Outdoor design solutions for any size space

Photography by Barry Calhoun

Cheerful eclectic courtyard - 625 sq.ft.
Much like its owner, this 25-by-25-foot patio is bursting with plenty of colour confidence and personality. Attached to the groundfloor Vancouver apartment of Jillian Harris, former Bachelorette, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition designer and host of Canada’s Handyman Challenge, the patio’s eclectic decor and colourful furnishings lend the space a cheery vibe, even on the greyest of West Coast days. “I wanted it to be lush, bright and totally approachable,” says Jillian. “I wanted guests to walk outside and feel immediately happy.”

The yellow fibreglass shell chair was one of Jillian’s first pieces of “real” furniture. Brought outdoors, it lends colour and character and can withstand the elements. Low, comfy sofas invite lounging late into the night, when homeowner Jillian Harris lights loads of candles and tiki torches to keep the outdoor party going. Another element is the solid fencing in a smoky bluegrey colour that gives the perfect patio plenty of privacy.

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