Susie Skog knows Lake Norman Real Estate Inside Out

As we shift into summer, theres no better time to tackle a fun DIY project for the backyard. If youre the type who likes to build things with your hands, you can make an exciting addition to your outdoor living space and enjoy a sense of accomplishment each time you step into the yard. Following are several ideas to help you get creative outside of the house.

And, of course, if youre not a big DIYer, you can always hire a professional to build these items for you.

Wood-Fired Hot Tub
Want the perfect place to unwind after a long day of work? Try building a wood-fired hot tub for your deck or patio. A wooden barrel design thats heated with a stove will offer a timeless look that fits right into any backyard. While there are many different options for the type of wood, cedar is likely your best choice for withstanding the elements. Once its done, you can enjoy a hot soak under the stars all year round.

Chicken Coop
Backyard chickens are having a moment, which is something that nobody ever expected to hear. Nonetheless, if you want to have farm-fresh eggs just a few steps away from your kitchen each morning, then you might want to consider getting on board with this trend. A small chicken coop is all youll need to keep your new pet happy and it makes for a unique backyard feature that anyone can build.

Treehouse
Want to give your kids a fun place to play outside the house this summer? A backyard treehouse is every childs dream come true. These days, there are no limits to what you can build, as some luxury homeowners have gone above and beyond with treehouses where the kids can comfortably spend the night, complete with electricity and all.

Sauna
If you want to embrace the Finnish tradition of sauna, then why not build one in the backyard? Sure, you might not be using it as much in the summer, but as soon as winter rolls around, itll be the ideal spot to escape for some peace and quiet while reaping the benefits of heat therapy.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Thinking about adding a home security system?

Criminals are less likely to target homes with built-in security, so installing one could protect your family and valuables.

Safety isnt the only benefit, though.

Some systems let you control them remotely, allowing you to unlock the door for visitors and keep an eye on your kids from work.

Security features could also be an attractive selling point if you put your house on the market.

You might even get rewarded with cheaper homeowners insurance, meaning the system could help pay for itself.

For peace of mind and financial gains, consider a home security system.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

These easy techniques will keep your home current, while displaying vintage artifacts.

Be Bold

Layering modern patterns and colors is a great way to make a room feel more contemporary.

Mix and Match

Juxtaposing old and new makes for an original look not tied to any specific time period.

Create Collections

An assortment of items offers unique visual appeal that calls more attention than a single piece.

Take a Step Back

Keep an eye on the big picture. Antiques should complement the look, not define it.

Focus on Presentation

Vintage crafts on contemporary shelving or old posters in modern frames provide a glimpse into the past while still feeling fashionable.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

When you live in the city, space is one of the ultimate luxuries. Even high-end homeowners might sometimes feel like they could use a little extra square footage around the house. Living elsewhere, you probably have the liberty to expand your residences footprint, but in an urban setting you have to get more creative. If youre looking to maximize the space in your home, here are several tips to ensure all your needs are accommodated.

Hidden Features
One way to make the most of your space is including hidden features that can transform a room when in use. For example, a casual seating area can quickly become a media room with a pop-up television that emerges from a cabinet or a projector thats hidden in the ceiling. If you need more room for overnight guests (which can quickly become an issue for growing families), another option is to install Murphy beds in your rec room or home office that are seamlessly stowed away when not in use.

Smart Home Gym
You may not have the space for a full-blown fitness area full of equipment, but you can still get a good workout without leaving the house. These days, there are numerous smart home gyms that require minimal space to exercise with maximum convenience. Whether youre into running, cycling, kickboxing or even resistance training, all you really need is a small corner of the house.

Multi-Purpose Furniture
Having furniture that serves more than one purpose has major appeal when space is at a premium. This is especially valuable if you get extra storage space, like an ottoman that can open up and hold blankets inside or a bedframe for the kids room with built-in drawers where they can keep their toys. Other options might be a versatile dining room table that can extend to accommodate extra guests at a dinner party or splurging on a high-end sofa with a pull-out bed thats actually comfortable.

Published with permission from RISMedia.