Vicki O'Neal

Screened porches provide a cool, protected retreat and a comfortable space from which to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Photo courtesy of summer classics.
Rooms with a View
Did you know that the average person spends in excess of 90 percent of each day indoors? It’s not surprising that your interior environment − its ambience, comfort, function and features − has a major impact on your day-to-day experience and... more

Furnishings come in varying qualities and nearly endless styles. I took this image at the fall 2014 furniture market in High Point.
Smart & Savvy in 2015
Making major purchases for your house or tackling a home improvement project can be daunting, so it’s good to consider your options before starting the search for products and services that best suit your needs. Before hitting the stores – either... more

Your exterior greeting may primarily consist of tasteful, permanent plantings accented with colorful annuals and seasonal decorations.
The Perfect Host
The calendar is punctuated throughout the year with holidays, special occasions, and our own unique happenings. We frequently celebrate these moments-to-remember with family and friends, and sometimes guests fill our home to overflowing. Welcoming... more
Lovely as a Tree
I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree. A tree whose hungry mouth is prest Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast; A tree that looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray; A tree that may in summer wear more
Water Ways
There is simply nothing like the presence of water to metaphorically cool a scene. A water feature, whether a pool, spa, or pond, instantly conjures a sense of relaxation and ease. Creating or enhancing an outdoor living environment... more
Craft a Theme Garden
A theme garden may be formal and structured, or it may appear loose and pleasingly haphazard. In any format, and whether it’s in a public or private setting, theme gardens offer an opportunity to richly appreciate your landscape. more
Color Outside the Lines
In our visual world, I rate color as the single most powerful tool in interior design. Because of its power, the effective and appropriate use of color can be quite perplexing and elusive. more
Floor Plans: What's Underfoot?
Thinking about building, renovating, or creating a new look for your interior? That process frequently involves selecting and installing new flooring. The material underfoot is one of the most important design choices, both functionally and... more
Earth, Stone & Sky
Vicki O'Neal discusses ways to improve your home's landscape with contemporary design ideas and styles. more
Spice Up Your Kitchen
Is your kitchen screaming for a makeover? Have you been dreaming of a redo, waiting to renovate for the past few years and you’re now ready to get started? There is no time like the present! Read on for some fresh ideas and a few trends in kitchen de more