Category: Design

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What Makes Every Builder at Crosswinds Unique? A Homebuyer’s Guide

When you are searching for a new home in Kyle, TX, choosing the right community is only part of the journey. Finding a builder and floor plan that fit the way you live is just as important, especially when you are looking for a home where you can feel comfortable for years to come. Fortunately, Crosswinds brings together four trusted builders in one thoughtfully planned community, giving homebuyers plenty of opportunities to explore new homes without giving up the lifestyle they want.

Milestone Community Builders, Pacesetter Homes, Perry Homes, and Pulte Homes all offer homes within Crosswinds, bringing quality craftsmanship, purposeful design, and modern features to this growing Kyle community. Rather than viewing the builder lineup as competition, buyers can see it as an opportunity to explore a wider selection of homes and find the one that best fits their needs.

Meet the Builders at Crosswinds

One benefit of starting your home search at Crosswinds is having several respected builders right in the community. Each brings its own experience and home designs, helping create the warm neighborhood atmosphere that defines Crosswinds.

Milestone Community Builders creates homes with everyday living in mind, offering thoughtfully planned spaces where families can gather, relax, and move comfortably through their routines. Functional layouts and modern design details help create homes that feel inviting from the moment you walk through the door.

Pacesetter Homes brings carefully designed new homes to Crosswinds, with floor plans built to support modern lifestyles. Comfortable gathering areas and flexible spaces give homeowners room for everything from family time and entertaining to work, hobbies, and calm evenings at home.

Perry Homes brings decades of homebuilding experience to Crosswinds, highlighting quality construction, thoughtful architectural details, and roomy interiors. Open living areas and inviting designs help create homes that feel equally suited to everyday routines and special occasions.

Pulte Homes focuses on creating homes around how people live, incorporating functional layouts and contemporary features that make daily routines easier. Flexible spaces also give homeowners the freedom to adapt to different areas of the home as their needs change.

Thoughtful Features for Modern Living

While every builder brings its own experience to Crosswinds, the homes throughout the community share an emphasis on quality, comfort, and functionality. Modern floor plans are designed around the way households live today, with spaces that make it easier to spend time together while still giving everyone room to settle into their own routines.

Open-layout living areas are especially helpful for busy families because the kitchen, dining area, and family room can become one connected gathering space. Spacious kitchens and islands provide room for everything from weekday breakfasts to weekend entertaining, while flexible rooms can accommodate home offices, playrooms, hobbies, guests, or whatever else life calls for.

Energy-efficient features and modern home technology can add even more convenience, helping create homes that feel comfortable and practical for everyday living. Outdoor spaces also extend life outside the walls of the home, giving residents room to relax, entertain, and enjoy the Texas sunshine.

Finding a Home That Fits Your Life

With multiple builders and floor plans available, the home search at Crosswinds can focus on what works best for your lifestyle rather than simply checking items off a list.

Before touring, think about how you spend an average day at home. A remote worker may prioritize a dedicated office, while a growing family might appreciate flexible bedrooms, additional storage, or a large gathering space. Buyers who love entertaining may be drawn to an open kitchen and living area that flows easily toward the patio and backyard.

Touring model homes can make those decisions much easier. Walking through a floor plan lets you imagine where everyone would gather for dinner, how a morning routine might unfold, or where guests would stay when they visit. Builder representatives can also answer questions about available floor plans, features, homesites, and current opportunities, helping you better understand what is possible.

One Builder Lineup, One Welcoming Community

No matter which Crosswinds builder ultimately feels right for your household, every home is part of the same thoughtfully planned community.

Crosswinds brings new homes together with amenities and outdoor spaces that add more to daily life past the front door. Residents can enjoy trails, parks, recreation, gathering spaces, and opportunities to connect with neighbors, all while enjoying a convenient location in growing Kyle.

The community’s location also makes it possible to enjoy the best of Central Texas, with Austin, San Marcos, shopping, dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreation all within reach. For buyers exploring new construction homes in Kyle, TX, that combination of home choices, community amenities, and location can make Crosswinds an exciting place to begin a new phase.

