Swimming pools have had a long, colorful history dating back to the sixth century B.C. According to one account, “the most prominent pool history comes from the ancient Greeks and Romans. A major change in the quality of life occurred in these times as individual wealth increased and, with this increase in the standard of living, came luxuries like pools.”

Because of their constant use, and misuse, popular phrases such as “carbon footprint” lose their original meaning over time. When this happens, the expression can become a vague, catchall term that means whatever the user chooses for it to mean.

The trend toward multiple generations living in one home is strong and getting stronger. The reasons for this are as diverse as the political, cultural and financial opinions of the various generations who have decided to live together.

According to Pew Research, “In 2014, a record 60.6 million people, or 19 percent of the U.S. population, lived with multiple generations under one roof.

A vibrant city, such as Denver, is teeming with activity, often 24/7. The sounds of building construction, horns blasting and constant traffic are part and parcel of a dynamic city brimming with opportunity. Unfortunately, it is also noisy, and this can be annoying and even unhealthy.

There was time when a swimming pool surrounded by a concrete border was the height of luxury. Those days are long gone, especially among custom homes in the $2 million and greater range. In fact, many architects and real estate experts feel the hottest trend in luxury homes is the outdoor space.

While it may seem counterintuitive, the minimalist design found in many tiny apartments in large cities has become extremely popular in luxury custom homes. Some of these are found in upscale neighborhoods of Denver and surrounding areas. This “loft” look—which features reclaimed wood, vintage-looking fixtures, exposed pipes and brick walls—is particularly prevalent in the bathrooms of these homes.

Coloradans are justifiably proud of the natural beauty of their state. Indeed, the “purple mountain majesty,” which was immortalized in the song “America the Beautiful,” first came to the song’s lyricist, Katharine Lee Bates, as she witnessed this breathtaking beauty from Pikes Peak, located near Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Watch the home improvement channels, such as HGTV or DIY Network, for more than an hour and there’s a good possibility that some great new ideas will be presented for the “largest room in the house”—the backyard. While this outdoor oasis has been popular since rural families started moving to urban areas, there have been many changes in the form and function of the backyard, and custom home builders have taken notice.