Tag: Summer

Beach House Backsplash

We’ve brought the serenity of the shoreline indoors with tile and countertop selections that evoke the appearance and ambiance of the ocean.

Our Bayberry Beach House project features a tile backsplash that mirrors the natural beauty of the sea. These tiles, with their soft hues and distinct textures, capture your attention as if you were gazing out at the movement of the ocean. Subtle shades of green, blue, and sandy neutrals instantly create a sense of calm. More than just a surface finish, they serve as a design statement that connects the home to its coastal surroundings, infusing everyday spaces with a relaxed, beachy elegance.

In our Jericho Summer Retreat project, our clients’ love for the coast and earth is evident in every detail. The recycled glass countertops resemble the beauty of sea glass. This design element is not only sustainable but also undeniably stunning.

Summer Home Care Guide

Summer is finally here and it’s time to enjoy those perfect summer days and nights. There is nothing quite like a summer cookout spent with family & friends or a long fun filled day at the beach. With all the excitement summer brings, it also can shine light on those projects around the house that may need attention. We’ve shared some helpful tips and reminders to help care for your home this summer.

  • Clean your dryer vent and exhaust duct to make sure there is no buildup of dust and lint.
  • Change the filter in your air conditioner and consider scheduling an HVAC professional to service your system.
  • Clean and consider re-sealing your tile grout.
  • Do a test of your smoke & carbon monoxide detectors – check your batteries!
  • Keep an eye on your irrigation system – a faulty sprinkler or irrigation hose that goes unnoticed can quickly cause larger problems for your lawn or even your basement.
  • Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans. If your fans spin counterclockwise, they will push air straight down and will help keep your home cool this summer!
  • Pay your attic a visit to check for any signs of mildew, leaks, holes, and even pests.
  • Clean the grill to prep for all the summer barbequing!
  • Take a look at your standby generator to make sure it is functioning properly.
  • Check your gutters and downspouts for any buildup of debris and have cleaned to allow for efficient water flow.
  • Your condenser has been outside all spring and winter long, make sure it is properly cleaned.
  • Inspect your foundation for any cracks or leaks.
  • Wash down your porch and give your deck a glace – check to see if any boards are rotting and may need replacement.
  • Wash the windows! Why not have a clean fresh start after all the pollen.
  • Check your outdoor faucets for any leaks.
  • Inspect the caulking around the windows and doors of your home, this will help keep any unwanted critters out.
  • Consider having your roof inspected by a professional.

Most importantly, don’t forget we are here to help with any of your home maintenance questions!

Watermelon Mint Mojito

If your garden is in full swing and you’re looking for the perfect summer refresher, our watermelon mint mojito recipe is super delicious and refreshing! This recipe easily becomes a go to for when you are relaxing on the porch or even hosting a summer cookout with family and friends.

Ingredients: 

Grab your favorite cocktail glasses and a friend, as this recipe is enough to be enjoyed by two!      

  • 2 cups watermelon                                                                             
  • Handful of fresh mint leaves
  • 4 limes; freshly squeezed.
  • 1 oz simple syrup
  • 4-ounces white rum
  • chilled lime club soda water

Directions

  • Combine your watermelon, mint leaves, and lime juice in a shaker and muddle until watermelon and mint leaves are crushed.
  • Fill your shaker with lots of ice and add simple syrup and rum – Shake until ice cold!
  • Fill glasses halfway with ice and pour contents of shaker into glasses.
  • Top with chilled club soda and mix gently.
  • Add a slice of watermelon, lime, and mint for garnish – Enjoy!

Street Corn Craze

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 ears fresh corn, shucked (about 3 cups fresh corn kernels)
  • Kosher salt
  • 2 ounces feta or Cotija cheese, finely crumbled.
  • 1/2 cup finely sliced scallions.
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped.
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and steamed, finely chopped.
  • 1 to 2 medium cloves garlic pressed or minced.
  • 1tablespoon mayonnaise 
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Chili powder or hot Chili flakes, to taste. 

Directions:

  • Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet or work over high heat until simmering. Add corn kernels, season to taste with salt, toss once or twice, and cook without moving until charred on one side. Toss corn, stir, and repeat until charred on second side. Continue tossing and charring until corn is well charred all over, about 10minutes total. Transfer to a large bowl.
  • Add cheese, scallions, cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, mayonnaise, lime juice, and Chili powder. Combine ingredients, toss, and serve!