Keeping your vision up-to-date

By Mickey Wakenigg

The evolution of technology has allowed people to begin working remotely. This means the place where you used to go home, relax and get away from work is now your office space too. Most people have the traditional work space in their home—a desk in the corner of the kitchen, living room or bedroom, or a specific room dedicated meant to just be an office. These spaces might eventually turn into a nursery, guest room or even storage space, so now you’re stuck sharing what was supposed to be your work space.
Why not take your work space outdoors? A comfortable lounging area where you can feel the warmth of the sun as you prop your feet up and get to work. A beautiful view of a water fountain or cobblestone pond instead of the wall that feels like your trapped inside. A wooden canopy to keep you dry while it rains and allows you to still get out of the house while you work. Or even a stone bartop where you can plug your laptop in and grab a glass of water and snack without having to go back inside. And for the colder months, a fireplace—the sound of the crackles as the wood burns while you make a few phone calls and meet your deadlines. A year-round outdoor work space awaits you.

Outdoor Living Space

Being able to watch a movie or ballgame outside is refreshing, but there is nothing more comfortable than lounging in the cozy comforts of your home. Why not take that cozy space outside! Another popular trend making its way to 2020 is the idea of bringing interior designs to the exterior. Focusing in on shapes other than just rectangles and circles will help separate the pool area from the lounging area. It’s important to pay attention to colors too. Pop-up colors are out and warmer tones are back in. Warmer colors enhance a more monochromic feel. Your home is your sanctuary and being able to create an “indoor look” outside will bring off a peaceful vibe no matter where you are in your home.

Front Porch Views

Everyone has heard the old cliché—business in the front, party in the back. When you look at the front of a house you might see a porch swing and a garden, but not a lot going on. The front yard is the first thing guests see when pulling into your driveway or just passing by. It’s a reflection of who you are. It’s the “business” side. Then, as you head to the backyard it’s a whole other world where people hangout and celebrate a birthday or graduation. What you are not used to seeing are people celebrating birthdays or drinking wine on the front porch. Picture driving by and capturing someone’s expression as they open a gift or laugh around a table with family and friends. 2020 is bringing the Front Porch living scene to light as a way to create a more welcoming feel when someone pulls into your driveway. It gives people an option to bring social gatherings to the front, instead of only the back.At The Stone Store, we are here to help you keep up with the latest trends and turn your oasis dreams into a reality.

Mickey Wakenigg is the owner of The Stone Store. He attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College for agriculture and forestry. He is also the owner of Green Acre Supplies and Georgia Ground Cover, and has been in the industry for 30 years. The Stone Store is located at 7940 Macon Highway, Watkinsville, Georgia.