Trellis, bench seat provide nice spot to remember daughter

We have lived in this home almost 17 years and raised a son and daughter here. Now our son and granddaughter live with us and we have the privilege of helping raise her!

There are toys everywhere (she's 5½) so we want to contain the toys when we are entertaining.

We would also like help in creating a better-looking memorial for our daughter, Gayle, who died at the age of 20. We originally bought a few things: an arbor in the back of the yard that marks a path she made in the grass going out the back gate to and from Glenbard North (High School). We planted purple clematis on each side, but the rabbits kept eating them despite fencing we put up!

Design by Steinhafels

Budget: $5,000

The before look is very basic and feels bland with only white siding and cement patio.

Suggestions:

• Add conversation and comfort seating area that is neutral so if you'd like to change color year to year, or every other year, you can by just changing some simple pieces and giving it an update. I chose blues and greens.

• Also create a dining area, so if you like to barbecue and have a dinner outside, you have that, as well.

• This reader mentioned they were in need of storage. Both the end table and the cocktail table have storage to help hide the grandchild's outside toys and keep it looking tidy.

• I also added a bench and a garden trellis to add to the memorial for their daughter. If they would like to have a seat and reflect on their memories, there is a spot to enjoy some sunshine and relax. The seat also adds some color and dimension to the memorial for her.