Project Description
The success of this project is the result of a great client, visionary design, precise craftsmanship & team work. A year after completing the installation of the backyard master plan our client wanted to add an outdoor kitchen off the side of the pool. This proved difficult due to the slope of the backyard; the pool was designed into the grade eight steps below the main dining patio.

The client discovered that their events overwhelmed the space. The existing small pergola was “a nice sitting area”, but it was too small for the larger crowds. We explored several design ideas for the space and our discussions led to replacing the existing pergola with an outdoor kitchen and a cozy ‘living room’.

The pergola construction includes 10”x10” structural posts, 12” box beams & 2”x 10” cedar arbor joists. The kitchen area displays the finest of details and materials-a stainless steel 41” grill, oversized under mount sink, exotic granite countertop to complement the wall stone, a hot water heater, ice maker, refrigerator and plenty of storage drawers. A 42” bar counter with a radius ‘table’ end faces the pool & is the perfect place to grab a cold drink.

On the other side of the structure is a relaxing living room space with a wood burning fireplace. The client wanted to avoid the hassle of starting the fire with guests around, so we installed a gas igniter. A custom retractable shade canopy was designed to run under the arbor joists and provide shade from the full sun exposure.

The existing River Birch trees were transplanted to anchor the sides of the structure and specimen 3 Foster Holly trees were installed as a backdrop for the space. Perennials, grasses & annuals provide seasonal interest. The structure has a complete sound system, ceiling fans, a chandelier, down lighting and rope lighting hidden in the crown molding. Our client looks on with great satisfaction, “now this is an outdoor room!” 

Unusual Problems:
Reconfiguring the existing plan was no easy task. Existing utilities such as a septic line, fiber optic cable for the pool, multiple irrigation lines and lighting wires ran throughout the area. New plumbing, electrical and gas lines were required and needed to be run through the completed backyard master plan. Patience is a virtue and a patient client is even better. It became obvious that coordinating all the various subcontractors would be vital to the project’s success.