Outdoor Lifestyle Archives - Page 3 of 20

17 Apr

The Crescent Oaks - Custom Outdoor Pergola with Outdoor Kitchen and Living Space in The Woodlands, Texas

5 Secrets of Outdoor Design to Help You Create an Unbelievable Backyard

Is your backyard boring and just plain blah? Does your family spend more time inside on the couch rather than spending it outside in nature? Are you embarrassed to host outside get-togethers because your yard is unkempt and uninteresting? Don’t worry, your backyard isn’t a lost cause. In fact, it’s simple to transform your backyard from being dull to unbelievable with the right outdoor design!

Focusing on one area of your yard at a time allows you to stay focused, on task, and see the bigger picture. Find inspiration for your #backyardrenovation here. #Creekstone Click To Tweet

An Unbelievable Backyard with Outdoor Design

Anyone can have an incredible backyard. To instantly transform your outdoor space, follow these five secret tips of outdoor design and you’ll be planning a party to show off your new yard in no time!

Work from a Plan
Plant for Seasons
Lines & Edges
Separate Spaces
Secret Gardens

1) Work From a Plan

Working from a plan is the first step in creating an unbelievable backyard. Draw your plans out and then work in phases so you don’t get too overwhelmed. Be sure to include any hardscape items you will be adding to your space, like an outdoor kitchen, covered patio, or pergola.

2) Plant for Seasons

If you want an amazing backyard through all seasons, plant to make it happen! With a little research, you can find the best plants for the best seasons and have a variety in your yard so you have greenery and flowers blooming all year round.

3) Lines & Edges

Pay attention to the lines and edges in your yard. Make a natural edge with different grasses or plants, or use stones or other materials to make your garden more enticing. Additionally, pay attention to the lines and add character with sweeping curves throughout your landscape.

4) Separate Spaces

To begin, separate your outdoor space into several smaller spaces. This allows you to make each individual space distinct and fills your yard with interesting details. By separating areas in your backyard, you can delegate specific spaces for everything! Have a lounge area for relaxing, a dining spot for eating al fresco, or a play space for the little ones.

Pro Tip: Don’t let bad weather chase you indoors! Talk to your contractor about adding a pergola or patio cover to your hangout space so the party can go on, rain or shine.

5) Secret Gardens

Everyone loves secret hideaways and your backyard is the perfect place to sneak one in. Find a nice corner or an area between two trees and add a little seating area, water fountain, or even a fire pit. This partially hidden area will not only give you a private spot to relax and enjoy, but the half-hidden space creates the illusion of more space.

Create an Outdoor Oasis

Your backyard is a large part of your home and it should be used just as much as the inside–especially now that we are coming up on the fall season with cooler temperatures! By following the above tips on outdoor design, you will have an unbelievable backyard in no time! If you don’t have the time or just want some help in the process, consider contacting a landscape professional to assist in designing your outdoor living area.

Connect with us to learn more secrets of outdoor design to help you create an unbelievable backyard.

27 Mar

Budgeting for Outdoor Kitchen Cost in Houston: What to Expect

Depending on the features you choose and the extent of your plans, a custom-built outdoor kitchen can be a sizeable investment. Even with a budget and financial plan in place, it helps to know just what you can expect to pay going into your backyard renovation.

Do you know what appliances and features you’ll want in an outdoor kitchen? If not, now’s the time to start planning. Without a concrete idea of what you want, you can’t estimate a cost and budget for your project. Here’s how to get started planning and budgeting for your outdoor kitchen.

What can you expect to pay for a new outdoor kitchen project? That depends on how big it is, what materials you use, and much more. Learn how to estimate your outdoor kitchen’s cost here. #Creekstone #backyardlife Click To Tweet

Outdoor Kitchen Appliances

Since you already have a fully furnished indoor kitchen, you won’t need to replicate every single appliance in an outdoor space. For instance, don’t worry about installing a dishwasher outside. But for essential appliances, like the refrigerator or sink, you likely won’t want to keep running between your indoor and outdoor kitchens constantly to grab what you need and get back to work. The exact amount these duplicate appliances will add to your budget depends on which type you get, but a rough estimate could look something like this:

Refrigerator: $400-$900
Sink: at least $100 (nicer models could be higher)
Side burner: $200-$500

But without a doubt, the most expensive item in your outdoor cooking area will be the grill. While you don’t want to blow your entire budget on a grill, it certainly pays to get a nice model that will give you a smooth cooking experience. The price of the grill you choose will vary depending on a long list of factors: its type, its size, its brand name, and more. Browse some of our more popular grill models below:

Countertops and Flooring Materials

Some outdoor kitchen designs use the same materials for both the floor and the countertops, creating a uniform look and simplifying the construction process. For a more contrasting look, choose different materials. Just make sure to keep track of the different prices between your chosen materials.

