Presenting

1 2 | Fannie Hillman + Associates One of the enviable pleasures of Florida living is its year-round exceptional weather that inspires the creation of sophisticated and opulent outdoor spaces, perfect for entertaining friends and family. Designing a lavish backyard oasis to play, dine and entertain has become a big part of today's outdoor lifestyle, seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor space as an extension of the home's posh interiors. Luxurious homes embrace the tranquil and sparkling waters from area lakes or beachfront property, creating a perfect spot for a backyard cabana, poolside deck or sunny porch surrounded by lush landscaping. Architectural design marries with outdoor amenities to create a space perfect for a variety of activities, whether enjoying a dip in the pool, reading a good book, or an intimate dinner. Decorative and architectural design, whether modern or classic, is the hallmark of a great outdoor space. Pergolas adorned with lush landscaping and flowers flourish in the Florida sunshine, while decorative archways add elegance and sophistication to any layout. Classic resort-style pools reflect the beauty of the surrounding spaces and landscapes, and can transform from sparkling turquoise waters by day to glowing dramatic shimmering waters by night. An infinity or vanishing edge pool with perimeter overflow allows for cascading waterfalls to create a rhythmic flow of water. Rimless, knife-edge designs are gorgeous builds that mesmerizes with serene, mirror-like surfaces. A narrow drain around the pool allows water to flow evenly over the edges, creating a smooth surface flush with its surroundings. Homesites blessed with an incline, a rarity in Florida but easily created, have the option of installing a transparent glass wall to step the design, revealing breathtaking views of inviting blue water. Additional pool trends show off in shallows, with Baja ledges that invite chic chaise lounges, umbrella sleeves, and even bubbles. Some designs include LED lighting, creating pretty nighttime blinks like charming marine fireflies. Others rim underwater steps or line above-water ledges with a soothing glow that gives pools an ethereal quality that inspires a relaxing indulge. Saltwater pools are winning over many new designs, employing salt as opposed to chlorine to treat the pool. Eliminating the need to keep a storage of chlorine, these pools are inviting and more appealing to swimmers. A water treatment option gaining acclaim is UV treatment, employing ultraviolet light to make gorgeous, sparkling water that is free of chemical byproducts. Pool decks surrounding the water have taken on a creative custom look, using elegant glass tiles, charming seashells, or three-dimensional beads in the aggregate matrix to add texture, interest, and style. With a product called BeadCrete® from PebbleTec, the effect is almost jewel-like as light reflects off the rounded glass beads. A covered pool deck or exterior living/dining space creates an extension of the home that can be used for relaxation or dining. The flooring, furnishings, and well-appointed furnishings create O

• Cover