USE AN ANTIQUE OR SALVAGED FIRE PIT

In the courtyard of her urban home, Hannah of Maple & Shade incorporated a vintage fire pit that’s been in her family for years. The round, open shape of the pit and its large, circular handles are unusual but interesting, and the years of wear perfectly complement their 100-plus-year-old home.

 

TRY A FREESTANDING FIRE PIT

In her eclectic outdoor space, Tobe of Because It’s Awesome used the Hampton Bay Collette Fire Pit. It features a large 36-inch bowl so you can hold more wood, as well as a screen to keep hot ash from escaping into your seating area.

BUILD A FIRE PIT IN YOUR SPACE

Because Erin of House of Earnest has such a large backyard and patio area, she had the space to build a large fire pit using flagstone. While this fire pit takes a lot more work than a freestanding option, wouldn’t it be nice to kick up your feet and enjoy this cozy spot?

Whichever option you prefer, consider adding a fire pit to your own patio!

For more ideas, browse all 18 of the gorgeous outdoor spaces designed by bloggers in our Patio Style Challenge.

This stylish divider provides a little privacy on your platform deck while letting the breeze through. We have step-by-step instructions for the DIY outdoor privacy wall project. You can also download printable instructions.

Skill Level: Intermediate

Time: 1-2 hours for one 5 x 8 section, not including time for the stain to dry

Cost: $400

Tools and Materials

• 2 cedar 4-inch x 4-inch x 8-inch posts
• 56 Cedar 2-inch x 2-inch x 8-inch slats
• 2 pounds #12 2 ½-inch galvanized or stainless steel finishing nails
• 2-inch stain grade brush
• 1 gallon Behr exterior transparent stain
• 2 ½-inch wood screws
• 2 Simpson Strong-Tie E-Z Base brackets
• 3/8-inch x 3-inch galvanized lag screws
• Level
• Hammer
• Measuring tape
• Reciprocating or hand saw
• Impact driver

Before you start, cut the 4 x 4 posts to be 5 feet long with either a reciprocating saw or hand saw. You can also have
these posts cut for you at your local Home Depot store.

Shop for the tools and materials needed for this DIY project.

 Step 1

Stain all sides of the wood pieces before starting construction. Let them dry according to the stain manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 2

Lay the two 4 x 4 posts on the floor of your work area, and use a measuring tape to place them 8 feet apart, measuring from outer edge to outer edge.

Step 3

Place the E-Z Base brackets on each post. Make sure the post is inserted all the way into the bracket. Do not mount the posts with screws at this point. This will be the bottom of your wall. Use a level and these brackets as a guide to set your first 2 x 2 slat. Attach it with finishing nails. Once the first slat is attached, you can remove the brackets so your wall is lying flat.

Step 4

Starting from the bottom, nail the 2 x 2 slats horizontally onto the posts. Maintain equal spacing between the slats by using a piece of the same 2 x 2 material as a spacer during installation. Repeat the same process on the other side of the wall.

 Step 5

Return the brackets to the bottom of the wall, with the mounting edges on the front and back of the wall. Mount the brackets to the 4 x 4 posts using the wood screws and impact driver.

Step 6

Use the lag screws and impact driver to mount the brackets to your deck. The brackets should be mounted to the deck flooring and decking frame.

And now you have a stylish privacy wall for your deck.

Download printable instructions for this DIY project and get started!

And while you’re at it, take a look at more DIY projects here on The Home Depot blog. 

If you have ever shopped for new curtains, you know that there are lots of elements to consider. There’s choosing the right color and fabric, deciding on the length you want them to hang, not to mention the drapery hardware. The devil in all the details can get a bit overwhelming. So, we’ve asked Martha Stewart, one of the country’s leading experts on design and décor, for her advice to help you select the right drapes and curtains for your home.

In this short video, Martha unveils the secrets of choosing window treatments for any room in the home. Here’s a sampling of the topics she covers.

The Length

Even before you take your first measurement, decide how high above the window you want the curtains to start. And, here’s a tip some of you may have already picked up from The Home Depot Style Guide: Hanging curtains higher above the window creates the illusion of greater height in a room.

Martha’s advice for a clean, modern look, is to have curtains fall flush with the floor. If you want something more dramatic, add 2 or 3 inches so the curtains puddle slightly on the floor.

On Color and Curtains

Neutral curtain colors are a popular choice because they’re easier to blend into the rest of a room’s décor and are less likely to fade. But don’t be afraid to go with a pop of pattern like a quatrefoil or stripes to add some visual excitement to a room.

About Fabrics for Curtains

Lighter fabrics like linen, silk and variations of these materials filter light beautifully and hang nicely, making them good choices for a sunny room. Blackout curtains in velvet, suede, tapestry and other heavy materials are excellent for blocking light and controlling room temperature.

