurious accommodations with stunning views of Seneca Lake. This upscale hotel offers elegant rooms and suites, each tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the hotel's fine dining restaurant, Blue Pointe Grille, which serves delicious regional cuisine, or relax with a cocktail at the Coldwater Bar. The Harbor Hotel also features a state-of-the-art fitness center, an indoor pool, and a seasonal outdoor patio perfect for enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Glenora Wine Cellars Inn
For a unique blend of luxury and local charm, the Glenora Wine Cellars Inn is an excellent choice. Situated amidst lush vineyards, this charming inn offers beautifully appointed rooms with private balconies overlooking Seneca Lake. Guests can indulge in complimentary wine tastings at the Glenora Wine Cellars, enjoy gourmet meals at the on-site restaurant Veraisons, and explore the scenic walking trails around the property. The inn's serene setting and exceptional hospitality make it a favorite among visitors to Watkins Glen.
Cozy Bed and Breakfasts: A Home Away from Home
Idlwilde Inn
The Idlwilde Inn is a magnificent Victorian mansion turned bed and breakfast, offering a charming and intimate stay. Each room is uniquely decorated with antique furnishings, providing a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere. Guests can savor a delicious homemade breakfast each morning, served in the elegant dining room or on the wraparound porch with views of Seneca Lake. The inn's lush gardens and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and a touch of history.
Echoes of the Glen Bed & Breakfast
Conveniently located just minutes from Watkins Glen State Park, Echoes of the Glen Bed & Breakfast offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This delightful B&B features comfortable rooms with modern amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a scrumptious homemade breakfast. The hosts are known for their exceptional hospitality, providing guests with valuable insights into local attractions and dining options. Its proximity to the park makes it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
Unique Stays: Experience Something Different
Naturluxe & Stars
For those looking to combine the beauty of nature with the comfort of modern amenities, Naturluxe & Stars is an exceptional choice. This glamping site offers luxurious safari tents and cabins nestled in the woods, providing a unique and immersive outdoor experience. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed with plush bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and private decks. Guests can enjoy stargazing, hiking trails, and campfire gatherings, all while being just a short drive from the attractions of Watkins Glen. Naturluxe & Stars perfectly blends adventure and relaxation, making it a standout option for travelers.
The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
Animal lovers and vegans will find a delightful haven at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast. This charming B&B, located on a peaceful property just outside Watkins Glen, offers comfortable vegan-friendly accommodations. Guests can enjoy a delicious plant-based breakfast each morning and spend time with the resident cats. The serene setting and compassionate ethos of The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast provide a unique and heartwarming experience.
Budget-Friendly Options: Comfort on a Dime
Watkins Glen Villager Motel
Travelers on a budget will appreciate the convenience and affordability of the Watkins Glen Villager Motel. This centrally located motel offers clean and comfortable rooms with essential amenities, including free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Guests can take advantage of the motel's proximity to local attractions, dining, and shopping, making it an excellent base for exploring Watkins Glen without breaking the bank.
Seneca Lodge
For a rustic yet comfortable stay, Seneca Lodge provides budget-friendly cabins and motel rooms. Located near the entrance of Watkins Glen State Park, this lodge offers easy access to hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. Guests can unwind at the on-site tavern, known for its lively atmosphere and memorabilia from the Watkins Glen International racetrack. Seneca Lodge's charm and affordability make it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts and race fans.
Family-Friendly Accommodations: Fun for All Ages
Longhouse Lodge Motel
Families visiting Watkins Glen will find the Longhouse Lodge Motel to be a welcoming and convenient option. This family-owned motel offers spacious rooms, a heated outdoor pool, and a picnic area with grills. Children can enjoy the playground, and parents will appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast. The motel's friendly atmosphere and thoughtful amenities ensure a comfortable stay for guests of all ages.
Finger Lakes Bed & Breakfast
Another excellent family-friendly option is the Finger Lakes Bed & Breakfast. This lovely B&B features large family suites, a beautiful garden, and a common room stocked with games and books. Guests can start their day with a hearty homemade breakfast and explore the nearby attractions, including the Watkins Glen International racetrack and local wineries. The welcoming hosts and homely ambiance make it a top choice for families.
Pet-Friendly Stays: Bring Your Furry Friends
The Colonial Inn & Motel
Traveling with pets? The Colonial Inn & Motel offers pet-friendly accommodations just minutes from Watkins Glen State Park. This charming inn features comfortable rooms and suites with all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast each morning and take their furry friends for walks around the scenic property. The Colonial Inn & Motel's warm hospitality extends to all members of the family, including four-legged ones.
Plum Point Lodge
Nestled on the shores of Seneca Lake, Plum Point Lodge is a pet-friendly hotel that offers a relaxing and picturesque setting. The lodge features cozy rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a beautiful lakeside garden. Guests can enjoy water activities, wine tastings, and leisurely strolls with their pets along the waterfront. Plum Point Lodge's serene environment and pet-friendly policies make it an ideal retreat for travelers with pets.
Conclusion
Whether you're seeking luxury, comfort, or a unique experience, Watkins Glen offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. From luxurious hotels and charming bed and breakfasts to budget-friendly motels and family-friendly lodges, you'll find the perfect place to stay. Consider options like Naturluxe & Stars for a truly unforgettable glamping experience. Plan your visit to Watkins Glen today and enjoy all the natural beauty and attractions this incredible destination has to offer.
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Clarence, NY, with its charming neighborhoods and scenic beauty, is a haven for those seeking a connection to nature. But translating that desire into a vibrant, functional outdoor space can feel overwhelming. That's where landscape design professionals come in, and Soil and Seed Landscaping is here to guide you.
Transforming Your Vision into Reality:
Our experienced landscape designers in Clarence NY, are passionate about creating unique and personalized outdoor spaces that reflect your style and needs. We believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to understand your vision, budget, and the unique characteristics of your property.
What We Offer:
Comprehensive Consultation: We'll begin by discussing your aspirations, preferences, and lifestyle. We'll also analyze your property's sun exposure, drainage patterns, and soil composition.
Creative Design Solutions: Our team will develop innovative and functional designs that incorporate various elements, such as patios, walkways, fire pits, water features, and stunning plant selections.
3D Visualization Tools: We utilize cutting-edge 3D modeling software to provide a realistic and immersive experience, allowing you to visualize your dream landscape before installation.
Expert Plant Knowledge: Our team has extensive knowledge of local flora and fauna, ensuring we recommend plants that thrive in our region and contribute to a balanced ecosystem.
Sustainable Practices: We prioritize eco-friendly practices whenever possible, using native plants, water-efficient irrigation systems, and sustainable materials.
Benefits of Professional Landscape Design:
Increased Property Value: A professionally designed landscape enhances the curb appeal and value of your property, making it a worthwhile investment.
Enhanced Functionality: We design spaces that cater to your lifestyle, whether it's entertaining, relaxation, or creating a haven for children and pets.
Improved Aesthetics: A well-designed landscape elevates the visual appeal of your property, creating a beautiful outdoor oasis you can enjoy year-round.
Stress-Free Process: Our team takes care of everything from initial consultations to final installation, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for you.
Ready to Start Your Landscape Design Journey?
Contact Soil and Seed Landscaping in Clarence, NY, today for a free consultation. Let us help you transform your outdoor space into a functional and beautiful extension of your home. We look forward to collaborating with you and bringing your vision to life!
Contact Us
Visit Us: www.sslandscapingny.com
Phone No: +1 (716) 320-7707
Address: 5369 Marguerites Way Clarence, New York, NY
GOOGLE MAPS: https://maps.app.goo.gl/upxWxquc3MGpy1zj9
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theoracleprogram · 7 months
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The House of Xavier Corberó, Corberó (On process) Interview by Alberto Moya
Moya: What was going through your mind when you started building the house?
Corberó: Perhaps the primal reason that moved me to start building was that I found the last fine spot on a street in Esplugues, a municipality of the Barcelona metropolitan area. I thought that it could conceal the ugly bit, it could end up looking pretty nice. And that's how I have spent the last 50 years of my life.
It all began in 1960 and we have been building and building and building ever since. Everything that I have ever done can be found here. This house grew on me. I've kept on creating while getting older. This space is around 5,000m. I began living on the other side of the street. Later, I moved across the way. So I have been moving around during construction. When I first arrived, the space was a potato field. Works began in 1968-69 and we are still working on it. I had a plan and drew almost everything. It’s now beginning to be like what I had hoped-although I never really expected to see it take shape, because I didn't have a penny. Yet we have found ways to pay for most of it. I am now trying to see it I can pay for what's left. The new area I'm working on at the moment is rather big, with many windows. It's quite expensive.
Moya: What did you have in mind when designing this house? Was there any specific place, any point of reference? New York, maybe? Anything you wanted to bring from elsewhere?
Corberó: No. this was what I had always wanted to do, and that is how drew it.
Moya: What exactly did you want to do?
