Actress Taraji P. Henson Surprises Her Housekeeper With a Backyard Oasis Fit for Entertaining

Actress Taraji P. Henson not only portrays strong-willed women in her onscreen roles, she carries that energy into her real life, too. On a recent episode of Celebrity IOU, Taraji transformed her housekeeper Jahel's backyard into a gorgeous garden sanctuary with the help of Property Brothers Drew and Jonathan Scott. “My dad always said, ‘If you’re [blessed], it’s your job to be a blessing,’” shared Taraji. “[Jahel] makes my home look so beautiful, and I want to do the same for her."

It was very important for Taraji to be hands-on throughout the backyard remodel. From building planter boxes to jackhammering concrete, she showed up to make a difference for her friend. During the episode, Taraji spoke of the nonprofit she established in honor of her Veteran father. The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation works to improve access to mental health services for Black communities. It also advocates for care and services to support the LGBTQ+ community through challenges and transitions. Jahel and her daughter, Winter, are both impacted by these struggles and Taraji openly hopes that her efforts help improve their lives. “When your child hurts, you hurt, and I just wanted to bring some light into [their] lives," she said.

During the reveal, Jahel’s daughter, Winter, acknowledged how meaningful it was to have the Property Brothers involved in the makeover. “[When we bought the house,] Mom would always say, ‘We need the brothers!’” It’s no surprise the backyard makeover exceeded expectations. With its balance of hardscapes and softscapes, the family can now comfortably entertain, dine and foster a lush garden.

Jahel’s beloved backyard was her sanctuary — a place she spent hours potting plants and tending gardens. But in the dry California heat, she struggled to maintain the lawn and evolve her garden space into a livable entertaining area.

Jahel’s remodeled backyard is clean and modern. Low-maintenance materials and drought-tolerant plants transform the space into a garden oasis. A pergola sits centered in the yard. The team planted Dichondra ground cover between stepping stones that, unlike grass, requires no maintenance.

The Scott brothers custom designed the water feature‚ which is symbolic of mother and daughter. Bubbling from the top of the stone, both fountains circulate water to emulate the sound of a babbling brook, making Jahel’s backyard more peaceful and zen than ever before.

Facing the water feature, a wooden bench sits against the fence offering a spot to sit and relax. What's more, the team installed an engraved plaque that formally dedicates the bench to family members Jahel and Winter lost. As the plants around it grow, they will eventually climb the trellises surrounding the seat to create a peaceful, lush setting.

A large pergola (complete with UV-blocking, breathable fabric woven into its roof) adds shade in the middle of Jahel’s backyard. Below it, two deep sofas, a gas fireplace with a modern clay finish and a soft indoor-outdoor rug create a comfortable entertaining spot.

The formerly blue house now features crisp, white paint. Black window trim and industrial sconces modernize the exterior, while fresh window boxes (built by Taraji) provide more space for Jahel to grow her garden.

Filled with colorful plants, the custom window boxes use bold color and texture to unify the new backyard, tying together its three distinct entertaining areas: a dining area, a lounge area and a relaxation zone.

The old patio and various paver paths were due for an upgrade. Jahel’s assorted plants in pots needed a permanent place in the landscape, and several planted trees lacked the sustenance needed to thrive.

Drew and Jonathan installed a smart irrigation system beneath the pavers and stone throughout the new backyard. This system promises to keep Jahel’s garden hydrated year-round using less water than before.

A solid concrete table and weather-resistant chairs offer a dedicated spot for outdoor dining and entertaining. A large rectangular white umbrella adds character and shade. New concrete replaces the outdated patio, adding definition to the area while amplifying the clean, modern design — which Jahel loves.

Drew and Jonathan upgraded the fencing with panels. This natural wood detail provides the perfect backdrop for new landscaping, so the team added plants around the perimeter of the backyard. A cantilevering umbrella provides ample shade.