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Design Inspo

Travel-Inspired Design: How To Recreate A Tulum Resort In Your Yard

A Little Bit About Tulum

Tulum is located on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico and has rapidly become a staple destination for beach lovers and explorers alike. It offers an unparalleled blend of lush greenery, pristine beaches, incredible food, gorgeous resorts, and everything you need for the ultimate getaway. With so much to do and explore, it’s no surprise that Tulum is one of the most widely-visited resort towns in Mexico. Visitors take advantage of the unique terrain—at the junction between dreamy beaches and tropical forests. And the area’s rich history by visiting some of the ancient ruins and other Mayan hotspots.

Tulum-Inspired Design

With such a unique combination of natural landscapes, historical significance, and modern resorts, Tulum is also known for its distinctive architectural design style. Tulum resorts take advantage of the scenery and often incorporate neutral palettes to blend in with the beaches and jungle. There are lots of natural materials, soft accents, and an emphasis on day-to-night living. Tulum resorts are just as incredible after dark as they are midday.

So, how can you incorporate tulum-inspired design in your yard? Let’s break down some of our projects to show you how we brought Tulum to our clients’ yards.

OUTDOOR/INDOOR LIVING

Prioritizing indoor/outdoor living areas is essential in Tulum design. The warm weather, coupled with the backdrop of the ocean or jungle means you want to be able to take indoor living outside.

To recreate this concept, include covered lounge areas, pergolas, patios, and other areas you can open up to expand your living area into the outdoors. Having an outdoor kitchen and dining area is another thing that can make any space feel like a Tulum resort. Dining outdoors will take you straight back to the last time you were on vacation and lend you that relaxed feeling you’re looking for if you want to bring Tulum to life in your yard.

A NEUTRAL COLOR PALETTE

To give your yard the feeling of a Tulum resort, stick to a neutral color palette. Think earthy tones, neutral creamy whites, and colors you would find in nature. When we were working on a Tulum-inspired design for our clients, we made sure we kept things muted with soft earthy colors and pale blue Moroccan tile that added subtle color reminiscent of the Maya-Riviera coast.

NATURAL MATERIALS

Go natural with material selection and stick with materials that look like they blend in with nature. Lots of wood tones and stone are a good choice. As are rope accents, sandy textures, and twinkling lantern lighting. But one thing that’s important to keep in mind, is that Tulum is steeped in history and has a worn, natural feeling. Your design choices should reflect this. Avoid anything that looks modern and sleek. Instead, prioritize materials and design accents that feel aged and lived in.

NIGHT LIGHTING

Tulum is well-known for its exciting nightlife, just as much as its natural beauty. This means that Tulum’s style relies heavily on lighting and nighttime entertainment. When designing a Tulum-inspired yard for our client, we made sure to use a variety of light sources. We incorporated natural lighting with fire and candles, as well as colorful LED options. This variety combines to add richness and depth to the design—something that’s essential for a Tulum-inspired space.

SPRAWLING SPACE

While not everyone has a massive yard, one thing that instantly makes you feel like you’re on vacation in the Mexican Riviera is plenty of open space. To recreate this in a smaller yard, we incorporate multiple levels to add depth and the illusion of open area to a backyard design. Playing with levels can help segment the space to allow for lounge areas, outdoor dining, and plenty of water features even in a smaller yard.

Ready to talk about your project? Get in touch with our team to set up a free consultation call. We’re here to bring Tulum to your yard. Click here to contact us.

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Design Tips

How Much Does Exterior Design Boost Your Home’s Value?

The Value Of Exterior Design

When we create a design for a client, we know that transporting them to their favorite destination is invaluable. When you invest in a yard that you love to spend time in, that you can entertain in, spend time with family in, unwind after a long week, and escape whenever you step outside—that’s something you can’t put a price on.

But, we’ve also seen what this investment can do for a home’s resale value.

One of our recent projects set the record for the city of Irvine sale price per sq foot. Do you know what the realtor said was the biggest selling factor? The one thing that took this home’s price to a premium level? The exterior design.

It’s widely known that ‘curb appeal’ plays a major role in a home’s value. But, when you add a custom, luxury yard to your space, it’s like taking that exterior value to a new extreme. And our clients are seeing this first-hand.