Find Your Home at Crosswinds

Choosing a new home is personal, and sometimes the best way to know what feels right is to experience it for yourself. At Crosswinds, Milestone Community Builders, Pacesetter Homes, Perry Homes, and Pulte Homes allow buyers to explore carefully designed homes while getting to know the community they could soon call home.

Spend some time at Crosswinds, tour the model homes, explore the neighborhood, and picture what everyday life could look like here. Schedule your visit today as you discover a new home in Kyle that feels made for your next chapter.

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Blog Design Homebuilder Lifestyle

Morning to Night: How a Thoughtful Floor Plan Supports Your Daily Routine at Crosswinds

A home should do more than provide a place to sleep at the end of the day. It should make everyday life feel easier, more comfortable, and a little more enjoyable. From busy weekday mornings to quiet evenings spent with family, the way a home is designed can have a big impact on how smoothly each day unfolds.

That is one of the reasons so many homebuyers are drawn to Crosswinds in Kyle, Texas. The homes throughout the community are thoughtfully designed with modern lifestyles in mind, offering flexible layouts, inviting gathering spaces, and practical features that support families through every part of the day.

Mornings at Crosswinds

Every morning looks a little different from one household to the next, but a well-designed home helps every routine feel a little less hectic.

Functional kitchens serve as the heart of the home, giving families plenty of room to prepare breakfast, pack lunches, or enjoy a quick cup of coffee before heading out the door. Large islands often become gathering places where kids eat breakfast, parents check calendars, and everyone gets ready for the day together.

Open-concept layouts also make mornings run more smoothly by connecting the kitchen, dining, and living areas. Instead of feeling separated by walls, family members can move naturally from one space to another while staying connected, even during the busiest part of the day.

Natural light adds another layer of comfort. Large windows help brighten the home from the moment the sun comes up, creating spaces that feel warm, welcoming, and ready for whatever the day brings.

Spaces That Adapt Throughout the Day

One of the biggest advantages of today’s home designs is flexibility. Many Crosswinds homes include spaces that can easily adapt as schedules and priorities change throughout the day.

A home office may be the perfect place to focus during work hours, then transform into a homework station in the afternoon or a hobby room in the evening. Extra bedrooms can serve as guest rooms, workout spaces, or creative studios depending on what works best for your family.

Storage also plays an important role in keeping everyday life organized. Thoughtfully designed closets, cabinets, and storage areas help reduce clutter, making it easier to keep frequently used items within reach while maintaining a clean, comfortable living environment.

Rather than forcing families to fit into a single fixed layout, Crosswinds homes offer spaces that evolve with changing routines and growing households.

Bringing Everyone Together in the Evening

As the day winds down, home often becomes the place where everyone reconnects.

Open-concept living spaces create the perfect setting for family dinners, movie nights, or simply spending time together after a busy day. Preparing dinner becomes part of the conversation rather than taking place behind closed doors, allowing everyone to stay connected as they share the day’s events.

Comfortable dining areas make it easy to gather around the table, whether you are enjoying a weeknight meal or hosting friends for the weekend. Nearby living spaces create a natural flow for entertaining, giving guests room to relax while conversations continue throughout the evening.

Many homes at Crosswinds also feature covered patios that extend the living space outdoors. After dinner, families can enjoy a quiet evening outside, watch the kids play in the backyard, or simply relax in the fresh air before the day ends.

Designed to Grow With You

Life changes over time, and the best homes are designed to change with it.

A young couple purchasing their first home may eventually need space for a nursery. A playroom may later become a study area, followed by a home office or guest room. Children grow, careers evolve, hobbies develop, and routines shift, making flexibility one of the most valuable features a home can offer.

Crosswinds homes are designed with that long-term perspective in mind. Flexible floor plans, spacious gathering areas, and practical design features help homeowners feel confident that their home will continue meeting their needs for years to come.

Rather than designing for one stage of life, the homes at Crosswinds are built to support many different chapters.

Thoughtful Design for Everyday Living

At the end of the day, great home design is not just about beautiful finishes or impressive features. It is about creating a space that supports the way you live every single day.

From functional kitchens and flexible living areas to comfortable gathering spaces and inviting outdoor patios, every part of a Crosswinds home is designed to make daily routines feel a little easier and family time a little more meaningful.

