One of the most important aspects of designing outdoor spaces is creating different experiences – from intimate dining under the stars, to open yards for playing tag and catching fireflies, to lounge areas where the whole family can relax and reconnect. Which is why our list of Must Haves when building custom includes a variety of features and outdoor rooms, like outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, water features, free play areas, al fresco dining spots, lounge areas, outdoor kitchens, and if you have the space, an outdoor pool is something the whole family will enjoy during the summer months.
Our Urban Classic home boasts multiple fire pits and a fireplace. Shown above, the fireplace on the ground level has a raised hearth made of limestone and the brick matches the brick of the home’s exterior. Over-scaled bluestone pavers create a durable and beautiful patio for outdoor dining.
A pergola featuring architectural columns provides shade and creates an intimate outdoor “room” for al fresco dining. The surrounding luscious greenery and rustic waterfall provide screening and a sense of privacy – you would never guess there’s a busy urban street just feet away!
On the roof deck of our Urban Classic home, located in Lincoln Park, is a comfortable seating area with a center fire pit. The area is surrounded by insulated planter boxes housing boxwoods and made of ipe to withstand Chicago’s brutal winters.
Also on the roof deck is an outdoor kitchen surrounded by ipe planters bursting with colorful annuals. Another must have for your outdoor kitchen- plenty of counter space for meal prep and buffet service. Below, a coffee brown granite countertop creates a functional and durable surface
- Architecture: BGD&C Custom Homes
- Design/Build & Construction: BGD&C Custom Homes
- Landscape Architecture: Scott Byron & Co
- Photography: Mike Schwartz