One of our clients recently sold his home and credits his backyard design for the sale. Here’s what he had to say when asked about the value of investing in exterior design with the Foxterra Design team:

“It is not only something our family loves, adores and we spend a lot of time here. But, we also recently just sold the house and we’re getting ready to move. We wouldn’t have sold the house as quickly or, quite frankly, for as much money if we didn’t have the backyard.”

The home buyer paid a premium for our client’s property because of the unique design—they’d never seen anything like it. They were able to match the price of their neighbor’s home, which is 800 sq. ft bigger with a lot 3x the size, thanks to the backyard design. The good news for you and your home is that investing in exterior design is a foolproof way to add value to your home. Here’s a breakdown with some stats and features to consider adding to your space to add value.

Curb Appeal

First impressions matter when it comes to selling a home and the exterior of your house is the first thing a potential buyer sees. When you invest in landscaping, design, and other outdoor features, you’re instantly making a lasting impression.

Wondering exactly how much impact on selling price curb appeal actually has? 

An average of 7%.

Realtor magazine published an article about home value and curb appeal with some impressive stats. 

“Homes with high curb appeal tend to sell for an average of 7% more than similar houses with an uninviting exterior,” the article states.

Plus, as was the case for one of our clients, a unique design can be the deciding factor when it comes to placing an offer or moving on to another home.

Entrance Increase

Beyond general curb appeal, prioritizing your home’s entrance is also important and making improvements to the front-facing exterior of your house is a great way to boost its value. Consider something like a stylized driveway to really set your home apart and instantly make a potential buyer take notice. 

A recent New York Times article talks about the importance of color, lighting, and landscaping—and the role they play in your entryway’s perceived value. 

“The front entrance is also a place where a few inexpensive changes can boost a home’s overall value,” the article says.

And this is definitely true. It’s an often overlooked area of design, but a space you can transform to boost your home’s value, especially if you don’t have a massive design budget. 

Outdoor Living Areas

It’s no secret that home improvement projects in general can impact a house’s selling price. But, it’s research from Opendoor on exactly which types of renovations have the greatest impact on resale value that’s worth taking a look at.

According to the study, adding ‘living space’ increases a home’s resale value by an average of 5.3%. 

And, another study, done by Rocket Homes, showed that having an attached outdoor living space, like a patio or deck, increases a home’s perceived value by upwards of $20,000.

What does this mean?

Adding an outdoor living area to your backyard design can make a major financial impact on your home. Think sprawling lounge areas, covered pergolas, patios, and more. When you make more of your lot livable, usable, and functional, you are instantly increasing your home’s value. Plus, you get to take full advantage of more living area and design that allows you to enjoy the exterior of your home just as much as the interior.

Light A Fire

Did you know that adding a fire pit to your backyard can add more than just entertainment value? According to an article from Consumer Reports:

“Homes mentioning “fire pit” in their listing sold for 2.8 percent more and 3.8 days faster, on average, Zillow found.”

That means you can enjoy your fire and the fact that adding a cozy space to your yard is yet another way exterior design can impact your bottom line when you choose to list your house for sale. Plus, fire pits are an easy way to keep your space modern and take advantage of design trends without committing to a major space makeover.

Pool Potential

While the numbers are dependent on the area you live in, there’s no denying that adding a pool to your yard adds resale value to your home. 

On average, installing a pool can increase a home’s resale value by 7.3%. But, in warmer climates and areas like Arizona, California, or Florida, that number is more like 10-15%. 

Take California, for example. 

In the Los Angeles area, 18% of all homes have a pool in their yard, though in some specific neighborhoods, up to 87% of homes have a pool. These homes sell, on average, for up to $95,000 more thanks to their water features. 

Plus, since the pandemic, backyard pools are in higher demand than ever. This study suggests that homes with pools are being sold at premiums of up to 69% and that research continues to show that the heightened demand for backyard pools has significantly increased the value that a pool adds to a home.

In other words, there’s never been a better time to invest in exterior design. For your own enjoyment and the value of your home, there’s endless potential when you create a luxury outdoor space—and we want to talk to you about your yard. Click here to get in touch with our team to schedule a free consultation to talk about your project. 

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Design Inspo

Our 5 Favorite Backyard Transformations

From Foxterra Design

Foxterra Design is all about transforming outdoor spaces into areas you never want to leave. Our tagline is “from residence to resort” because we believe that every yard has the potential to be something incredible and we want to unlock the maximum potential for your yard.

