This spring Stephen and Wendy LaFrance are trading cold nights, heavy layers and hot chocolate for sunshine, swimsuits and lemonade, all to be enjoyed literally within feet of their own back door. Their playful, yet refined outdoor living space lends itself to a relaxing, resort-like ambience with scenic vistas from a variety of angles. Built in 1929 and originally designed by the highly regarded Max Mayer, the LaFrances’ Georgian-style residence is steeped in Little Rock’s architectural heritage and exudes the presence of the historical gem it is—making it the perfect backdrop for this invitingly pristine backyard oasis.
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While Kevin Walsh of Bear-Hill Interiors originally set out to design the home’s interior spaces, he couldn’t help but notice the potential for the backyard. Once an unrealized extension of the home, Walsh was eager to create an indispensable area for recreation and relaxation. He also wanted to make the space meet the family’s needs as well as their wishes. “A smooth transition from interior to exterior was priority,” he explains. “After that most of the inspiration was drawn from the family’s favorite vacation spot in Cabo San Lucas,” he adds.
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