Parra created unity by choosing founda-tion pieces — couches, tables and chairs — in earthy colors compatible with those used in the house. For added spice he suggested patterned outdoor area rugs to define the spaces, colored throw pil-lows, copper side tables, carved wooden screens, and even ornamented table lamps in contrasting materials and hues. Joanne Tudor, who co-owns House ’N Garden with her husband Tom, credits advances in technology with making today’s new, plusher, more complete outdoor rooms possible. “Sunbrella fab-ric was the game changer when it came on the market more than a decade ago,” Joanne says. “It’s beautiful upholstery fab-ric made to stand up to the sun. Also, the cushions themselves started being made from dacron hollow fill, which doesn’t absorb moisture like the old fillings that started to degrade immediately. Water goes right through today’s outdoor cush-ions.” The outdoor fireplace at the Maccarones is a popular gathering place. Nick says he enjoys lighting a fire as night falls — guests who have been lounging by the pool tend to gravitate toward it. But he and Paula also enjoy the fire table that is part of the outdoor living room setting on their porch. The flame at the center of the 24-inch-high rectangular table runs on propane and turns on and off at the flick of a switch. In helping the Maccarones prepare for a recent event, Parra suggested mixing things up by moving the dining table out by the pool. Near it he situated a credenza for dishes and décor pieces for added ambience. Parra also dressed up the lawn where kids could play croquette. “We entertain a lot,” Nick says. “We enjoy that because we have many spaces with plenty of ways for everyone to have fun. When there’s no crowd, it still works because everything is beautiful. We sit on the bedroom patio in the mornings, enjoy our coffee and look at the mountains. What could be better?” HG Judith Ratliff, MLA, is a Tucson land-scape designer. She can be reached at 577-7391 for comments. Sources: house ’n Garden, www.housengarden.com www .tucsonlifestyle.com toP Moveable retro-inspired chairs and umbrella add a touch of whimsy to this impromptu game of croquet. left an eclectic mix of elements on the bar set the stage for outdoor entertaining. aboVe homeowners Paula and nick Maccarone. beloW the homeowners placed a side table-bar and dining table beside the waterfall. T ucson Lifestyle HOME & GARDEN / M AY 2012 35
Tucson Lifestyle Home and Garden May 2012: Page 35
