REMODELER’S ADVICE
Remodeling Homeowners Create
Outdoor Retreats
C
entral Texas’ mild climate allows homeowners the opportunity to enjoy outdoor living year-round. And our backyards are no longer just about decks and swimming pools. They often resemble a family’s favorite vacation spot blended with their home’s style, and include outdoor kitchens and living areas. Creating a space designed specifically for outdoor living that allows homeowners the opportunity to spend time outside enjoying cooking and socializing with friends and family ranks high on many remodel wish lists. Members of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) report across the nation an increase in homeowners requesting multi-level decks, spas, fireplaces and outdoor kitchens in their backyards. David Davison, From wood fire pizza ovens to cabinets and President, Austin NARI countertops, outdoor kitchens are no longer unattainable. Increasingly, products that remodelers would normally use for indoor kitchen remodels are now being designed for outdoor use, including range hoods and fans to keep cooking heat and smoke away from a homeowner’s guests. Customizable grill islands, much like indoor kitchen islands, are also becoming increasingly popular, along Justin Bravo, President, with dishwashers and refrigerators that are NARI San Antonio designed to be used outdoors. Gas patio heaters even make it possible to entertain when the weather is chilly. No outside activity is enjoyable if it is a constant battle against mosquitoes and other flying pests, which explains the recent popularity of timed-release outdoor residential misting systems. Fine mist spray nozzles are mounted around the perimeter of a home in the lawn or landscaping, or on parts of the house or fence, and may be turned on at preset intervals or by using a remote control. A spray of fine mist pesticide creates a barrier to keep flying insects out of the area. Eliminating the worry of biting pests, and the health risks that they pose, makes enjoying an outdoor living area even more relaxing. As with any major renovation project, the outcome is best if the planning and execution are well thought out, with material selections and considerations made as part of the initial plan and not as an afterthought. This type of planning and design are an integral part of working with a qualified remodeling professional. v
If an outdoor kitchen and entertaining area is in your plans, contact NARI to find a contractor with the expertise to create the space of your dreams. Austin NARI: Austinnari.org, NARI San Antonio: Remodelsanantonio.org.
BUILDING DREAMS ONE ROOM AT A TIME
512.577.9297 www.straightlevel.biz
AWARD-WINNING INTERIOR DESIGN custom homes • lofts spec homes • commercial Stephanie J. Villavicencio, ASID Texas Registered Interior Designer
512.443.3200 www.bellavillads.com