We have had the opportunity to work on some amazing spaces and bring projects to life that we never imagined were possible when we first started our business. And that’s why we want to showcase some of our all-time favorite designs. These are projects with some of the most unforgettable features we have ever designed—and we want to break down why these transformations are our favorites.

#1 The Caspian

One of our top five favorite backyard transformations is “The Caspian”. The beauty of this design is in its simplicity and it’s the perfect example of a minimal design that makes a major impact.

 

ABOUT THE DESIGN

 

When we designed “The Caspian,” timelessness and simplicity were at the core of our concept. We wanted to create a design with the idea that you don’t need to have flashy features to create a backyard that is not only functional but that’s also an amazing getaway. 

 

This entire design is centered around a single Canary Palm tree and the rest of the space relies on minimal design and the sheer size and scale of this exterior to bring it to life.


STANDOUT FEATURES

We took classic designs and scaled them to fit this massive space. The end result is a transformation that is simplistic in design, but each feature stands out as a statement. The lot is 20,000 square feet—a huge exterior that we took full advantage of. By making each feature oversized, we made a bold statement with a minimal design.

The Pool

The 2,000-square-foot pool gently curves around the property and is punctuated by a single Canary Palm in the center.

The Firepit

This is one of the largest fire pits we have ever designed, but it fits into this overall design seamlessly and adds warmth to the entire exterior.

The Spa

We went oversized with the spa as well. It’s huge at 10 feet by 12 feet in dimensions, but it works with the overall space thanks to its simple design.

#2 The Mirage

Next on our list of favorite exterior transformations is “The Mirage.” This is a project where we went for maximalism over minimalism. We took inspiration from Dubai and created a luxury backyard resort that includes a little bit of everything.

 

ABOUT THE DESIGN

For “The Mirage,” we wanted to separate spaces to take full advantage of the yard and let each design element exist in its own area. We added an elevated entertainment zone that’s connected to the rest of the yard by floating steps. We continued to play with different levels and materials—and the result is a backyard unlike any other we have ever designed before. 

STANDOUT FEATURES

We went for the ‘wow’ factor with this yard with elements that add a little bit of magic to this backyard. Everything we included is equally as impressive at night as it is during the day thanks to the bold lighting we incorporated into the space. 

The Entertainment Area

This is the ultimate entertaining space, packed with comfy lounges, a massive TV, and plenty of room to watch the game.

The Firepit

This is where “The Mirage” got its name. The fire pit is at the core of this design and it gives the illusion that the pool is on fire when you look out over the water. It’s an element we can’t stop thinking about and one of our all-time favorite design choices.

The Pool

The firepit wouldn’t have its intended effect and optical illusion without this amazing glass pool. The walls are entirely transparent, so you can see all the way from one end of the property to the other.

#3 Tytris

Next on our list of favorite exterior transformations is “Tytris.” We love this project because we were able to take a narrow yard—what most people would consider a ‘shoebox yard’ and transform it into a backyard escape.

 

ABOUT THE DESIGN

 

For “Tytris,” we wanted the backyard to feel modern and fresh, but still transport you when you’re in the space. We took inspiration from some of our favorite Balinese resorts and included as many natural, earthy materials as possible in the design. That, combined with elements like a swim-up bar, lots of space for lounging, and a massive waterfall make this exterior an at-home getaway.


STANDOUT FEATURES

When you step out of the house and into the backyard at “Tytris,” it’s like stepping into the most luxurious, organic Balinese resort. We added all the essential elements of a high-class spa so our clients could unwind and escape—in their own backyard.

The Waterfall

Natural materials like wood and stone root this space in the outdoors, but it’s this waterfall that really makes you feel like you’re hiking somewhere exotic instead of lounging in your own yard.

The Swim-Up Bar

The swim-up bar makes this pool feel like it belongs in a Balinese resort and brings that getaway feeling to this backyard.

The Sunken Seating Area

This is the perfect place to curl up in front of the bonfire and enjoy an evening under the stars. Having the seating area sunken makes it feel even cozier.

#4 The Bridge

This is another one of our favorite designs because it makes coming home feel like n escape. We took a single element from vacation—the bridges connecting water Bungalows in the Maldives—and brought that concept to life here in the design.