After viewing the video, you will feel more confident about selecting window treatments that enhance the look of each and every window in your home.

The Home Depot offers a wide assortment of blinds and window treatments in many styles and fabrics. Plus, check out more decor and home improvement videos here on the Home Depot blog and on The Home Depot’s YouTube channel.

Whether edging landscape, laying a patio or driveway, or creating a winding pathway to your favorite spot in the garden, pavers and paver stones are versatile and durable materials that can add beauty and functionality to many outdoor areas around your home.

There are several different types of paver materials to choose from, including natural stone, brick, concrete and rubber composites, as well as many styles and color variations.

As you will see in this short video clip prepared by Rick for The Home Depot Community, laying pavers is also relatively easy to do. In areas small or large, the list of tools and materials needed for this project is not very extensive. You’ll need pavers or paver stones, of course, and paver sand (for filling in and leveling the ground), a square shovel, a level and perhaps a trowel.

Once you get the ground you intend to pave over leveled off at the right height, it’s just a matter of setting the pavers and filling in the gaps.

And here’s a tip you won’t find in the video: An interesting pattern can make even the most inexpensive pavers stand out. So consider the path less traveled when planning the layout and design of your patio, walkway or drive.

If you want to do more research on pavers and paver stones before starting starting your project, be sure to check out our pavers buying guide.

See more DIY and home improvement videos here on the Home Depot blog and on The Home Depot’s YouTube channel.

Image via East Coast Creative

Stenciling is a decorative painting technique that dates back thousands of years. Some of the earliest examples of stencils were hand tracings found on the walls of caves in France and Spain. Today, everyone from professional interior decorators to novice DIYers are creating walls with stenciling — and using stencils on countless other surfaces — to create points of visual interest throughout the home.

This brilliant multicolor houndstooth stencil was chosen by the designers at East Coast Creative for a stellar room makeover. As you can see, stencils, murals and wall decals are available in an endless variety of patterns and styles. Investing the time and energy to accent a wall in your home with patterned details can update the look of any room in your home, too.

Image via Not Just A Housewife

Quite a lot of work went into this all-over ceiling stenciling, and the results speak for themselves. The swirling damask pattern really brings to life the palette of soft, fresh green hues used throughout the room.

If you’d like to try stenciling your ceiling, Stacy from Not Just A Housewife shared this magnificent undertaking on her blog.

Here’s her advice: 1. Start stenciling in the corner near the door so if you mess up it will be less noticeable; 2. use a small, high-density foam roller; 3. don’t overload the roller with paint or press too hard because that will cause paint to bleed under the stencil; and, 4. stencils with registration marks are your friend when applying an all-over pattern.

Image via Traditional Home

Want to give your natural fiber wallpaper a touch of Gatsby-esque gilt and glam? Try stenciling on Art Nouveau-inspired patterns in high-gloss metallic gold paint.

Image via Ideas Mag

Steal this idea. In a small bedroom, entryway or hall, use stencils and shelves to create the illusion of furnishings that actually serve a functional purpose.

Image via The Mustard Ceiling

Some color and pattern, unique DIY lighting and storage — and a little patience — will transform your utility room into one of the most interesting spaces in the home.

Image via Landee See, Landee Do

Spectacular staircases always make for grand entryways. Quatrefoil detail in metallic craft paint only heightens the interest.

See more inspiration and ideas in our Places series here on the Apron Blog.

If you followed along with all of the gorgeous outdoor spaces that our Style Challenge participants put together, then perhaps you noticed the same trend we did. Many of these bloggers added unique touches to their patio furniture for a custom look.

CHANGE UP THE CUSHIONS

In the photo above, Grace of A Storied Style added slipcovers to her Woodbury 7-Piece Dining Set. Her mix of turquoise and yellow cabana stripe fabrics created a cheery front porch dining spot that her whole family loved!

With the slipcovers for the seat cushions and small “half-shirts” for the seat backs that she created, along with bright table runners, Grace injected extra color and personality into her space. It turned out so beautifully that it’s hard to believe this is the same empty space she started out with!

MIX AND MATCH CUSHION COLORS

In Erika Ward’s outdoor space, she (unintentionally) mixed cushion colors in red and wheat from the same patio furniture set, the Walnut Creek Collection. Although it was an accident, we absolutely love the way this gives her collection a unified feel, plus a pop of color, while still being neutral and classic. With a couple of comfortable throw pillows and a large clock, Erika of BluLabel Bungalow gave this spot under her deck a chic and pulled-together look.

MIX IN DIFFERENT FURNITURE PIECES

Just because you have a complete patio set doesn’t mean you can’t mix in a few different pieces for a look that matches your personal style. The Hampton Bay Shelburne 5-Piece Dining Set in Aqua looks so relaxed but energized when paired with striped throw pillows, a DIY hand-blocked tablecloth, and a wooden bench. Hannah of Maple + Shade pulled up a simple wooden outdoor bench that she already owned to give her dining spot a more eclectic look and add extra seating.