Corberó: I wanted there to be a spot from which almost everything else could be seen. To create, to the extent feasible, a continuum: a place in which the mental space-not the real one-is what matters. I also wanted it to be similar to when you listen to a piece of music by Bach; if you stop and start again, it doesn't matter that much, nothing really happens, because it's a series of things that are happening at once, but a series of things that become one same thing. That's to say, the poem is one, but the words that compose it are several. I also wanted to play with the lighting; I had this idea of having a circular patio, but then I realized that these octagonal windows could form a kind of kaleidoscope, creating these unexpected and beautiful reflections. With this I created some sculptures, too.
Ultimately, I make sculptures, and the houses just happen to come from these sculptures, which you could say come from the beast itself. You never really know why they come out as they do. My aspiration is to create poetry with anything I put my hands on, be it sculpture, architecture, or space. What interests me is that the final result can become a poem, which for me is the mother of everything. Poetry should be simple: a poem is literature that didn't reach the age of a page.
In other words, with just one page you can say a lot, and that's largely how I see my work.
Moya: Do you think music is necessary to understanding this house? Is this something you try to incorporate when someone is visiting the space?
Corberó: Yes, I do. I really like music. I have always thought that when a space has the right scale, music will always sound beautiful. Just like when an exterior has the right scale, trees grow; there is no need to plant them. Here, there is a fig tree right in the middle, and there is another patio upstairs with another fig tree right in the middle. And I bought neither of them, nor a single palm tree of the many I own. They grow because they are happy here! So with music it's the same; it sounds right when the space's scale is right. I wasn't aware of that before, but now l know. Music will always go well with the space; it contributes to the poem.
Moya: When you were designing the house, were you thinking about your own needs and seeing yourself alone in the space, or were you thinking more about your family? Or was it both at once?
Corberó: I most definitely wasn't thinking of the family, but nor was I thinking of myself. I try to step aside from everything when working to stay very neutral. My priority is that which I'm making. When engaged in that project, there is definitely one way to make it more perfectly than other ways, and there's also a way that is the most perfect of all. The idea is to get as close as possible to the most perfect way. More than thinking, you have to constantly doubt that you're already doing your best. You have to observe, look at it over and over again, and, where necessary, make more mockups to see if the scale and the different components are right. We can never keep track of every detail. And, of course, this is more than a matter of thinking-it's a matter of looking and seeing. Nowadays it's not so common to look. We all go to school, we are all handed the diploma, everybody thinks, but no one looks. I often think of the sushi cooks who spend eight years just looking, and by the end of it they know how to cut the fish. Of course you could also explain how to cut the fish, but it's useless. You have to observe how the fish is cut. People think it's enough just to think. But the most essential action is to look. Going to school is important up to a point—no one teaches you how to kiss at school. So I wouldn't say there was a specific feeling, emotion, or need that drove me when designing the house. I did it in the same way I do sculptures: I don't think too much. I only think afterwards, when I see it. I prepare drawings, then I do mockups, and then I do dummies because I don't trust myself.
Moya: Would you say there are any aesthetic trends that predominate here?
Corberó: No. For me, a house is like a diary. And, here, every object has its own personal story. These two pomegranates, that teapot over there— and what about the dialogue between the different materials and the whole house? I guess these are ruled by life, different moments and experiences one has had.
Moya: When you were designing the house, how did you see the connection between beauty and necessity? Was one of them more relevant to you?
Corberó: The idea of necessity was the same one that leads me to make sculptures, something that can become pretty mysterious at times. When creating a piece, you think it must turn out as you imagined it. This makes you sharpen your wit so the piece is the closest it could be to the mental image.
But you're surprised because you have only anticipated one percent of what actually happens, just like what happens with filmmaking or anything else. A written piece is not the same as a film on screen. Now there is a tendency to think that all this can be solved with all the virtual resources we have today. Today, most architects work digitally, so between virtual reality and theory we are forced to sit on chairs where we can't even sit. Or we find ourselves in spaces where it's impossible to relax because if's awkward-such as in a hotel where you would think you'd feel comfortable, but it feels more like the waiting room of a gloomy airport. What I try to do does not stem from reason. Ot course l use reason to construct and to make sure the building stands on its own, but the rest is all due to a variety of reasons. Reasons that have an ethical and/or an aesthetic dimension—two terms that work together-as well as divine. The spirituality of the whole thing is indefinable. If it were definable it would no longer be spiritual. It would be rational, I guess. And that is the problem with very rationalist architecture: it's by no means wrong, it's perfectly fine, but you don't feel all right in it. If I dedicated myself to building houses for lords and masters, guess I'd think more carefully about how they are going to be used. But I would rather take the thought as such, for its own sake. This sitting room is not meant to have big important meetings, it's meant to be as it is, a space where I can place a sculpture, a piece of furniture, all contributing to make it look more beautiful. The thought relates to what it is in itself, not its purpose. Otherwise I'd do it differently.
Moya: Tell us about the floor plan of the house, its structure, its relation with the space.
Corberó: I was mostly interested in the mental space. My intention was to make it possible to see most of the space at once. It's not like I consider it that much. I draw and then make; that's it. I guess the key is that I'm always looking, over and over. I don't believe very much in inspiration; I believe much more in perspiration. Work is what is most inspiring. The more you work the more inspired you are. And if you wait for inspiration to work, you never start. So it's true that this is my main working tool, and that I work a lot here, thinking about work. You could call that inspiration. I just don't know.
Moya: Talk me through the aesthetic and ethical dimensions of the house.
Corberó: In the end, aesthetics is the power to convince whoever is coming next that what you did was beautiful. However, whether or not something is beautiful is difficult to define. Hardly anything about all this can be defined, and that is why it's so difficult to learn anything in a place where people say they teach. It makes more sense to learn by being an apprentice: a place where there is no teacher, just someone who is learning. He carefully observes and pays attention, and that is how he learns. I think we are now going back to those days. Anyone who's making anything good out there today does not come from a university but from an apprenticeship.
Moya: What is it that you most enjoy doing when you find yourself at home?
Corberó: What I most enjoy is doing those things I have imagined in my head but that I have never found the time to do. Things I would love to see come true someday. The difficult bit is finding the time to do all those things. Most days, by the time I get home I am so exhausted I just go straight to sleep, and I must say I have a wonderful sleep. And when I wake up in the morning, I always find something that surprises me; things I didn't think were there but are. And these things take you to other things, as happens with sculpture. A sculpture takes you to another sculpture, and all together it's hard to explain, but to me that's how all things work. I never feel lonely if I find myself alone at home. I like being alone; in fact, it's when I'm at my best. To be able to think or make anything, it's always better when you're alone.
Moya: Any visits from people you admire?
Corberó: Yes, many! My two greatest masters were Salvador Dalí and Russell Page, a landscape architect disciple of Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier, who to me was the greatest ever.
Moya: Did you collaborate at all with Dalí?
Corberó: Yes, I made the eggs for Dali. All the eggs. The ones adorning the top of the Dalí Theatre-Museum, as well as the ones in Cadaqués. It all comes from those days in which we would see each other and he would ask, 'What are you up to?' and I would answer, I'm learning to lay eggs, because I thought that was the best business of all-laying eggs. And also because I consider making artworks to be a bit like laying eggs. It's something that comes out naturally and you just keep on going, you keep on laying. We were very good friends with Dalí. He was my first client. He bought everything I had in an exhibition at the Hispano-American Biennial in Barcelona in 1955. Later, he called and said, 'Allo, allo, it is Dali'. I thought it was someone pulling my leg, because I was only 19, so I said, And I am the bishop of Barcelona', and hung up. Then he called back and spoke to my father, but my father never told me. I didn't hear from him again until five years later, at my first one-month show in New York, where Dalí came in every day. I asked him why he came every day. And he said, 'Well, because I'm interested in your work; it's a pity you are so rude. I asked what I had done. He responded, 'No, it's what you didn't do!' I didn't understand what he meant. Finally, he explained. He said that it was a pity because someone had told him that I liked Zippos, the lighters used by the military, so he'd asked Cartier to make one for me. But as didn't appear he gave it to Baron de Redé. Anyway, what is rather strange is that some 25 years later, I had an operation in Dallas, for lung cancer. I was in an elevator in New York and this very beautiful lady recognized me. She was French, and we became good friends. On the day of my birthday she said, 'Sorry, I didn't remember to buy you anything, but I'm going to give you something you might like, which was given to me by a friend I looked after in hospital. And she gave me the lighter, because the friend was Baron de Redé. So I went to see Dalí and told him, 'Look, I have it'. And instead of saying, 'Oh, that's funny!' he said, 'Of course'. As if it were the most natural thing in the world that 25 years later, I would receive the lighter via such a strange set-up.
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imlandscapeandmasonry · 7 months
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Landscaping Trends In Peekskill: Insights From Local Professionals
Peekskill, New York, nestled along the Hudson River, boasts picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities. As homeowners and businesses seek to enhance their outdoor spaces, landscaping trends in Peekskill evolve to reflect both contemporary styles and the area's natural beauty. Local landscaping professionals, such as those at IM Landscape & Masonry, offer valuable insights into the latest trends shaping Peekskill's landscaping scene.