 

ABOUT THE DESIGN

 

“The Bridge” got its name thanks to the floating bridge at the center of this entire exterior. We were able to add a sweeping pool that spans the massive yard—curving around from the side to the back. The bridge guides you throughout the space, where there is a sunken fireplace, a cozy lounge area, and more.


STANDOUT FEATURES

There’s nothing as relaxing as being on vacation, but we wanted to bring that sense of relaxation into this space by adding elements that instantly make you feel like you’re at a resort. We took advantage of the entire 8,000-square-foot lot in this design and used every bit of space to create a backyard escape.

The Bridge

We can’t stop talking about this floating bridge because it is the most exciting part of the design and the single element that ties the entire yard together.

The Sunken Firepit

Because this area is sunken, it feels like you’re in a secluded space when you’re lounging around the fire pit in this seating area.

The Glass Steps

These steps are incredible and they elevate the space with a luxurious feel while being totally functional at the same time.

#5 The White Raven

“The White Raven” is a blend of classic and modern elements. This is another favorite design because it showcases how transitional, timeless design can transform a space and is the epitome of backyard luxury.

 

ABOUT THE DESIGN

 

We wanted to achieve balance with “The White Raven” and added classic elements that still feel modern enough for a luxury resort. We utilized black and white combined with opulent lighting and a curved pool reminiscent of ancient Rome.


STANDOUT FEATURES

In “The White Raven” all of our design details are made to last against the elements and are a true testament to the fact that great design is timeless.

The Fire Bowls

Fire and water mix with these incredible bowls that light up with fire and spout water. They’re the perfect blend of nature and they help frame the entire exterior.

The White Porcelain Pavers

It can be intimidating to create a bright white outdoor space, but these porcelain pavers are the perfect material choice to achieve that crisp, classic design without having to worry about how they’re going to look over time.

The Moon-Shaped Pool

This pool is designed to bring to mind ancient Rome and is accented by two built-in lounges that beg for attention.

Which transformation is your favorite? Let us know by leaving a comment below and make sure you’re following Foxterra Design on Instagram & TikTok so you can see our latest residential designs in action.

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Design Tips

Consider This For Your Outdoor Kitchen (Pt 1)

Location, Location, Location

Making sure your backyard has a seamless flow is imperative when deciding on where to put the exterior kitchen. First, consider where your indoor kitchen is in relation to where you plan to build the outdoor space. Sanitation is something to think about when you’re carrying uncooked food across your backyard in the heat of the summer, so make sure your indoor refrigerator is easily accessible to your exterior grill or stove. Don’t obstruct the walking paths with beams, bars, or large décor but instead, keep an open concept design to allow for free movement. 

Don’t Leave Out the Fam

Whether the people using the space are those you’re related to, friends you’ve known forever, or a few key members of the local improv troupe for Tuesday night practice, consider how and why you’ll be using the area. The size of your company may impact how large you want the kitchen to be and may influence what types of appliances you choose to install. 

While you may not initially think of the fire pit as a part of the kitchen, we like to keep them in close proximity to each other so that parties easily transition from dinner to fireside chats. Ultimately, it’s about turning your backyard into a place where you can gather and make memories.

Code Red

Avoid a code red—aka a fire—by making sure that your space is up to codes and guidelines for your area. Check with your local authorities to make sure that when you’re building, you keep all of the state and county regulations in mind. 

If you are constructing a stove in a California room (a partially enclosed outdoor space) you will need to build in a ventilation hood above the range, no matter how far away it is from the house. If the stove is completely outside you won’t need a ventilation system, but you should still make sure that no flammable objects or materials rest too close to the cooking spot. 

Whether you are setting up a grill, a stove, a fire pit, or any other system that lights fire, keep safety at the top of the list. Gas lines need to be professionally installed, wood needs to be fresh and maintained, and accurate measurements are essential to ensure you are observing fire safety laws. The best designs start with safety in mind.

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Design Inspo

Creating a Whole New World

I Look Once More – Creating a Focal Point

We grew up in Anaheim, California, just a few minutes from Disneyland. Every night at 9:30pm, the sky lit up with Mickey-shaped fireworks outside our living room window, and the magic of the park has always been a part of our lives. 

We glean ideas from resorts all the time, but the enchanting architecture of Disneyland Park has always been a particular source of inspiration for us.

