Tropical Chic Paradise

Before: This large yard is void of personality and color. With an upcoming wedding, the homeowners haven't had time to focus on this aspect of their home and would like help transforming it into a tropical retreat.

After: Large partition walls afford more privacy while new furniture highlights a lounging area with a white gravel base and a dining/kitchen area with flooring defined by pavers.

Before: The shade of this tree is lovely, but without furniture, there's no way to enjoy it on a lazy afternoon.

After: A base of white gravel plus oversized and regular chaise lounges with chocolate brown cushions and kiwi-colored throw pillows combine to evoke a sense of the tropics.

Before: This area of the yard is more of the same--flat surfaces with little interest, color or texture. The concrete wall is boring and in need of a fresh coat of paint.

After: A large surface of pavers set on level sand provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor cooking and dining. The color scheme is continued on the tabletop with chocolate brown chargers topped with kiwi-colored dishes. A lightweight centerpiece of moss along with tall sticks enhances the tropical theme and adds natural texture.

Jules Moore's design plan includes two partition walls to provide privacy from neighbors, a kitchen area with a table and barbeque, a lounge area with tree lanterns for nighttime, and a pond with water lilies to reinforce the tropical chic theme.

This coiled design hung on one partition wall is made from plaster backed by chicken wire and stapled to plywood. The focal point symbolizes the unfurling of new life, perfect for this couple soon to wed.

Another partition wall is built the same size as the hole dug for the rectangular pond. A fountain hose is put through a hole from behind and hidden with half of a Styrofoam pot that's been covered with water-proofing sealant before being painted. A black liner covers the hole to ready it for filling (multi-layered plastic is the best liner for cold climates) and stones cover the edges.