The most impressive kitchens have it all: A sink, fridge, granite countertops, tile backsplash…and, of course, the gas or charcoal grill. No outdoor kitchen would be complete without that! And did I mention a fireplace, television and stereo system? Perhaps “outdoor great room” would be a more accurate way to describe such an outdoor living space. The fact is, families across the country are movin’ out – just beyond the backdoor – to experience outdoor living with all the comforts of the great indoors.
Large or small, an outdoor room is meant to be functional – and enjoyed. (Remember, you’re not just creating a “room,” you’re creating an experience.)
Photo Credit: Megan Bame
A kitchen, dining room and family room – complete with TV above the fireplace – combine to make this one great outdoor living space.
Photo Credit: Megan Bame
This lovely stone wall not only defines the outdoor room, the plantings offer a beautiful soft wall treatment.
Photo Credit: Megan Bame
Who says your outdoor room has to be a kitchen? Outdoor dining rooms are just as pleasing. A few tropical plants and a “ceiling” for shade can turn a regular patio into an intimate back yard getaway.
Photo Credit: Sarah Landicho
The essence of outdoor living is to create an extension of your home. Folks who enjoy relaxing outside have come to recognize that an investment in some basic amenities can enhance an outdoor space, making it not only more useable but more used. With gas and travel prices on the rise, families are staying closer to home. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t experience that great getaway feel – you just have to choose the right elements.
First consider how your new outdoor room will be used. Do you want a retreat from the daily grind or a family entertainment area? How about space for food preparation? Is a wet bar or wine chiller a must-have for your entertaining lifestyle? Maybe what’s called for is a combination of all these ideas to create a special area that your whole family can enjoy.
The next consideration is the materials that’ll define your space. Inside your home, you have to think about what you want on your walls, floors and what kind of furniture you like. You’ve got similar decisions to make outside, but the choices are more in tune with nature and weather durability. Floors, for example, might be grass, pavers, stone, stained concrete or even wood (think decking). Walls, or space boundaries, can be “built” with formal or informal hedge plantings, fences, lattices with climbing plants or low planters. A ceiling of some sort offers a degree of protection from the elements. Arbors and pergolas can be used to support a green roof, or you might choose to infuse a punch of color with a canvas canopy or awning.
Want to capture a tropical feel in your outdoor space so you can vacation in your back yard? Consider adding some containerized exotic plants like hibiscus or various palms. Or think about bringing some of your more tropical houseplants outside to enjoy some fresh air for the summer (just make sure you don’t shock them with too much sun or they’ll burn). While these types of plants aren’t likely to survive outside year-round, many can be overwintered inside with the right care. Or simply replace them next year with a few new plants to spice up your outdoor living room.
Finally, consider the features that’ll make the space a room you’ll actually use. Is a television a must, or is that one of those media outlets you’re trying to escape from? If you want to use the space year-round, think about incorporating patio heaters or a fire pit. Include enough kitchen elements so you won’t be running back inside every few minutes. And don’t forget to include some storage space so you can keep the more important amenities with your outdoor living space – after all, you’ve now got the room for it!