BUILD ON YOUR PATIO FURNITURE SET

Many of our patio collections come as a whole set, but we often have add-on items that can help your set fit your space perfectly. Some collections are also sold separately, meaning you can buy exactly the number of pieces you need. Lauren of Pure Style Home added extra seats to her Hampton Bay Beverly Sectional so that it filled out her gorgeous flagstone patio! While the Beverly patio furniture set comes with four seat sections, Lauren added an additional four sections so that this massive sectional can fit her family of five.

These are just a few ways you can tweak your patio furniture set so that it works for your outdoor space. All of our talented Style Challenge bloggers designed spaces that fit their needs, but also suited their personalities. Among the 18 different spaces in our Style Challenge, you’re sure to find a space that suits your style. For more patio inspiration, go browse them all!

And follow our Home Depot Style Challenge board on Pinterest, too, for new decorating ideas from so many talented design bloggers. 

Making the most of your outdoor living space takes planning and a little creativity. For advice on outdoor entertaining and decor, there is perhaps no better person to turn to than Martha Stewart.

In this short video, Martha covers all of the details that will help you design the perfect space outdoors for cooking, dining and relaxing.

She talks about how to properly divide your patio space into separate zones for dining and entertainment, and how to choose the right outdoor patio lights and patio furniture. You’ll also see popular dining and seating sets from the Martha Stewart Living Patio collection, like the easy-breezy, slingback Solana Bay Patio Dining Set and the irresistibly comfortable Charlottetown Seating Seat. Plus, you’ll learn how to select just the right spot in your backyard to set up for an afternoon or evening outdoors.

As you’re preparing your outdoor space for entertaining family and friends, if you run into any garden-related questions, you can find the right answers by visiting our Garden Club online or the Garden Center of your local Home Depot. And for inspiring ideas from some of our favorite DIY bloggers that you can repurpose for your own outdoor spaces, be sure to check out all the amazing images from our latest Patio Style Challenge.

Check out more DIY and home improvement videos here on the Home Depot blog and on The Home Depot’s YouTube channel.

News flash. Your father really doesn’t need (or want) another blue button-down shirt, or a tie, or more boxers for Father’s Day. And besides, is that any kind of way to honor the guy who’s always been there to fix things you’ve broken, solve your problems, and give you his old car when he trades up? We don’t think so.

What’s the one thing almost every father could use more of? A space somewhere around the house he can call his own, where he can keep his stuff, and do what he likes.

So, if you’re trying to show dear ol’ dad some love this Father’s Day, get him something for his man cave. And, if he doesn’t have one yet, find out what kind of cave he’d like to build and help him get started.

If you need a few more suggestions, check out The Home Depot Gift Center. You’ll find a ton of great gift recommendations for dads and man caves of all types. From grills and power tools to the latest HDTVs and and more, you’ll find a special gift that dad’s going to love you for (even more).

Man Caves is an exploration of cool spaces guys have created for themselves: everything from living rooms and bedrooms, offices and workshops, and media and game rooms, to garages, outdoor grilling areas, gardens and more. We dispense tips on décor, equipment, storage and organization, as well as share ideas, know-how and product info to help you hook up your own manspace.

When we shared a few of our favorite summer glamping accessories, one of the items we enjoyed the most were the pouf ottomans from Home Decorators Collection. They are such a fun addition to any room, and they really made our yurt feel cozy. Here’s an inspiration board with a few of our favorites. Which pouf ottoman would you love to have in your home?

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM:

A plain white or cream-colored pouf is a safe choice, no matter the decor in your space. We love the cozy texture of these knitted poufs, the Cable Knit Pouf and Knit Pouf.

It’s always nice to bring a little bit of natural texture into your space. The Jute Pouf and Grainsack Pouf bring a slightly rustic look and will blend with whatever color palette you may already have established.

Tribal patterns are super trendy right now. A pouf is a great way to break into this trend without going overboard. We used the Tularosa Pouf on our glamping trip, but the Piper Pouf is a sure win, too!

Stripes are a no-brainer if you like a more traditional look but still love pattern. This Square Multi Stripe Pouf would work perfectly in a kids’ playroom, and the Aspen Pouf would blend with a neutral color palette.

Do you prefer lots of color? The Argonne Pouf comes in a variety of hues, like this pretty shade of aqua, and a bright coral. For a more funky alternative, the Anatapur Patchwork Pouf has fun tassels and a beautiful pattern.

For an even funkier vibe, we like the Tie-Dye Pouf in shades of blue and charcoal. And the textural rosettes of the Lulu Pouf would be perfect for a little girl’s room!

