Fresno, California: Old World charm

Elegant urns filled with agaves, splashing lion's-head fountains, slate countertops: Although these could be details from a lavish Tuscan villa, they're actually in Kimberly Chamberlain's Italianate garden, designed by Terry Broussard.

Every inch of the pie-shaped lot is designed with outdoor living and entertaining in mind, with one twist: The garden is wheelchair-accessible. Chamberlain, who loves to garden, cook, swim, and entertain, has easy access to all outside areas, thanks to Broussard's creative design. "It's a remarkable use of an odd-shaped space," noted a juror.

In the back garden, a slate-tiled lap pool, raised for easy entry, is also a dramatic fountain and focal point. The stucco sides of a raised vegetable bed have a smooth top for more comfortable gardening. An elegant, vine-covered pergola and concrete paths link sections of the garden. A built-in barbecue, copper table, and outdoor shower make the garden unique.

DESIGNER: Terry Broussard, Broussard Associates Landscape Architects, Clovis, CA (559/325-7284)