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The Canadian Champion, Tuesday, May 18, 2004-89g I~ItII~ Trends in Outdoor Living Comfort meets function in patio and deck décor (NC)-Nothing cheers the soul more than spring. Buds unfold, the mercury begins its tentative rise, the air smells sweet and green and if's the perfect time ta rethink yaur outdoor living space. 'For many amuiies, the backyard patio or deck is the preferred gathering place in warm weather months. Much like inside the home, comfort and functionalify are essential, says Simon Rodrigue, an outdoor living specialist at The Home Depot Canada. 'Creating a cazy sanctuary is key when it comes ta interior design and we should treat our outdoor retreats in the same way.- The trend toward creating functional oufdoor living spaces is indeed on the rise as Canadians spénd more and more of the leisure time on backyard decks and patios. The desire for eff icient, wel-designed outdoor living spaces has led to an abun- dance of new products designed just for deck or patio use. From bar carts and chaise lounges to sling-back chairs and bench seats, the options available in patio furniture have increased dramati- cally. Todays outdoor lighting is alsa more tashionable, with a variety of styles and finishes f0 choase tram, and the latest grills are designed with multiple options making t possible ta coak an entire meal altresco. As decks and patios fake an new praminence in everydlay family lite, Rodrigue suggests decarating your ouf- door space ta make if as appealing ta the eye as if s tfunctional. There should be a seamless transition ram the inside of yaur home fa the outside deck or patio area, he says, If your decorating style s traditianal, then you will most likely want ta carry that same theme ta your exteriar living space. No motter if your autdaar space is madest or grand, a tew stylish, tunctional updates will help you enjoy your backyard deck or patio throughout the spring, summer and f011. VICTORIA DAY WEEKEND HAMINS BASKETS EPIC PEREML $12.99 each FROM $2.99 GERA IUM BASKETS AIU POrTERI $99each 15% OFF TOP SOIL e DECORATIVE MiVL 5 FOR $10 $.OF TRIPLE MIX DECORATIVE STI 4 FOR $12 SAVE $1.00/1 AMULSMAMURES 4".2POTS 5 FOR $12 $2.29 each $994-fALE ~or CHECK OUT OUR HUGE SELECTION 0F PLANTERS GROWER'S EDGE ("WE ARE YOUR LAWN AND G *ach r1ME fBG AND WINDOW BOXES 3ARDEN SOURCE" Muiches,1 MILTON Country Depot 28 Bronte St. N. 905-878-2391 ecorative Stone, and Pond Sui Ev olonday - Friday 8-6pm e Sat. 8-Spm* Sun. il-4pI e Pet Food & Supplies e Clothing, Footwear * Bird Seed a Lawn & Garden *Giftware *Farm Supplies *Propane *Equine Suplie Aiso 1