A picturesque swimming pool is a favorite feature for today’s luxury homeowners. If you want to create a true backyard oasis, however, chances are the pool is just one part of the equation. For those who are looking to upgrade their backyard swimming here, here are several ideas that can take it to new heights. Add a Cabana For a truly resort-like experience, nothing beats having a cabana where you can lounge in the shade while hanging out by the pool. You’ll have the perfect spot to spend long summer days, whether reading a good book or drinking your morning coffee, while giving your pool area an exciting addition that transforms the whole aesthetic. Bring in the Fire Pit Anyone who enjoys sitting outside on a warm summer evening can appreciate a fire pit, but this feature has extra visual appeal when positioned nearby your swimming pool. Just imagine the enchanting ambience as you watch the flames reflect off the water after the sun goes down each night. Pool House If you’re lo...

  David Deem 714-997-3486 Dave@DeemTeam.com It’s quite common for luxury homebuyers to look for a property that has just the right balance between luxury and natural beauty. Perhaps that’s why homes that thoughtfully blend indoor and outdoor living spaces are often in high demand. If you’re looking for a property that offers exactly this, here are a few features that can deliver the best of both worlds.   Retractable Glass Walls You can remove the barrier (literally) between the interior and exterior of your home with a retractable glass wall. This sleek, modern feature is ideal for anyone who wants to open up their living space to a fresh breeze and create a seamless connection to the terrace or backyard, while also enjoying an abundance of natural light and unobstructed views even when the glass wall is closed. Outdoor Kitchens Who said you have to spend hours inside to prepare a wholesome family dinner? Outdoor kitchens have fast become a favorite amenity for homeowner...

David Deem 714-997-3486 Dave@DeemTeam.com Have you been quietly coveting your neighbor’s outdoor kitchen set-up? Perhaps now is the time to make it happen in your own backyard. While it might seem like an overwhelming project to take on, you can accomplish the renovation by following these steps from Better Homes & Gardens: 1. Map things out . While planning might seem like an obvious step, the necessity can’t be overstated in this case. Try to keep your outdoor kitchen as close to your indoor kitchen as possible to shorten the distance between back-and-forth trips. Also, be sure to get your utility services lined up for the possible array of appliances you’ll include in your outdoor kitchen. Finally, make sure your plans take into consideration space for where guests will sit so that there’s a nice flow. If you want to install your outdoor kitchen on an existing deck, make sure it’s strong enough to support the structure. 2. Keep it small . Unless you’re really big on...