The broad deck and seating area are perfect for the Mediterranean climate and invite guests outdoors.

From expansive, open spaces that blur to line between kitchen, living room, and dining room, to cozy seating around a fire pit, these six residences were made for gatherings of friends and family.

Offering places to garden, play, recline, and contemplate the view, backyards have the power to redefine the homes with which they share a site.

Los Angeles is not all mini-malls and highways. As Eric Garcetti, president of the City Council, shows, it is eminently possible to live green in the City of Angels.