Patio & Hearth Blog

The Hamptons Summer Stripe Deluxe Cushioned Double Swing from The HammockSource

Sipping lemonade on one’s porch while rocking on their favorite chair or swing is an ideal spring and summer image that many people love. For those looking for relaxation that involves a gentle rock back and forth, swings and rock chairs are still as popular as ever and even more stylish. Whether it’s for the porch or patio, it will be the favorite spot for anyone looking to unwind.

The Hamptons Summer Stripe Deluxe Cushioned Double Swing from The HammockSource is perfect for those looking to add some fun to their porch. Hand-dipped multiple times in honey-gold marine spar varnish, the curvy white-oak frame supports an abundantly wide pillowy seat of cottony-soft, ultra-fade-resistant, all-weather DuraCord fabric sandwiching a lavish layer of polyester fiberfill batting. The fabric, part of the Hatteras Hammocks Mariner collection, features bold stripes in alternating blues, golds and whites.

Traditional Rocker from Great American Woodies

Great American Woodies continues as a innovative design leader in the outdoor casual furniture industry by introducing new Traditional Rockers to the extensive line of wood products for the 2012 season. The new rockers are available as part of the Southern Cypress collection which offers long lasting natural beauty and the distinctive Cottage Classic collection in attractive White and Charleston Green stain.

The HammockSource

Great American Woodies

The Bungalow Collection from Homecrest

With airfares and gas prices on the rise, people are spending more time at home.  Homeowners are putting money back into their homes, and one area that has been getting special attention is the backyard.  Patio furniture has become more stylish and comfortable over the years, and in many cases, the line between indoor and outdoor furniture has blurred.  Here are two collections that will bring comfort to all.

The Bungalow Deep Seating and Dining by Homecrest is a slipcover outdoor patio furniture collection that offers the utmost versatility with a variety of sophisticated, durable and weather resistant fabrics.  Its’ curvaceous cast feet add visual interest and style to the casual comfort you’ve come to expect from Homecrest.

The Dreux Collection from Ebel

Ebel is pleased to offer its Dreux Collection, new woven wicker designs in two brand new colors (Driftwood and Chestnut) both with a new wide weave.  The Dreux Collection includes deep seating and dining pieces as well as a new luxurious daybed.  By mixing and matching the various pieces, your customer can create an outdoor space that is perfect for entertaining and relaxation.

Homecrest

Ebel

St. Tropez Collection from South Sea Rattan

For most of the country, Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday (March 11). While we lose an hour of sleep, we gain more sun time to spend in our backyards and patios. With spring at the doorstep, now is the perfect time to add a new look that will be enjoyed throughout the rest of the spring and summer. Outdoor furniture manufacturers have introduced exciting new designs that are guaranteed to be strong sellers this season. Here are just a couple.

The St. Tropez Collection is one of South Sea Rattan’s largest collections and consists of every item to complete the ideal outdoor room. The collection features Powder-coated aluminum frames with their new Extra Wide Polyethylene synthetic wicker in an Espresso finish. It consists of a sofa, loveseat, hair, swivel glider, ottoman, curved loveseats, sectional, occasional tables, and two different sizes of outdoor dining tables.

URComfort™ System from Tropitone

The adjustable URComfort™ System from Tropitone allows you to find the most comfortable position without getting out of the seat. There is an adjustable tension knob on each side of the seat that allows you to restrict or encourage movement. Whether you want less movement sitting at a table or more movement with your feet on an ottoman, the URComfort™ System can be easily adjusted to your satisfaction. URComfort™ designs include cushions, traditional single-layer slings, double-layer Duplex slings, and elegant new padded slings.

South Sea Rattan

Tropitone

Patio furniture doesn’t have to consist of just standard seating and dining collections. For those homeowners who want to create a fun, playful, or elegant mood in their backyards, bar stools are the perfect addition. If you incorporate an outdoor island or bar (and patio heater and lights), you can keep the party going all night long.

The Malibu Bar Set from NorthCape International

NorthCape International’s Malibu Bar Set is a great addition to the already best selling modular collection. It features UV-protected durable flat weave resin on a commercial grade aluminum frame, two woven shelves, and the bar stools fit easily into the shelves for hassle-free storage.

