Outdoor Dining at www.japanese-home-gardens.com

Dijused Lighting is achieved by locating the fixtures behind a cten, or behind a grouping of plants, and is especially pleasant when stalled in an outdoor dining area.

And outdoor rooms aren't just for dining and entertaining anymore. This summer, the focus is on relaxing in sumptuous comfort. Still, it's not all about indulgence. There's also an emphasis on sturdier, and more eco-friendly, materials. And worshipping the sun? That's so George Hamilton. Instead, be on the lookout for innovative awnings and umbrellas that stylishly block out the glare.

Susan Sawasy of Casa/Wasy Interior Design and James Hernandez of James Hernandez Design, both of South Pasadena, teamed up to take on the project, which is actually a three-in-one space boasting barbecue, entertaining and garden areas. Some of us might be happy to have a patio. But Sawasy and Hernandez decided to take advantage of the area's closeness to the kitchen for an outdoor living and dining room.