When we bought the house there was just waste ground all around it, with no landscaping.  We saw a lot of potential, so the first thing we did was we added a tiled terrace on which we put a jacuzzi. The jacuzzi was a stroke of brilliance.  There’s nothing better than to sit in the warm bubbling waters in the evening and gaze at the stars.  A few years ago, we upgraded the jacuzzi with one that has all the bells and whistles (LED lights, aromatherapy, a small cascade, etc.)

Here’s a photo from above with the jets on:

We also built this lovely secluded terrace which has morning shade and afternoon sun.  It has a hammock that allows for restful reading (or napping).

Back in 2008, we decided to build a proper pool.  It is accessed from stairs off the jacuzzi terrace.  We think this might have been the best decision we have made in our lives.  EVER.  (Well, except for buying the house in the first place.)

This is how happy we were when the pool was finished: