By KIM COOK
For The Associated Press
It can be hard to tell anymore where the living room ends and the outdoors begin.
This summer's patio furniture blurs the lines with weather-resistant materials and sophisticated color schemes that would look right at home indoors.
Aluminum is now rugged, powder-coated and sleek in rich caramel or velvety black. High-tech composite woven cushions dry quickly and hold their shape for years.
For those willing to spend the sum required to turn the backyard into a mini four-star resort, there are spectacular pieces to be had.
"One of the most interesting trends is towards statement pieces - large, unique, oversized elements," says Eric Parsons, president of Gloster, one of the pacesetters in the high-end outdoor marketplace. He points to woven pieces, organic curves and unusual colors as the hot looks this year.
Some examples:
• Sea Grove collection ($549 and up), Mallorca chaise ($1,499) and Bain de Soleil woven chaise ($999 for two), www.frontgate.com
• Tord Boontje's Nest Chair by Moroso, bas relief patterned polyethylene ($610), www.momastore.org
• Luxembourg verbena bench, powder-coated aluminum ($495), www.conranusa.com
• Melon chair ash, natural, white outdoor wicker ($4,995),
www.homeinfatuation.com
• Horizon armchair in outdoor wicker ($3,100, pictured below), scoop dining table in teak, copper and polyethyline (about $2,510),
www.gloster.com
Keep cool for less
Ten tips to beat the heat without breaking the bank
By BETH BENCE REINKE for Smart
Keeping cool isn't cheap. Air-condition costs can be staggering, especially if it's a steamy summer. But making simple changes around your home can add up to significant savings on cooling bills, said Jim Krut, vice president of Communications and Community Services for Adams Electric Cooperative.
The tricks to saving on summer electric bills are watching the clock, maintaining your system and minimizing heat sources inside the home, he said. Krut recommends these energy-saving tips:
Watch the clock:
1) Run major appliances, such as the washer, dryer and dishwasher in off-peak hours, which are usually before and after business hours. Check with your electric company for specific off-peak hours and rates.
2) Cook later in the evening, after the heat of the day has passed. Grill outdoors some nights to avoid heating the kitchen.
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