Get lots of inspirational ideas and inspiration boards featuring products from homedepot.com and our sister site, Home Decorators Collection – along with irresistible finds from around the web.

Home improvement can be messy. Whether you’re outdoors completing a new landscaping DIY project, or indoors with your tool kit, stains and spills inevitably happen. That’s why we’re pleased to introduce a new waterproofing and liquid repellant spray from Rust-Oleum, NeverWet. With a two-step application process, you can protect things like gloves and work boots from dirt and grime.

In this video, you can see how NeverWet doesn’t just protect against water, it actually repels water. Water immediately beads up on the surface and rolls off before it can penetrate even the most delicate surfaces such as fabric.

As we mention in the video, NeverWet does leave a frost-like film on surfaces once it has been applied. So if you’d like to use this on something with a distinct color or look, test it in an inconspicuous spot before fully applying. For best coverage, spray this as you would a spray paint — in thin, even coats. And of course, for the very best protection, follow the instructions on the box.

We can think of all sorts of uses for this incredible new technology. What would you use it for? Tell us for a chance to win a $1000 Home Depot Gift Card! Enter the NeverWet Contest by June 20 in our Community Forums. If your idea for using NeverWet is one of the best, you could win. Post your idea today! 

A flashlight is a minimum requirement when you’re on a camping trip. And flashlights have come a long way in recent years, with extra-long battery life and super inexpensive two-for-one packs (complete with batteries already installed). But these days LED lanterns and solar lights provide more light, more reliably and more cheaply than ever. And as we’ll see, they can even provide a level of glamour that will easily turn your camping trip into full-on “glamping.”

Here are a few we used to brighten up our campsite recently. You’ll find them useful for lighting up your patio or deck at home, too!

We love the dual uses — or should we say quadruple uses — for the Coleman Dual LED Lantern. When it’s time for some solo exploring, or you need to light the way to the restroom, pop off one of the four mini-lights for a personal flashlight. All in one, the lights combine for a brightness that can light up a room-sized area — for up to 75 hours! We used a gear tie to keep our lantern in place and on our deck.

Instead of leaving your drink of choice to chance, grab the one you want with help from a lantern by the cooler. The Ryobi 18-Volt One+ LED Workshop Light has high and low brightness settings so you won’t outshine everyone’s sleep if you turn it on overnight.

There’s definitely a place for utility when it comes to campsite lighting. But decorative LED lanterns and solar lights can be just as useful, especially if you’re glamping. Pillar candles (with a remote control!) and tealights add soft light and create ambiance in your space. Plus, you don’t have to worry about anything catching fire since they’re flameless.

The Trendscape Small Ribbed Solar LED Mercury and Art Glass lantern looks just as lovely in the daytime as it does at night. Don’t forget to leave it outside in the sun to charge it up!

Take things up a notch in terms of both size and style with the Hampton Bay Solar Decorative Lantern. Use it as a lovely focal point in your campsite during the day. Turn it on for a warm glow at night.

Now that we have your campsite and back deck lighting taken care of, check out more ideas for camping (and glamping) essentials here on the Home Depot blog. And be sure to follow our Summer Activities board on Pinterest.

Fun family evenings around a fire make this DIY project a winner. It will enhance the look of your backyard, too. Here are the step-by-step instructions. We have printable instructions you can download, too.

Skill Level: Advanced
Time: 2 days
Cost: $1200 (for an appox. 15×15-foot patio with a 66-inch fire pit)

Tools and Materials

• Marking paint
• Twine
• Wooden stakes
• Gravel
• Sand
• Paving stones
• A fire pit kit
• Industrial adhesive
• Shovel
• Tamper
• Push broom

Step 1 

Hammer a stake in the center of the area that you have selected for the patio/fire pit area.

Attach a string to the top of it and then roll it out to outer edge of the desired width and cut. While holding a can of spray paint and the string walk in a circle and mark the outer edge with spray paint.

Step 2

Dig out four inches of soil from the entire area.

Step 3

Add two inches of gravel and compact it into place then add two inches of base sand and compact it. If you desire the top of the paving stones to be level with the ground, then you will need to add the thickness of the paver to the depth that you dig out.

Lay out your pavers in the desired pattern. Pour finishing sand on top of the stones and work into the joints with a push broom. Keep adding sand till all of the joints are filled to the top.

Hint: Figure out the radius of your circle by measuring from the center point to the outer edge. Now to find the square footage of the circle you will need to multiply 3.14 x radius x radius = square footage. Now figure out the coverage of each paver and divide that into your square footage to find out how many pavers you will need.

 Step 4

Layout your pavers in the desired pattern. Pour finishing sand on top and work into the joints with a push broom. Keep adding sand until all of the joints are filled to the top.

Step 5

Drive a stake in the middle of the circle, where you want the fire pit to be. Lay the first course of blocks 24 inches from it.

