Actually PT very astute observation!!! The inspiration in part was that semi-biography of that film producer dude, the one that had the KILLER pool pad.... back in the 70's n' shit.
Damn, now what was that film..? He had to borrow money from Jack Nicholson to get his place back.
Anyways, I loved the lushness, the lights, esp. on the trees. He had kind of a 'grotto effect' and that was the stepping off point. I think we did it up differently but I love the cool vibe of the place.
The dude who did the woodwork was a master who did it all 'California Style' per spec and we stained it Redwood. Check out that styling! (again, old pics at various stages).
I will take some new shots, but the Jaquizzi has HUGE wads of honeysuckle in front now grown all the way to the roof, and in back it's Jasmine!
The gazebo with the porch swing I designed as a little 'hidey hole'... it has purple and pink Clematis growing over it.
By the porch is a small aromatic garden we planted with sage, rosemary, mint, etc..
I go out there at least 5 times a week even if the weather sux.