With summer in full swing, we can’t help but look back at some of the beautiful outdoor spaces we’ve seen through the years. From an eclectic city backyard to a rustic barn set on sprawling land, click through to see which outdoor spaces are inspiring House & Home editors this season.
“Designer Jennifer Scott’s boho-inspired dining area was made for relaxed entertaining. Whimsical throws draped over the table and bench add just the right amount of style, while above, a canopying tree creates a secluded, oasis-like feel.”
— Amanda Tucci, Editorial Assistant
Photographer: Tracey Ayton
Source: House & Home June 2017
Designer: Jennifer Scott
“I love being outdoors — so much so that I installed an outdoor shower at my cottage. Designer Youssef Hasbani’s own outdoor shower is inspiring, as it boasts lovely fixtures and a beautiful marble vessel from India, striking the perfect balance between nature and luxe detail.”
— Jennifer Koper, Design Editor
Photographer: Virginia Macdonald
Source: House & Home April 2014
Designer: Youssef Hasbani
“This is a Sarah Richardson project in horse-centric Caledon, just north of Toronto. Our family had a weekend home there for many years, and my aunt and uncle have a horse farm nearby. I love the old stone barn on the property with its weathered wood — it’s beautiful every season of the year.”
— Wendy Jacob, Features Editor
Photographer: Angus Fergusson
Source: House & Home October 2013
Designer: Sarah Richardson Design
“I couldn’t imagine a more magical setting for an alfresco meal than this West Vancouver patio. Give me string lights, natural accents and a freshly-picked centerpiece, and I’ll sit happily sipping rosé all summer long. The ocean view and golden sunset don’t hurt, either.”
— Adena Leigh, Web Editor
Photographer: Heather Ross
Source: House & Home July 2013
Designer: Lara Irwin
“This Mexican escape gives me some serious wanderlust. The combination of neutral, earthy tones and textures is so tranquil and serene, and appears to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The high-backed woven settee piled high with plush off-white pillows is so inviting — the perfect place to curl up with a book and a glass of iced tea.
— Jen Masseau, Assistant Design Editor
Photographer: Heather Ross
Source: House & Home August 2012
Designer: Patricia Larsen
“If I could escape from my busy city life, it would be to this secret city garden designed by Theresa Casey. It has the perfect combination of historic charm and comfort. Lush greenery offers privacy, while a showstopping planter that was turned into a fountain adds serious style.”
— Sabina Sohail, Junior Web Editor
Photographer: Donna Griffith
Source: House & Home May 2014
Designer: Theresa Casey
“Leave it to stylist Emily Henderson to design the prettiest patio . It’s hard to compete with all the gorgeous greenery, but those graphic blue and white cement tiles definitely steal the show.”
— Emily Evans, Associate Editor
Photographer: Tessa Neustadt
Designer: Emily Henderson
“This sleek urban porch has me wishing I had my own tiny downtown outdoor space to decorate. It’s polished yet inviting, thanks to a chic coat of black paint and a graphic outdoor rug that adds coziness. The banquette seating makes the most of a small space and the potted ferns hint at a garden, without any of the time-consuming upkeep — great if, like me, you haven’t inherited your mom’s green thumb.”
— Andréanne Dion, Maison et Demeure Web Editor
Photographer: Angus Fergusson
Source: House & Home August 2012
Designer: Terry Ryan
“I love the clean, tailored lines of this garden. The stonework and the greenery play off each other to give structure and lushness. And the koi pond that separates the lounging and dining zones is such a great design idea. I can only imagine the summer parties that are thrown here!”
— Day Helesic, Managing Editor
Photographer: Virginia Macdonald
Source: House & Home August 2013
Designer: Terry Ryan