Sustainable Landscaping: With a growing emphasis on environmental conservation, sustainable landscaping practices are gaining popularity in Peekskill. Local landscapers prioritize native plantings, rainwater harvesting systems, and permeable paving options to minimize environmental impact and conserve resources.
Outdoor Living Spaces: The desire for outdoor living spaces that seamlessly blend with indoor environments continues to drive landscaping trends in Peekskill. Local professionals integrate features such as patios, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens to create functional and inviting outdoor retreats for homeowners to enjoy year-round.
Low-Maintenance Landscaping: In today's fast-paced world, homeowners in Peekskill increasingly seek low-maintenance landscaping solutions that require minimal upkeep. Landscaper Around Peekskill offer xeriscaping, drought-tolerant plants, and artificial turf options to reduce water usage and maintenance requirements while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Naturalistic Designs: Embracing the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley, landscaping trends in Peekskill often favor naturalistic designs that complement the surrounding landscape. Local professionals incorporate elements such as meandering pathways, native vegetation, and natural stone accents to create visually striking and environmentally harmonious landscapes.
Edible Gardens: With a growing interest in sustainable living and locally sourced produce, edible gardens are becoming a popular landscaping trend in Peekskill. Local landscapers design and install vegetable gardens, fruit orchards, and herb gardens that not only enhance the beauty of outdoor spaces but also provide homeowners with fresh, homegrown produce.
Excavation Services: Landscaping projects often require Excavation Service Near 10566 to prepare the site for various features such as patios, retaining walls, and drainage systems. Local landscaping professionals, including those at IM Landscape & Masonry, offer excavation services near the 10566 area code to efficiently and safely handle site preparation needs.
In conclusion, landscaping trends in Peekskill reflect a blend of contemporary styles, environmental consciousness, and appreciation for the region's natural beauty. Local landscaping professionals play a vital role in bringing these trends to life, offering innovative designs, sustainable solutions, and expert craftsmanship to create stunning outdoor spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses alike.
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How to Design and Customize an Outdoor Kitchen?
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Designing and customizing an outdoor kitchen can be an exciting project. Here are some key considerations and elements you can incorporate to create a functional and personalized outdoor kitchen: Layout and Location: Evaluate the available space and consider the best location for your outdoor kitchen. It should be convenient and easily accessible from your indoor kitchen and dining area. Determine the layout based on your needs and preferences. Common layouts include L-shape, U-shape, or straight-line configurations. Get support from contractor of outdoor kitchen in Long Island.
Cooking Appliances: Choose cooking appliances that suit your cooking style. Options include a built-in gas grill, charcoal grill, smoker, pizza oven, or a combination of these. Consider additional appliances such as side burners, griddles, or deep fryers for added versatility.
Countertops and Preparation Areas: Select durable, weather-resistant materials for your countertops such as granite, stainless steel, concrete, or tile. Incorporate ample countertop space for food preparation, serving, and staging. Include a sink for easy cleaning and food preparation. Buy custom outdoor kitchen in New York.
Storage: Install cabinets, drawers, or shelves to keep your cooking tools, utensils, and supplies organized and protected from the elements. Consider weatherproof storage options or choose materials that can withstand outdoor conditions.
Dining and Seating: Determine the seating and dining area based on your entertaining needs. Options include a dining table, bar counter with stools, or an outdoor kitchen island with seating. Ensure there is enough space for guests to move around comfortably while you're cooking.  
Lighting: Install proper lighting to create a welcoming ambiance and enhance safety during nighttime use. Incorporate a combination of task lighting for food preparation areas and ambient lighting for overall illumination.  
Shelter and Shade: Consider adding a pergola, canopy, or patio umbrella to provide shade and protection from the elements. If you have space and budget, you may also include a roofed structure to create a fully covered outdoor kitchen. Now one can buy outdoor kitchen Long Island at best price.  
Entertainment and Extras: Enhance your outdoor kitchen experience by adding entertainment options such as a weatherproof TV, outdoor speakers, or a built-in sound system. Include features like a mini-fridge, ice maker, or a beverage station to keep drinks easily accessible.  
Landscaping and Aesthetics: Blend your outdoor kitchen with the surrounding landscape by incorporating plants, flowers, or even a herb garden. Choose complementary materials, colors, and styles to create a cohesive and visually appealing outdoor living space.
Remember to consider local building codes, safety regulations, and consult professionals such as contractors, electricians, and plumbers when necessary. Customizing your outdoor kitchen allows you to create a unique space that meets your specific needs and style preferences.
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fmp-ana · 2 years
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FMP Research Blog
Points of interest-architecture,spatial design,social impact\interaction with the space (+democratising spaces through architecture) OR relocation\ time within architecture (eg temporary architecture)
water urbanism-architecture that interacts with water levels (ebb and flow)\relationship between build environment and water in a city
I would like to potentially explore architecture that interacts with water as a constantly changing body
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Venice-
a city on water-i am interested in the way that urban spaces adapt to the natural environment, rather than the other way round
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East River New York- City Waterfalls-
I am interested in this project as it public art project emphasising importance of natural resources and contrasts natural with urban
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AntiRoom II Malta-
a floating structure-changing perspective and experience of space and time through water and light
more points of interest about nature - rewilding in a city environment
“Urban rewilding looks to restore natural processes and reintroduce nature on a city scale and has a wide range of benefits, from improving health to helping to tackle the biodiversity and climate crises. It aims to balance the needs of humans and wildlife to create better urban landscapes for all’’
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Where have all the butterflies gone?
St. Paul’s hanging garden interested me as it encourage London’s wildlife and connect people to nature. This project promotes an elevated green space for the grow of butterflies.
The proposed garden is a combination of native plants and quick-growing annual flower to bring to the centre of the City a sense of autochthonous nature while improving the air quality and biodiversity.
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The new Valsolda Philharmonic hall
has been designed in relation to hits natural context: the mountains surrounding the valley are protagonists. The new multi-purpose centre will host cultural, artistic and educational activities,  The new architecture is designed as a continuous element of the landscape, the green roof integrates the volume within the section of the hearth, and it will be a collection different species of plants typical of the site.
Patio House, Geneva,
is designed around a central open patio as a natural element generating the project. From each room there is a view to the patio and to the garden so that each interior space faces, on two sides, natural spaces of different scales and characters; sightlines are therefore particularly important in this project. The building is slightly raised off the ground, to create space underneath that will allow a free environment for small animals and invertebrates to move around.
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Tiny forest Netherlands-
creating small ecosystems within city landscape -exploring achievable rewilding propositions and reflecting on self-driven rewilding during Covid lockdown,when lack of urban activity promoted urban plan growth
point for research “green gentrification’
rewilding as a means of representation for ethnic minorities;
Qunli National Urban Wetland
by Turenscape Landscape Architecture / 
east outskirt of Haerbin City of North China. More than one third of a million population are expected to live here.
Flood and water log were frequent in history for this area. Turenscape was commissioned to design a park of 34.2 Hectares, a former wetland but been surrounded at four side by roads and dense development. Water sources for this former wetland has been cut, and the wetland is under the threat of disappear. Turenscape’s strategy is to transform the dying wetland into an urban stormwater park, which will provide multiple ecosystems services for the new community.
The design solutions include the use of simple cut-and-fill technique to create a necklace of ponds-and-mounds surrounding the former wetland. While leaving a major core of the wetland untouched and left alone for natural evolution and transforming, the pond-and-mound ring surrounding the periphery of the wetland creates a stormwater filtrating and cleansing buffer zone for the core wetland, Native wetland grasses and meadow are grown in the ponds of various depths and the natural evolution process is initiated. Groves of native silver birch trees grown on the mounds of various heights and a network of paths allow visitor to have a walking-through-forest experience.
Through the transformation of this dying wetland, stormwater that frequently causes flood in the city become a positive environmental amenity for the city. This project demonstrate an ecosystem services oriented approach to urban park design, and showcase an water urbanism approach.
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 Landscape Rewilding Programme
initiated in Finland in 2017, to provide a mechanism for restoration, conservation, and ultimately equitable community- maintained biodiversity hotspots. It combines the action of rewilding in practice with Indigenous-, traditional knowledge- and community-relevant conservation
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communal gardening-the social impact of connecting with nature
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Social and political impact through architectural projects-
Harbor city
Addressing underrepresented social groups- USA project that provided a permanent space for one day labour workers who would seek employment daily on the streets and previously did not have a designed space
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A different point of interest-the experience of immigration\relocation through spaces and physical objects
link to a Belorusian photo project exploring emotional difficulties of forced immigration through personal meaningful objects
The Suitcase Project
focuses on the items contained in immigrants’ and migrants’ suitcases as an examination of the cultural and social landscape of the city Cleveland.
