The average American works approximately 47 hours a week, though reports indicate that many work at least 50 hours each week, according to a recent article published by The Washington Post. With added workloads and extended travel time, stress levels are at an all-time high. As a result the need for weekend retreats has increased significantly.
Nestled in East Northport, New York, this backyard haven is a perfect example of a weekend escape. Designed by Liz Thalheimer of Thalheimer Architecture, this exterior space is made for rest and relaxation.
“These homeowners have very hectic work schedules,” Liz explained. “Their goal was to create an outdoor kitchen and living area where they can enjoy, kick-back and entertain friends and family on the weekends.”
The outdoor kitchen area by Cori Schramm of Atlantic Outdoor Living features Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens 100-percent stainless steel cabinetry in the Key West door style with a Pompeiian Gold powder coat finish. The infill is textured titanium. Ken Reilly, owner of KR Sales and a regional representative of Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens, recommended the cabinetry for this particular project.
“Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens’ stainless steel cabinetry was the best choice for this installation,” said Ken. “With the combination of cold, snowy winters and hot summers, one of the most important factors to consider was durability.” In addition, the wide variety of door styles and color options also played a role in the decision-making process.
One on the biggest challenges of this project was the location itself. The original backyard was destroyed in 2012 when Superstorm Sandy made landfall. After the clean-up process took place, the homeowners turned to Thalheimer Architecture for the reconstruction process. It was at that point they decided to build an outdoor kitchen on the existing patio area.
Due to the limited space, Thalheimer, Schramm and their design teams had to strategically map out where to place the amenities on the homeowners’ wish list, including a smoker, EVO grill, icemaker, power burner, as well as a two-drawer refrigerator. “We had to ensure the outdoor kitchen’s layout could accommodate all the appliances while also leaving enough room for entertaining,” said Cori.
The outdoor kitchen also features a countertop-height, fireside chat table, which creates a space for intimate gatherings. Covering the entire outdoor kitchen is a louvered roof system by American Louvered Roof Systems. Together, the fire table and the shade structure allow the homeowners to maximize their time outdoors, from spring through fall.
Visit www.thalheimerarchitecture.com to learn more about Thalheimer Architecture. For more information about Atlantic Outdoor Living, visit www.atlanticoutdoorliving.com.
Photo Credit is: Steven Paul Whitsitt Photography