New Orleans Patio Garden

Southern Living, Apr 2004 by Hamilton, Majella Chube

Discover the benefits of creating an outdoor room.

When Elizabeth Edmond moved into her historic New Orleans home, she immediately recognized that she could create an inviting area on the patio. She asked local experts to help enhance her garden setting to complement the home's interiors.

Outdoor Furnishings

"The area is really an extension of the interiors. Because the patio is easily seen from so many rooms in the home," interior designer Penny Francis explains, "I looked for furniture that could be used in both spaces." An iron table-and-chair set from Elizabeth's previous home was ideal for this setting. Penny found other antique pieces in salvage yards.

Practical Patio Floor

The ground surface was originally made of concrete stone. "The varnish had yellowed over time, creating a slippery coating," Penny says.

After a few repairs, a mixed glaze was applied to the floor to protect the porous stone and give it a Mediterranean look. The result highlights all the variations in the material's color.

Plant Versatility

Penny and landscape designer Paula Gudaitis agreed that the use of many different plants and unusual pots would be ideal. "The garden generally gets only midday sun," Paula says. "Tropical plants such as bromeliads, caladiums, and coleus are a few that work well in hot, humid conditions."

Intimate Surroundings

Philip Baxter designed and constructed the garden's soothing pool and backdrop. "The wall itself is made of plaster, cinder block, and cement," Philip says. "The structure and vines conceal a view of the carport and street," Penny adds. "It creates a complete entertaining area in the courtyard." During warm New Orleans days and nights, the pool conveys a sense of cool relaxation.

MAJELLA CHUBE HAMILTON

TRANSFORMINGYOUR GARDEN SETTING

* Use a range of plants in varying colors and sizes that are appropriate for your area's climate.

* Incorporate colorful pots for visual diversity.

* Mix new, updated, and aged outdoor furnishings. Accent these pieces with cushions, pillows, and umbrellas in versatile, all-weather fabrics.

* Consider additional lighting to extend the enjoyment of a garden space into the night. Try using low-voltage lights and candles.

Page 140: Interior design by Penny Francis, Eclectic Home, New Orleans, (504) 866-6654; landscape design by Paula Gudaitis, Nature's Impression, Slidell, Louisiana, (504) 390-5608 or www.naturesimpressions.net; pool design by Philip Baxter, Baxter Designer Pools, New Orleans, (504) 833-3887.