Temporary architecture
Model of Temporary Housing
Belgrade energy spot
The main idea / tendency is the use of alternative forms of housing in different situations / contexts and their (complete in every sence) implementation in existing urban continent. The basic element to be used within the set of models is the basic unit. The basic unit is a module for the accommodation of a single family, whose multiplications is further formed as structure. Unpretentious and very cost-effective, this project has all the characteristics that can be categorized as sustainable systems. At the same time, it can be one of the answers to the chronic problem of vulnerable groups of the population to which towns are increasingly faced throughout the world. This is what we consider important and what should be sought in the architecture of the future.
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The Sky Shelter.zip- Foldable Skyscraper
The foldable skyscraper is an initiative by Polish designers to avail of a mobile, zipped, and solar-powered shelter that is easily deployable and transportable. Apart from a temporary residence, the structure avails a rainwater harvesting system, a vertical farm, an infirmary, and a reception. The structure is made from nanomaterial that is then used to produce clean energy in case of emergencies.
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What is luxury landscaping? How can you incorporate it?
Beautiful outdoor living space may raise a home's curb appeal, increase its value, improve safety and security, and realize design fantasies. Luxury landscaping ideas refer to the utilization of high-end components and exquisite designs to create opulent outdoor living spaces. Today, outdoor living spaces might include things like an outdoor kitchen with wet bars, pizza ovens, barbecues, drawers, and under-counter refrigerators. You may spend money on ponds, streams, waterfalls, and bubbling rocks if you enjoy the sound of running water. For the purpose of fostering a warm atmosphere for friends and family during get-togethers, some homeowners decide to install outside lights.
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your-dietician · 2 years
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Rare Frank Lloyd Wright House Hits The Market In New York
New Post has been published on https://medianwire.com/rare-frank-lloyd-wright-house-hits-the-market-in-new-york/
Rare Frank Lloyd Wright House Hits The Market In New York
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Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty
Frank Lloyd Wright houses are not common in the East. In New York, the only house on the west bank of the Hudson designed by this country’s most famous architect is now for sale. Built circa 1960, this Usonian-style house is known as the Socrates Zaferiou House, named for its first owner. Set on two and one-half acres in New York’s Clausland Mountain Park, a 532 acre, heavily wooded park full of varied, wildlife, it has listed for $1.52 million by Richard Ellis and Brandon Wagner of Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty.
Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty
Completed after the death of Frank Lloyd Wright, the house is a good example of the Usonian style the architect championed late in his life. One of nine designed by Wright in the 1950s for developer Marshall Erdman, the house encompasses more than 2,600 square-feet and has four bedrooms and two and one-half baths. The property features a walk-out basement with tall ceilings, an unusual feature in Wright’s houses. There is a carport, a workshop, eat-in kitchen, security system, patio, central air conditioning and built-in vacuum.
Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty
It also features signature Wright elements, including an L-shaped open floor plan, a flat roof, an oversized masonry fireplace, large window expanses, wood paneling and Wright’s signature Cherokee red flooring. The home was completely restored to include all original elements of the period kitchen, full walk-out basement, patio and planting areas, and rows of glass doors and windows.
During construction of the home, Wright visited the site, but passed away in 1959, before it was completed. The project architect for the Guggenheim Museum in New York City later took over construction and finished the project.
Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty
“I love the property for its classic Frank Lloyd Wright style and the drama it creates,” says listing rep Richard Ellis. Sarah Anderson-Magness (also an owner) and Zaferiou, who met Wright at the site “share a passion about preserving this historic home, and a desire that future owners will respect it in the same way,” Ellis said.
“Accordingly, we’re looking for a caretaker as much as a buyer who will appreciate and preserve this home and get as much joy as living there as the original and current owners had,” Ellis added. “What a fitting setting for a Frank Lloyd Wright home — built into a hill on a 532-acre state park bringing in all the elements of nature, yet still 30 minutes to New York City.”
Read full article here
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amherstlandscaping · 3 months
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How Can Landscaping Enhance Property Value in Amherst?
🌳🌸 At Amherst Landscaping, we believe that a well-designed landscape is more than just an aesthetic improvement—it's a smart investment. Landscaping can significantly enhance property value in Amherst, offering a myriad of benefits to homeowners.
First impressions matter. A beautifully landscaped yard provides exceptional curb appeal, making your property stand out in the neighborhood. Prospective buyers are often willing to pay more for a home with a well-maintained garden and attractive outdoor spaces. 🌼🏡
Functional outdoor areas, such as patios, decks, and gardens, extend your living space. These areas are perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying family time, adding both utility and charm to your home. A well-planned landscape also includes trees and plants that provide shade and reduce energy costs, making your home more eco-friendly. 🌿☀️
Moreover, a thoughtfully landscaped property enhances privacy and security. Strategically placed trees, shrubs, and fences create natural barriers that can deter intruders and provide a peaceful retreat from the outside world. 🌳🔒
Choosing Amherst Landscaping means choosing the best landscaping service in Amherst. Our expertise and passion for creating stunning outdoor spaces ensure your property not only looks fantastic but also increases in value. 🌺✨
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fortheloveoffanfic · 3 years
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Behind Closed Doors
Keanu Reeves x OFC (Emma Mathers)
Masterlist Behind Closed Doors Masterlist
Warnings- tension, again.
When In Paris
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The suite at the five star Parisian hotel was far more glamorous than anything Emma had ever experienced, and that was coming after an extensive flight spent on a private jet. The wonder in her eyes was unmatched, and by just looking at her face, Keanu could tell that their trip was her first time traveling in luxury. Something about the twinkle in her eyes made him want to see it more, he wanted to spoil Emma, just so he could hear that, melodic, breathless laugh that she'd emitted when they boarded the private jet, see the way her red painted lips parted in awe when they landed in magnificent Paris and be privy to the way her pretty eyes widened when they entered the suite.
Upon Miranda finding out that a new collaboration with a New York based cosmetic company would have her missing the premiere in Paris, Keanu had found himself breathing a sigh of relief. Partially because he didn't want to spend the trip, and by extension his birthday, tolerating Miranda's constant nitpicking of Emma's methods and the little insults she usually threw the girl's way. But there was another part of him, softer and more cautious about letting its intentions known, that insisted that he was actually relieved because no Miranda meant more time alone with Emma. Keanu knew that he shouldn't have been thinking like that, he was engaged and highly doubted that Matt and Poppy's nanny even returned his not-so-platonic feelings. She was young and would probably be repulsed by the idea of being tied down by a man his age, far less one with young children.
As Keanu settled into his room, the master bedroom right next to the slightly smaller room where the twins would be staying and directly across from Emma's room, he tried to push away the intrusive thoughts, only to be interrupted by none other than the subject of his wandering eyes. "Got a minute?" She smiled shyly, loosely gripping the knob of his ajar door.
"I could spare a few," he grinned brightly despite himself. For her, he'd carve time out of the busiest of schedules.
"Great," Emma blushed, noting the way his gaze roved her form, clad in a snug, white sweater and a simple pair of blue jeans, "The kids, they want to go out. I'd take them on my own, but I've never been here, and I wouldn't want to get lost." Glancing at the floor, she tucked an escaped strand behind her ear, and Keanu didn’t think he could put into words how much he wanted to be the one doing that; his thumb caressing her high cheek bone, her skin soft and warm to touch. “If you don’t have time, then-”
“No,” Keanu dropped the shirt he was holding back into the suitcase, walking around the foot of the king sized bed, collecting his leather jacket and scarf on his way towards Emma. He stopped closer to her than he should have, and with that proximity, she had to tilt her head to meet his gaze, “I have time, we could go for a walk and if I remember correctly there should be a great café about a block away. You’ll like it.”
Stunned, Emma blinked quickly, not expecting Keanu to be so readily on board the idea of going out mere hours after they’d gotten to the hotel. She had started to forget how much fun and how carefree he could be when Miranda wasn’t around and even if she knew that her opinion didn’t really matter in the scheme of things, Emma thought she preferred Keanu when he was alone.
Surprisingly, he led her towards the drawing room with his hand on the center of her back, almost weightless even as comforting warmth emanated from his palm. It was almost as if he wanted to touch her, though he knew he shouldn't.
Calling out to the kids, who came running excitedly, both still dressed to go out, Keanu swiped Emma’s camel coat from off the back of the grey, floral patterned cabriole sofa, helping her into it. His fingers brushed her shoulders through her sweater, electrifying her nerves, and when he absently passed his hands over her arms after it was on, Emma sucked in a breath, restraining herself from leaning into him, “Thank you,” she blushed, hoping he wouldn’t see it.
“Of course,” he hated having to take his hands off her and before he could stop himself, Keanu found himself wondering what it would be like if he were with Emma instead of Miranda, surely, he hadn’t known her for as long, but being with her came naturally, and as he watched her kneeling to get Poppy into her pink, fuzzy, petite coat, closing up the large plastic buttons at the front, Keanu couldn’t deny how purely familial it felt; just her, him and the children. No one moaning about how the children should stay back for the evening, telling Matt that he couldn’t wear blue on blue or making snide remarks in his ear about how the nanny was overstepping when she pecked the kids on their foreheads. Keanu liked it when Emma overstepped, when she cared for his children as if they were her own, when she lightened the mood with a joke told under her breath and when she’d, even if accidentally, showed her concern for his own wellbeing, as if he were more to her than just an employer. “Everyone ready?”
