“There is nothing like a hurricane followed by an epic flood to upset the order of things and blow in some literal winds of change,” observes G&G contributor, Julia Reed in her introduction to lifestyle photographer Kerri McCaffety’s forthcoming design tome, New Orleans, New Elegance (The Monacelli Press, May 2012) which explores the Crescent City’s evolving interior design sensibilities as it emerges from the rubble left behind by Katrina

You’d be hard-pressed to find a kitchen in the South whose refrigerator didn’t contain a pitcher of iced tea. We drink the syrupy sweet stuff by the gallon, no matter the season. But call it the Downton Abbey effect, something—and it’s definitely not the weather as it's almost 80 degrees outside—has me thinking about the old-school ritual of hot tea.

Yes, a few friends, a well-stocked bar, and something to snack on is all we really need for a good party, but if we’re honest, a stylish space can make all the difference, which is why we love this backyard redo.