Architecture and Design

Although size and style are vital to a successful porch, don't ignore the importance of materials and craftsmanshipby Roxana Vargas Greenan

To eliminate backyard clutter, confine it in a small outbuilding with panache

An architect offers safe, practical tips for building this open-air cooktopby Paul DeGroot

Walls fold away at one corner to let this room mingle with a hillside meadowby Geoffrey T. Prentiss

Straddling a Sonoma ridge, this contemporary house is an edgy mix of weathered boards, corrugated metal, and a plan that invites outdoor livingby Charles Miller

By creating more than just an entryway, craftsman Julian Hodges transcends the idea of conventional gate constructionby Julian Hodges

A California gate builder and artist demonstrates the intricacies of crafting a quatrefoil

Straddling a Sonoma ridge, this contemporary house is an edgy mix of weathered boards, corrugated metal, and a plan that invites outdoor livingby Charles Miller

Design consultant and author Deborah Krasner says homeowners should first assess their needs when planning outdoor spaces.by Deborah Krasner

A woodshop/studio/kitchen with deck built on a shoestring by a Fine Homebuilding editor in his spare timeby Kira Obolensky

Well designed and equipped, these open-air kitchens showcase smart ideas for deck, backyard, or rooftop entertainingby Brian Pontolilo

A planned community's modest model home raises the bar for production housesby Donald Powers

Cross-gabled windows and a two-story gallery funnel light into the heart of the houseby Peter Conard

Don't force the footprint. Let the surroundings choose the palette, and plan plenty of outdoor rooms.by Chris Bigos

A dedicated outdoor workspace--whether used for nurturing plants or storing tools--can make tending the yard much less of a chore.by Lee Ann White

A compact master bathroom provides inspiration for a secluded backyard spaby Lisa Koutsky Sten

A first-floor master suite maintains the scale of the house and creates a courtyard out backby Lynn Hopkins

With children in one wing and parents in another, the great room brings everyone togetherby Jessica Keener

Proper scale and great details make 1200 sq. ft. an interesting place to liveby Kurt Ofer