Outdoor living is no longer defined as a simple patio with a few tables and chairs - today, homeowners are designing remarkable spaces in which to eat, relax, meditate, swim, and even sleep! Author Michelle Kodis reveals how to create a customized oasis in nearly any type of setting. Whether building new or redesigning an existing yard, Ultimate Backyards offers inspiration for outdoor spaces no matter the climate or budget - design is the key to creating a unique and personalized space. Learn how to connect an outdoor area architecturally to its environment, whether in the country, a suburb, or a busy urban locale. See first-hand the ways in which architects study a home's surroundings and then make them an integral part of the living space. Thirty case studies share stories, photos, and information on the challenges facing each project at its beginning, and the beautiful end result. Helpful sidebars offer suggestions and solutions on topics such as sustainability, using recycled materials, setting and staying within a budget, and what to do with a really small space. Sections include: Outdoor Rooms - outside spaces that dramatically increase the size and usable space of a home, from screened porches to outdoor family and play rooms; Indoor/Outdoor Combination - outdoor spaces designed to enhance an indoor/outdoor connection, such as a bedroom that opens directly to the outside; Water - pools, spas, ponds, and spaces that utilize water as the focal point; and, Creative Landscapes - landscapes that go beyond the ordinary to truly connect the house to its setting.