The true meaning of “backyard retreat.”

Extend the square footage of your house with outdoor living spaces!

We in the upper Midwest know that the time we have outdoors is not to be taken for granted, and there is no better way to spend that time than with friends and family in an outdoor dining room and around the fire. This is truly a gift for everyone in your life.

Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens can range from simple to elaborate, depending on your needs and budget.

Grill-Focused

This is the most basic type, centered around a high-quality grill. It might include a small countertop for food prep and some storage for grilling tools.

Ideal for: Those who primarily want to grill outdoors and don't need a full kitchen setup.

Island Kitchens

These feature a central island with a grill, countertop space, and often a sink or other appliances. The island can serve as a gathering spot for guests.

Ideal for: Those who want a functional and social outdoor cooking space.

Linear Kitchens

These are built along a wall or fence, maximizing space efficiency. They can include a grill, countertop, sink, and storage.

Ideal for: Smaller spaces or those who prefer a more streamlined layout.

Full-Featured Kitchens

These are the most elaborate type, often including a grill, oven, stovetop, refrigerator, sink, dishwasher, and ample counter space. They may even have a built-in bar or pizza oven.

Ideal for: Serious outdoor cooks and entertainers who want all the amenities of an indoor kitchen.

Covered Kitchens

These kitchens are protected from the elements by a roof or pergola. This allows for year-round use and protects the appliances from weather damage.

Ideal for: Those who live in areas with harsh weather or want to use their outdoor kitchen regardless of the season.

Fireplaces and Firepits

Fireplaces

Outdoor fireplaces can transform your backyard into a cozy and inviting space for gatherings and relaxation.
There are many different custom fireplace styles to choose from, and they vary in complexity and space requirements. Here are some aspects you may want to consider for your outdoor fireplace:

  • Firebox

    This is the heart of the fireplace, the chamber where the fire is contained. It's typically lined with fire-resistant materials like firebrick to withstand the high temperatures.

  • Hearth
    The hearth is the floor area in front of the firebox. It's made of non-combustible material (like stone, brick, or tile) and extends outward to protect the flooring from sparks and embers.

  • Surround
    The surround is the decorative facing around the firebox opening. It can be made of various materials, like stone, brick, tile, or metal, and often incorporates a mantel.

  • Mantel
    The mantel is a shelf or decorative piece above the firebox opening. It can be purely aesthetic or serve as a support for the surround.

  • Chimney
    The chimney is the vertical structure that carries smoke and gases away from the fireplace. It consists of a flue (the inner lining) and a chimney cap (to protect the top from weather and debris).

  • Lintel
    The lintel is a structural beam that spans the top of the firebox opening. It supports the weight of the chimney and the materials above the firebox.

Fire Pits

  • Wood-Burning Fire Pits
    These provide the traditional ambiance of a crackling wood fire, with its flickering flames, smoky aroma, and radiant heat. Typically built with a fire-resistant material like fire brick or stone, often with a surrounding patio or seating area.

  • Gas Fire Pits
    Convenient and Clean: Offer the ease of starting a fire with a switch or button, and provide a clean-burning flame with no smoke or embers.  Uses natural gas or propane, providing a consistent flame and eliminating the need for wood storage.  

  • Fire Bowls
    These feature a bowl-shaped fire pit, often made of metal or concrete, set into a patio or deck. Can be wood-burning, gas, or propane. Offers a contemporary and sleek aesthetic.

  • Keyhole Fire Pits
    Adds a distinctive focal point to the outdoor space. These have a keyhole-shaped opening, allowing for easy access to add wood or adjust the flames. Typically wood-burning.

  • Fire Tables
    They combine the functionality of a table with the cozy appeal of a fire pit, creating a central gathering point for friends and family.