“Ready guys?” Emma turned the question to the twins as she slipped her cell into her nude colored shoulder purse, proceeding to stylishly wrap a floral scarf around her neck, adding a pop of color to her cool toned outfit. When they both nodded vigorously, bouncing in agreement, she offered her hand, giggling when Matt went for it, leaving Poppy with him, “Alright, then let's go, lead the way,” Emma beamed, turning to Keanu.
The café that Keanu had told Emma about was right where he remembered, and they were led to a table quickly by the young hostess; perk of being a celebrity. They were tucked cozily in the corner of the patio dining area, where their scenic surroundings were still visible; orange and yellow leaves peppering the sidewalk after having fallen from trees planted along the edges, while picturesque buildings on the other side of the worn brick street added to the view. A small platter of strawberries and cream macarons as well as orange and chocolate madeleines, along with two hot chocolates were enough to get Matt and Poppy settled for a while, talking and giggling amongst themselves. Emma was sitting across from him, occasionally slipping small forkfuls of French silk pie into her mouth as she drank in the beauty of city, “Do you like it?” Keanu interrupted her thoughts, just as she was setting her latte down, her cherry red lipstick lightly staining the delicate china.
“The coffee, the chocolate or Paris?” She held his gaze, tongue darting out ever so slightly to moisten her lips, just before she brought the silverware to her mouth again, a playful glimmer dancing in her eyes. She was so, so beautiful, and Keanu had caught himself staring a few too many times.
Smile still evident, he shifted around a sliver of his moose cake, the plate streaked with pink, white and brown, trying not to fumble on his words. Emma didn’t really make him nervous per say, it was quite the opposite actually, Keanu usually felt a comfort and ease around her that was absent in the company of most others, like she was simply encouraging him to be the best version of himself. Still, that didn’t mean he didn’t long to be close to perfection in her eyes; say all the right things at the right times, impress her because even if she didn’t make him feel like he had to, Emma made him feel like she deserved it. “All of it, Paris, the chocolate, the coffee,” he quoted in reverse.
“Its…..perfect,” inhaling, a lone shiver ran through her, and she sipped her latte again, “I’ve actually never been out of the states, so this kind of feels…….magical.” There was a childlike sparkle in her expression, something Keanu hadn’t witnessed in anyone other than children in years, at his age, there weren’t many luxuries that he hadn’t yet experienced, and despite their two years together, Keanu had yet to see anything close to that on Miranda’s face. There was a time, within the first few months of them dating where he’d strove to impress her, going any lengths just so she’d be happy with him, but by the eighth or ninth month, it became a daunting, tiring task, and Miranda didn’t seem to care what he did, as long as it was up to her expensive tastes. Emma though, there was an air about her that made Keanu feel special, like he could give her the smallest thing and she’d just be in awe.
“You’ve never travelled?” Keanu frowned, his kids had been travelling with him since they were a year old, and at that point, he didn’t think they knew a life that didn’t involve leaving their home country at least twice a year.
She nodded, tearing her gaze from across the street and casting it back towards Keanu, “Nope, not out of the states,” embarrassed, Emma drew in a soft breath from the chilly autumn air, “First we couldn’t really afford it, but even when I got older, after my mom got us in a good place, she had to save so I could go the college. I don’t mind though,” straightening her back, Emma regained her quiet confidence, “I’ve got a lot of time for that.”
“You do,” Keanu agreed, bringing his espresso to his lips, blowing on the scaling beverage before taking a long sip, “I mean, one day you’re gonna be a famous designer and you’ll get to go wherever you want.”
Laughing quietly, Emma bent her head shyly, wispy dark strands falling over her face, having escaped from her high ponytail, “I don’t know about that,” she dismissed, “I mean, its gonna take a while before I even cement myself in the L.A. fashion scene, famous…..that’s something else. It’s a nice thought though.”
“Its a great reality too,” tentatively, he reached for her hand laid on the top of the wicker table, squeezing affectionately, before catching himself and reluctantly retracting, “I’ve seen some of what you can do, those dresses your made yourself, that purple tutu you made Pop for her recital last month, you can do this Em. I know it probably doesn't mean a lot coming from me, but I believe in you.”
“I,” she stumbled on her words, astonished by his faith in her, “It actually does mean a lot to me Keanu,” Emma dragged her lower lip through her teeth, and Keanu shifted in his chair, inhaling sharply, “Thank you.”
“Anytime,” he croaked, trying to slow his breaths. It was amazing how he could go from being wonderstruck by Emma to being turned on in just seconds. She was truly an enigma, one of a kind. “You know,” he huffed, hoping to change the topic and get them talking again to steer his thoughts away from anything too perverse, “This is my favorite, here, try it.” He offered her some of his cake on his fork, encouraging Emma to lean in. So much for going for something more innocent.
Hesitating, Emma eventually leaned over the table, letting Keanu feed her a bit of the cake, moaning in pleasure at its taste. She could easily see why it was his favorite, the raspberry, vanilla and dark chocolate all melded together in her mouth to create a symphony of flavor, each one complimenting the other perfectly as the moose melted on her tongue. “That’s amazing!” And at that, Poppy and Matt started cheering about how they wanted to try it too, their faces lighting up at how delightfully sweet the creamy desert was.
Dragging his lip through his teeth, Keanu chuckled as he looked on at Emma, “You have a little….” he gestured to the corner of his mouth, only laughing louder when Emma missed several times over. “Here,” he grabbed up his napkin, reaching over the table, “Let me,” dapping the corner of her lips, Keanu eyed the way her cheeks reddened and took a chance at carelessly brushing her skin with his thumb, his ragged breath matching hers. “Em…..” Knowing that the right thing would have meant pulling away wasn’t hard knowledge to come by, but knowing how to just be Emma’s friend and boss certainly was.
Her head tilted ever so slightly to the side and Emma’s blinking slowed, roughness of his touch so inviting that she wanted it to last forever. There was something at the tip of her lips, and Keanu yearned to know what it was, perhaps permission for his feelings, indication that she returned them, but alas, their moment was cut in half when Matt spotted a walking balloon vendor across the street, him and his sister protesting loudly, clamoring about how they wanted balloons. Immediately, Keanu pulled away, collecting his bearings and discarding the napkin, as Emma averted her stare, hoping to find anything more interesting. They’d come so close to crossing a line, and Keanu knew that had they kept going, he’d have hell to pay when he returned to L.A.
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One Week Later The premiere had fallen exactly on Keanu’s birthday, which was both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, him being gone for the day meant that Emma would have enough time to put her plan in action, but on the other, it also meant that by the time Keanu had gotten home, they kids were beat and borderline cranky. Thankfully though, Keanu had returned by half nine and neither Matt nor Poppy had fallen asleep in the cute little semi formal outfits Emma had dressed them in. As he’d walked in, flicking on the lights to illuminate the main room, looking tired and a little more down than she’d been expecting, Emma and the kids yelled excitedly, “Surprise!”
Shocked, Keanu jumped, holding his hand to his chest, speechless for a moment. Though, that, fortunately, didn’t last very long, “What is all this?” Second by second, a wide grin split his lips and his eyes scanned the room, landing on their set up on the coffee table; a layered cake, the one he’d mentioned as his favorite at the café, glasses along with a bottle of cider and a few presents, wrapped in cheerful paper with ribbons and bows adorning the top.
“It’s for you daddy!” Poppy was the first to run up to Keanu, grabbing his leg in a hug, followed only second later by Matt, who did the same. And just as he bent over, taking them into his ready arms, Emma stood from the sofa, not wanting to intrude on their moment, “Happy Birthday!” Kissing his cheek, Poppy, was sure to hug him as tightly as her little arms would allow.
“Happy Birthday daddy,” Matt followed suit, clinging to his father, playing with Keanu’s simple, black skinny tie as he hoisted them both on either side of his lips, “Do you like it? It was all Emma’s idea!”
“Well, I can’t take all the credit,” she admonished lightly when Keanu glanced to her, “I had a couple of excellent co planners,” tentatively, Emma finally approached them, her heels clicking quietly on the cream marble floors, “We just wanted to do something special for you.”
The warmth in his heart was reflected in his expression, and if his arms weren’t so full, he’d definitely lean in to pull Emma in a consuming hug, “Thank you,” it had been a while since anyone put that much effort into his birthday, the older he got, the less he’d want his family to do, and it went without saying that Miranda was never big on getting him anything more than a cushy present. In fact, usually, Keanu would be inclined to spend his birthday with just his children, watching movies with them on the sofa after a take out dinner. The quiet affairs never bothered him, he'd had enough parties and glitzy birthdays in his twenties and thirties, and was wholly ready to continue on with smaller, more intimate ones.
