S. Residence

The client’s vision for their outdoor space was a vibrant entertainment area designed for enjoyment and relaxation, complete with a kitchen, outdoor TV, and a covered zone that would allow for year-round use. In the initial design revisions, I presented two distinct options for the covering: a solid roof, which provided full protection against the elements, and a motorized pergola, which allowed for flexibility in light and shade. After careful consideration, the client chose to proceed with the solid roof option, which I enhanced with thoughtful features such as integrated lighting and outdoor heaters to ensure the space could be comfortably utilized even in cooler weather. Initially, the proposed kitchen layout was positioned outside of the covered area, but the client expressed a desire for it to be included within the screened porch, which presented a unique design challenge due to the presence of existing supporting columns that could not be removed. I creatively incorporated these columns into the kitchen design by wrapping them in vinyl for a polished finish, allowing them to seamlessly blend into the overall aesthetic. The kitchen itself boasts a variety of essential amenities, including a built-in BBQ, a black burner, trash storage, and refrigerator doors, all designed to provide functionality and convenience for entertaining guests. Additionally, I conceptualized an innovative outdoor bar that extends downward—rather than the conventional upward configuration—mimicking the flow of a waterfall, to complement the height constraints of the existing porch comfortably. To further enhance the entertainment value, we explored options for the right side of the area, where the client had underutilized shelves; their interest in extending the brick wall led us to the idea of adding an outdoor TV, which I proposed to be mounted at a comfortable viewing height. With a substantial budget of $140,000, one of the highest for residential projects I've managed, the materials chosen for the patio were reflective of the Maryland aesthetic, utilizing local blue stone for a classic look, complemented by a striking double border featuring Turkish stone to add an exciting visual element that would enhance the overall design. The collaborative effort to bring the client’s outdoor entertainment space to life exemplifies a commitment to blending functionality with style, ensuring a joyful environment for both family gatherings and serene solitude.