Casa Bistro Swivel Bar Stools from O.W. Lee

The Casa Bistro Swivel Stools, from O.W. Lee, are available in three heights: counter, bar, and pub height. Made from wrought iron, with a dark bronze frame finish and Posh Oat fabric, the Casa swivel stools embody elegance and functionality. All three heights are available in the Villa and Chalet bistro styles as well.

The Leeward Sling Stationery Bar Chair from Telescope Casual

The Leeward Sling Stationery Bar Chair from Telescope Casual is constructed of their popular Marine Grade Polymer which consists of recycled materials.  The MGP frames feature substantial weight for windy locations and the frame also comes in four colors.  With a wide variety of sling fabrics and padded sling also available, homeowners are able to create their own look.  The Leeward Bar Chair also comes in a swivel form.

NorthCape International

O.W. Lee

Telescope Casual

Grandview 230 Wood-Burning Stove by Lennox Hearth Systems

Using wood-burning stoves can be an efficient and low-cost way to heat homes. With the rising cost of gas, homeowners are eager to find new ways to bring warmth into their houses and EPA-certified wood-burning stoves might be their solution. New stove technology has allowed for minimal smoke and makes stoves easy to use even if the power goes out.

The Grandview 230 Wood-Burning Stove from Lennox is their latest EPA-certified entry from the Country Collection. Expansive ceramic glass gives unobstructed views of the fire, while the advanced refractory system and innovative heat exchanger combine to deliver the perfect amount of radiant heat. Easy operation and one-touch control make interaction a breeze.

Encore Two-In-One Wood Burning Stove by Vermont Castings

Vermont Castings Encore Two-in-One Wood Burning Stove provides flexibility to the homeowner by allowing two different ways to heat. Like its larger counterpart, the Defiant Two-in-One Stove, it converts from catalytic to non-catalytic operation in less than one minute. Plus, its superior heating efficiency generates more heat from less wood, saving up to $300 or more during an average New England winter.

Vermont Castings

Lennox Hearth Systems

The Aurora Dual-Fuel Grill from R.H. Peterson

With so many choices available in the marketplace, deciding which outdoor grill to buy can be tough for a homeowner. Gas, charcoal, or pellet? Each of these fuel types offers their own unique style when it comes to grilling one’s favorite food. Gas can be more convenient, while using charcoal can bring an added flavor. The demand for pellet grills has also risen in the past few years due to increasing gas prices. Here are a couple of popular grills that your customers may want to consider.

The Aurora Dual-Fuel Grill from R.H. Peterson offers the convenience of gas and the unmistakable aroma and flavor that comes from hardwood cooking. Measuring a generous 50 inches wide, the 2-in-1 grill features dedicated gas and charcoal
cooking areas and boasts 50,000 BTUs. Independent hoods for each gas type feature a thermometer for precise grilling ands smoking.

WoodMaster Whole Hog Pellet Grill

For those wanting old-fashioned, smoky flavor, the WoodMaster Whole Hog Pellet Grill is the perfect choice. The 1,380 square-inch cooking surface, plus the optional 1,000-square-inch second rack, provides balanced heat to keep up with hungry guests. Pellet grills like the WoodMaster Whole Hog are cleaning burning and will lighten the load on one’s wallet as well.

R.H. Peterson

WoodMaster

905 Cast Iron Stove by HearthDistribution.Com, Inc.

Customers looking to save money on their energy bills might want to consider zone heating. Zone heating simply means putting the heat where one needs it instead of relying on a central furnace. Using a powerful fireplace or stove as a heat source provides warmth to specific rooms just as efficiently, and often more conveniently, than using a furnace.

The 905 Cast Iron Stove by HearthDistribution.Com, Inc., part of the Henin Hi-Flame line of World Class Cast Iron Stoves, recently made its debut in the United States. Having only been available in Europe, the 905 is perfect for customers looking for ample warmth, as well as an energy-efficient heater. This compact stove offers simple straightforward contemporary modern styling, a large window for great views, and uses 16.5-inch wood. The 905 Cast Iron Stove is fully certified.

Horizon HZ33E from Regency Fireplace Products

Set in a seamless designer frame, the Regency Horizon HZ33E creates a stunning firescape display, featuring reflective panels that amplify a ribbon of flames set on a full bed of shimmering crystals or spas stones. The shallow depth (12 ¾ inches) takes less space while delivering efficient mid-level heath output for just the right amount of warmth. Using less space without sacrificing style, the HZ33E offers endless design options that can be easily integrated into any living space.

