Outdoor seating area

A metal-framed daybed sits on a small patio next to the back deck. A young espaliered fig is displayed against the dark exterior wall (Licorice, item 517-7; Pittsburgh Paints).

"We could have built a new house with multiple stories," Shemchuk says. "But our goal was to have something quiet ― in both size and style."

Are you inspired yet? Discover even more creative ideas.

Resources: Metal daybed from West Elm (888/922-4119). Daybed fabric from Sunbrella (336/221-2211). Striped pillows made from Baystreet fabric in Grass green from Outdoor Fabrics (800/640-3539). Metal table from flea market.