When he set the kids down, Keanu placed a hand on her elbow, still an arm's length away, leaning in to peck her cheek, "This is amazing, I can't tell you how much it means." When Keanu pulled away, despite his efforts not to stare, he found himself doing it anyway, absorbing the way her burnt orange sweater dress hugged every curve perfectly, boasting her legs when the hem cut off mid thigh. Her hair fell in voluminous waves down to the center of Emma’s back, framing her delicate features, and her simple, clean cut make-up accentuated her full lips and dark eyes. “And you,” Keanu stuttered, affectionately squeezed her elbow, “Look beautiful.”
Caught off guard, Emma blinked quickly, her deep burgundy lips moving to form words but never quite making it through any. “Oh!” A wider smile threatened to break through just as the apples of her cheeks unintentionally went red, “Thank you,” she took a step back and Keanu took that as a sign to reluctantly retract his touch. “Uh,” stuttering again, she looked around wildly, not really sure who’d done the initial overstepping but knowing that someone had to put an end to it, “Why don’t we sit? Yeah, you still have to blow out your candles and open your presents.”
“We can’t wait for you to see what we got you daddy!” Poppy jumped excitedly, a few raven strands escaping the braid Emma had put her hair in, falling over her face as she clapped small her hands. Without settling down in the slightest, she grabbed Keanu’s hand, the size of hers almost muted by his larger, rougher one as Poppy pulled her father towards the sofa, urging him to sit before hopping into his lap. Looking on, Emma offered her hand to Matt, leading him to the chair as well, trying not to think of how much she wanted something like that one day. The real deal, not just a pseudo family, where it felt like she was getting paid to play house, but a husband with children of her own who adored her as much as Matt and Poppy did Keanu.
Leaving a healthy, safe distance between them, Emma claimed a spot on the long sofa, chuckling when Matt mirrored his sister and situated himself in her lap, squirming in anticipation. “So,” securing the boy, she wrapped a slender arm around him, gently flattening her palm to his chest so he wouldn’t fall with all the movement he was doing, “What’ll it be birthday boy? Cake or presents first?”
“What do you two think?” Keanu bent forward to look at both his children, laughing softly when they both bounced in their places, cheering that he go with cake first. “Cake it is,” he determined, and soon after, Emma was reaching for the lighter on the table, keeping Matt away from the flame as she lit the tall candles strategically sunken into the cake, among the cluster of raspberries decorating the top. When all five were lit, Emma and the kids sang happy birthday, clapping when he blew out the candles. Afterwards, she cut them each a slice, and between bites, they moved on with presents.
Up first was the one that Emma had helped organize for Matt and Poppy to give him; they had done most of the the work while she’d simply provided guidance and occasionally, assistance. They’d chosen to make their father a picture frame, using popsicle sticks and colorful craft items, and it had turned out wonderfully, the neatly arranged painted, sticks decorated with buttons, cut out shapes made of plastic, and ribbon had a picture of Keanu and the twins on the inside. “I love it!” He hugged them tight, kissing their heads, still staring at his present. Even off to the side, Emma could see the softness in his eyes, the warmth clinging to his features, there wasn’t the slightest bit of untruth when Keanu said he’d loved the gift, and she admired him for it. A celebrity, who could probably buy anything he wanted at any given moment, appreciating a sweet, handmade gift as if the world had been served on a silver platter. “This is the best present ever!” Keanu hugged them again, keeping Matt and Poppy close.
It was only when he’d released them, did Emma present him with her gift, wrapped up in a blue and white polka dot box, held closed by white silk ribbon, “This one is from me,” her shy smile faltered when their hands touched, and she he'd her breath, hoping he’d like it.
Giving the edge of the ribbon a tug, Keanu undid the bow, opening the box. His jaw hung slack in breathless awe, and trying to be as gentle as possible, he reached into the box’s depths, producing an exact replica of the bike he rode to work almost every morning. It had been spray painted in the exact same colors, carried a downsized version of the very same details and even had a tiny license plate with his initials engraved onto it, “Em…” he gasped, running his fingers over the perfectly mimicked details, “This is….wow,” he huffed a chuckled.
Dragging her lip through her teeth, Emma searched his features, “Do you like it?” She probed nervously.
“Like it?” He glanced up at her, his emotions spilling out in just the way he looked at her, “I love it,” he chuckled louder, “Emma,” Keanu set his gift down on the coffee table, reaching for her bare knee with the hand that wasn’t holding Poppy close, “It’s so thoughtful of you.” The smile brightened his rugged, somewhat tired features as he added, "I love it."
"Great," Emma tried not to look him straight in the eye, knowing if she did, she might be wholly responsible for what happened next. His touch, warm on her thigh, squeezing affectionately, sent shivers up her spine and Emma was caught between wondering how things might have escalated if they were alone and thinking that it was time to pull away. "I'm glad you like it," even if she knew she'd already let his touch linger for far too long, Emma placed her hand over his, and faintly, she heard Keanu's breath hitch as his eyes widened slightly.
They both knew that at that point, their position wasn't unintentional, yet, before either of them could act, they were interrupted by Poppy stretching sleepily, admitting that she was tired. In an instant, whenever they were sharing had been broken, the moment was gone. Leaving them blinking quickly, seemingly emerging from a trance, and prompting them to get the kids ready for bed.
That night, Keanu helped Emma out with bedtime rituals, sticking around during bath time all the way through until they informed him that they wanted Emma to read to them before lights out. It was nearly eleven when she finally emerged from the hallway, shoes clicking softly until she finally decided that they were too much noise, nudging them off with her toes and resuming her small stature. “Hey,” she smiled tightly, calling Keanu’s attention as he stood at the floor to ceiling window, nursing something far stiffer than cider, the glittering lights of illuminated the Eiffel Tower casting a yellow glow on his face, the only thing brightening the room after he’d dimmed the lights.
“Hi,” he grinned widely, the way he always did when Emma walked into the room, “Whiskey?” He offered, moving to the mini bar, ready to get her a drink.
“Sure,” in minutes, Keanu was approaching her, offering Emma the glass he’d gotten, their fingers once again brushing during the hand off. That time, they both just huffed shyly, pretending to ignore it as they approached the window, staring in silence for a while, until Keanu scoffed a chuckle. “What?” Turning to him, Emma observed his profile, wondering if people were even supposed to be made that perfect.
“Its just,” shrugging, Keanu punctuated his words with a brief sip of his drink, not even hissing at its strength, “It’s almost over. Another year gone.” He seemed pensive, his thoughts colliding and confusing him; she’d never seen him in that light and all Emma wanted to do was help.
The alcohol burnt her throat as it slid down, and unlike Keanu, it showed on Emma’s face, though, it created a familiar warmth in her belly, one that she liked; even if she was quickly going to learn that it wasn’t just breaking the autumn chill, but also ebbing away her inhibitions. “You sound disappointed,” and when Keanu didn’t offer a response, she gently pressed, “Are you?”
Shaking his head, Keanu downed the rest of his whiskey, wincing slightly and discarding his glass on the top of a nearby accent chest, slipping his hands into his pockets as he turned to face her. His tie was loosened at the neck and before the twins’ bath, Keanu had discarded his blazer on the chair nearby. He was striking, even when he was close to disheveled. “I don’t know,” the disconcertment echoed in his tone, “Do you ever think that you’re doing the right thing, but then…...there’s one little change, and suddenly it feels like you’re making a huge mistake?”
Pulling her lower lip between her teeth, Emma tried to decipher the true meaning behind his words, opting for an analogy when she couldn’t, “When I first started college, I knew exactly what I wanted; I wanted to be a designer,” she smiled wistfully, “And my nana always taught me to go after what I wanted, even if it was silly to everyone else. So I started fashion school, but then the fees started to take a toll on my mom’s finances, and even if I got two part time jobs, it still didn’t save me from starting to sink.” Emma sighed deeply, looking out towards the city again, “The circumstances changed, or maybe I just noticed them for the first time, and suddenly, going to fashion school seemed selfish, like I’d made a terrible decision, a huge mistake. But when I told my nana what I was thinking, she asked me where I saw myself in ten years and……..that’s how I knew I had to stay.”
Knitting his brows, Keanu seemed more perplexed than when they’d started their conversation, “I don’t understand,” his voice was gruff and low and he hung on, waiting for her explanation,
Sighing, Emma’s contemplative soiree softened, “I guess it meant, if you’re sure about something, if you know it’s right in your heart, then even if things get in the way, you’ll find your way back to it. We’re constantly searching for happiness, and what’s right is always so……subjective. But if you know it's right in here,” stepping closer, Emma gently tapped Keanu’s chest, “Then even if it wavers here,” her cool fingers rose to his temple, “You’ll always go back to it.” Like Keanu, Emma finished off her drink, leaning past him to leave her glass next to his, her other hand still on his face, then cupping his cheek.
