When the clients approached us with a vision for their backyard, they had one thing in mind: an outdoor space that balanced style, comfort, and functionality. Their property already had a charming, stamped concrete patio and a hot tub, both of which were important elements they wanted to retain. So, we set out to renovate and enhance the existing space, creating an outdoor room that would serve as a gathering spot for friends and family to enjoy year-round. Here’s how we brought their vision to life.

Keeping the Best of the Old with the New

The foundation of the project was their existing patio and hot tub—both features they loved but wanted to refresh. We knew it was crucial to incorporate these elements while modernizing the space. By designing around the existing patio, we were able to integrate new features and upgrades seamlessly, giving the area a renewed sense of purpose and function.

An Outdoor Room: Kitchen and Living Space

The goal was to create a true outdoor room—an extension of the home that combines both a living area and a kitchen. The centerpiece of this space is a stunning pavilion built with custom Douglas Fir timbers. These timbers were selected for their natural beauty, strength, and durability, making them an ideal choice for the pavilion structure. The use of traditional mortise and tenon joinery on the beams is not only a nod to classic craftsmanship but ensures the longevity of the structure. The joinery technique involves cutting precise interlocking joints without nails or screws, creating a strong and visually striking frame.

The warm tones of the Douglas Fir are further emphasized by the custom veneer that wraps the outdoor kitchen. This veneer matches the oversized beams, adding a cohesive look to the entire space while maintaining the organic, natural feel. Douglas Fir is known for its rich reddish-brown color and fine grain, bringing both warmth and elegance to the outdoor environment.

The Kitchen: Function and Style Combined

The outdoor kitchen serves as both a cooking hub and a place to entertain. Made from the same rich Douglas Fir veneer as the pavilion, the kitchen blends beautifully into the space, maintaining a rustic yet refined vibe. The use of premium materials in the kitchen, including granite countertops, provides durability and visual contrast to the wood, ensuring the space remains both functional and stylish.

The BBQ area is positioned to face the seating area, so the chef can easily engage with guests while preparing meals. The large bar-top seating area is made of high-quality stone, offering both comfort and style. It allows guests to sit, chat, and enjoy a meal while the chef remains part of the conversation, creating an interactive and enjoyable atmosphere.

Patio: Practical and Stylish

To complement the natural wood elements, the patio was designed with Unilock Umbriano pavers in the Summer Wheat color. These pavers were specifically chosen for their combination of elegance and practicality. The Umbriano collection is known for its natural, textured appearance and its ability to mimic the look of granite, which ties into the organic theme of the backyard. The pavers are set on a permeable concrete foundation, allowing for effective water drainage and contributing to the sustainability of the landscape. This foundation not only enhances the beauty of the pavers but ensures that rainwater flows freely through the patio, reducing runoff and helping to maintain a healthier environment.

A Fireplace Feature Wall: The Heart of the Gathering Space

One of the standout features of this outdoor room is the fireplace feature wall. The wall is made from natural stone veneer, which provides both durability and an aesthetic contrast to the warmth of the wood elements. The natural stone veneer is selected for its ability to stand the test of time while offering a unique, textured look. The stone is carefully set with mortar and grout joints, providing stability and a refined finish that complements the overall design.

Atop the fireplace feature wall is a mounted TV, positioned so guests can comfortably watch movies or enjoy a game while gathered around the fire. The inclusion of a fireplace and TV on the same wall creates a multi-functional space where comfort and entertainment go hand-in-hand, perfect for hosting gatherings year-round.

Gathering and Connection

This outdoor space has quickly become the go-to spot for family and friends. It’s a place where people gather to create memories—whether it’s enjoying a meal or simply relaxing by the fire. One of the unique features of this space is the pizza-making area, where guests bring their own toppings and share the fun of crafting their perfect pie. The energy of the space makes it easy for everyone to connect, chat, and enjoy each other’s company, all while savoring the flavors of a homemade pizza.

Lighting That Sets the Mood

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the right ambiance, and we were mindful of every detail. Mini lights, strategically placed in the pavilion and surrounding areas, provide soft, ambient lighting without the need for large, distracting fixtures. These low-profile lights create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the overall aesthetic without overwhelming the space.

In addition, custom lighting is incorporated into the privacy panels. This lighting not only adds a layer of warmth to the space but also serves as a way to enhance privacy while still creating a sense of openness. The lights highlight the beauty of the wood and stone materials, contributing to a relaxing and intimate vibe.

Year-Round Comfort

Comfort is key to enjoying the outdoors, and this space is designed to accommodate every season. A ceiling fan was installed in the pavilion to circulate the air, ensuring that the area remains cool during the hot summer months. In winter, the fireplace provides warmth, allowing the space to remain cozy even in the coldest weather. With these thoughtful additions, the outdoor room becomes a year-round sanctuary for guests to enjoy, no matter the season.

Refined Outdoor Living

At its core, this project is about refined outdoor living—an elegant yet functional space where design and nature work together to create an inviting, timeless environment. The combination of custom craftsmanship, premium materials, and thoughtful design makes this backyard a true extension of the home. It offers a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors, creating a perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality.

The transformation of the Philbrook backyard is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and attention to detail. It’s a space where family, friends, and good food come together, creating lasting memories in a setting that feels both luxurious and welcoming. This is outdoor living at its finest.