See how these real-life homeowners made their outdoor spaces livable rooms―ideal for entertaining and relaxing.
David Cavagnaro
Seamless Blend
People who entertain often will appreciate a kitchen that blends into the garden. This one includes a sink, grill, and pizza oven with plenty of counter space for food prep and serving. Note how the stonework and plantings blur the lines between utilitarian space and landscape.
Juliet Greene/The Garden Picture Library
Rest Up
A dedicated storage space helps keeps tools, potting supplies, and other garden essentials orderly, clean, and safe. Hang a plant outside, and the garage can also make a rather nice place to rest between chores.
Lisa Romerein
Sleek Driveway
Even the tiny transition between the driveway and the yard here looks sharp. It features a grid of pavers seamed with woolly thyme. Oranged-streaked phormium echoes the pebbles, seat cushions, and side tables.
Deidra Walpole Photography
Light the Night
When night falls or the weather gets nippy, a toasty fire is both a practical luxury and a luxurious necessity. This fire pit and built-in bench encourage hanging out in the garden, particularly for drinks or desserts. Marshmallows are optional.
Michael Howes/The Garden Picture Library
A Little Lighting
Lanterns filled with votives and suspended from bamboo poles make this garden functional at night. The flickering light illuminates plants and objets d’art.
