Recent Work

Here are a few photos of another recently completed project here in Chicago.

Lakeshore Athletic Club

Here are a few photos from a recent project we completed over at Lakeshore Athletic Club. For this project we installed SynLawn Artificial Turf and Ipe Deck Tiles. We also built covered pergola/ veranda structures and custom built planter boxes. These improvements transformed Lakeshore's rooftop space from an undesirable and under used space into a wonderful, and relaxing rooftop space fit for great parties and hanging out with friends after working out.

Elements for the perfect outdoor kitchen

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.

Neocon 2011

NeoCon took over Chicago these past three days and left our heads spinning with great ideas! Here are a few of the great products we spotted;

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.

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.

Weekend Inspiration

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.