Colorful Cottage Courtyard

Reclaiming Style
Gary loves building and likes using salvaged items to personalize his work. He designed and constructed the unique bench that is pictured. Old English corbels, originally used as decorative supports, serve as the two large wooden end pieces. These detailed architectural elements look like two giant bookends. A bolted metal seat and backrest span the corbels.

Gary also converted a large circular planter and three finials into a fine-looking water feature. He sealed the inside of the planter, making it watertight, and hired a local stone company to drill holes in the three stone finials. Plumbed to a small pump, the finials bubble water from their tops, creating a soothing trickle heard throughout the garden. In the winter, when many plants go dormant, this fountain becomes a focal point.

JoAnna found an old English garden tub, originally made so mothers could carry it into the garden to bathe their young children. She adapted the piece as a planter, filling it with colorful flowers. Far from looking out of place, these salvaged items fit in nicely, giving the landscape personality and charm.

A Garden Everyone Can Appreciate
People walking down the street stand on tiptoe as they pass by, trying to look over the boxwood hedge and see what's in bloom. Neighborhood friends on walks often stop and stay awhile. Such unexpected visits turn into fun gatherings on the small terrace. The Sasnetts' team effort has created a wonderful outdoor room that everyone admires and enjoys.
 

"Colorful Cottage Courtyard" is from the July 2004 issue of Southern Living.