Anna Ott's Valencia home is a lot like her: classy but casual - with timeless style. Coincidence? Anything but. Interior designer Ruben Haynes, of Ruben Haynes Design, was intent on creating a fresh, elegant reflection of the homeowner - a look he refers to as "Old Hollywood."

ABOVE RIGHT Quick updates, like a coat of celadon-green paint and new knobs refreshed the home's entertainment-oriented kitchen. ABOVE LEFT Pops of light come courtesy of sconces peppered between Roman black-out shades while glass-inlayed cabinets, "

ABOVE A tufted headboard is a regal example of the master bedroom's depth and dimension. RIGHT Imperial marble surrounds a custom-fireplace illuminated tub. The home's existing wallpaper adds contrast to the cozy space.

Fine outdoor seating is situated to take in the home's prime golf-course views and new fountains.

Three Elements of Backyard Bliss
Water
The soothing, therapeutic sound of trickling water is well known - which makes it a much-desired addition to backyard design. Whether it's to attract birds and wildlife, house fish, or simply to reflect upon - a water feature is a key element to outdoor living. "Our custom water gardens and ponds are designed to complement your home and landscape," says Jeff Brown, owner of NV Landscape, Inc. (286-8888). "We will help you select the perfect location where you will be able to enjoy the beauty a water garden brings as a focal point from both in- and outdoors. All of our ponds are designed to include both mechanical and biological filtration, recirculating pump and plumbing, rock work, lighting, and an automatic-fill valve. We use only natural stone, too, which ages gracefully as your landscape matures," he explains.

Color
"There are ways of balancing landscape design and color while still acknowledging our need to reduce water consumption," says Mark Berrol, owner of MHB Landscape Construction (297-5169). Plants properly selected to match soil grade, sun exposure and microclimate can be paired with precision watering technology. The result is an eco-savvy look that can appear just as lush and welcoming as a water-guzzling counterpart.

Richly-textured synthetic grass is another bright, water-friendly addition to your yard. Entirely natural looking and maintenance free, these long-lasting greens can actually pay for themselves when factors like fertilizer, water, reseeding and care are calculated.

Comfort
Gorgeous landscaping and refined water features are fabulous additions - as long as you have somewhere to sit and enjoy them. Preferred brands of patio furniture will provide the comfort, style and real value you seek. Right now, Oasis Garden & Patio (255-9909) is holding their Memorial Sale. With over 40 sets of furniture in stock and ready for free, local delivery, now is the time to "take a seat!"