Tropical Balcony

Andy and Lorelei love the open, breezy layout of their seaside home. The high ceilings, expansive windows and flawless interior design make this contemporary residence almost perfect for sunset entertaining.

Before

Before

After

Before

After

Their cramped and rundown balcony, however, is a major deterrent. This hopeful couple would like to transform their outdoor space into a relaxing tropical oasis where they can entertain or just lounge in privacy.

A bulky spa, wind exposure and a lack of privacy are just some of the problems that need to be addressed. Up for the challenge is designer David Cordone, the design team of Patti Ferner and Paul Kroger, and landscape contractor Bobby Brown.

Cordone's tiki theme includes a bamboo structure with versatile curtains, wooden art pieces and durable tropical plants. In Patti Ferner and Paul Kroger's design, quartzite stone is featured in the new deck and barbecue. There's a sunken spa, a seating wall will block the wind, and colorful plants provide privacy and soften the stark architecture. Bobby Brown envisions a cozy outdoor room with a rug and comfy pillows. The senses are further enticed by a fire pit and a waterfall that spills into the spa.

After a week of reviewing the three proposals, Andy and Lorelei select Patti Ferner and Paul Kroger.

Today Andy and Lorelei's former lifeless and wind-torn balcony is transformed. The designers opened up the space by sinking the hot tub into the new stone decking and adding a step-down barbecue area. A Balinese-style gate and matching planters provide atmospheric privacy from the neighbors, while a seating wall blocks the seaside winds. Ferner and Kroger have created a relaxing tropical getaway where Andy and Lorelei can soak in the hot tub by firelight and savor the wonders of ocean life.