Perfect home retreat corner

Find a spot that is physically farthest from any of the other more public activities in the backyard. (PHOTO: COURTESY)

In addition to a deck or patio large enough to accommodate the whole family and guests, you may want to have another smaller, more intimate area, tucked away somewhere in your backyard. A space where you can retreat once in a while or get away from the crowd and view your garden from a different vantage point.

A corner where you can sit or lay alone as you enjoy your copy of Home & Away or some other interesting read.
Creating such private, intimate spaces outdoors requires a bit of forethought and creativity, especially in the light of the ever-increasing density of our neighbourhoods.