A gravel-and-pavers fire pit seating circle that a couple of people can build in a weekend for under $400 in materials.

A pocket-planter herb wall that fits a narrow patio, with a watering routine that keeps the top and bottom rows from drying out at different rates.

A material-by-material breakdown of what actually holds up outdoors year-round versus what looks good in a showroom and fails within a season.

The lighting layers and shade structure that stretch patio use from a few summer weeks into spring and fall as well.

The airflow and ratio fixes that stop a compost bin from smelling, without needing a tumbler or any special equipment.