Outdoor kitchen and their components vary depending on the client and entertaining style but there are a few items that every outdoor kitchen needs to be successful. Below are a few of our tips to create a space that will get plenty of use, no matter the weather.
1.) Cooking Equipment- Grills, Refrigerator, ice maker, kegerator,, pizza oven, griddle and sinks are some of the most common components we select for outdoor kitchen. We recommend the basics; grill, refrigerator and sink in order to get the most use and value out of your outdoor space. The speciality items; kegerators, ice machines, pizza ovens, etc. are all great add-ons depending on the client and their entertaining styles.
2.) A covered area to keep food and guests out of the elements. Coverage can be achieved through a pergola, umbrella, screening or drapery/fabric. All of these allow you to use your space more often and add to the value.
3.) Lighting- this is the most overlooked element that add the most impact to any outdoor space. Lighting adds an ambiance and allows you to use the space later into the night and longer into the season. Again, this extends the value of your space and allows you to get more use out of, thus lessening the overall cost.
4.) Heating- Heating your space is crucial, especially in the city of Chicago. You can heat your space through fire pit, fireplace, or above mounted heaters. I personally recommend the first two elements because they add another element and focal point to the space, while adding heat and ambiance. A fire pit can be used to cook food (s'mores, anyone?)and as a social anchor for a late night drink with friends. A fireplace can also act as a focal point and anchor for late nights with family and friends.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Neocon 2011
Janus et Cie Triad bench (69" x 69" x 15"h)
Gloster Havana Large Dining Chair with Arms
Via Elle Decor; Courtney Cox's beautiful outdoor space.
A smaller scale of this would work well on a Chicago rooftop.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Inspiration Photos
Last week we touched on inspiration photos and how they are a great place to start when thinking about your outdoor space. This week we have a few more to share with you!
All photos are for inspiration and are not samples of our work.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Inspiration Images
Inspiration images are a great place to start in figuring out what style of outdoor living space you would enjoy the most. Here are a few images to get you started!
* These images are examples of projects we are capable of, but do not claim to have done.
Recently Completed Project
We wanted to share a project we recently completed here in Chicago. This roof deck offers it's owners a little of everything. There is a canvas covered pergola to relax and socialize when the heat rises, a custom fire pit and built-in kitchen for evening entertaining and parties and a beautiful area of synlawn for the kids to play on or star gaze.
Features:
Pergola with Canvas Awning
Synlawn
Louvered Screening
Two-tier Built in Bar & Kitchen featuring Kitchen Aid Grill
Stone Clad Fire Pit with Granite Top
Planters
Deck lighting
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Decking Materials
One of the most common questions we get asked is, " What are the different materials available for my deck and which one should I use?"
Although the answer depends on the client, their space and their needs; we thought we would share the basic information about the materials we prefer.
In order of cost/ sq. ft, the landscape architects at Chicago Roof Deck prefer:
$. Pine : Pine is the cheapest option and typically the best choice for a smaller budget or if you plan on staying in the space for a short period of time. Pine is not fire retardant and will require yearly power washing and sealing. Due to the moisture found in pine when purchased some buckling and knots may occur.
$$. Synthetic: This is the second most expensive option and is only slightly less expensive than Ipe. Synthetic materials will fade over time and require less maintenance than pine. Due to it's ability to fade it becomes harder to color match should you need to replace any boards over time. Synthetic is a harder material to install than natural options but has a long life span and features recycled content. If you are looking at the synthetic materials we strongly suggest taking a look at the option of Ipe, it will be approximately the same cost but will give you a natural product with unbeatable strength and richer look.
$$$. Ipe : A Brazilian hardwood that is the strongest option of the three. It is naturally fire resistant and knot resistant. It is the most expensive option as well but it the preferred choice if you are looking for a low maintenance option. Because of how hard Ipe is, there is no need to stain it. If left untouched, it will weather to a nice gray patina. If you would like to keep the rich brown color we recommend oiling it once a year. Ipe runs approximately the same cost as synthetic materials but is a superior option due to its low maintenance level and inherent properties as a natural material.
At Chicago Roof Deck & Garden, we use Ipe & Pine the most often. For the best option for your space, give us a call and set up an appointment. We can talk with you about your space & needs and discuss your best option.
Although the answer depends on the client, their space and their needs; we thought we would share the basic information about the materials we prefer.
In order of cost/ sq. ft, the landscape architects at Chicago Roof Deck prefer:
$. Pine : Pine is the cheapest option and typically the best choice for a smaller budget or if you plan on staying in the space for a short period of time. Pine is not fire retardant and will require yearly power washing and sealing. Due to the moisture found in pine when purchased some buckling and knots may occur.
$$. Synthetic: This is the second most expensive option and is only slightly less expensive than Ipe. Synthetic materials will fade over time and require less maintenance than pine. Due to it's ability to fade it becomes harder to color match should you need to replace any boards over time. Synthetic is a harder material to install than natural options but has a long life span and features recycled content. If you are looking at the synthetic materials we strongly suggest taking a look at the option of Ipe, it will be approximately the same cost but will give you a natural product with unbeatable strength and richer look.
$$$. Ipe : A Brazilian hardwood that is the strongest option of the three. It is naturally fire resistant and knot resistant. It is the most expensive option as well but it the preferred choice if you are looking for a low maintenance option. Because of how hard Ipe is, there is no need to stain it. If left untouched, it will weather to a nice gray patina. If you would like to keep the rich brown color we recommend oiling it once a year. Ipe runs approximately the same cost as synthetic materials but is a superior option due to its low maintenance level and inherent properties as a natural material.
At Chicago Roof Deck & Garden, we use Ipe & Pine the most often. For the best option for your space, give us a call and set up an appointment. We can talk with you about your space & needs and discuss your best option.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)