Continue till you complete the circle. Place the next two rows with the blocks staggering the intersection of the two blocks on the row below.If your kit came with a metal ring, place it inside the circle
of stones.

Now remove one block at a time from the top row and glue it to the two blocks below. You can use an industrial adhesive such as Liquid Nails.

Step 6

Now, enjoy your new stone fire pit.

Download the printable instructions for this Stone Fire Pit DIY project and get started! 

And while you’re at it, take a look at more DIY projects here on The Home Depot blog. 

Summer activities that include food cooked on the grill make for some of the best memories — and satisfied taste buds. It doesn’t matter whether you’re gathered around a gas or charcoal grill or an open campfire. The good times really get going when it’s time to eat. Even though it’s a familiar tradition, there are a few things you can do to make your outside feasts and festivities go more smoothly. Here are a few of our favorite tips and camping supplies for cooking outdoors.

There’s nothing more disheartening than arriving at your campsite far from home — and stores — only to realize you’ve forgotten the charcoal. And we don’t even want to think about what could happen when the fire literally gets too hot and you have no way to put it out. So come prepared with plenty of charcoal and a fire extinguisher.

Remember all the uses a bucket has? You can add to that list by putting a bucket jockey inside one and decking it out with your grill tools. Not only will it keep everything within easy reach, if it starts to rain you can head for cover without wasting time wrangling all your supplies.

For some, cooking outdoors over an open fire is the highlight of camping. But getting low to the ground to light the fire isn’t all that fun when there’s dirt and gravel to scrape your knees. That’s why a kneeling cushion is an absolute must. It won’t absorb water, and has a handle so it carries easily, too.

Organizing your cooking area is just as important on the road as it is at home. Set up a minimalist kitchen starting with a folding table for a quick work surface. Stash a bucket with a lid to quickly corral garbage. Park the cooler within arm’s reach and use a fabric storage drawer for odds and ends like disinfecting wipes.

You can take your kitchen area to the next level with a utility cart. The wheels make it easy to move your outdoor cooking setup wherever you need it. The cart’s open storage will keep condiments at hand when you need them and out of the way when you don’t. And you can use the wooden top for chopping and cutting — may we suggest a few lemons, and a jug to mix everything in for a dose of instant refreshment.

Don’t forget to carry along a few serving trays. They’re relatively compact, so you won’t feel like you’re packing too much. Cutting boards can serve a dual purpose — slicing up cheeses and fruit, and as a tray once you’re done prepping. Pack a couple of large bowls, too. They can be used to collect scraps while you’re cooking, and hold cooked food when everything is hot off the grill. That’s what we call true picnic-style dining!

Cast iron is an old standby when it comes to outdoor cooking for good reason. The material can withstand high temperatures directly in a campfire or set over grill grates. Brew coffee or tea using a cast iron teapot. Or try making a berry-based compote by adding sugar to a mix of fresh blueberries and cherries to a cast iron skillet. Dessert, anyone?

Now that everything is fresh off the grill, it’s time to sit down and eat. Add a tablecloth, succulents and pretty solar lanterns to your picnic table. Even disposable plates and plasticware feel a little fancier when you’ve taken the time to upgrade your campsite dining experience by dressing up your place settings. (We have some ideas on how to create a lovely outdoor table setting here on the Apron blog.)

We can’t say that cleaning the grill is our favorite chore, but it’s a necessary one. This handy cleaning block is like a pumice for your grill! It’s made of recycled glass, so there are no chemicals to worry about. After you’ve scooped or dumped out the ashes from your portable grill, you may want to flip it upside down inside a trash bag before putting it in your car. After all, the goal is to leave the ashes behind, and keep the good memories, right?

 
And for more ideas on cooking outdoors, summer activities and more, follow our Summer Activities board on Pinterest.

Here’s a short video from Andouin Haven, design director for video at Martha Stewart Living. In it, she shares some of her secrets for creating outdoor rooms with all the style and comfort of being indoors. Using the same principles she employs when designing an interior space, Andouin will show you how to make your outdoor rooms a true reflection of your home’s interior style.

Working from her backyard with her own patio furniture chosen from the Martha Stewart Patio Collection, she divulges her personal blueprint for getting the maximum enjoyment from life outdoors.

You’ll learn how to organize an outdoor kitchen with the convenience and functionality of cooking indoors. There are also expert tips on arranging and decorating an alfresco dining room with beautiful outdoor rugs and fresh flowers and plants. And you’ll see ways to use outdoor cushions and pillows to accessorize an outdoor living space to give it the comfort and feel of relaxing indoors.

If you’re looking for new patio furniture, or it’s time to update your existing outdoor dining set or seating set, we’ve got an amazing selection to choose from at The Home Depot. You’ll also find a wide assortment of patio accessories to enhance your outdoor living spaces, from patio umbrellas and fire pits to furniture covers and deck boxes.

