The transformation of Paul Vivian and Mark Pundzius's 12' x 19' garden from a concrete parking spot to a classically styled courtyard with cooking, entertaining and gardening zones is miraculous. Despite health challenges, Paul worked in the garden over the course of six summers. "At moments, the fully formed garden would come into my head, then Mark would help refine the ideas," he says. "While out there one day at 5 a.m., I realized I had no desire to change or move anything. Our garden was perfect. It was one of my happiest moments." The process and the result, he says, has made their garden a truly healing space.


Eating area
"It was Mark's idea to have curved railings," says owner Paul Vivian. "They added a sense of entrance." The sweeping lines also balance all the squares. The original porch worked, so the couple just expanded it. "The raised barbecure area is out of the way of the socializing area," says Paul. The elevation change increases the garden's functionality and creates an expansive feel. Paul backed the layered latticework with solid wood, tin and mirror, and hung a valance for privacy. A collapsible table hangs on the side of the house when not in use.

 

Lattice effect
Built from scrap lumber and fence board, the door is finished with ironwork hardware, and mirror-backed lattice, which is used throughout the space. Mirror visually expands the garden, amplifies light and blurs the line between indoor and outdoor decorating. "At night, candlelight bounces all over the garden," says Paul. To complement that effect, he and Mark chose a variety of lighting elements, including uplights, ships' lanterns and tea lights.

 

Scuptural accent
This ornate fountain, flanked by two simple sconces, forms a strong focal point. Because it sits on the fence, it doesn't eat up valuable floor space. Siberian iris, clematis and ivy give height to the border; annuals fill out the garden at ground level.