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

Types of Exterior House Stone Cladding We Love

By:

Between the wide variety of architectural stone veneers and natural stones, there are many types of exterior house stone that can be used to elevate any style of home. From subtle touches to stone cladding that functions as the star of the show, our designers know how to elevate a design using stone. Here are ...

+ Read More

Limestone Veneer: How Our Designers Use It

By:

Limestone veneer is a natural stone, cut thinner to function as a lightweight decorative covering over other building materials. The material — and its effect — is timeless. If your design goals include affordable elegance, it might be the texture you’ve been searching for. Plus, there are plenty of ways to use it. From skirting ...

+ Read More

Our Review of Gossamer Veil by Sherwin Williams

By:

Choosing a paint color for your home isn’t a black-and-white decision — unless, of course, a black-and-white palette is one of your design goals. If you’re searching for a neutral paint color with plenty of warmth, Gossamer Veil by Sherwin Williams should be on your radar. It’s a light, misty gray with warm and welcoming ...

+ Read More

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space

By:

Outdoor spaces offer a place to rest and regroup, eat and entertain, and so much more. Whether you want a simple and functional layout or you’re after something more extensive, our designers have tons of modern backyard ideas to take your space to the next level. Check out some of our favorite designs below.  Dreaming ...

+ Read More

10 Patio Enclosure Ideas for Your Yard

By:

With patio season fast approaching, you might be dreaming of overhauling your outdoor living space. If you’re on the hunt for patio enclosure ideas, we’ve got you covered. From breeze block walls to fences, we have plenty of designs to get you inspired. Here are some of our favorites. Dreaming of an enclosed patio, a ...

+ Read More

12 Patio Extension Ideas for Outdoor Living

By:

When it comes to outdoor spaces, patios offer so much potential. From seating areas to firepits and outdoor dining tables, patios are ideal for relaxation outside. But some patios don’t quite live up to their full potential because they don’t cover enough ground. Enter: patio extension ideas. Our designers can look at the space outside ...

+ Read More

Our Review of November Rain by Benjamin Moore

By:

If a warm and welcoming neutral paint color speaks to your exterior design goals, November Rain by Benjamin Moore could be your perfect fit. It’s a subdued light gray with soft green undertones. It’s sophisticated, classy, and it works on any texture, making it a great paint color for exteriors. Read on to learn more ...

+ Read More

Our Review of Inkwell by Sherwin Williams

By:

The black exterior trend is still going strong. Part of the reason behind this is black paint works well on any type of home, from modern to rustic. Inkwell by Sherwin Williams is a beautiful, moody black paint color that’s perfect for bringing the drama. It’s rich and sophisticated yet still a neutral hue, which ...

+ Read More

Our Review of Mega Greige by Sherwin Williams

By:

If a neutral paint color is what you’re after for your exterior but you want something more dynamic than a gray or beige, Mega Greige by Sherwin Williams might be for you. It’s a warm greige that reads slightly taupe. Both flexible and striking, this neutral hue fits with any design style. Keep reading to ...

+ Read More