A Sun-Filled Backyard Designed for Work, Rest and Entertaining

From a stylish workspace to a relaxing pool, this luxurious Californian retreat by J. Banks Design has it all.

Story by Alea Wilkins
Photography by Molly Rose

When designing the outdoor spaces for this Carmel Valley retreat, executive interior designer Sharon Cleland of Hilton Head’s J. Banks Design approached the project with the same philosophy she brings to coastal homes in the Lowcountry.

Set on a private 3.5-acre property, the outdoor spaces include a veranda, pool, spa, cabana and fire pit. Each area serves a different purpose. Together they create a backyard designed for relaxation, exercise and entertaining. Morning yoga sessions can unfold beside the stone fire pit. Business gatherings transition easily to outdoor dinners. The cabana’s secluded bath offers a quiet place to unwind after a long day.

An oversized light fixture anchors the backyard veranda seating area. Its striped pattern was custom-painted to complement the warm tones of the surrounding landscape and the crisp white furniture below.

Designed for gatherings large and small, this outdoor dining area features tables crafted to resemble antique French pieces. Together they seat up to 24 guests, while a nearby scullery inside the main house allows catering teams to keep service seamless and organized.

According to Cleland, the approach to outdoor living should not be limited by geography.

“Just because you live in a subtropical or tropical environment should not dictate material selections or outdoor features,” she says.

Instead, she encourages homeowners to design spaces around the activities they love. For this homeowner, a dedicated Pilates area was essential, along with ample room to host extended family. Here both coexist easily in a backyard designed for connection, comfort and celebration.