The most time I spend outdoors is typically in the evening, so I pay particular interest to lighting up the outdoors. The River Rock Fire Bowl by Restoration Hardware is a steal at $699 regularly when compared to custom made which can range to the mid-thousands. The look of concrete and weathered grays is very warm and relaxing, isn't it?

You don't need to invest too much into night-lighting either, simple lanterns come in various sizes. Note that if you want to pack a punch with lanterns, go for 2 or 3 in a large size for that perfect accent. Here are the Duomo Lanterns in a weathered zinc finish.

The Kemper Lanterns by Z Gallerie are a striking and simple design of glass and metal, and they also happen to be on sale today! So go shed some light on those dark corners in your backyard, it will make it oh so cozy as you watch your next sunset.

This extraordinary pool in Southern Utah is lovingly referred to as "the Ruins" by homeowners Keeran and Jamie Welch. It seems almost magical at sunset, when torches blaze and the mist rises in this private oasis. 

Another poolside view shows comfortable seating and outdoor dining arrangements.

Here we see directly to the focal point of the pool; a doorway to the grotto.

Once through the waterfall cascade, you enter a domed hidden room flanked by rock and Corinthian columns. Oh, and a Jacuzzi, naturally.

Carved out niches in the rock facade and the illuminated dome above display Romanesque paintings. A picture of serenity.

Paving your paradise might actually make it more appealing- especially if you don't exactly have the time to weed and feed your outdoor expanse. That is the case for this Torontonian. The March 2008 edition of the House and Home magazine features this attractive straight forward backyard just bursting with entertaining amenities.  Poured concrete and 6x6 cedar posts make up the bones of this backyard. The custom sailcloth awning can be drawn back to let in the full sun if you wish.

Dark faux rattan furniture comprise the sitting area as well as the dining area for eight. A open gas fireplace acts as a visual partition to separate these two spots.

The greenery is simple but not sparse. As cedars line the back of the property along the fence, as potted plants and 13 un-poured sections provide a home for feathery grasses, lavender and burning bush plants (which require very little maintenance).

Help keep your feathery friends cozy and snug in candy-colored homes made by J Schatz. These ceramic earthenware egg-shaped homes are available in eight fun colours like light aqua, orange peel, and red hot.  The small entry hole of the Egg Bird House is meant for small birds and to help keep out predators, as well, the glossy finish is durable and can handle harsh weather.