Mackenzie

brick&batten Contributor

Mackenzie has been writing for brick&batten for three years, and most of her exterior design knowledge comes from renovating her own home. She purchased a log home that was stuck in the ’90s and the previous owners were unable to keep up with exterior maintenance. From reimagining the landscaping and hardscaping to revamping the porch and logs, Mackenzie and her family approached the entire project DIY-style.

In her free time, Mackenzie enjoys cooking and spending time with her family of six on their farm, which includes cows, chickens, rabbits, dogs, and cats. She has been writing for 12 years and has explored a variety of materials from food writing to lifestyle pieces and, of course, virtual exterior design.

Blogs by Mackenzie

10 Traditional House Exterior Design Transformations

Traditional exterior design is a style that has stood the test of time, evoking a sense of charm and simplicity. Defined by classic architectural elements such as symmetrical façades and gabled roofs, traditional homes exude a sense of timeless beauty. Still, while these homes might have been built to last, they are not immune to ...

Fire Pit Ideas to Transform Your Outdoor Living Space in 2024

Looking to add (literal) warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space? A fire pit can transform your backyard into a cozy retreat, perfect for gatherings with friends and family or peaceful evenings under the stars. Whether you prefer a sleek modern design or a rustic look with natural stones, there are endless fire pit ideas ...

Restaurant Design Inspiration: 10 Transformations We Love

As a restaurant owner, a myriad of factors play into the equation of what draws customers in, and it’s important to acknowledge all of them. Yes, the quality of the food is key. Reviews can build a restaurant’s reputation. And that just-right balance of culinary delight and ambiance matters, too. But at the root, the ...

Small Backyard Ideas to Transform Your Outdoor Living Space

You don’t need a sprawling space with an abundance of acreage to have a breathtaking backyard. If you want to amplify a smaller yard, there are plenty of ways to intentionally fill your space. After all, your outdoor areas are there for you to enjoy. From adding functional design elements to using different textures and ...

Permeable Pavers Benefits and Design Ideas

Permeable pavers are a porous type of paving material that allows water to pass through into the ground below. These pavers offer a sustainable and visually appealing solution for exterior design. Beyond their environmental benefits, these innovative pavers are ideal for creating stunning outdoor spaces. From driveways to walkways, pool areas to patios, here are ...

10 Tropical Color Palette Ideas for Your Home Exterior

From tranquil blues to muted neutral hues, tropical color palettes encompass an assortment of shades on the color wheel. These impactful paint colors draw inspiration from coastal environments, infusing exteriors with the warmth and energy of a tropical paradise. Keep reading to learn more about tropical color palette ideas we recommend.  At brick&batten, our designers ...

How to Incorporate a Plunge Pool into Your Exterior Design

As the popularity of plunge pools continues to surge, more and more homeowners are adding these compact pools to their design desires. Still, from the placement to landscaping, there are a lot of little details to consider. If you’ve been yearning for this type of pool, our designers can help impactfully incorporate one into your ...

The 12 Best Exterior Trim Paint Colors for Your Home

Paint colors are a crucial element of exterior design. Those colors extend beyond the main shade on an exterior though. Exterior trim colors play a huge role in the overall appearance of your home. As such, it’s important to choose the right color to achieve the look you’re after. Bold, eclectic hues are on-trend for ...