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Friday, November 13, 2026Nov 13

A breath of fresh air: Tips to create an inviting outdoor area

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When Marilyn Rampersad needed to relocate her custom sewing business, she was thrilled to find a place just around the corner in Riverview. Proximity was her main concern, but the screened-in front porch has been an unexpected bonus now that she has converted the former residence into Alterations & Design by Marilyn.

“In the evenings, after I’ve closed out, I can come out here with a glass of wine or a Coca-Cola,” she said. “It’s very relaxing.”

Rampersad has views of a woodsy hill and the grassy expanse of Riverview Park. Birds and squirrels bring the landscape to life.

Rampersad keeps only the basics on her porch: a cushioned daybed swing and a small wooden tabletop to hold her drink of choice. They hang side by side on thick ropes from a chunky beam in the rafters. Though the furnishing is sparse, she loves spending time in the space.

“It’s lovely when the breeze comes through,” she said.