“What if……” He mulled on his words, letting them rattle around in his mind fitfully before spilling, “What if what makes me happy, and what’s right in here,” he reached out, pressing two fingers to the center of Y/n’s chest, just above her breasts though still where he could feel her heartbeat, “Are two different things?”
A lump had settled in her throat and a minute part of Y/n knew where things were going, while everywhere else screamed that they shouldn’t have gotten there in the first place. Keanu was her boss, her engaged boss. Yet still, she couldn’t find it in herself to tear her hand away from his face, or push him off her. “They’re always the same thing,” sparing the city of love one last glance, Emma shifted her sights to Keanu, stoking the apple of his cheek, marveling at the way he tilted into the softness of her hand and barely noticing the way his hand had slid up to cup her neck. “Maybe you’re confused right now, but they're always the same.”
“I’m so confused right now,” Keanu confessed, closing the final inches of space. They were lost in each other’s stares and at that point, there was probably nothing in the world that could push them apart. With his hand on her neck, she could feel his callouses and his warmth, radiating, doing more than the finest spirits ever could. The cloud of air between them was tainted with the aroma of expensive booze, still clinging to their hot breaths, mingling with the smell of smoked cigarettes and the alluring fragrance of Emma’s perfume. With every exhale, their chests touched, ever so slightly.
“What do you want?” Emma nudged, licking her lips when Keanu’s face drew closer, tilting her head so she’d grant him access, anticipating what would happen next.
“I want…….” He furrowed his brows again, “I want to be happy.”
“Then be happy,” and that was all it took; the final thread snapped and her words were the permission he’d been seeking. And though, all along, Emma sensed it would happen, when Keanu’s lips were finally laid on hers, she was completely and utterly surprised. They started slow, locking and moving in tandem at a most leisurely pace, though as the pair felt each other out, Keanu’s free hand found the dip of Emma’s waist while she clutched a fistful of his shirt, the silky fabric wrinkling in her grasp, the air took on a new heat and their kiss grew steamy. Six months worth of almosts and boiling tension just swirled around them, pressing them together, and when his tongue broke past her lips, sliding over hers, Emma moaned into Keanu’s mouth.
No one had ever tasted like that, like their lips were meant to spar with hers, no hands ever fit so well on her body. Wrapping his tie around her fist, Emma yanked him closer and they stumbled back. By then their longer, passionate kisses were punctuated by shorter, sweeter pecks, and all she wanted was for him to hoist her up into his strong arms and press her against the cold glass.
Then it hit her; the criminality of what they were doing. Miranda already hated her, and she was going to marry Keanu. That make out session alone was putting her job on the line, the job that she so desperately needed. Logic kicked in and without warning, Emma was letting go of Keanu’s tie and pushing him away. He looked just as frayed as she was, and even a little hurt, “We shouldn’t…...this is wrong. We can’t do this,” Her whispered words were more to convince herself, and before Keanu could respond, Emma was apologizing, turning away from him and scuttling out of the room.
“Em,” he tried to call after her, but it was too late, Emma was already gone, and Keanu had a feeling that things had just gotten way more complicated than he could have ever imagine.
*****
Tagging- @harrisongslimited @magnificentclodpiebanana @keandrews @greenmanalishi @rdjloverxxx @danceoftwowolves @planetkt @wheretheriversrunintothesea
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Sacred Spaces
“Nature is the original church. Worship there daily.”  Alan Cohen
If we have learned anything from the pandemic of the past eighteen months, it is that our greatest blessing is to be able to go outdoors to breathe fresh air. Many people choose to hike the hills, walk the reservoir, or take a jaunt to the ocean to calm nerves and preserve sanity. For those of us fortunate enough to have a garden, balcony, porch, or patio, we can open a door to escape the confines of lockdown.
The majesty of Mother Nature rivals the most exquisite man-made cathedral. Throughout my landscape, I have designed special areas that stimulate my senses, inducing a sense of tranquility and connectivity with the natural world. I have dubbed these my “sacred spaces”, places where I can meditate, watch the wildlife, listen to birdsong, commune with the breeze, rest my weary legs, take a nap, or just sit and contemplate life. My “sacred spaces” provide a structure amidst the chaos, a respite against the turmoil of the times.
We can expand our living environment by crafting outdoor elements that nurture our spirits, emotions, and bodies. Here are a few of my favorite strategies to help gardeners recast their yards into a serene, yet lush oasis. 
Water
The sound of water is immensely soothing. Listening to the gurgling of a fountain or the rippling of a stream heightens my creativity. Birds splashing in a birdbath bring a smile to my face. A pond with a recirculating pump provides a happy home for frogs, and if deep enough, fish. 
Hammock
Hanging a hammock from two trees is the ultimate in shaded relaxation. I have double hammocks strung between a giant magnolia and Japanese maples. There is nothing quite like swaying in the hammock looking up at the light as it dances between the branches. The colors of the leaves are forever changing. For an afternoon nap on a hot day, a hammock provides a piece of paradise.
Swing
I’ve installed a metal garden swing behind my pond flanked by orange Birds of Paradise and midnight blue agapanthus. By adding comfy cushions, I can silently swing while listening to the aerating pond and watching the aerial antics of squirrels spiraling through the loquat tree. 
Tables, Chairs, and Benches
Throughout my landscape, I have placed multiple tables, chairs, and benches in specific areas to encourage me to take a break from the hard labor. A wooden picnic table under an apple tree begs me to take a lunch period. A bench facing the hills beckons me to behold a doting doe with her twin fawns as they forage. A small rocking chair in a cozy nook allows me to remove my mud boots and watch the sunset.
Paths and Walls
Whether you use gravel, bricks, decomposed granite, pavers, or flagstone, creating paths throughout the garden allows for interesting patterns and yard exploration. Because I believe in recycling, upcycling, and repurposing, I always utilize whatever materials are available when I’m building stairs, paths, or walls. A former built-in redwood bench is turned on its side to be reused as a retaining planter box. Used bricks add a separation element to the revamped below-deck walkway bordering the tangled wisteria forest. 
Pergolas, Gazebos, Decks
A deck is always a great gathering spot. A gazebo or pavilion is a stately structure to sit, embrace the view, and offer gratitude for outdoor rooms. On my deck, under my grape, wisteria, and bower vine-covered pergola, I unwind after a long day by soaking in the hot tub. This is my prayer place as I gaze at the twinkling stars above.
Plantings
The selection of specific plants is critical to the overall color and scale of any garden. My goal is always to witness botanical interest 365 days a year through express attention to the trees, flowers, shrubs, bulbs, vegetables, herbs, and bushes. Every season brings a change to the landscape. Roses bloom for nine or ten months when regularly dead-headed. Perennial sweet peas flourish with their pretty purple pea heads from spring until autumn. Pink naked ladies pop up to smarten the summer soils when most other plants find it too hot to shine. Deciduous trees such a Japanese maple, pistache, crape myrtle, and liquid amber offer spectacular autumn colors.
When you think about creating your sacred spaces, make sure you are bringing the indoors out and the outdoors in. Expand your home environment by mimicking and mingling colors, patterns, themes, and shapes through both areas. Great design amplifies your emotional well-being. Rediscover forgotten or overlooked spots. Feel the vibes as you develop your scheme keeping comfort and safety at the forefront. Use your imagination to unearth the endless possibilities.
Mother Nature is the original church. When we honor Her, we will attain a more balanced life with peace as a bonus gift, no matter what is happening around us. As this latest Delta variant spreads its dangerous virus tendrils, I urge everyone to talk with their physicians, listen to the science, and get vaccinated. Discover your sacred space, breathe, and spend as much time outdoors as possible. 
A Be the Star You Are!® volunteer from Minnesota emailed me “I go for walks on our nearby trail as often as I can because it’s a way to escape to nature, and I know how you feel about that!  So off I go.”
Off you go!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Saturday, September 25th, Be the Star You Are!® will participate in the first live event at the Pear and Wine Festival with a booth sponsored by the Lamorinda Weekly(www.Lamorindaweekly.com) and MB Jessee painting (www.MBJessee.com). Wear your mask and visit us! Details at https://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-events
Phots and more: https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue1513/Digging-Deep-with-Goddess-Gardener-Cynthia-Brian-Sacred-spaces.html
Press Pass: https://blog.voiceamerica.com/2021/08/18/sacred-spaces/
Happy Gardening. Happy Growing. 
Cynthia Brian, The Goddess Gardener, is available for hire to help you prepare for your spring garden. Raised in the vineyards of Napa County, Cynthia is a New York Times best-selling author, actor, radio personality, speaker, media and writing coach as well as the Founder and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3. Tune into Cynthia’s StarStyle® Radio Broadcast at www.StarStyleRadio.com.
Buy copies of her books, including, Chicken Soup for the Gardener’s Soul, Growing with the Goddess Gardener, and Be the Star You Are! www.cynthiabrian.com/online-store. Receive a FREE inspirational music DVD and special savings.