If you are looking for a home that fits your lifestyle today while giving you room to grow tomorrow, Crosswinds is worth exploring. Schedule a tour to experience the thoughtfully designed homes, meet the trusted builders, and discover why so many families are choosing to call this welcoming Kyle community home.

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Blog Design Homebuilder

Builder Spotlight: Discover the Homes Taking Shape at Crosswinds

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Are you thinking about moving to Kyle, TX? Whether you are buying your first home, looking for more room to grow, or simply ready for a home that better fits the way you live today, the search can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Finding the right community is just as important as finding the right floor plan, and that is what makes Crosswinds such a special place to explore.

Located in one of Central Texas’s fastest-growing areas, Crosswinds brings together beautiful homes, thoughtful community planning, and a trusted group of builders who help bring the neighborhood to life. Instead of focusing only on the house itself, Crosswinds gives buyers a chance to imagine the full lifestyle, from comfortable interiors to outdoor spaces, community amenities, and everyday convenience.

Trusted Builders at Crosswinds

Crosswinds features homes from Milestone Community Builders, Pacesetter Homes, Perry Homes, and Pulte Homes. Each builder contributes to the community’s overall quality, character, and variety, giving buyers the opportunity to explore thoughtfully designed homes in one welcoming Kyle neighborhood.

Milestone Community Builders, Pacesetter Homes, Perry Homes, and Pulte Homes all bring experience, craftsmanship, and a focus on modern living to Crosswinds. Together, this builder lineup helps create a neighborhood where homebuyers can find inviting layouts, stylish details, and spaces designed to support everyday life.

Home Features That Make Everyday Life Feel Easier

Across the community, many homes are designed with connection, comfort, and flexibility in mind. Open-concept layouts allow kitchens, dining rooms, and living areas to flow together naturally, making everyday routines feel more connected. Dinner can happen while conversations continue, kids can spread out nearby while meals are prepared, and gathering with friends feels easy and comfortable.

Kitchens are also designed to serve as true gathering spaces. Large islands create room for morning coffee, after-school snacks, weekend baking projects, and casual conversations that seem to happen naturally around food. With thoughtful storage and functional layouts, these spaces work well for both busy weekdays and relaxed weekends.

Flexible rooms are another feature buyers continue to appreciate. An extra room can serve as a home office, playroom, guest room, hobby space, or quiet retreat, depending on the household’s needs. That kind of flexibility allows a home to adapt as life changes.

Outdoor living spaces also play an important role in the Crosswinds lifestyle. Covered patios and backyard areas create extra space to enjoy quiet mornings, host neighbors, or spend time outside without elaborate planning.

Modern Design That Feels Comfortable and Lasting

Current design trends at Crosswinds focus on creating homes that feel fresh, welcoming, and easy to personalize. Neutral finishes provide a bright foundation that allows homeowners to bring in their own style over time, while natural light helps interiors feel open and comfortable throughout the day.

Energy-efficient features and smart home technology also align with how today’s buyers want to live. These details can make daily routines more convenient while helping homeowners feel confident in the long-term function and comfort of their home.

Why Crosswinds Feels Different

A beautiful home matters, but the community around it matters just as much. Crosswinds was designed to create opportunities for connection while still giving residents space to relax and enjoy their surroundings. Trails, green spaces, gathering areas, and neighborhood amenities encourage people to spend time outside and enjoy everyday moments together.

Kyle continues to grow as people discover what makes the area so appealing. Easy access to Austin, nearby shopping and dining, schools, and outdoor recreation all make daily life feel convenient while maintaining a pace that feels welcoming and grounded.

For many buyers, Crosswinds offers that sweet spot between feeling connected and having room to breathe.

Come Explore What Is Taking Shape

Choosing a home is personal, and seeing the community in person often makes the next step feel clearer. Walking through available homes, imagining your routines in each space, and experiencing the atmosphere of Crosswinds can help turn a home search into something exciting.

If Kyle has been on your list, consider this your invitation to come see what life at Crosswinds feels like. Schedule a tour, explore available homes, and picture what your next chapter could look like in a community designed to feel like home.