HearthDistribution.Com

Regency Fireplace Products

The Little Q from Bull Outdoor Products

Cooking outdoors use to mean lighting up the grill. Today, one can light the grill, run the dishwasher and grab a beer from the refrigerator–all while remaining outside the whole time. Outdoor kitchens (as well as outdoor entertaining) have become increasingly popular over the years, causing manufacturers to create a wide array of components and accessories to make outdoor kitchens resemble indoor kitchens.

Bull Outdoor’s Little Q might be compact and perfect for those short on space, but it can also be equipped with built-in components, making it extremely versatile. It features a 30-inch 5-burner grill and Bull’s refrigerator, which makes it perfect for keeping drinks cold while cooking burgers. Its built-in bar seating area easily fits four adults, guaranteeing that the cook won’t miss out on good conversation.

Outdoor Dishwasher from Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet

Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet’s Outdoor Dishwasher will satisfy any host or hostess who doesn’t want to miss out on the action due to washing dishes inside. Green, smart, and clean, this outdoor dishwasher features technology that doesn’t waste water, using as little as 3.8 gallons. Its highly-focused spray zones ensure that the whole load gets totally clean and they eliminate the need for pre-rinsing dishes.

Bull Outdoor Products

Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet

The Dolce Collection from Couristan

It won’t be long before spring is here and we’ll once again be able to enjoy relaxing and socializing outdoors. Many customers have already acquired stylish and comfortable furniture for their outdoor spaces, but to make the most of these areas there are other items they should consider. To add even more comfort and color to their backyards, rugs are the perfect accessory item. Not only do they provide color and texture, they also help tie a look together. A simple outdoor rug can transform a basic patio into an inviting outdoor room. Manufacturers have introduced a wide array of exciting designs that are sure to impress your customers.

Designed to withstand the outdoor elements, yet stylish enough to be used in indoor settings, the Dolce Collection from Couristan features a variety of patterns ranging from sophisticated traditional motifs to bold florals. Woven of 100% fiber-
enhanced Courtron polypropylene with polyster accents, this dynamic collection is mold and mildew resistant to provide long-lasting performance anywhere.

The Beach Sisal Rug from Capel Rugs

The Beach Sisal Rug from Capel Rugs is their newest offering of a bordered rug design that has a machine woven construction. Part of Capel’s Anywhere Rug collection, the Beach Sisal is virtually maintenance-free and is weather resistant yet provides the soft comfort one wants in any rug. The Beach Sisal Rug is ideal for the outdoors or any area with high traffic.

Couristan

Capel Rugs

PowerChef Electric Grill by Dimplex

Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be spent at a crowded, expensive restaurant with other couples. Instead, why not spend the 14th at home with your loved one where you won’t be bothered by indifferent waiters and loud customers? With the right meal (preferably prepared using a grill), mood lighting and soft music, your special valentine will love an intimate dinner at home. If you live in a warm climate, you can hold it outdoors in front of a cozy fireplace or firepit. Or if you’re in a colder part of the country, consider serving the meal in front of the indoor fireplace. Move the furniture and prepare a picnic-style meal on the carpet. This will surely keep both of you warm on Valentine’s Day!

Here’s an easy Rib Eye recipe that won’t cost you $50 a plate.

Rib Eye with Garlic-Thyme Marinade

Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for grates
6 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons (about 15 sprigs) fresh thyme leaves
2 rib-eye steaks, each about 1 pound and 1 ½ inches thick
Coarse salt and pepper

Directions:

1. In a medium baking dish (or bowl), combine oil, garlic, and thyme. Add steaks, and turn to coat. Cover dish and refrigerate; let marinate, turning steaks occasionally, at least 1 hour and up to overnight.
2. Heat grill to medium-high; lightly oil grates. Remove steak from marinade, letting excess drip off (discard marinade); season with salt and pepper. Place steaks on grill; cover. Cook, turning once, until meat is desired doneness, 12 to 16 minutes for medium-rare.

And for the ultimate, yet simple, dessert try this Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries recipe. Make them a head of time or together, this classic dessert will always set the perfect mood.

Dimplex