Totally get your point about dual-function pieces. I recently swapped out my glass coffee table (looked great, but fingerprints drove me nuts...) for ...

Totally agree about the gravel and sand underneath—makes a huge difference. Curious though, has anyone tried those ember mats? I've seen them around b...

Haha, I had the exact same thought about the raccoons! But turns out they don't seem bothered at all—mine still stroll through like they own the place...