It is rare that a single outdoor space has the capability of providing different functions on such a varied scale. By listening closely to the needs of these North Macon GA Homeowners that is exactly what we were able to do. This open porch design that also includes a covered section is a perfect example of a chameleon of outdoor living. Just like the chameleon can change colors to match its surroundings, this outdoor oasis can change within itself to suit the outdoor living needs of the homeowners.
When we initially met with these Monroe County homeowners they had a typical square deck which was not in great shape. The homeowners wanted more space to accommodate their entertaining needs. Since they had guests and neighbors over frequently, they needed to expand their outdoor space to be able to host neighborhood functions easily. Their lifestyle covered everything from block parties to play dates with neighbors and their children. They also had an existing hot tub that was on the patio which they wanted moved to a more convenient location in closer proximity to the homeowner’s bedroom. In essence the space we needed to design had to incorporate intimacy which could also serve as functional space for entertaining with family and friends.
Our design includes an open porch with a covered section and two wings that expand the living space off the sides of the porch. Each wing houses specialized areas to suit the very different functions this space had to master. One wing contains an outdoor kitchen which includes a grill, refrigerator and ample counter space for serving and food preparation. The other wing contains the homeowner’s hot tub. This wing is designed where the bedroom door opens out onto the space. We built a platform to ensure the top of the spa was level with the floor of the deck. We also left one side of the deck wing open with no railing to not interfere with the view of the beautiful backyard from the hot tub, this plays upon the same principles as would an endless pool which is so popular in recreational backyard design right now. Being able to exclude a portion of railing in your outdoor space depends upon the code requirements for your given area.
We took the design of this outdoor oasis a step further with the inclusion of an outdoor ventless gas fireplace within the covered portion. Because the unit is ventless, it also enabled the homeowners to have an enclosed area above the mantel to house their TV. The custom designed area is built from beautiful cypress wood and functions similar to armoire doors, giving the homeowners the capability to open the space when the TV is in use and close it off when it is not.
The decking and railing are completed with pressure treated wood. To add an elegant touch to the railing, we used aluminum baroque balusters which added a defined curve to the railing as well as visual interest. Since the existing home is stucco, we finished the back side of the fireplace in stucco which matches the home perfectly when you look at the house from the backyard. We included plenty of electrical outlets throughout the space, and added low voltage lights next to the hot tub which are flush with the floor. Cypress was also used extensively within the space. We chose cypress not only for its beauty and rustic appeal, but since it is a local material the prices are quite competitive making it less expensive within our market than other traditional materials.
Since the new space included the deck being an elevated space, the homeowners also have the luxury of a dry space area below the deck which they can add outdoor furniture to in order to have additional space for entertaining or whatever their hearts desire. These North Macon homeowners are delighted with their new outdoor living oasis which provides spacious room for a crowd and still offers the flexibility to provide the privacy and ambiance when they want it..
Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our unique, diverse outdoor living structure designs. We can customize your backyard to suit a crowd, or just a few. The possibilities are endless. Call us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net
You can see more examples of chameleons of outdoor living where form meets function by visiting our porch photo galleries and our outdoor living photo galleries located on our website.