Home renovators, bloggers and brand ambassadors Chris and Julia Marcum recently underwent a major backyard renovation. The couple’s widely popular blog, Chris Loves Julia, documented the entire process from start to finish – and everything in between. The design lovers believe home really is where the heart is and strive to make their home realize its full potential, little by little. They embrace the journey of home design rather than solely focusing on the end result and they share their learnings with their followers along the way. We’re breaking down the process behind their latest major renovation.
The Ask
The couple is known for their interior makeovers, but upon moving to their now-home in North Carolina in 2021, they made a deal with their children: They would put in a pool. They upheld their end of the bargain – and then some – making the pool the undeniable focal point of the backyard design. With the pool a sure thing, Chris and Julia had two other elements they were certain about when planning the makeover. Since the home’s exterior was red brick and the centerpiece pool would have blue water, they didn’t want the backyard to turn into color overload. So to avoid this they wanted to stick to a black-and-white theme. They also knew they wanted their design to read “the perfect balance of traditional and modern.” To blend those styles with a resort aesthetic, Chris and Julia selected furniture from Frontgate with Sunbrella® Rain cushions.
The Makings
The duo wanted to maximize the time spent in their outdoor space considering the fall months in North Carolina bring considerable rain. Chris and Julia needed furniture that not only aligned with their vision but could also hold up to the elements. Given Frontgate’s traditional style and Sunbrella’s weather-resistant properties, both were obvious choices.
Lining the pool on either side are the grand Carlisle Chaise Lounges topped with plush cushions in Sunbrella Rain fabric – making them the perfect patio statement pieces. Then, looking for a way to tie together the color palette, the black-and-white Resort Stripe Market Umbrellas shine through. “I love that [the umbrellas] add so much height and character to the pool area,” Julia says. “My favorite detail is actually the Endura Teak finish of the pole.” The umbrellas are supported by Eton Umbrella Tables, which do double-duty by also holding a favorite drink or book.
Across from the pool is the family’s gathering area, which includes the Carlisle Sofa and two Carlisle Oversized Cuddle Lounges and Ottomans. These pieces offer plenty of space for lounging or entertaining. Connecting the space is the Ensoleille Table, which Julia chose for its modern style and round shape, mimicking the umbrellas and bringing a sense of cohesion to the space.
"I love that [the umbrellas] add so much height and character to the pool area. My favorite detail is actually the Endura Teak finish of the pole."
The Result
Chris and Julia’s dream backyard came together in their signature fashion, serving cozy warmth with a side of modernity. The result is a design that holds its own in the vibrant nature that surrounds it – without competing with it. It’s also one that will stand the test of time, and the seasons. When asked what made the space really come together, their answer was swift: the furniture. “Now that the pool furniture is in place, I feel like we can kick our shoes off and celebrate,” Julia says. “Cheers!”
The Marcums now get to embrace their new home and their new city by soaking up every bit of the beautiful weather North Carolina has to offer.
"Now that the pool furniture is in place I feel like we can kick our shoes off and celebrate. Cheers!"
Shop The Look
To discover more of Chris and Julia’s design projects and tips, head over to their blog, and follow them on Instagram @chrislovesjulia.
