A neglected backyard surrounded by a high brick wall was Val Moretti’s view from the kitchen of his south London home. Eventually he had enough – and embarked on a dramatic kitchen and garden renovation inspired by his favourite Ibizan restaurant. Now, when he throws open the doors from his kitchen to entertain friends they can walk into a relaxing sanctuary complete with bamboo, dark wood decking, a fire pit and the sound of flowing water – an oasis from the busy London streets outside. Once the Great British summer finally arrives he moves his dining table and chairs outside so his guests can soak up the holiday-like atmosphere as they eat alfresco. “The restaurant Bambuddha in Ibiza was my main inspiration for the garden,” says Val, an actor. “The first time I went there I thought it was an incredible experience eating outside among all the bamboo. “I love that whole vibe; the dark wood decking, bamboo and white walls. I wanted something tropical that would remind me of being on holiday or back home in Trinidad.” Telegraph Money asked Julia Kendell, interior designer from Kendell and Co, speaker at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show and expert on the...