Moments after you walk through the gates and pass by smiling guests posed in front of a botanical Mickey, your eye catches the wonder of Cinderella’s Castle. The iconic structure immediately greets guests and ushers them into the enchanted experience.

When we are designing a space, we want to make sure that as soon as you walk outside, there is something striking to look at. Whether that be a pool, a fire feature, or an exquisite lighting piece, constructing a focal point is key to building a world within a backyard.

It’s a Small World After All – Playing with Scale

The Victorian-style architecture on Main Street was crafted by Imagineers to manipulate the appearance of the building using forced perspective.

Forced perspective plays with scaling an object to make it look larger, smaller, or farther away (think: that picture of someone “holding” the Eifel Tower). Using this technique, Disneyland builders scaled the second story of the buildings on Main Street to 5/8 of the size of the first floor, and the third floors are scaled down to half-sized. This creates an illusion of grandeur when you’re walking through the street, making the buildings look larger than they actually are.

The lesson here is to play with the space you have and don’t think that a small area means you can’t make it into your dream backyard. Test out making objects slightly smaller, larger, or longer than you would otherwise consider. Place them farther closer, lower…whatever it takes to achieve the look you want.

Reflections – Creative Light Use

What is Disneyland without the shows? From the nostalgia of the Main Street Electrical Parade to the pure awe evoked through World of Color, Disney bends, molds, reflects and constructs light to paint a picture and tell a story.

Use light in your backyard to give it just a touch more magic. Adding custom lights to your pool or spa illuminates the entire area as it reflects on the dancing water and uplighting enhances whatever area it inhabits. Ambient Light Bars have limitless color options to make you feel like you’re right there on Main Street.

The curled, iron-encased lights at the gate of Disneyland were influential for us when we designed these custom light structures.

As you can see, the Disney version is more whimsical, but we paired it down into a sleek, classic framework that evokes the playful nature of the original while still bringing the bright, fun lights bulbs to life.

Part of Your World – Steep Yourself in the Environment

There’s a reason Disneyland is called the happiest place on earth because, when you’re there, your worries seem to just disappear.

Every single element of Disneyland is an immersive experience. From the smells of popcorn and Dole Whip (okay, Dole Whip doesn’t smell, but go with us) to the hidden Mickeys throughout the park and the characters handing out autographs, it’s an experience unlike any other.

We want our designs to take you into a place of pure bliss. Your backyard should be your sanctuary—a world away from stress from the comfort of home. Create an area that is made just for you and soak in every minute of it.

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Design trends

3 Must-Have Features for Your Backyard (no matter the size)

Go Chasing Waterfalls

Okay, they don’t have to be waterfalls, but putting some type of water feature in your yard adds a bit of nature with no green thumb required. A pool is a great option if you have the space, but if you don’t want to commit to a lap pool fit for Katie Ledecky then a cocktail pool, aka “spool” aka small pool with a spa, is a great option. These petite water structures are just big enough to dip in and cool off. 

If even a spool is too much, incorporating a flow of water brings soothing sounds and a zen atmosphere. Show off your personal style with a strategically placed fountain or decorative water unit. We also love a water wall—perfect for compact yards with limited space.

Fire Burnin’

Earth, air, water? Check, check, check. Now on to the final element—add some heat to your yard with a fire component. We love to see flames on top of, or through, water for a remarkable visual blend. Marrying the elements brings a notably striking look and instantly gives a fantastical vibe to the area. 

Fire features act as an anchor in the space and can be the star of the yard when entertaining. Particularly if you have a smaller space, set up bench seating or a rocker around a modern fire pit to offer a place for guests to gather. We love this because it doesn’t require a huge backyard or budget, but it does give the space a refined edge.

Level Up

Now that you have the necessary fixtures in your yard, it’s time to maximize the space for a powerful visual effect. Varying levels make the most out of the area, especially when you’re working with limited room. By separating a section off with an elevation change, you open up the space and create a completely different setup. Don’t be confined to horizontal heights but instead, have fun with sunken seating! 

Once you’ve added fire and water, raise them above eye level to create the drama they deserve. By lifting up your fire, water, art, or plant features, you can add a dimension that makes the entire yard look so much more appealing. Changing up the heights of the elements in your yard allows you to see all the pieces you’ve incorporated while maximizing the area’s potential.

With the right design, all of these features can be incorporated to give your backyard a luxurious look no matter what size space you have. 

