outdoor living Archives - Chris and Christie Powers

What advice do you have for maintaining an outdoor living space in the Caribbean climate?

Nov 8, 2024 | QA

Question: “What advice do you have for maintaining an outdoor living space in the Caribbean climate?”

Our Answer:

St Croix has mostly warm, sunny days, beautiful sunsets and starry night time skies. Some days we have rain and hotter temperatures. Here are some things we do to help maintain our outdoor living space year round:

Outdoor furniture – There are so many options for outdoor furniture! Our favorites are ones which are easy to clean and can be hosed off. In choosing your furniture, think of comfort, esthetics, cleaning and durability.
Cushions and pillows – These should be attractive, comfortable, durable and easy to clean. We recommend fabrics which will withstand the sun, are easy to wash, and feel good.
Outdoor lighting – For solar lights, make sure that the color panels are clear of dirt or leaves so that they capture the sun and illuminate pathways. Strings of lights should be hung in such a way as to be easily removed in case of a storm. Many people have motion detection lights. With all of the salt in the air, check occasionally for rust.
Cleaning patios – At some point, you will want to pressure wash your patio. The furniture should be easy to move, and you will need water and power sources nearby.
Plants – Make sure that there’s a hose bib so that you can either water by hand, or hook up drip irrigation. Remember, plants don’t have a dormant season here, but grow all year. So, plan for those plants to get large! Growing plants suited for your area of the island will decrease the maintenance. There are lovely lush tropical plants which need more water, and succulents which are very low maintenance.
Bird feeders and bird baths – We have several of these all around our house. Refill feeders and baths every day. This brings birds into the garden so you can see them up close, and can help you reconnect with nature.

What are some important features in a St Croix home?

Oct 2, 2024 | QA

Question: “What are some important features to consider in a St Croix home?”

Our Answer:

Consider the features which suit the needs of your lifestyle now, and what you see in the future

Outdoor space. Because of the temperate climate, be sure to think about creating wonderful outdoor spaces. You’ll want enough space for you to relax and enjoy the view and breezes, plus space to entertain your friends and family.
Air flow. Unless you intend to use AC all of the time, having cross breezes and ceiling fans are important. This will keep you cool, and the circulating fresh air will deter mold growth.
View. What do you want to see when gazing through the windows?
Activities. Do you like to be near diving or snorkeling? Do you like to hike or bike and want to be near places to do that? Perhaps you are an artist who would want to be near the Botanical Garden or historic buildings? If you have a boat, you may want to be close to where it’s moored. If you are a star gazer, you may want to be more in the in a rural area where the glorious moon, stars and planets shine more brightly.
Pets. Like most people, our dog and cats are so important to us! We have enough space for all of us to live together. Although wild birds are not pets, they are important to us, too. We have several bird baths and feeders with sugar water or small seeds to feed the hummingbirds, banana quits, finches, and sparrows. We spread cracked corn for the doves, pigeons, and two peacocks. We love watching them! There’s always bird songs or peacock noises floating into the house!