This Central West End home’s expansive back yard was made for entertaining. The only thing missing was an intentional area to grill and dine. With the help of the DK team, an outdoor kitchen oasis was created with durable materials and a dynamic design!
Establishing Entertaining Goals
Homeowners, Sam and Judy, love to invite friends over all summer long to enjoy the pool and hang out by the pergola. They knew they wanted to utilize their brick and concrete patio area better and create a focal point for entertaining.
The patio’s existing hardscape included brick pavers closer to the home and a later-added concrete pad. The result was a large space that visually looked a little disjointed.
A Dynamic Design Concept
The homeowners thought the differing materials might be an obstacle, but Dana saw a design opportunity.
The team planned out the perfect shape for an outdoor kitchen on the concrete portion, make each material feel intentional.
Collaborating with DK designer, Renna Barnes, they landed on an ideal layout for the space. It included two-tier bar seating, gas grill, refrigerator, ice chest, and an Alfa outdoor pizza oven. Renderings were created to help the homeowner decide on the two-tone cladding design, and the function of cabinetry.
Including Innovative Materials
Incorporating natural textures, contrast, and custom features was a welcome challenge for the DK team. Outdoor-rated cabinetry was trimmed out with an innovative composite outdoor millwork material called Millboard. A luxury aesthetic and durability that offers peace of mind, was just what this outdoor kitchen needed.
Under-counter and toe-kick lighting showcases custom cabinetry details, provides ambient lighting for food prep, illuminates the perimeter walkways.
“Dana’s design and her team really made it. We are so happy here. It’s such an inviting space—it not only looks great, but it’s also very practical.”
Sam, homeowner
Dana introduced an Italian outdoor pizza oven by Alfa to the homeowners, with features any wood-fired pizza enthusiast would love. The unique shape and bold colors, this was a design-forward oven was a match made-in heaven for this project.
“Just in the first summer that I’ve used it, I’ve made at least 100 pizzas.”
-Sam, homeowner
A Dynamic Shade Solution
While construction of a patio pergola was considered, they really wanted more coverage from the sun in the later afternoon. Dana suggested a beautiful triangular shade sail that could be strategically placed to provide relief from the sun.
The team met on-site during the late afternoon and determined exact placement of the shade sail. They also ensured that there would be adequate clearance for the pizza oven and grill.
Upon install of the sail, string lights were added to the perimeter for the right amount of twinkle.
Beyond the Patio to the Pergola
The homeowners were eager to have all the back yard entertaining spaces feel consistent. With consistency in mind, the DK Team also addressed upgrading the pergola space adjacent to the pool. We added space-conscious cabinetry with beverage cooler, and a grill, providing additional function and style.
Homeowners, Sam and Judy, now have a completed backyard space that has become a relaxing oasis from the hustle and bustle of city living.
“This has really improved the quality of my life. It’s one of the best investments I’ve made.”
Sam, homeowner
Read more about this project in St. Louis Magazine. See more of Dana King Design-Build Remodeling in the news.
To get inspired with additional outdoor projects, see our outdoor living projects and contact us for a complimentary consultation.
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