Thinking about remodeling?

Think out of the box. As in, outdoors.

Wondering what’s trending when it comes to the best in backyard living?

These days, customized rear porches, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, pools/ pool baths, fireplaces and patios are transforming backyards all over Lake Highlands into more easily utilized extensions of the home.

“Distinctive touches, such as custom lighting, high-end audio-visual and folding door systems can really maximize the utility of outdoor spaces,” says Bella Vista Company partner Sara Haley.

Once you step off the back porch, synthetic turf is beginning to rival real grass as a comfortable-to-walk-on outdoor covering. “It’s easy to maintain and keeps looking good for years, thanks to new turf technology,” she says.

“Mixing in textures of wood, stone, tile and concrete can also create an interesting transition from your interior to your backyard.”

And when it comes to the latest technology to keep out the bugs, almostinvisible retractable screens are a great choice – they’re smartphone controlled and make it easy to live outdoors year-round.

So now that you know the hottest options for outdoor living: How do you put together a custom plan for your home that will wow friends and give you the biggest bang for your budget?

Bella Vista Company was created in Lakewood in 2006 for exactly this purpose. Their design and construction team works with clients in their homes and at the company’s innovative two-story neighborhood showroom right near the Arboretum on Garland Road to help sort through ideas and bring clients’ visions to life.

Unique among home builders, Bella Vista Company takes a homeowner from start to finish, designing and building plans for outdoor areas, home remodels or entire new-build projects with interior/ exterior design work and complete project management.

1. FLOORING: There are many great options including stained concrete, hardwood decking and tile.

2. PARTITIONS: There’s no reason to contain game day parties inside, thanks to innovative folding doors or glass wall systems.

3. BACKSPLASH: The options for a stylish backsplash don’t stop with tile. Cast-in-place concrete or custom-designed metal work great as functional accent pieces for your outdoor kitchen.

“With the right planning and design, just about everyone can attain a showplace outdoor area custom-designed for their backyard,” Haley says. “Start planning today to have your space ready for the summer.”

Contact Bella Vista Company at BellaVistaCompany.com or call 214.823.0033 to set up a no-cost initial meeting.

Retractable Screens: More than just shade, insect and pest protection, these motorized screen solutions provide an almostinvisible wall barrier while creating privacy and extra retreat space that can be easily opened and closed with your smartphone.

Know what you want in your home remodel project but aren’t sure how to get started? Stop by Bella Vista Company’s state-of-the-art, two-story design center showcasing kitchen, bath and outdoor living vignettes, along with ideas for design, implementation and complete project management. Drop by weekdays and Saturdays at 8989 Garland Road near the Dallas Arboretum.

Full-Service Design & Construction

8989 Garland Road

BellaVistaCompany.com

March 10 Cat Video Fest

Attend Cat Video Fest to raise money for local nonprofits that assist felines.

5 things to do in Lake Highlands this March

MARCH 14

Spring carnival

Spring break is upon us, and your children are bursting with energy. Wear them out at the library’s spring carnival with games, face paint and prizes.

Where: Audelia Road Branch Library, 10045

Audelia Road

Cost: Free

More info: dallaslibrary.org

MARCH 23

Clean up Hamilton Park Pay it forward and help The Salome Foundation, a nonprofit based in the Lake Highlands area, clean up Hamilton Park.

Where: Various locations

Cost: Free More info: thesalomefoundation.org

MARCH 29-30

‘The Higher Love’

Watch a staged reading of “The Higher Love,” from the WingSpan Theatre Company. The Germaine Shames play takes audiences into the lives of two young actors and their tragedy-stricken director.

Where: Bath House Cultural Center, 521 E. Lawther Drive

Cost: $11 per ticket

More info: wingspantheatre.com

MARCH 30

Home tour

Step inside seven of Lake Highlands’ best decorated homes while raising money for the Lake Highlands Early Childhood PTA.

Where: Various locations

Cost: $20-$45

More info: lhaecpta.org