Luxury outdoor living begins with a vision, but it succeeds through thoughtful planning, purposeful design and seamless integration between architecture and landscape. When I set out to create this outdoor retreat, my goal was simple: Design a space that felt like a five-star resort while remaining welcoming, functional and comfortable for everyday living. Every decision supported that vision, resulting in an outdoor environment where family and friends naturally gather and never want to leave.
Above photo: This outdoor living project by Tanna Edler features a barbecue by Artisan, an El Dorado stone surround rough cut in Casa Blanca, furniture from Polywood and Summer Classics and lighting by Hudson Valley Lighting and Palecek. Photo credit: Eric Higginbotham
Addressing Seclusion & Aesthetics
The first step was creating privacy without sacrificing beauty. Rather than relying on traditional fencing alone, I surrounded the property with generous landscape berms planted with native evergreen trees. These living walls provide year-round screening while establishing a lush backdrop that instantly transports visitors away from neighboring homes. Layers of gorgeous hydrangeas and vibrant red roses soften the landscape, adding seasonal color, texture, fragrance and timeless elegance throughout the property.
Creating the Kitchen
With the landscape framing the experience, I focused on the heart of the design. Although an oversized swimming pool stretches gracefully across one side of the backyard, I intentionally made the outdoor kitchen – with a premium grill – the true centerpiece. Wrapped in creamy white stone, it immediately draws people together. Its refined finishes complement the home’s architecture while creating an inviting destination where cooking, conversation and entertaining naturally intersect.
Instilling Coziness & Ambience
Comfort was equally important. I incorporated ample seating throughout the space, ensuring every guest could find a favorite place to relax. An all-season dining table comfortably seats eight for everything from casual lunches to elegant evening dinners. Nearby, a welcoming lounging area features plush seating with coordinating footrests, encouraging guests to settle in and stay awhile. A charming porch swing introduces a nostalgic touch, while generous stone seating flanks the backyard, providing additional gathering spots without disrupting the overall aesthetic.
To reinforce the resort atmosphere, I considered how guests would experience the space throughout the day. Crisp, white umbrellas are thoughtfully positioned across the property, offering welcome shade while reinforcing the sophisticated palette. Luxe loungers surround the pool, inviting quiet afternoons with a favorite book or peaceful moments soaking up the sunshine. Every pathway, seating arrangement and visual connection was designed to encourage movement while maintaining an effortless sense of relaxation.
One feature that elevates the entire experience is the air-conditioned pool house. Rather than serving solely as storage, it functions as an extension of the outdoor living environment. Guests can step inside to enjoy refreshing snacks in cool comfort before returning outdoors. An adjacent full bathroom adds convenience, eliminates unnecessary trips through the main house and supports effortless entertaining during larger gatherings.
Considering the Weather
Seasonal flexibility also guided every design choice. While summer naturally centers around the pool and outdoor kitchen, the fireplace transforms the backyard into an inviting destination during cooler months. Its warm glow creates an intimate atmosphere for conversations long after sunset, extending the usability of the outdoor space well beyond traditional entertaining seasons.
Ultimately, creating an opulent outdoor living space is all about orchestrating a complete experience. Privacy, thoughtful landscaping, exceptional materials, comfortable gathering spaces and purposeful amenities work together to blur the line between home and hospitality. By designing every element around connection, comfort and lasting beauty, I created an outdoor retreat that captures the essence of an exclusive resort, reminding everyone who visits that the best vacation destination can truly be right outside the back door.