Check out more DIY and home improvement videos here on the Home Depot blog and on The Home Depot’s YouTube channel.

Don’t have these items lying around the house? Think of it this way: Make an inexpensive purchase now to take them on your trip, and then put these items to work once you return home.

Make sure to set up a nice lounging area at your outdoor location. If you bring along a garden stool from home, you’ll see that it can serve as a small end table or impromptu seating. When you’re packing the car, take advantage of a removable top on the garden stool, or put the stools in legs-side-up so that you can transport a couple of pillows or throws inside.

A basic bucket — we’re partial to the Homer Bucket! — or pail takes on an extraordinary number of uses around the house and around the campsite. Fill one with soapy water and another with fresh water for a mobile dishwashing station.

You can also line one with a trash bag and make it a trashcan. Metal pails do the trick, too, especially for smaller areas or paper disposables that don’t need to be covered with a lid. Place a few of them around your campsite so there’s always one nearby.

You’ll also need something to toss smaller trash items into when you’re cooking. Just like at home, a large bowl to collect scraps and wrappers makes the most sense.

We love the idea of stuffing a metal gift card holder with all the essentials for a mini first aid kit. You can make up a few of these and give one to each camper since they fit so easily into backpacks and bags.

Sure, you can hang towels on an over-the-door rack and let the breeze dry them out. But you can also use the rack as an easy-access place to put keys, bags and other items you don’t want to lose.

Some would say that going camping is the ultimate DIY project. So bring along a tool from one of the most doable DIY jobs — a paint can opener that doubles as a bottle opener.

Take fabric storage drawers out of their indoor cubbies and bring them outside for an all-purpose container for your outdoor adventures. Try filling them according to their use — one for grilling tools and accessories, another for cleaning supplies, one more for your gear ties and cords. The list can be as long as the number of needs you have onsite!

Scooping charcoal out of the bag — or dumping ashes out of the grill — becomes less of a dirty task with a garden scoop. We hear that it works well for building sandcastles, too.

Maybe you keep a spray bottle filled with water for misting your plants. Or perhaps you buy cleaning solution in bulk and keep these filled and stashed around your home to make chores easier. You’ll find them just as handy outdoors, whether you’re cleaning the picnic table or washing your hands.

Don’t you just love when you’ve taken a nice, cold drink out of the cooler and set it down for just a minute, only to find it mixed in with a bunch of other folks’ bottles that look just like it? Cable ties to the rescue! They are perfect for marking drinks. Wrap one around the mouth of your bottle, and claim your color so you know which one is yours.

Scour the garage for a couple of tool bags that you can repurpose for keeping track of your personal toiletries. They’re like campsite handbags!

We’d love to hear any of your ideas for camping (or glamping). Leave us a comment! 

And for more ideas on repurposing items for the outdoors, summer activities and more, follow our Summer Activities board on Pinterest.

Image via Design Public photographed by Andrew Gregory

Around here, we’re huge fans of homes with open floor plans. They help to create more social time by allowing people in various areas of the home to converse more freely. It’s easier to keep an eye on the kids while you’re preparing dinner. And fewer walls let natural light permeate throughout the house.

While these are all excellent arguments in favor more openness, we understand the compelling need for spatial separation at times.

That’s why we’re also keen on the many interesting ways people are using room dividers in homes with open floor plans. They help balance the desire for a more communal way of life with a practical need for boundaries. In spaces large and small we spotted some ingenious and unusual approaches, and we hope that you will find some inspiration here for your home.

Image via House & Home

The use of curtains as a room divider is not a new idea, but it has certainly retained its allure over time. While providing a veil of privacy, curtain dividers can also create a tantalizing play of light and shadow that give a room added depth.

Image via Apartment Therapy

Bookcases are a way to divide a space that makes room for displaying your favorite works of literature or art. As a bonus, they’re relatively easy to add, remove or disassemble and move to another location in your home. 

Images via Casa Sugar (clockwise from top left), Dishfunctional Designs, My Notting Hill and Attic Mag

Reclaimed furnishings like windows, storage cabinets, shutters and pallets form unique divides in an open space that infuse the room with vintage charm.

Image via The Brick House

We’re revisiting an old favorite from the folks over at The Brick House to show you how to add warmth, texture and graphic interest to an open space in your home with rope dividing walls. Cheap and relatively easy to construct, this idea could be adapted in innumerable ways for spaces of any size.

Image from Dream About The Day via Sweetgrass Salon

We couldn’t decide whether this was the best idea ever for a room divider or the absolute worst. But we certainly couldn’t resist including it in this post. Any thoughts?

See more inspiration and ideas in our Places series here on the Apron Blog.

Well, a breeze and these tips and take-alongs. We went on a warm-weather adventure recently and found that keeping a few things in mind — and on hand — can make all the difference in enjoying yourself outdoors.

