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What does a self-described "gardening fanatic" do when she wins an outdoor makeover? She creates the ultimate garden retreat, of course.

What was a "one in a million" chance is now becoming a reality for Nora Ghillany, winner of 2008's $100,000 Outdoor Makeover from Frontgate and Coastal Living. As the winner, Nora received $50,000 in outdoor furniture from Frontgate, a $50,000 custom project from the Master Pools Guild, and a consultation with Coastal Living's Homes Editor, Elizabeth Beeler.

Nora says she favors a formal, pared down aesthetic for her gardens, playing off of the Victorian architecture of her small town New England home. And by working with Elizabeth, Nora was able to select Frontgate furniture that neatly paired with her style.

"Nora was great to work with because she has great style and knew exactly what she wanted," says Elizabeth, "We went for a very classic, upscale New England look, which works very well with her traditional house and fabulous gardens."

Asked about her new furniture, Nora immediately mentions her new teak benches that accent her formal gardens. "The teak benches are amazing," she says, "the quality is really terrific." It wasn't just the benches that brought the garden together for Nora, but rather another addition from Frontgate. "The ceramic urns with a more modern palette make it work," she adds. "They blend with the Victorian elements, but make it fun."

Stephen Zagorski, Jr. of Aqua-Craft Gunite Pools in Peabody, MA, a member of the Master Pools Guild since 1963, met with the Ghillanys to design an environmentally-friendly garden anchored by an 8' x 8' water feature. Surrounding the bubbling fountain and reflecting pool are Blue Stone walkways and beautifully detailed plantings throughout the space. It is this water feature that Stephen, Elizabeth, and Nora say highlight the project. "The water feature was a great addition to the property, which was already gorgeous," says Elizabeth. "It just adds that third element and makes the space even more relaxing and enjoyable." Stephen echoes her statement when talking about his favorite elements of the design; "I liken the water feature to a jewel," he says.

A Frontgate customer since 2003, Nora says of the items she has ordered, "there wasn't a single thing I was displeased with." When thinking back over the experience, Nora is still in awe, "It has been really a dream come true."