Designing a Perfect Covered Patio in Los Gatos

A Backyard for All Seasons

Cindy and Gil Clark’s Los Gatos backyard includes sunny and shady spaces, a covered patio, lawn, pool, and hot tub—serving daily meals, relaxation, kids’ activities, book club, and parties. “It extends the house—we really live out there.” Designer Cevan Forristt followed a “psyche-specific site plan” based on the Clarks’ wish list. Style blends Asian and tropical but more playful. The backyard changed how the family lives: more time outside, more together, more entertaining.

Three Great Ideas

1. Include flexible spaces. Central patio serves as outdoor great room with arbor and potted bamboo screen for intimate dinners, yet accommodates two dining tables for large groups; furniture movable.
2. Soften hardscape with plants. Planting pockets in patio near pool, spa, dining areas filled with ferns, grasses, sago palms; bougainvillea, hibiscus, wisteria add seasonal color; large containers clustered around patio.
3. Dress things up. Cozy furnishings, Thai brass bells on arbor, hand-carved Chinese pots, bamboo ladder against arbor make the space as inviting as an indoor room.