Project Highlight Part 1: Backyard Oasis for Post-pandemic Enjoyment

This is a two-part blog discussing the different outdoor living elements of this project.

I’m excited to share this two-part blog showcasing one of my latest projects, which Southern Exposure Landscape Management* installed. This amazing outdoor living project incorporates so many popular design elements that are perfect for total backyard enjoyment.

In this first part, I’ll share about their new porch and outdoor kitchen. Don’t miss my next blog showcasing the firepit, plantings, and outdoor lighting.

Ultimate Outdoor Living Space

This project utilized a covered porch and uncovered patio area to create the ultimate outdoor living area right outside their back door.

For the covered area with the outdoor kitchen and fireplace, the design utilized dramatic volume ceilings with heavy molding. Throughout the design are stones with a Smokey Mountain veneer. The floor is a lavish and durable tile.

Just outside the covered area, is a patio with numerous comfortable seating options. The patio flooring consists of gorgeous Belgard Mega Arbel pavers. Whereas the walls are Belgard Celtik wall blocks. Overall, these materials create a seamless and stunning look on the patio.

Outdoor Kitchen with All the Bells & Whistles

The outdoor kitchen in this project had all the top and most amazing features in it. Major elements included:

·       Pizza oven

·       Grill

·       Smoker

·       Attached bar

·       Island with sink & seating

·       Refrigerator

·       Storage areas

It is truly a space where both meals and memories will be made!

Custom Stone Fireplace with Comfortable Seating Area

In addition to the impressive and all-inclusive outdoor kitchen, another aspect of the covered porch area is the custom stone fireplace and seating area. On each side of the fireplace are log holders for easy access to wood but remains aesthetically pleasing. Above the fireplace is a mounted TV screen for enjoying movies, games, and TV shows. The seating includes comfortable chairs and a couch.

Ready to Create Your Own Dream Outdoor Oasis?

At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, I partner closely with every single client to ensure they have their dream backyard. Plus, my 3D landscape design allows clients to see what the area will look like on their property before construction even starts.

Why wait any longer to create your ideal outdoor living space? Call me today at 336-848-7164 to get started! Be sure to follow my Instagram page for photos and inspiration on all things outdoor living! Don’t forget to check out my next blog to see the rest of this amazing outdoor living project!

*All photos by Southern Exposure Landscape Management

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Outdoor Living is the Future of Homeownership

Outdoor living spaces continue to grow in popularity and provide the ultimate ‘staycation’ spot. Imagine cozying up with the perfect book in comfortable patio furniture under an exquisite pergola. Or imagine enjoying a glass of wine with friends on a cool Spring evening in front of a crackling fire in a stunning stone outdoor fireplace. All these amazing outdoor living scenes can be yours! The sky is the limit when it comes to what amenities you want. I work closely with every client to ensure they have a landscape design they absolutely love.

Benefits of Outdoor Living Spaces

There are numerous benefits to adding on an outdoor living space. A few of the top advantages include:

·       Ability to enjoy nature at home

·       Increases home’s value

·       Extra space to entertain

·       Great place for family bonding time

·       Improve health by spending more time outdoors

As there are endless possibilities for an outdoor living space, I collaborate closely with every single client to establish what features are most important to them.

What Does an Outdoor Living Space Look Like?

This question does not have just one answer, as it looks different for every client I work with. For instance, some clients adore fire pits while others want an outdoor fireplace.

Pictured here is a recent project I completed that provides some commonly requested outdoor living features. This client utilized the following elements:

·       Stone fireplace

·       New patio

·       Retaining walls

·       Planting

·       Low voltage lighting

The design and lines blend seamlessly and provide the ultimate aesthetical appeal for the homeowners. It is the supreme place to enjoy nature and relax.

How Are Outdoor Living Spaces Customizable?

One of the best things about landscape architecture is the abundance of various materials to utilize. All the elements listed in the above project are completely customizable for every single project. I work closely with each client to work within their budget and only use materials they love how they look.

Below are a few examples of ways elements are customizable through materials.

Outdoor Fireplaces

An outdoor fireplace brings warmth to any space. Therefore, it is a popular choice among NC homeowners for their outdoor living space. Best of all, there are so many materials we can use to construct an outdoor fireplace. A few common choices include:

·       Stone

·       Brick

·       Concrete blocks

·       Stucco

Each has a different look and brings a unique style to any outdoor fireplace. There are also various colors and types of each material listed above. For example, a stone fireplace could be made from slate or flagstone.

Another factor to consider is price point. Each material costs a different amount. This means it is potentially a great way to save money if you utilize a less-expensive material. However, it could also be your splurge item if you want a less common material used. For example, natural stone usually costs more than brick, but some people prefer its more natural quality.

Patios

Like outdoor fireplaces, patios are also completely customizable. There are a variety of materials available for patios. Here are some popular choices:

·       Concrete

·       Brick

·       Flagstone

·       Pavers

·       Tiles

·       Cut stone

Each of these materials provide a distinct look and cost different prices. You are not tied down to just one material either. Another option is mixing the above, or other, materials to create a truly individualized patio.

Planting

If you are going to be outside, then you should absolutely take advantage of that and include planting in your outdoor living space. Whether it is small trees, flowers, shrubs or bushes, this detail is always an important part of every landscape design I complete. I discuss all the options with each client and what types of plants they enjoy seeing. Then, we carefully decide together what will work best for their outdoor living area.

3D Landscape Design – Where the Vision Becomes Reality in Front of Your Eyes

Are you worried the ‘vision’ you have in mind will not turn out the way you envisioned? My 3D landscape design services vividly and realistically display my designs to clients. This means clients will see the designs in a real-life way before they are implemented and permanent. 3D designs mean you do not simply attempt to mentally visualize a plan but see what it will look like on your property.

Why Wait for Your Dream Outdoor Living Space Any Longer?

Do not wait any longer to create and use your dream outdoor living space! Call Hawkins Landscape Architecture at 336-848-7164 or complete this simple contact form to start on your project today. I can not wait to partner with you to bring your vision to fruition.

Looking for inspirational landscape architecture ideas for your home? Be sure to follow me on Instagram where I post all my latest projects and ideas! I can be found on Instagram @3DLandscapearchitect