The exact price you can expect to pay will vary from contractor to contractor. However, these estimates of pricing for popular outdoor kitchen materials will help you get an idea of your budget:

Brick facade: $15-$25/sq ft
Bricks: $25-$35/sq ft
Stucco: $5/sq ft
Natural stone: $25-$45/sq ft
Engineered stone: $20/sq ft
Granite: $60-$70/sq ft
Concrete: $60-$70/sq ft

Pro Tip: Stainless steel countertops are easy to maintain and look sleek and modern, but can trap a lot of heat in the Houston sun. Be careful when working on metal countertops in an outdoor kitchen.

Utilities

Finally, don’t forget about electricity and running water! It’s nearly impossible to estimate these costs beforehand. However, keeping track of which appliances you’ll install and how often you’ll use them can help you narrow it down. For budget-friendly and energy-efficient kitchen equipment, check out Energy Star’s ratings for different appliances.

Planning Your New Backyard Kitchen

Even if money isn’t a concern, it’s always better to know exactly what you’ll be paying for your new outdoor kitchen. Take the time to research what you want and talk to our team of designers for precise estimates. Understanding your budget is the first step toward a successful backyard renovation.

Join the conversation to see what a completed outdoor kitchen will look like!

28 Feb

Outdoor Living in Houston: Everything You Need to Know

With the spring season around the corner and warmer temperatures on the forecast, your outdoor living space is about to be the prime hangout spot. Whether you already have the perfect backyard space or are interested in upgrading your current one, there’s no better time than now to extend your home’s style outdoors. Get ready to transform your outdoor living space in Houston for your family to enjoy.

If groundhog Punxsutawney Phil said so, it must be true! Spring is coming soon-it’s time to upgrade your outdoor living space! Find out how in 6 easy steps! Click To Tweet

Create a Customized Outdoor Space (6 Easy Steps)

Have you dreamed of sprucing up your backyard flower beds or installing a functional outdoor kitchen? Transforming a backyard into a unique outdoor space doesn’t have to be a dream to save for the future. With our professional assistance, your journey to creating the perfect outdoor space can begin easily. Follow these 6 steps to start the process of customizing your backyard.

Make a List of Ideas
Plan Your Upgrade
Decorate with Style
Choose the Best Appliances
Install a Pergola or Patio Cover
Start Entertaining

1) Make a List of Ideas

To start customizing your backyard, the first step is to brainstorm design ideas. What features are available? Which upgrades are the most important to your family? From installing an outdoor kitchen to building a pool, the options are endless. Narrow down your choices and find backyard designs to match your vision before building.

2) Plan Your Upgrade

When creating an outdoor living space, neglecting to plan can have disastrous consequences. Before you start constructing, consult the experts and make a plan that will meet the expectations of your space. From HOA limitations to scheduling a consultation, planning your backyard upgrade will ensure your success long term.

3) Decorate with Style

Your home’s style is what makes your home unique compared to your neighbors. Whether it’s through architectural elements, paint colors, or entertainment features, your outdoor space is no different. Design your backyard space and outdoor kitchen decor with elements that are customized just for you.

Pro Tip: Use matching cushions and pillows in your outdoor living area to add style, function, and comfortability for your guests to enjoy.

4) Choose the Best Appliances

If your outdoor space is going to include an outdoor kitchen, there’s no better way to improve the functionality of your space than with built-in appliances. From a refrigerator to side burners, the appliances you choose will ultimately determine how much time you’re able to spend outside. That being said, install appliances essential to your cooking habits so that you can use your space to its full potential.

5) Install a Pergola or Patio Cover

If you want to use your backyard year-round, especially in the hot Houston, don’t forget to install a pergola or patio cover for shade. Choose from a range of wood stains and natural stone elements to design the perfect outdoor roof to coordinate with your home’s style.

6) Start Entertaining

It may come as a surprise, but the last step might be the most important for exceptional outdoor living in Houston. Once you’ve created the perfect backyard space, it’s time to start entertaining. Plan a party or host a movie night to show off your new space to the loved ones in your life.

Designing and Building Backyards in Spring, TX.

Whether you’re spending time as a family or hosting a barbecue cookout, your backyard space should be designed with you in mind. From swimming pools to fire pits, our Houston area design team is committed to including the best features to make your space stand out. If you’re interested in creating an outdoor living space to host your gatherings, our free consultation is a great way to get the process started.