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Blog Design Homebuilder Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Builder Design Trends: What’s Popular in New Homes at Crosswinds in Kyle, TX

Today’s homebuyers are looking for more than just a place to live. Comfort, flexibility, and modern style all play a role in how a home supports everyday life. At Crosswinds in Kyle, Texas, builders such as Milestone Community Builders, Pacesetter Homes, Perry Homes, and Pulte Homes are incorporating thoughtful design trends that reflect how families live today. From open layouts to energy-efficient features, each home is built with both function and style in mind.

Open-Concept Living That Brings Everyone Together

One of the most noticeable trends in Crosswinds homes is the emphasis on open-concept living. Kitchens, dining areas, and living rooms flow together, making the entire home feel connected. Instead of separate, closed-off spaces, these layouts allow for easy movement and conversation throughout the day.

This type of design works well for both entertaining and everyday living. Cooking dinner while keeping an eye on homework, hosting friends without missing a moment, or simply enjoying time together all become easier when the home is designed to keep everyone connected.

Kitchen Designs That Balance Style and Function

Kitchens continue to serve as the heart of the home, and builders at Crosswinds are designing them to be both beautiful and practical. Large islands create space for meal prep, casual dining, and gathering, while neutral color palettes help the space feel clean, timeless, and inviting.

Modern finishes, including updated cabinetry, sleek countertops, and thoughtfully selected fixtures, give each kitchen a polished look. Storage is also a key focus, with layouts designed to keep everything organized and within reach. The result is a kitchen that feels just as comfortable for a quiet morning coffee as it does for hosting family and friends.

Flexible Spaces That Adapt to Your Lifestyle

Another important trend is flexibility. Today’s homes need to serve multiple purposes, and Crosswinds builders are responding with spaces that can easily adapt over time. Home offices, flex rooms, and bonus areas provide options for work, play, and relaxation without feeling limited.

A spare room can function as a workspace during the day and a guest room when needed. A loft or extra living area can become a playroom, media room, or quiet retreat. This adaptability allows homeowners to make the most of their space as their needs change.

Indoor-Outdoor Living That Feels Natural

Outdoor living is a major part of life in Texas, and Crosswinds homes are designed to make that transition feel seamless. Covered patios and backyard spaces extend the living area beyond the home’s walls, creating additional space to relax and entertain.

Families can enjoy dinners outside, host weekend gatherings, or simply unwind in the fresh air. These outdoor spaces are designed for year-round use, making them a valuable part of everyday living rather than just an occasional feature.

Energy Efficiency and Smart Features

Modern home design also emphasizes efficiency and convenience. Builders at Crosswinds incorporate energy-saving materials and appliances that help support long-term comfort and cost savings. From improved insulation to efficient systems, these features are designed to make homes more sustainable and comfortable.

Smart home technology is another growing trend. Features like programmable thermostats, smart lighting, and connected devices make it easy for homeowners to manage their homes. These additions provide convenience while also supporting a more efficient lifestyle.

Experience the Difference at Crosswinds

The homes at Crosswinds reflect the way people want to live today, with thoughtful design choices that prioritize comfort, flexibility, and connection. From open-concept layouts to outdoor living spaces and modern features, every detail works together to create a home that feels both functional and welcoming.

If you are interested in seeing these design trends in person, now is a great time to explore what Crosswinds has to offer. Tour available homes, walk through the community, and discover how these builder-driven features come to life. Contact the Crosswinds team today to schedule your visit and learn more about finding your home in Kyle!

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Blog Design Homebuilder

Builder Spotlight: Inside the Homes of Crosswinds’ Trusted Builders

Choosing a home is about more than square footage or finishes. The builder behind the home plays a major role in how it looks, feels, and functions over time. At Crosswinds in Kyle, Texas, homebuyers have access to a carefully selected group of builders known for quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design. With a range of styles, floor plans, and features available, Crosswinds makes it easy to find a home that fits both your needs and your lifestyle.

Meet the Builders at Crosswinds

Crosswinds is proud to feature four respected builders, each bringing a unique approach to home design and construction.

