This was a recent design with the focus of creating an outdoor living space and outside the front door, just off from the kitchen, was a perfect space to modify. The existing stucco wall gave privacy from the street and the architecture of the 'L' shaped area of the house lent the space to a courtyard with an existing hint to a Spanish theme with brick on the facade and edging along the front walk. Existing brick planting beds were kept to minimize costs. The existing plants of Oleander and a mature lemon tree were utilized into the theme. A tan or light terracotta color for the wall adds drama and vibrancy to the space. A small water fountain camouflages the irrigation valves and adds the melody of water. Creating a flagstone patio into existing unused lawn, adding Mediterranean plants and herbs and the use of a BBQ and furniture turned an unused space into a functional entertaining outdoor room. The existing tired wooden entry gate to be changed out with a wrought iron gate will create a welcoming and obvious entrance to the house and courtyard. The ease of being right off the kitchen and a welcoming space for visitors was a plus.
