Going Native

Author: Cathy Cromell

Issue: October, 2007, Page 196

The homeowners wanted a European look with a French country kitchen for their backyard. To create a homey feel, flagstone was laid throughout the patio. Softening the space are some 40 pots filled with flowers, plants and trees. .

Wicker chairs surround a circular fire pit under a poolside ramada. In summer, a misting system and shade from the overhead trellis keep temperatures comfortably cool.

Towels hang ready for each member of the family to use after a swim. Wendy Myers says she is training bougainvillea branches to grow up the patio walls. A custom iron fixture provides light for a nearby pingpong table.

The charming outdoor kitchen includes a baker’s table retrofitted with a trough that has been repurposed into a sink. Wire baskets hold sponges and brushes. A blue-and-white striped curtain hides drawers that hold utensils and other kitchen supplies.

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Potted geraniums and other flora spice up a cozy sitting area at the front of the house.

A custom iron light fixture illuminates the outdoor dining table and casts a glow on porcelain vases that sit outside year-round. “All the pottery gets rained on, and we just wipe it down and it’s fine,” Myers remarks.

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