The idea of custom designing our perfect entertaining space sounded like fun. It's daunting! Luckily we weren't completely starting from scratch, and we're at the point in the renovation now that I can visualize the end result.
Old farmhouses from the 1930's don't have big open floor plans like modern homes. The rooms are smaller, and there are more hallways. When our contractor suggested moving our kitchen into the master bedroom, I absolutely could not see his vision. Thankfully he knows what he's doing, and now the kitchen, while kind of isolated at the back of the home, is going to be the heart of the home.
Our kitchen design is centered around a set of french doors leading out onto the future deck. We're putting in a large island with a sink that faces out those doors. With the design of the kitchen coming together and the warm weather, I've started dreaming about our outdoor space. I can see it in my imagination, hosting parties in our big farmhouse kitchen, people gathered around the island, french doors open to the dining area on the deck, and a patio just off the deck with the grill, more seating, and a fresh herb garden. Can you visualize it too?
It doesn't look like much yet. We haven't even replaced the old sliding door with the french doors yet.
The original deck on the house was quite small. We're adding a bit more to it, so it'll go to the driveway, but that's only just over 12 feet off of the house. We'll put a table and chairs on the deck itself. The grill will go on a patio off the side of the house. Since we grill on charcoal, this is not just a good use of space, it's actually a safer design. Unfortunately, it looks like we won't be able to move our big old grill, so soon we'll need a new grill. We've been to Lowe's several times now to browse. The new Char-Broil Kettleman Grill looks like a good option for us, since we seem to be constantly running out of charcoal, and it uses less than a standard charcoal grill (learn more about the Kettleman grill). Plus, it looks easy to use, has grates designed to keep food from falling through (perfect for grilling veggies), and it fits within our super tight budget.
So, what do you think? Are there better designs for our outdoor entertaining space?
I plan to be entertained! Looking forward to your wonderful outside space!
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