Milestone Community Builders focuses on creating homes that are both functional and comfortable. Designs often emphasize open living spaces, natural light, and practical layouts that support everyday living. Attention to detail and a strong understanding of how families use their homes make Milestone a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of style and livability.

Pacesetter Homes is known for modern floor plans and flexible spaces. Many homes feature loft areas, home offices, and open kitchens that flow seamlessly into living spaces. Pacesetter places strong emphasis on customization, allowing buyers to tailor finishes and design elements to their personal style.

Perry Homes brings a long-standing reputation for high-quality construction and elegant design. Homes by Perry often feature soaring ceilings, large windows, and carefully crafted architectural details. Spacious layouts and refined finishes create a sense of comfort and sophistication throughout each home.

Pulte Homes focuses on innovation and livability. Floor plans are designed with flexibility in mind, offering spaces that can adapt to changing needs over time. Pulte also incorporates energy-efficient features and smart home elements that support convenience and long-term value.

Each of these builders contributes to Crosswinds’ overall character, giving buyers a variety of options without sacrificing quality.

Designed for the Way You Live

Homes at Crosswinds are designed with modern living in mind. Open-concept layouts create a natural connection between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, making it easy to stay engaged with family and guests throughout the day.

Spacious kitchens often serve as a central gathering place. Large islands, ample storage, and clean, contemporary finishes make these spaces both functional and inviting. Cooking, entertaining, and everyday routines all flow more easily when the kitchen is designed with both form and function in mind.

Flexible living areas provide additional versatility. Bonus rooms, dedicated offices, and multi-purpose spaces allow homeowners to adapt their homes to changing needs. Work-from-home setups, playrooms, or quiet retreats can all be created within the same floor plan.

Outdoor living is also an important part of the design. Covered patios and backyard spaces offer opportunities to relax, entertain, and enjoy the Texas climate year-round.

Options for Every Lifestyle

Crosswinds offers a wide range of floor plans to accommodate different life stages. Growing families can find homes with multiple bedrooms and open gathering spaces, while first-time buyers may prefer efficient layouts that maximize comfort and value. Buyers looking to downsize can also explore options that maintain style and function in a more streamlined footprint.

Personalization plays an important role in the homebuilding process. Many builders at Crosswinds offer design selections that allow buyers to choose finishes, colors, and features that reflect their preferences. This level of customization helps create a home that feels personal from the moment you move in.

Why Builders Choose Crosswinds

Crosswinds continues to attract respected builders because of its strong community vision and desirable location in Kyle. Convenient access to major roadways, nearby shopping and dining, and proximity to Austin all contribute to the area’s appeal.

The master-planned design of Crosswinds ensures that homes are integrated with green spaces, walking trails, and shared amenities. Builders benefit from being part of a community that prioritizes both quality of life and long-term growth. Homeowners benefit from living in a neighborhood that feels connected, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed.

Explore Homes at Crosswinds

Crosswinds offers more than just a collection of homes. The community provides a place where quality construction, intentional design, and everyday comfort come together. With trusted builders like Milestone Community Builders, Pacesetter Homes, Perry Homes, and Pulte Homes, buyers can feel confident in their investment and excited about what comes next.

If you are ready to explore available homes and learn more about each builder, visit the Crosswinds builder pages or schedule a tour today.

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Blog Design Homeowner Tips

Transform Your Space: Bold Accent Wall Ideas

Accent walls are a creative way to give a room a unique vibe that makes a bold statement. Here are a few ways to turn a not-so-impressive wall into a centerpiece that grabs the attention of the entire room. 

 

Pops of Color – The idea behind any good accent wall is to act as the room’s focal point, and nothing draws the eye away from three bland walls like a wall that has a pop of color. 

 

When deciding on the accent wall, pick a wall with purpose. The eye should be drawn to it as soon as you enter the room. Choose your color carefully, too, as the color in space impacts mood. If the other three walls are a darker color, then go for a lighter accent wall, and choose a darker color if the other walls are on the lighter side. 

 

Create a Gallery Wall – The art gallery is a classic accent wall idea and functions as the perfect showcase for a person’s personality and creativity. Before you start hammering nails into the wall, consider these tips to create a gallery wall that is cohesive. 

