A Bradshaw Farm family's backyard will be among the stars of a new Home & Garden Television series. "Bang For Your Buck," which begins airing next month, will feature Ben and Regina Samuel's outdoor living space on an episode in June. The series, scheduled for 9:30 p.m. on Friday nights, on each episode will highlight improvements made by three homeowners in the same city or metropolitan area to the same part of their homes for about the same amount of money. Producer Carolyn Cimino said designers and real estate experts would review the renovations and determine if the homeowners will see a good return on their investments. The Samuels will be included in an episode showcasing three Atlanta-area homeowners who spent about $70,000 each on backyard makeovers, Ms. Cimino said. The network spent Tuesday and Wednesday filming at the Samuels' home. The Samuels transformed a dull, sun-drenched backyard into a comfortable entertainment and relaxation area. The upgrade included the installation of a swimming pool with two waterfall features and a spa, a stacked stone fireplace with a seating area for six and an under-deck area, with a flat-screen television and surround-sound system, a ceiling fan and flagstone. The backyard also is home to a child's play station with slides, a ladder and platforms. The Samuels said they decided to do the project to add style and comfort to their five-bedroom, four-and-a-half bath home in the upscale Hickory Flat golf course neighborhood. During the summer, the Samuels were unable to enjoy the backyard due to the lack of shade there. "We just built an extension of our house that's outside," Mrs. Samuel said. The family began the project in early October and it took about 2 months to complete. During the renovation, the Samuels encountered two sinkholes where the swimming pool now sits, which had to be corrected before construction could continue. Woodstock-based Georgia Classic Pool overrsaw the project, which cost about $80,000 - right in line with their budgeted price range, Mrs. Samuel said. Vance Dover, owner of Georgia Classic Pool , said a backyard upgrade usually ranges between $40,000 and $150,000, depending on what amenities a family wants to add to their home. Dover, who tipped off HGTV about the Samuels' renovation, noted the stonework around the swimming pool was customized to meet the family's request. While the Samuels said the outdoor living space would create a more comfortable environment for guests, it was most important to make sure the changes benefitted 3-year-old daughter, Sidney. Samuel said the renovations not only add value to their home, they also benefit their quality of life. "We are now able to be outside and enjoy the outdoors," he said. "We will be out here every day during the summer." By Kristal Dixon kdixon@cherokeetribune.com

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