North of the equator, if the weather cooperates in June, July and August, the world’s vineyards grow lush and verdant. Much like the avid St. Louis gardener, it is during this period that the experienced vignerons, winemakers and vineyard managers know that their role is largely to ensure that the vines take fullest advantage of what Mother Nature may throw at them, as their leaves grow larger and greener, and their fruit matures.

The challenge for this Clayton back yard was to create an outdoor living space within a very constrained footprint. The final product is a masterpiece. A pool, Jacuzzi, deck, grill, fire pit and lush landscaping combine gracefully on the plot with, what feels like, plenty of room to spare, thanks to Baker Pool design team.

“We had no plan,” says homeowner Larry Malashock, who purchased a rundown three-seasons home during his transition into retirement. The whole place was a fixer-upper, and the overhaul started in the main home. After expanding and remodeling there, Malashock turned to the ramshackle pool house. “It was basically a toilet and sink when we started,” he says, explaining, “It was built on stilts, and the support was giving way.”

A barren back yard is no place for a beautiful bride. With an outdoor wedding in mind, these homeowners enlisted the help of California Custom Decks to design their dream deck in time for their spring nuptials.

On a breezy summer evening, there is no better place to end the night than on your front porch gazing at the stars. Spruce up your porch with a swing, upholstered chairs and potted plants. Bringing a little style to your porch not only boosts curb appeal, but it also extends your living space to the outdoors.

one: Oakbrooke, IL, porch, by Bertrand Landscape Design.
two: Traditional porch, by Rockwood Custom Homes.
three: Brookmont bungalow front porch, by Richard Leggin Architects.
four: MapleLawn Farm.

Transparent Landscape, Seoul, South Korea.
Photography by Fernando Guerra.