 

  • Begin with a large piece of art to act as an anchor for the wall.
  • Aim for a mix of horizontal and vertical frames to keep things interesting.
  • Mix up your frame colors and styles.
  • Don’t be afraid to blend art styles. An oil landscape painting can live harmoniously beside a framed drawing from your kid.

 

Create a Photo Album Wall – Family photo walls are a great way to display family moments and add a personal touch to the home. Similar to an art gallery wall, a mix of picture sizes and frame styles can work incredibly well, yet photo album walls are a bit more forgiving if you do want all your frames to be the same size and style. 

 

Black and white photo album walls add a classic touch, but color photos are equally as appealing. Even something as simple as draping a ribbon across a wall and using clothespins to hang polaroids can create a playful photo wall with minimal cost. 

 

Wallpaper – Wallpaper trends come and go (which can be frustrating if you’ve ever tried to remove it), but if you’re curious about it and don’t want to commit to a full room, an accent wall is a perfect compromise. 

 

Using wallpaper for an accent wall creates a striking focal point that adds depth, personality, and visual interest to any room. Peel and stick versions of wallpaper are available in thousands of styles and are easy to apply. 

 

Shelving and Lighting – If space is a commodity, then creating an accent wall with shelving is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. Floating shelves create visual appeal and add an element of storage space to a room. They can also be a fun way to showcase anything from art to family photos, memorabilia, or house plants. 

 

Similarly, wall lights are a wonderful way to completely transform a room and compliment the space’s design or furnishings. 

 

A home should be more than just a place where you live, but is an expression of who you are.

If you’re in search of your dream home, contact the Crosswinds team today.

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Design Homeowner Tips Lifestyle

Small Details, Stunning Spaces: Easy Ways to Revamp Your Home

Revamping your living space or even a single room can be a great way to refresh the interior of your home. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few ideas that will never go out of style. 

 

Get Green

 

There’s a certain something that is naturally rejuvenating about having plants and flowers in your home (even the fake ones). Plants can fit any room, big or small, but choosing the right plant for the right part of the room makes all the difference. For example, a potted tree can work great in a large living area but would likely be out of place in a small home office. 

 

Play around with different heights and sizes of the plants you’re considering, and try arranging them in different clusters for balance. 

 

If you’re apprehensive about having to remember to water a plant long-term, consider the occasional bouquet of flowers. The Kyle Flower Shop offers a range of floral bouquets that will add a splash of color to any room. 

 

Get Artsy

 

Every home should have art in it. Art makes for a unique talking point with guests and provides you, the homeowner, a way to express yourself. 

 

If you’re unsure how to go about finding what you like, consider visiting a few local art galleries to get an idea of what grabs your attention. The Inspired Minds Art Center in Buda is a great place to start, as it has rotating exhibits, community art events, and even classes if you’d prefer to make your own artwork!

 

By checking out different art galleries and festivals, you’ll discover an endless world of painting styles, unique sculptures, glasswork, and art mediums that defy convention. Who knows, you may just find that perfect painting from a local artist that gives your space a whole new vibe. 

 

What’s Old Becomes New

 

If you’re looking to give your space a new look, why not consider something old? Antiques have been having a moment for about the last 50 years, and that popularity doesn’t appear to be fading anytime soon. 

 

Of course, a common misconception is that antiques can’t be mixed with modern style. That’s not true; it’s all about finding a balance. Check out the Kyle Flea Market on a Saturday or Sunday, and you’re bound to see numerous antiques that have been refurbished and repurposed with new upholstery, paint, or stain to give them a look that’s both vintage and fresh. 

 

Candles

 

A good candle can find a home in just about any room. Whether you opt for small or large, single candles or a grouping, scented or unscented, the warm glow of candles adds an extra bit of coziness to any interior space.

 

If you’re looking for that next perfect candle for your home or to give as a gift, consider checking out local candle shop Ava & Addi for a selection of premium hand-poured soy wax candles. 

 

Show Off the Family

 

A wall dedicated to photos of loved ones and family memories is a wonderful way to make use of hallways and stairwells inside the home. A large family portrait can also make for a striking visual centerpiece for living rooms and dining rooms. 

