al fresco – Francois et Moi

Build a Modern Grid Trellis from Garden Stakes

francoisetmoiblog@gmail.com — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 12:59:29 +0000

One of the big things that bothered me about the back facade of our home when we bought it, was a large, bare expanse of stucco just to the right of the back door. See before photos of our backyard HERE. My initial thought was that it was the PERFECT location for a pergola, and it is, but after replacing the patio, and making several other improvements to the backyard, a $$$$ pergola just wasn’t in the budget, at least not right now. So instead, we built a trellis to fill the vertical space. I was really inspired by the work of a company named, Garden Metalwork. Their simple modern grid trellises totally redefined for me what a trellis could be. A trellis didn’t have to be made of premade lattice with traditional scrolls at the top–it could be clean, bold and modern. I would have LOVED to purchase one of their trellises, but I’m pretty sure it would have cost about as much as a pergola. So the next best (most affordable) option was to build one from exterior grade cedar. I used 60″ cedar stakes from the garden center because they’re the perfect size and thickness for […]

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3 DIY’s for Creating the Perfect Al Fresco Retreat

francoisetmoiblog@gmail.com — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 15:55:58 +0000

With summer OFFICIALLY here, I’ve been taking full advantage of summer evenings in our backyard whenever possible. Whether it’s a simple dinner just Ken and me or hosting a group of friends for a bonfire, if it involves my backyard on a warm summer night, you can bet I’ll be on board! The best, most hangout-worthy outdoor spaces always address three key elements really well: lighting, greenery, and accessories. String lights to candles, lighting is an easy ambiance-creator that can make any space feel magical at night. Greenery (i.e. potted plants and surrounding foliage) helps the space feel lush, relaxed and just plain good to be in. Accessories such as pillows and tabletop accessories provide a human element and bring an added level of comfort to an outdoor space. If you’re looking to turn your backyard or balcony into a feel-good al fresco retreat, then you’ve stopped by the right place! We’ve teamed up with art & craft supplier, Loew-Cornell, to share 3 outdoor DIY projects you can make with simple craft store supplies. From lantern garlands, to mini lattices to citrus-y coasters, we’ve got your outdoor space covered for summer! MASON JAR LANTERN GARLAND What I LOVE about […]

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5 Ideas for Throwing an Al Fresco Dinner Party

francoisetmoiblog@gmail.com — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 13:07:28 +0000

Summer is fleeting us. And it’s about this time every summer that I start to freak out a little. Fall is just around the corner, yet it feels like summer just got here, and it becomes painfully clear there are tons of things I still want to do before it turns cold. Anyone else feel the same? Relishing summer nights with good friends over good food is one of those things I can never quite get enough of. So I thought I’d share a few ideas and inspiration to throw one last al fresco dinner party this summer, whether it’s in your backyard or a pop up party in a park. Let’s make the most of these last few weeks. Cheers! Position your dining table under a tree, and use the branches as a framework to string cafe lights. Keep the tablescape simple (and easy!) with a single type of plant or flower, and of course candles. Layer hard surfaces with blankets and pillows for a cozy effect. Focus on fresh simple ingredients that can be prepared ahead of time. This way you’ll spend more time outside with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Keep the vibe laid back and playful with prosecco + popsicles for dessert! Imagery: Lights | Tablescape […]

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