STYLE : Inside Out

The trend toward using the garden as an outdoor living room continues with designers installing cushioned seating, lights and carpets under the trees. And the use of faux plants has lost its stigma. For two reasons--because water has been in short supply and, even when it’s available, watering isn’t a great idea around an Oriental rug--fake wreaths and topiary have found respectability in the garden. Artificial ivy, in particular, is difficult to detect. An excellent backdrop for real blooming color, it’s also a good way to fill in bare spots between seasons.