 

If you’re looking for a professional-quality portrait of your family, consider contacting local photographer Amanda Lynn, who specializes in family photos of all types. 

The homes within the Crosswinds community were designed with comfort and style in mind, making the interiors the perfect palette for each homeowner’s unique style. Contact our team to learn more.

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Blog Design Family Fun Lifestyle Tips

May Flowers: Gardening Tips for a Colorful Spring

It’s the dream of many homeowners to have a lush garden that’s bursting with bouquets of colorful flowers. While planting a flower garden can be intimidating for many beginners, it’s surprisingly easy to create a decorative display –  and keep it looking fresh all summer long. 

Here are some simple tips to bring out the bloom in a May flower garden. 

Pick a Sunny Spot

Most flowering plants like either full or at least partial sun, so you’ll want to pick a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. Wherever you choose, be sure to look for a pattern of where and when the sunlight hits. This will help you in choosing which plants will best thrive in the area you’ve chosen. 

You’ll also want to pay attention to how well the soil in the spot drains. If the area is soggy for days after rain, that’s a sign it drains poorly and could drown the roots of any flowers you plant.

Good Soil is Everything

Perfect soil isn’t usually found but rather created. If you have poor soil, you may want to take a test sample to a garden center so they can give you advice on any precise fertilizers you may need. Organic matter and compost though are always a safe bet though, and will greatly improve poor soil. 

If you’re going to be using pots or planter boxes for your flower garden, then be sure to buy high-quality potting soil. 

Choose Your Flowers Wisely

You may love Japanese orchids, but the climate of Central Texas does not. Thankfully, there’s an incredible array of flowers that thrive in this area. The Austin area is in Zone 8b, so you’ll need to choose flowers that have Zone 8 in their ranges.

Texas annuals (these flowers complete their life cycle in a year):

  • Sunflowers 
  • Zinnias
  • Impatiens
  • Pentas

Texas perennials (these flowers come back year after year):

  • Tulips
  • Blackfoot daisy
  • Lantana
  •  Larkspur
  •  Marigolds

Be sure to read the directions on the recommended spacing and soil depth for each flower variety.

Start Small

While you may envision a huge garden that is just waiting for a glossy magazine cover shoot, it’s best to start small. 

Aim for 5 to 8 different types of flowing plants of various heights. This will not only keep things manageable but will help you get a good idea of what you like and what you don’t like. 

Water Right

Flower gardens in this area need a lot of water, so thorough and regular watering is essential. A drip irrigation hose is ideal for flower gardens because it offers slow and steady watering that plant roots can soak up. 

If you don’t have an irrigation hose, then water your flowers towards the base in either the morning or dusk. Avoid watering them directly on the blooms or leaves, as this can create fungus or lead to the petals burning once the sun comes out. 

Planting a flower garden either in planter pots or in the yard can be one of the best ways to add natural beauty to your home. If you’re looking for the perfect home and would like to learn more about the Crosswinds community, contact us today.

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Blog Design Homeowner Tips Tips

Refresh and Renew: Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Home

The flowers are blooming, leaves are covering tree branches once again, and your home… well, it could probably use a little spring cleaning. After months of winter hibernation, putting a springtime sheen on your home can feel a bit overwhelming. 

 

Thankfully, spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore that devours your entire weekend. Here are some tips to make spring cleaning your Crosswinds home easy and painless.

 

Declutter First

 

Before you pull out the mop and furniture polish, work on getting rid of all that “stuff” that’s been piling up since last December. This will help you to see better those neglected areas that really need a thorough cleaning, and it will also help to free up storage space. 

 

Separate stuff into three piles: keep, donate, and trash. Don’t be afraid to be honest with yourself. If it’s something that you haven’t used in years, then pass it on to somebody else in the donate pile or chuck it in the garbage if it’s not worth salvaging. 

 

Get the Kids Involved

 

If you have kids in the house, then you know they’re responsible for their share of the dirt and grime that finds its way into your home. Bring the kids in on the cleaning action – just be sure that you assign them tasks that they’re capable of handling. 

