You still have two months left until summer officially ends on Sept. 22nd.  It only takes a few simple steps to create an outdoor space your entire family can enjoy well into autumn.

Here are five steps to create a fabulous outdoor space.

1. Illuminate in style.  Most design experts believe that outdoor lighting is one of the most overlooked aspects of design, usually because the planning and installation can be very expensive.  Avoid breaking the bank by adding a simple lighting scheme.  For example, a few strings of globe or twinkle lights strung above the deck, patio or other outdoor space creates lot of ambience on a shoestring budget.  Criss-cross strands to create a ceiling plane illusion and your space will transform from cold to cozy.  Friends and family will be drawn to the illuminated area in the evenings.

You’ve finally moved into your dream home and most of the decorating is done.  The last question is, what will you do with that all white room?  Here are four simple ways to WOW that room.

1. Choose contrast for a dose of drama.  Many people believe that the only way to enliven a white room is to purchase a major pieces of bright furniture.  Instead of investing in furniture you aren’t sure you’ll love forever, start by selecting items that contrast the white and appeal to you.  Interior design experts caution that while people may think of contrast only in terms of color, it can occur with any design elements.  For example, if the room is a perfect square with boxy windows, choose circular accents such as curved lamps, wavy accent furniture, round rugs, frames and mirrors.  The contrasting shapes easily create a WOW factor.  Another example of ideal contrast is to use dark finishes on furniture or hardwood floors so that they pop.

Despite new construction home energy codes becoming increasingly more complicated to achieve, we were proud to announce that Echelon Home Builders is Michigan Energy Code compliant and has received the Nelson Energy Seal®.  Our commitment to creating efficient family homes doesn’t stop there—we want to help your family take eco-friendly safety steps this summer.

Here are six to get you started.

Shade– During hot, sunny Southeast Michigan summer days, it’s important to take a break from the sun and hit the shade.  Consider adding a large umbrella or shade sail to your deck, patio or even in the backyard.  If you’re hosting a party or BBQ, strategically place large shades in the most likely conversation areas.  You can minimize your air conditioning unit’s energy costs by adding shade near it or planting a tree—see below.

When selecting the perfect paint color for their dream home, many novices will paint sheets of paper or sample boards with various options.  Their intention is to get a feel for how the hues look during different times of the day as sunlight changes so that they can choose the best shade.  The challenge is that paint does not render itself correctly on anything except walls.

Instead, professionals recommend the following four tips to pick the best paint color.

1. Let there be light.  If you haven’t selected your light fixtures for the room you plan to paint, do that first.  Overhead lighting alters the way the paint color appears.  For example, off-white paint will appear as a soft honey color with most overhead lighting options.  Light bulbs also impact shades of paint, so nail down your lighting and light bulbs before you begin your search for preferred paint colors.