Connect with our backyard design experts to learn more about the features and additions that can be added to your outdoor space.

03 Jan

3 Backyard Ideas for Entertaining in 2020

The new year is a great time to reevaluate your progress and set goals for the future. As you start setting resolutions for 2020, don’t forget to make plans for your outdoor space! This is a great time to start brainstorming backyard ideas for entertaining your friends and family this year.

Can you believe it’s 2020?! Start the year off right with these 3 backyard entertaining ideas! Click To Tweet

Creating Your Entertainment Space

Is your home the go-to hangout spot for your community? With a couple of improvements, your backyard could become the talk of the neighborhood. Instead of looking out your back window with regret, start designing the entertainment space of the year with these impressive ideas.

1. Host a Movie Night

Ever heard of a drive-in movie theater? Instead of having to drive somewhere, provide that same experience in the great outdoors! With an outdoor living room and projector, your backyard can become the perfect space for a movie night. Add stove-cooked popcorn and homemade pizza, and you’ll have the best cinema in town.

Pro Tip: Keep drinks cold for any occasion with a wine cooler or outdoor fridge. Your outdoor parties will be a hit with refreshments within arm’s reach.

2. Make Your Backyard Kid-Friendly

If your goal is to create a great backyard this year, don’t forget about the kids in your life! From a custom pool to playground equipment, designing a kid-friendly backyard will add value and functionality to your outdoor space.

3. Install an Outdoor Kitchen

Do you really want to be the entertainer of the year? Then, install an outdoor kitchen. Easy to access appliances and customized dining tables will upgrade your space exponentially. Instead of being cooped up inside, you can enjoy the beautiful weather and entertain your guests with the personalization of an outdoor kitchen.

This is Your Year

No matter what may have transpired in 2019, the start of a new year welcomes a fresh start and room to achieve your goals. Don’t waste time thinking about what you wish you could accomplish. Make 2020 the year to design the perfect backyard for you and your family.

What are your new year’s resolutions? Share with us on social media!

06 Dec

5 Essential Outdoor Kitchen Appliances

Make your backyard the talk of the neighborhood with exceptional outdoor kitchen appliances. Instead of being stuck inside, you and your guests can bring the party outside with all of your necessary equipment within arm’s reach.

Are you ready for your next backyard party?! Make sure your outdoor kitchen has these 5 appliances! Click To Tweet

5 Essential Outdoor Kitchen Appliances, Creekstone Outdoor Living, Spring, TX

How functional is your Houston outdoor kitchen?

How are you going to use your outdoor kitchen? The goal is for you to have a fully-functioning kitchen so that you keep all of your food preparation in one place. Make sure these 5 outdoor kitchen appliances are on your list:

Refrigerator
Sideburner
Ice Maker
Wine Cooler
Vent Hood

1) Refrigerator

Besides countertops or a sink, a refrigerator is a top feature to have in your outdoor kitchen. Keep your drinks and fresh veggies cold with a fully-functioning fridge installed within your cabinets. Depending on the size of your space, you have the option of choosing a refrigerator/freezer combination or a two-drawer fridge to suit your needs.

Pro Tip: If you’re a lover of wine and regularly entertain guests, consider installing a wine cooler for extra convenience in your backyard.

2) Side burners

When you’re outside entertaining your guests, cooking is a great way to bring everyone together. Be sure to add side burners to your outdoor kitchen for increased functionality and flexibility. Whether you need a double burner or a single side burner, there are multiple models to choose from to customize your kitchen however you’d like.

3) Ice Maker

There’s nothing like having a drink that’s lukewarm. Have ice readily available with an ice maker installed in your outdoor kitchen. Instead of having to run to the store, you can have up to 55lbs of clear ice available year-round.

4) Outdoor Grill

Instead of having a separate charcoal or gas grill on your back patio, install an outdoor grill directly within your cabinetry. From built-in griddles to grills with rotisserie, there are a number of options to make your grilling experiencing fit your appetite.

5) Pizza Oven

Take your outdoor cooking to a new level with a pizza oven that can be fully accessed outside. From pool parties to weekend gatherings, your guests will love the authentic pizza taste that comes from cooking in a pizza oven.

The Difference that Counts

When you’re designing your outdoor kitchen, don’t forget to choose appliances that will work for your family. There’s nothing worse than having an appliance that takes up space and isn’t being used. Instead, choose appliances that will give your outdoor kitchen the functionality it deserves.

Did your favorite appliance miss the list? Connect with one of our outdoor kitchen designers for more information.

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Category Archives: Outdoor Lifestyle