 

Small kids often enjoy helping and are great with sorting old clothes and toys or wiping down tables and chairs. If you have older children, you may want to assign them a certain room to clean and incentivize them with a trip to the ice cream parlor after the chores are finished. 

 

Work Room to Room

 

There are two ways of looking at how to organize the spring cleaning – prioritize the rooms that get the most use, or prioritize those rooms that are the messiest. Whichever way you choose, tackling one room at a time will help with efficiency. 

 

If you aim for those rooms that get a lot of use (the bedrooms, bathrooms, living room), then start with things like washing the linens and blankets or scrubbing the toilet before moving on to areas like cleaning the baseboards or tub. 

 

If your goal is to finally tackle those messy areas like a cluttered garage or attic in chaos, then reread the declutter section above and good luck!

 

Don’t Forget the Little Stuff

 

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to focus on those areas of the home that may not get cleaned as often as other spots. A few tasks that you may want to prioritize include: 

 

  • Dusting ceiling fans
  • Shampoo rugs
  • Reseal grout lines in tubs or countertops
  • Spot clean upholstered furnishings
  • Polish wooden furniture like bookshelves and dining tables
  • Wash window screens
  • Dust light fixtures
  • Defrost the freezer

 

Keep Everything Organized

 

Once you’ve checked off everything on your spring cleaning list, some simple organization will help keep clutter down and make routine cleaning that much easier. Utilizing hooks, baskets, and containers can tame even the most out-of-control pantry, and flat storage bins that can slide under beds will free up closet space. 

If at the top of your spring to-do list is to find your dream home, then check out the available inventory of homes in the master-planned Crosswinds community and reach out to us today.

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Blog Design Homeowner Tips Lifestyle Tips

Pantry Perfection: Kitchen Organization Tips

Turning your pantry from a messy kitchen closet into an organized central storage hub that would make even Martha Stewart envious isn’t rocket science. All it takes is a little planning and routine maintenance. 

 

Clear the Shelves

 

The first step is to take everything off the shelves and out of the pantry. This will allow you to start with a clean slate. Separate any expired food items or kitchen tools you no longer want

from those that you know you do plan to use. 

 

Organize for Use

 

Items that you find yourself using regularly should get optimal shelf space. If you know, you use canned items daily but only reach for the box of corn starch twice a year, then put it in the back. Pantry real estate is valuable, so any food items or kitchen tools that are seldom used should go in the rear of the pantry or on a higher shelf. 

 

Use the Right Containers

 

One of the most common reasons that pantries become disorganized messes is that people can’t see or forget what they have before buying it again. An easy solution for this is to use clear containers. 

 

Clear, air-tight containers are fantastic for a few reasons. Not only do they allow you to keep track of things like cereal, sugar, or dog food, but they’ll keep foods fresher longer than simply keeping them in the original packaging. 

 

Pro tip: Label your clear containers. The last thing you want is to accidentally put a cup of salt in your cake rather than sugar because the container wasn’t labeled. 

 

Group Similar Items Together

 

Don’t make the mistake of simply putting things on the pantry shelf after a trip to the grocery store without a second thought. One of the easiest ways to keep your pantry organized for the long run and make finding things easier is to group similar products together. 

 

For example, you might have all your canned goods on one shelf, rice and pasta on another, and baking products on a shelf in the back. 

 

Add Hooks or Hanging Baskets

 

If you’re unable to add additional shelves in your pantry but still need a little room, you might want to consider adding hooks or hanging baskets on the back of the pantry door. This can be a great way to store extra items that aren’t particularly heavy, such as Ziplock backs, aluminum foil, or spices. 

 

Maintenance is Key

 

Now that you have a well-organized pantry, the key is keeping it in check with each subsequent grocery trip. Before you head to the store, be sure to head to the pantry to take an inventory of what you need and what you already have. Not only will this help to keep you from adding clutter to your pantry with items you don’t need, but you’ll probably find that you’re buying less and saving money in the long run. 

All of the homes in Crosswinds’ available inventory have stunning, thoughtfully designed kitchens. Many of them with pantries for convenient storage. To learn more, contact us today.