Outdoor Spaces: Design is in the Details

Using dozens of inspiring color photographs, designer Brad Mee takes his creative talent outdoors and reveals how to fashion a personalized garden haven that's vibrant, unique, and serves its purpose--whether it's for entertaining or relaxation. For Mee, it all begins by thinking of the space as an integral part of the house, with the same decorating considerations as any other room. Choosing an overall style (formal with elegant statuary; Zen, graced with placid pools and stone walkways; Mediterranean) is the first step: that provides the foundation for selecting surfaces such as floors, walls, and ceilings; elements from water to fireplaces; and furniture, accessories, and lighting. With Mee's invaluable advice, anyone can create fabulous outdoor rooms.