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Design trends

Controversial Curves

Keepin it Straight

For an extremely modern look, we implement sharp, sleek corners and symmetrical edges to give the area a polished feel. Straight, clean lines deliver a striking overall appearance and can make the area look larger when paired with reflective surfaces and materials. Although the emphasis on straight lines gives off a bolder tone, it also brings an undeniable air of sophistication. 

Curvy Silhouettes

Omitting the necessity of symmetry and order, curved edges can bring a playful feel to the overall aesthetic of your yard. Implementing softer lines that bend with the shape of the pool or home architecture mimics a natural environment, similar to what we see in organic design (link to blog post). Curves can give the illusion of more space and studies show that free-flowing silhouettes are seen as more visually favorable and signal safety, thus garnering a sense of calm.

Combine for Dramatic Effect

As designers, we truly believe that the best designs incorporate curved and straight lines and features, and sparingly using one or two curves in a single area will highlight both concepts. The contrasted warmth of contoured outlines mixed in with bold, angled edges creates a more appealing look with an added level of visual interest. 

A perfect example of this is seen here, in Aqua Garden, where most of the yard boasts perfectly sharp, angled lines. Then we added the rounded Baja shelf and a curved layer of mosaic tile “waves”. The finished product demonstrates exactly what can be achieved with the thoughtful juxtaposition of curved and straight lines.

Enmeshing a rounded spa within an otherwise linear pool adds visual interest as it gives a layer of texture that helps create a focal point where the eye can rest. In this design, the spa is the accent piece to soften the otherwise sharp lines and build a harmonious flow throughout the backyard.

While we love the sleek, clean look of straight modern lines and the soft gentle curves that resemble organic design, we’ve found that the best way to get that true resort look for your backyard is to integrate both for a design that is visually rich and satisfying.

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DIY

Private resort on a budget (Part 2)

Phase two of transforming your small space

We’re continuing on with tips you can implement into remodeling your rental space, no matter how big (or small) your outdoor space is. We redesigned a 6’x12’ balcony in Santa Monica, California, using only things we found at a home improvement store, and did it all in one day with a minimal budget. Once you install your base elements, it’s time to top it off with these final additions to give your space a luxurious, resort-like feel. 

Light it Up

One of the simplest and fastest ways to transform your outdoor space is with a quick lighting change. No matter the size of your space, strategically placed lighting features can unify the area without having to do any major construction work.

The Ambient Light Bars by Foxterra have the power to quickly and easily change your patio, balcony, or backyard with custom landscape lighting. Featuring the first of its kind LED and RBGW technology, the Ambient Bar is available in white or colored options so you can infinitely modify the color to enhance your mood. 

For this balcony remodel, we couldn’t drill anything into the walls, but that doesn’t mean we couldn’t mount the Ambient Light Bars! We wanted the lights to sit flush against the walls, so we used a wood base, cut with precise measurements, to create a pressure wedge that holds the beams in place without any fasteners. The Ambient Bar comes with three brackets and we drilled those into the wooden beams to finish off the mounted light look.

A Plant Finisher


With a rental space, you want to make sure you can pack up your yard when you move, and that includes the plants. Instead of in-ground plants, accent the area with a few table-side or potted plants to bring color and life to the area. There’s something inherently cheerful about mixing live plants in with the artificial greenery. Seeing plants grow and flourish makes the house a just little homier.

Make sure you choose plants that fit the environment you’re placing them in. Many plants are fitted with instructions on care and consideration. Determine how much shade versus direct sunlight the area gets, and how much time you’re willing to care for your plants. Mind your home’s climate and the species of plant to determine how often to water, fertilize, or repot your plants.

Rental to Resort

There’s something relaxing about coming home to a place that feels like yours and creating an atmosphere that is distinctly your style where you can relax and recharge. It doesn’t matter if your rental boasts a sprawling yard or a cozy balcony because with a few simple changes you can redo your space yourself and capture that resort-like feel, right at home.

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DIY

Private resort on a budget (even if you’re renting)

Transforming your small space

Recently, we overhauled a 6’ x 12’ balcony space in Santa Monica, California, proving that resort-style living can be implemented for anyone with an outdoor space.

Our goal for this DIY project was to keep the budget low (within a $5,000 budget) and make sure that everything we installed could be removed with no traces left behind.