First of all, secure the right location. Make sure to reserve your campsite, check with local authorities to see if beach camping is allowed, or simply arrive at your free-for-all site in plenty of time to get a good spot.

We decided to stay at a yurt in Georgia’s High Falls State Park. It’s the perfect setting for camping with a bit of glamour, aka glamping.

Next, gather up some travel basics. Here’s a collection of our favorites — everything from a flashlight to a first aid kit. That’s just the start. Let us show you some of our other must-haves below.

Some locations have grills, but why not bring your own? A small portable one like the Weber Lil Smokey will have you ’cueing up in no time.

Once you’ve set up your cooking area — which you’ll want to place away from your main lodging or lounging area — it’s time to light the fire. Don’t waste time with matches. Let a utility lighter and quick-start fuel get you started.

When it comes to pest prevention, it’s hard to go overboard. Hang a fly trap, pack an inexpensive fly swatter, and don’t forget the bug spray.

Gear ties are simply genius. They come in various lengths and one strength: super strong! You’ll find that gear ties have multiple uses, from tying up extension cords and gathering gear to hanging lanterns and portable stereos.

Bungee cords are gear ties’ tried-and-true siblings. You’re likely to surprise yourself with how handy bungee cords are, but we find them especially useful for bunching collapsible chairs together or securing objects in the car.

Speaking of your car, your trip won’t be any fun if you have car trouble en route. Keep booster cables on hand, just in case.

So maybe sleeping on the ground isn’t your idea of comfy. We found this foldable, portable cot quite rest-worthy. Decked out with pillows, the cot is sure to make your afternoon nap outside even more enjoyable.

If you plan on taking more than one trip this summer, save yourself the trouble of taking care of an easily-damaged Styrofoam cooler. A durable cooler is worth the investment. Wheels are a must, and extra storage space is a nice touch. Vintage design, bright colors and an attached bottle opener seal the deal.

What good is a drink that gets warm too fast? Once you get your beverage out of the cooler, stuff it inside one of these koozies and pop the top with the bottle opener that comes with it.

Plastic storage totes will help keep everything from camping gear to nonperishables nice and dry. We love the idea of filling up totes with your camping essentials – maybe one for bedding and blankets, and another with disposable paper- and plasticware. Pack your totes at the start of the season, then replenish or refresh your items when you return from a trip so your can grab and go for the next one.

A little light literally goes a long way when you’re camping. Put LED lanterns to work along stairs, or near coolers for easy access to food and beverages once the sun goes down.

And last but certainly not least: If you’re taking the little ones along, keep sibling rivalry to a minimum by labeling pillows and toy packs with a piece of duct tape. Happy trails, indeed!

No matter what summer activities you’ve got planned, you’ll find everything you need for outdoor recreation online or in-store at The Home Depot. And for more ideas on camping and travel essentials, follow our Summer Activities board on Pinterest.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that heating and cooling your home makes up about 54 percent of your annual utility bill. So, needless to say, finding ways to control the climate more efficiently inside your home can save you a significant amount of money. A new thermostat is a great place to start.

Replacing older, non-programmable thermostats with programmable thermostats can trim your energy bill as much as $180 a year. These thermostats automatically reduce your heating and cooling when you need it least. More advanced Wi-Fi thermostats give you the flexibility of adjusting your home’s temperature from your smartphone, tablet or desktop computer.

Here’s a short tutorial put together by Mike from the Community Forums to introduce you to some of the latest thermostats and the unique features offered by each type. Most models install to your heating or cooling system with as few as two low-voltage wires, making do-it-yourself installation relatively easy. You can replace your old thermostat in just minutes and reap the savings.

When you’re ready to update your existing thermostat with a newer, more efficient model, The Home Depot has a large selection of residential and commercial-grade options. From programmable and Wi-Fi thermostats to touchscreen thermostats, we have the newest technologies to help you save money on energy bills.

Check out more DIY and home improvement videos here on the Home Depot blog and on The Home Depot’s YouTube channel.

While camping is a fun summer tradition, not all of us love to rough it. Between mosquitoes, heat, and the lack of cell phone service, camping out in the great wilderness isn’t for everyone. But with a few luxuries, you can turn a state park campsite into a comfortable, relaxed, outdoor retreat.

So that’s why there’s “glamping” — camping made glamorous. And it’s high time you tried it. With that in mind, here are some of our best glamping accessories to make your camping trip a luxurious experience.

SOFTEN YOUR CAMPSITE WITH PILLOWS, POUFS, AND RUGS

It may seem excessive, but taking along some comfy elements like clean white sheets, throw pillows, and even a cushy rug can help give a basic campsite a cozy, luxurious feel.

