A Beautiful Space

Joanna Feehan has owned her home since its conception 19 years ago. The interior is formal, and her 23-year-old twin daughters agree that it's definitely time to loosen up and venture outdoors to the under-utilized backyard. Feehan would like to bring life into the space by creating a beautiful entertainment area for friends and family to hang out in.

Before

Before

After

After

Feehan hopes to transform her neglected backyard into a vibrant, welcoming area. An herbal garden to attract butterflies and some much-needed shade are among the elements that Feehan would like to have. Up for the challenge are landscape designers David Cordone, Yvonne English and Tom Stout.

Cordone proposes multiple gathering spots, including a custom-designed barbecue area with bar stools and a fire pit. English's detailed tropical theme awakens the senses with a flowering herbal garden, rock-shaped stereo speakers and a sculptured dolphin fountain. Stout has designed a romantic, secluded getaway with a rustic barbecue area. Fragrant mint and thyme grow between the blue stones on his pergola-covered patio.

After a week of reviewing the three designs, Feehan chooses English's plan, and her yard is transformed. The beautifully designed built-in barbecue is complemented by an herbal garden and dolphin fountain made of bronze. The entire backyard now flows seamlessly from one area to the next. Feehan even increased her budget so she could add a custom spa to enjoy year-round. To her delight, she now has a relaxing backyard oasis that she will savor with her family and friends for years to come.