Many people shy away from doing renovations with a rental because of lease provisions that prohibit alterations. Depending on the landlord or property manager, it’s best to keep the space in its original condition and form, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make the space your own. By swapping out nails, screws, and permanent fixtures for removable, damage-free alternatives you can free up your options to entirely transform your patio, balcony, or backyard.

Create Privacy with Removable Hedges

For this remodeled balcony, we put up artificial hedges using—get this—zip tiesand staples as fasteners. This extremely inexpensive option opens up your space to an overhaul that is very easy to do yourself. First, we cut plywood to size and covered it with Vigoro WeedBlock to give a more realistic look to the finished product. Then, we affixed the artificial living wall pieces to the wood using a staple gun. We drilled holes in the wood and then slipped zip ties through the slots in the balcony glass, anchoring each piece.  These hedges bring an element of privacy that emulates a resort-like feel at a fraction of the cost and commitment. You can purchase this realistic hedge from our site here.

Build a Base


A key element of totally transforming a space is to consider every inch at your disposal. Don’t ignore the floor! If you have flat, concrete ground, installing turf is straightforward and delivers a luxurious look. Artificial grass can be very inexpensive and readily available at large home improvement stores—perfect for a DIY install. 

No matter the size of the flooring, artificial grass can be cut and contoured to fit the shape of the area. Make sure that your concrete is in good condition, flat, and free of large holes or deep cracks. Precise measurements are key because if the turf fits the area, no installation is necessary. Just place it down and tuck it into the edges of your space for a completely redesigned surface that’s cozy enough to lay on but durable enough to withstand harsh weather.

Furniture as a Focal Point

No outdoor space is complete without the perfect furniture. Right now, we’re loving the outdoor collections from Ledger Lounger. They have versatile outdoor furniture that will be the perfect accent to your newly decorated space. After all, what use is a beautiful outdoor space if you can’t sit back and enjoy it?

You don’t need a pool to enjoy comfortable, quality furniture. For this balcony, we paired this dining table with these dining chairs and this side table for a casual look that is perfect for any home. The Playnk collection is great for so many outdoor spaces because of the versality of its look. The mix of materials ties the side table and lounge chairs in with the overall aesthetic of the balcony.

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Design Inspo

Resort Inspiration – luxury living in your backyard

Drawing Inspiration

Summer is here and we are obsessed with some of the resorts we’ve visited and some we’re still pining over. Influenced by our favorite destinations around the world, we draw inspiration for our designs from the elements we see at our favorite hotel grounds.

Even though we love exploring new spots, why not bring the vacation lifestyle to your home? Implementing a few key features can bring the resort right to your residence.

Unique Pool Shapes

If you’re opting for a pool, don’t shy away from using the negative space you have in your yard to play with the size and shape of water elements. Utilizing non-linear pool shapes yields a unique design layout that gives the illusion of a larger body of water because you create optics outside of one clear focal point. If you really want to give your home the island vibe of a vacation in paradise, shape the water in a way that wraps around a central element or object. Create your own personal peninsula and set up lounge chairs to complete the look.

If you have a smaller space or a narrower backyard, you can opt for a longer pool that imitates a lazy river. Designing a pool that crawls throughout the yard instantly imitates the most luxurious resorts. (And we all float on, alright.)

Swim-Up Bar

Nothing says resort living quite like a swim-up bar. Allowing you to sit comfortably halfway in the water, this provides the perfect spot to entertain guests or keep cool while you snack with the family. You may not have servers bringing your cocktails, but a swim-up bar is the perfect place to sip a blended drink and soak up the sun. Just don’t forget the SPF.

Featured Furniture

It is so important to choose the right kind of furniture to really capture that resort feel. By focusing on high-quality materials and unique designs, you can ensure that your pieces will complement your space. Utilize accent colors and geometric shapes that make your furniture stand out and be intentional with location and placement.

Group seating can give your backyard the same inviting impression that your favorite luxury hotels have perfected. By implementing furniture that was intended for hosting groups, you’re creating a space that mirrors the inviting nature of resort-style living. (P.S. Stay tuned to Foxterra.co to find luxury outdoor furniture—coming soon!)

Turn your summertime fantasies into a reality year after year when you make your backyard feel like a private oasis. By applying a few key features often found at high-end resorts, your space can feel like you’re on vacation every time you step outside.