Actress Taraji P. Henson Surprises Her Housekeeper With a Backyard Oasis Fit for Entertaining

Determined to transform the outdoor living areas and landscape for her plant-loving friend, Taraji P. Henson recruits the Property Brothers to design a space with real impact on Celebrity IOU.

June 27, 2023

By: Emily Fazio

Show: Celebrity I.O.U.

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Photo By: DENNYS ILIC

Designing a Five-Star Staycation Destination

Actress Taraji P. Henson not only portrays strong-willed women in her onscreen roles, she carries that energy into her real life, too. On a recent episode of Celebrity IOU, Taraji transformed her housekeeper Jahel's backyard into a gorgeous garden sanctuary with the help of Property Brothers Drew and Jonathan Scott. “My dad always said, ‘If you’re [blessed], it’s your job to be a blessing,’” shared Taraji. “[Jahel] makes my home look so beautiful, and I want to do the same for her."

SEE MORE: Celebrity I.O.U.

Big Tools for a Transformative Backyard Makeover

It was very important for Taraji to be hands-on throughout the backyard remodel. From building planter boxes to jackhammering concrete, she showed up to make a difference for her friend. During the episode, Taraji spoke of the nonprofit she established in honor of her Veteran father. The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation works to improve access to mental health services for Black communities. It also advocates for care and services to support the LGBTQ+ community through challenges and transitions. Jahel and her daughter, Winter, are both impacted by these struggles and Taraji openly hopes that her efforts help improve their lives. “When your child hurts, you hurt, and I just wanted to bring some light into [their] lives," she said.

SEE MORE: Tiffany Haddish Transforms Her BFF's Dated House Into a Dream Home

Revealing a Luscious Garden Oasis

During the reveal, Jahel’s daughter, Winter, acknowledged how meaningful it was to have the Property Brothers involved in the makeover. “[When we bought the house,] Mom would always say, ‘We need the brothers!’” It’s no surprise the backyard makeover exceeded expectations. With its balance of hardscapes and softscapes, the family can now comfortably entertain, dine and foster a lush garden.

SEE MORE: Idina Menzel Transforms a Detached Garage Into an Office and Athletic Retreat

Before: The Backyard

Jahel’s beloved backyard was her sanctuary — a place she spent hours potting plants and tending gardens. But in the dry California heat, she struggled to maintain the lawn and evolve her garden space into a livable entertaining area.

SEE MORE: Drew and Jonathan Scott Host Another Star-Studded Season of 'Celebrity IOU'

After: The Backyard

Jahel’s remodeled backyard is clean and modern. Low-maintenance materials and drought-tolerant plants transform the space into a garden oasis. A pergola sits centered in the yard. The team planted Dichondra ground cover between stepping stones that, unlike grass, requires no maintenance.

SEE MORE: Anthony Anderson Surprises His Brother With a Massive Home Renovation