This 1929 bungalow only had a wooden deck in the backyard of a small lot. Some creative use of space and unique finishes added over 400 square feet of modern living space to the home. The project includes a patio cover that ties into the existing roof, a composite deck, a fireplace and an outdoor kitchen.
Before
Curious about the space we had to work with? A blank slate…
Cedar Ceiling
This stunning ceiling is a clear, smooth cedar with a natural finish. That finish was chosen to highlight the natural color variation in the cedar. The ceiling was framed to allow for the change in directions of the ceiling finish. The center was vaulted for the placement of an impressive chandelier and some indirect lighting. The vaulted area is finished with decorative tin.
Outdoor Kitchen
The small kitchen features a FireMagic Diamond Echelon Grill with a “magic view window”, as well as a refrigerator and storage. The fascia of the kitchen is a charcoal colored slate. The counters are Super Quartzite. A basket-weave backsplash and low-voltage lighting add a nice decorative detail.
Composite Decking and Decorative Railing
For durability and low-maintenance, composite decking was chosen as the flooring. This was also a practical consideration as the house is on a pier and beam foundation. The railing is custom-designed and powder-coated to match the steel posts of the patio cover. Step lights illuminate each level change on the deck.
Lighting and Comfort
The fireplace and two electric heaters can take the chill off during the winter, while ceiling fans help move air year-round. A mosquito-misting system lines the perimeter of the yard and patio cover. The entire space is well-lit allowing for many options. Several fixtures are dimmable.
Fireplace
The gas fireplace continues the theme of creating a contemporary outdoor living space with a long horizontal opening that is see-through. The fascia is two shades of gray slate with some of the basket-weave that was used in the backsplash of the kitchen. The top of the fireplace is the same Super Quartzite that was used for the kitchen counters. The bottom of the fireplace is filled with glass beads and artificial river rock. The ceiling was furred down to the top of the fireplace so a television could be placed that is protected from the elements.