This state park yurt came with a rustic bunk bed, a basic mattress on the top, and a futon mattress on the bottom. While it sure beats a sleeping bag on the ground, we wanted our campsite to be a place we enjoy spending the weekend. By dressing the bunk bed with crisp linens and some comfy throw pillows, we created a restful retreat that makes crashing after a long hike that much sweeter.

If you aren’t much of an outdoors person, take along your favorite sleeping pillow and a clean set of sheets.

Perhaps it’s a bit excessive to suggest taking along three large poufs while you’re camping, but we found that they can be quite versatile! Multitasking as a luggage rack, ottoman and seats, we used the poufs all over our campsite.

In addition to using fluffy throw pillows inside our campsite, we also brought them out during the day to give a camp cot (the Coleman Ridgeline III Cot) the feel of a day bed. This made for a comfy spot to enjoy the sunshine or a place to sit while the cook is working over the grill.

CREATE AMBIANCE WITH LIGHTING

Even if you’re camping the old-fashioned way, you’ll need to take lighting in the form of flashlights with you. On a glamping trip, however, we recommend taking LED pillar candles and solar lanterns. They not only serve a functional purpose but create a cozy ambiance as well.

These LED pillar candles come in a pack of three and are a great way to add some chic to your camp-out. They turn on and off with the click of a remote control, and you won’t have to worry about anything catching fire if you wander off on a moonlit stroll.

In addition to LED pillar candles, solar lanterns are an easy win. Just take them outside during the day to charge them up, then bring them in once the sun starts to set. These mercury glass solar candles give off a warm glow, and they also have a pretty finish in daylight. To make an even bigger impact, take one of these Black Decorative Solar Lanterns along with you!

PACK THE COMFORTS OF HOME

For some, one of the biggest reasons camping can seem like a drag is that you don’t always have the comforts of home. There’s no air conditioning, you have to sleep in a foreign bed — if you have a bed at all — and you don’t have the creature comforts of your own space. But if you’re on a glamping trip, go ahead and pack a few extra things that will make you feel at home, like your softest sheets, your favorite coffee blend, or your coziest slippers.

An oscillating fan (we’re partial to this copper adjustable fan) is any easy way to cool off your space, plus the buzzing sound is soothing.

Or perhaps you’re a coffee-lover? Pack your favorite blend and a French press or teapot! It’s easy enough to boil water on the fire, and you won’t miss out on your morning indulgence.

DOLL UP YOUR PICNIC TABLE WITH PRETTY TABLE WARES

Meals are one of the best parts of a camping trip. They give you and your fellow scouts the opportunity to sit around and enjoy each other’s company. Since you’ll be feasting together, take along a few fun ways to set your table.

We used mercury glass solar lanterns, a couple of potted succulents, and a basic white tablecloth to create a simple centerpiece for our picnic table.

The centerpiece looks chic and simple during the day, but the lanterns begin to glow at night. It’s a perfect setting for those leisurely dinners that last into the wee hours.

DON’T FORGET THE ENTERTAINMENT

Taking off to the great outdoors for an adventure? This is a great time to unplug from the hustle and bustle of fast-paced life. But who says you have to unplug completely? Amp up the fun by taking along your favorite playlist!

We relied on the Ridgid Jobsite Radio to keep the music playing whether we were out on the dock, relaxing outside, or in the state park yurt. It’s perfect for a glamping trip because it can run on a battery or be plugged in, and it plays both an mp3 player or the radio!

These are just a few of the ways you can turn a camping trip into a glamping trip. If you’re not quite Daniel Boone when it comes to heading into the wilderness, keep these glamping accessories in mind. And if you are a rugged outsdoorsman or -woman, use these as enticements to encourage your indoorsy friends to try a weekend next to the lake.

For more ideas on camping (or glamping), summer activities and more, follow our Summer Activities board on Pinterest.

Outdoor adventures are a summer tradition, whether you prefer a short weekend trip to your state park or you’re heading out on a full-fledged wilderness adventure. Above are a few of our must-have items for your next outing.

From top

A Coleman Dual LED Lantern is perfect for a group camping trip because the smaller lanterns detach individually, making them perfect if you need to go off on your own. When assembled, this lantern is bright enough to light up a whole room!

These strong and bendable gear ties are incredibly handy. Use them to hang up a lantern near your cook area, tie together cords or ropes when packing up, or hang up your towel to dry!

You’ll likely be building a fire or tending a grill on your camping trip. The Fiskars Kneeling Cushion is a godsend whether you are roasting marshmallows, poking the coals, or just enjoying the warmth.

Finally, a Leatherman 10-in-1 Tool is sure to come in handy. It includes everything from a nail file to scissors to pliers. You will surely get lots of use out of this multi-use tool.

Get lots of inspirational ideas and inspiration boards featuring products from homedepot.com and our sister site, Home Decorators Collection – along with irresistible finds from around the web.