Live Outside the Box

It’s one of the hottest trends in home building and remodeling – the outdoor room.

Why settle for a plain patio, deck or patch of grass when you can create an entire living, entertaining space with nature as your backdrop?

An outdoor space dramatically increases your living area – without the noise, mess and inconvenience of construction.

And what better time to start planning your outdoor oasis than this spring?

Retrofit or Start from Scratch

You can create an outdoor space starting with an existing patio or deck. Or you can create a new framework. Keep in mind the budget and timeframe for your project and if you’re starting from scratch consider the space you have available. Allow 5 square feet per person and at least 6 square feet for table and chairs. Also consider the style of your home and what will look best – classic brick pavers or a more relaxed wood or composite deck.

Consider your lifestyle.

Is dining and cooking al fresco your passion?  Then you will definitely want to include an outdoor grill and perhaps even complete outdoor kitchen in your plans – as well as outdoor dining furniture.

Are you more likely to chill around the fire pit with a glass of good wine and good friends?  If so a grill and fire feature fit the bill. Do you love entertaining?  Make sure you have the space for extra seating. Ask yourself how you’ll be using your outdoor space before planning and you’ll be happier with the result.

Select a fire feature focal point.

Every room needs a centering feature and that includes your outdoor space. The ideal focal point? An outdoor fire pit or fireplace.  Fire creates a natural gathering place and its appeal is irresistible and ancient.  Not only does a modern fire feature create instant atmosphere and drama – it extends the use of your outdoor space to include all four seasons.  Outdoor fire places and fire pits are one of the hottest – no pun intended – trends in home building and renovation and with good reason.

The selection of outdoor fire features is amazing and wonderful. And they allow for endless hours of outdoor enjoyment under the stars on warm summer nights, cool fall weekends and soft snowy evenings. 

Keep in mind that the fire feature should have its own space away from your grill or outdoor kitchen area. And remember that seating is critical to creating a space you’ll enjoy year-round. Be sure to consult city codes to find out whether you need a permit and whether there are restrictions on where you can put your outdoor fireplace or fire pit on your property.

The thrill of the grill.

Grilling is as American as baseball. Whether you’re little league or world series material – there’s a perfect grill for you. That’s because the selection has never been greater. People want options, and manufacturers are responding with a wide range of styles, accessories and add-ons to meet all budgets.

Not too long ago a top-of-the-line, 30-inch-wide gas grill featured a couple of 12,000 BTU burners and side extension shelves for holding condiments.

Today’s gas-powered flamethrowers may sport as many as 12 stainless-steel, 42,000 BTU burners with variable temperature control, side burners for boiling water and heating sauces, electronic ignition, warming rack, and many other awesome features.

Furniture that takes a back seat to none. 

Last, but far from least, make sure you have the right outdoor furniture.  Today’s patio furniture styles give indoor furniture a run for their money and can transform your outdoor space. Remember to invest in the highest quality and make comfort and performance a priority. Look for weather resistant fabrics, solid construction and hard-working finishes.

What are you waiting for?

Ready to get started with your dream outdoor space? Talk to the experts at Fireside Hearth & Home of Toledo and let us help guide you through every step of your planning.  We have everything you need.  From stunning fire features to an amazing selection of grills and customized patio awnings, we can transform your outdoor living space.  Drop by our beautiful new showroom at 340 New Towne Square Drive in Toledo.