Hire Cynthia for writing projects, garden consults, and inspirational lectures.
www.GoddessGardener.com
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itsagutthing · 4 years
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Places Carrie Mathison Has Lived: New York City Edition
this installment of my carrie’s apartments series is close to my heart because i also live in brooklyn, though not close to carrie. the show actually filmed a scene just a block from my apartment, but for obvious reasons i’m not going to specify which scene. i know, season six is overall meh with the exception of carrie’s blazers, but my lizard brain still goes, “that’s where i live!” so i give it more leeway than i probably should. 
carrie lives in the bedford-stuyvesant neighborhood of brooklyn, which was once primarily home to black and latino families but unfortunately is in the process of gentrifying. some light googling tells me they filmed the interior apartment scenes on a soundstage in another brooklyn neighborhood called greenpoint, which begs the question: why didn’t they just make carrie live there? greenpoint has also been gentrified but is mostly home to eastern european immigrants, so the writers could have avoided the questionable racial implications of carrie living in bed-stuy, particularly when she’s working at a non-profit that promotes racial justice. and greenpoint is also more convenient to her office in williamsburg! i know the answer to this question is probably just “brownstones look pretty,” and there are lots of brownstones in bed-stuy but not in greenpoint, but i’ll still bitch about it.
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anyway, we know from quinn’s escape to the bodega in 6.02 that carrie lives close to the intersection of throop avenue and halsey street, which means she lives off of the kingston-throop A and C trains and a sort-of far walk from the bedford-nostrand G. she probably takes the G to work in williamsburg. this is information that’s only important to me, but i love public transit. 
the bike lane sign in the screenshot above reminds me how much i loved seeing carrie biking around berlin. even though nyc isn’t nearly as bike-friendly, i hope she does the same in brooklyn. 
carrie appears to have free reign of the entire brownstone, which must have been two separate units at some point — both where she and franny live and the ~garden apartment~ on the basement level that has both a full bath and kitchen. she obviously can’t afford to rent out an entire brownstone in new york city, even in bed-stuy, so my headcanon is that otto bought it as an investment property and is letting carrie and franny stay in it at a heavily discounted rate.
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brownstones are typically long and skinny, as we see here. there are really only two rooms on the first floor: the living room and the kitchen.
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i love seeing all of franny’s drawings strung up on the living room wall and her chalkboard/easel in the corner. this fixes an issue i had with carrie’s berlin apartment, which was that there was a weird lack of kid stuff. i don’t think that means anything on its own — we see in 5.01 how devoted carrie was to her seemingly normal life as a mother — but it’s nice to see more little touches in her brooklyn apartment. 
i assume the fireplace in the left-hand corner isn’t actually usable, but it does make the living room look homier. i’m surprised there isn’t more carpeting, since carrie loves a patterned rug. the living room looks a little cold without it. maybe she isn’t done decorating yet, though i think we’re supposed to believe they’ve been in nyc for a few months.
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there’s a tv next to the fireplace in 6.05 that isn’t there in 6.01, which is very strange placement. the only furniture opposite the tv is a desk and chair, so there’s nowhere to sit comfortably while watching. i don’t think carrie spends a lot of time watching tv, but that’s still a confusing choice. i do like franny’s fuzzy chair with bunny ears, though. carrie probably ordered it on amazon but i like to imagine her schlepping it in and out of a cab.
now for the kitchen:
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one nice thing the show did to convince us that this is an apartment carrie could maybe afford is that it’s not newly renovated: all the kitchen appliances are basic and/or old, and the countertops look like plastic laminate and are chipped along the edges. and there’s no room for the nice cutting boards or espresso machine she had in germany! i always find barstools charming even if they’re just a cheat to make an efficient use of counter space.
my favorite detail in the kitchen is the trio of framed drawings done by franny. again, i love all the “carrie’s a mom, remember?” touches.
the curtains are a gold color and match the curtains in the living room! carrie learned some design lessons in berlin.
even in the daytime the whole first floor feels really dark, which makes me miss the floor-to-ceiling windows in berlin. i brightened the screenshots a lot to see the details, but especially in the living room, the sunlight just doesn’t reach all the way across the house. the lack of natural light (and the fact that they filmed during the late fall) does a lot of quick work to set the dreary tone that persists for the entire season. i can’t help but compare it to the americans, which also filmed in brooklyn in the fall/winter, but at least the indoor scenes in that show were well-lit and generally warmer in both color and tone. 
i associate the early seasons of homeland with warm yellows, probably because they filmed either in the desert or in charlotte in the summertime. the shift to gray winter skies and heavy coats is a little jarring, even with berlin in the middle as a transitional urban, cooler season. 
that door behind carrie goes out to a set of stairs and their little backyard/patio:
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it’s common, if a little depressing, to have bars on first-floor windows as shown in the second shot above, both to child-proof an apartment from the inside and to prevent break-ins. our first view of franny for the season is through those bars, but i’m not entirely sure what the symbolism is supposed to be. carrie already feels a separation from franny, maybe? this shot especially feels super foreboding.
carrie continues her trend of killer outdoor lounge furniture (remember the multiple chaises on her DC patio?) with the wooden chair with blue cushions right outside the back door. there are also more potted plants than i believe carrie would purchase/remember to water, especially in the winter, but maybe she figures if they’re outside they’ll get enough rain to survive.
i don’t have a lot to say about the patio itself other than i’m jealous that carrie has outdoor space.
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inside by the stairs/front entryway is a framed berlin jazz poster which makes me inexplicably happy, and follows the same trend with the jazz posters she had in her DC apartment. it’s hard to tell what’s in the photos, so i’m choosing to believe they’re pictures of places she and franny loved in berlin, including some of the two of them taken by jonas. there is absolutely a photo of franny and carrie at the birthday party we saw in 5.01 where carrie’s wearing that balloon hat.
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we don’t get to see a lot of the second floor, but i’m going to assume it’s just franny’s room, carrie’s room, carrie’s weird conspiracy closet, and a bathroom.
franny’s room is very colorful, with the rainbow sheets and rainbow polka dot curtains. it makes up for the dreariness of the first floor. behind carrie in that second shot is franny’s star lamp, which i love but have many questions about. it’s obviously an allusion to brody, of which there are many in season 6, probably because they’re in new york city and brody would have never served/been captured/turned/bonded with carrie if not for 9/11. assuming that carrie purchased this lamp for franny with brody’s memory in mind, does franny have anything else that’s star themed? if not, why this lamp? did carrie explain to franny that stars make her think of franny’s father, or is it just a secret nod for carrie alone? how often does carrie talk to franny about brody, if at all?
now we move to carrie’s conspiracy closet:
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i’ve been in enough brownstones to know that sometimes there are strange inexplicable tiny rooms, which is what we have here. i’m sure this would be advertised as an office space on streeteasy but it really looks like a glorified closet with a confusing number of doors leading off of it. i count three total including the one saul came in — what are all these doors? i think the one on saul’s right goes to franny’s room but i don’t have a great spatial brain and i’m not confident about that assessment.
this conspiracy board reveal was kinda anticlimactic since very little happens with it, but i still felt like i needed to include it as a separate room since carrie clearly spends a lot of time here. 
i wish we got to see carrie’s bedroom because i love to scrutinize the art she has, but sadly we’re limited to franny’s room. i’m going to assume there’s a full bath up here somewhere, and a half bath downstairs that we don’t see. 
finally, we have the basement apartment that carrie allegedly rents out on airbnb. in real life it likely would be marketed as an entire unit separate from the two floors above, but since otto owns the entire brownstone / is in love with carrie he’s just letting her do whatever she wants with it.
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the full kitchen is what convinces me it was supposed to be an independent unit — no one has a stove and sink and lots of cabinets in their basement. like we saw in carrie’s kitchen, none of the appliances are fancy and the countertops are nothing special, which makes the room look kinda drab but does help sell the idea that carrie could actually live here. there’s also some water damage in the corner by the fridge. i’m not sure why they decided to be realistic in season 6 — can we all recall carrie’s unnecessary two-bedroom townhouse in DC? — and it’s not particularly fun to watch, but i’m not mad about it.
the living room area of this basement actually looks cozier than carrie’s living room, with all the pillows and the exposed brick wall. i have a weakness for exposed brick walls, as we know from carrie’s DC apartment, and here it goes pretty far to make the space look homey. the couch looks like it matches the chair on her patio (with the wood frame + blue cushions), so does that mean the patio chair is meant for normal indoor use? why is it outside?? 
as we know from her berlin apartment, carrie really loves a two-curtain combo with a sheer under layer. these are dark green, similar to the navy ones she loved in berlin but not the same. i do like the thought of carrie taking her navy curtains with her from germany and relegating them to the basement to avoid the constant reminder of her past life, but i also have no desire to think about what it would mean that quinn ends up living in the basement with her jonas curtains. so those must be new! 
in summary: musings about carrie’s role in gentrification, the color palette of the show, berlin jazz poster + photos, franny’s art on the walls, star lamp, a basement living room that’s cozier than carrie’s actual living room!
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