A Zen master could summon peace of mind on a packed city bus. The rest of us need help. Some privacy. Flowers. A little breeze ferrying the scents of a summer day. Whatever space you have outside that belongs to you, whatever its size or shape, it can be claimed as a place of refuge. On the following pages, you'll discover how homeowners from Seattle to Tucson made their escapes, and how you can too.

Tropical plants and container gardening blend with unusual artifacts and accessories. The Balinese temple umbrella is both decorative and functional, protecting plants from the noonday sun.

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