Summer kicks off the entertaining season and there are many ways to extend your living and entertaining space from indoors outward—to create the ultimate backyard lifestyle. The team at Camp & Camp emphasize these three elements for outdoor living—adding ambience and functionality to your outdoor environment.
The Ultimate Outdoor Kitchens
Pictured: Landscape Architect Terry Camp worked collaboratively with this Orinda couple and their landscape team to turn their backyard wishes into a reality. This kitchen was designed by Camp and Camp with serious entertaining in mind. The expansive backyard features a fully independent outdoor kitchen with an all-Kalamazoo product lineup, requested for its design flexibility, performance and superior features. To go behind the design of this scenic outdoor space, read more in: Kalamazoo Gourmet.
An outdoor kitchen represents the height of entertaining luxury. Whether you are dreaming of a rustic outdoor pizza oven or a sleek line of stainless steel appliances, adding an outdoor kitchen can extend your living and entertaining space substantially.
For the planning stage for your new kitchen, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Whether it’s a portable set up, an island kitchen, or full outdoor cooking space with top of the line appliances, consider how you’ll use the space, where it’s located, and how it will hold up to the elements. This will help determine your design to a functional and long-lasting kitchen.
Stay Cool with Shaded Structures
In the hot summer months, a shaded area will make outdoor cooking and entertaining much more pleasant. To provide shade and shelter, plant some nearby trees or incorporate an awning or pergola in the design. For seating areas, consider a patio umbrella. By adding some creature comforts, you can ensure that your outdoor space is welcoming and comfortable no matter what season it is.
Layouts Designed for Comfort & Conversation
Whether designing for a small balcony, on a deck with a view, or for an expansive patio, the ideal layout of your outdoor space is one that fosters living, comfort and conversation. There are endless configurations to create an outdoor living room, but the key is to pull in plenty of varied seating options and thoughtful zones. Some rules of thumb: use materials and colors that complement the home’s architecture and design; furniture should be to scale and preserve sight lines; and always keep the area in front of the doors clear.