5858 TIMBER HOME LIVING October 2019ADD FIREPOWER
(right) Nothing draws a party outside
like a toasty, aromatic fire. It can be as
rough-and-ready as a rock-ringed firepit
or as enduring as a full-on outdoor
fireplace. If the latter is on your wish
list (and within your budget) there are a
few considerations to keep in mind:
First, be smart when it comes to
size. While a grand outdoor hearth is
appealing, it may not be practical for
the space you have or the scale of your
home. Also, remember that a wood-
burning fireplace will require more
space than a gas-fired unit because the
a larger firebox is necessary to burn the
logs safely. If you’re more interested
in ambiance than heat, a smaller style
may be enough.
Then, position it properly. An
outdoor fireplace is right at home out
in the yard or near your house. It can
be freestanding or share a chimney
with an indoor hearth. But before you
commit to a location, contact your local
zoning office about any restrictions, so
your plans don’t go up in smoke.
CONSIDER A
COUNTRYSIDE
CANTEEN
(far right, top) A true outdoor kitchen
is so much more than a grill and a beer
keg. To get the full experience, outfit
yours with a full suite of appliances,
including a gas grill that has rotis-
serie and smoker capabilities and side
burners to roast veggies or boil water
alfresco. A separate kamado grill offers
a charcoal option for that flavor only
a coal fire can provide. Don’t forget
weatherproof cabinetry, a sink, a refrig-
erator for condiments and separate one
for wine and spirits and an ice machine.
Cooking in shifts? A warming drawer is
a nice extra that will ensure your food
is ready to eat when you are. Quartz
counters are just as desirable outside
as they are in, and a retractable awning
will allow you to keep the BBQ red-hot,
rain or shine.
GET GROUNDED
(far right, bottom) If your timber home
is located on difficult terrain, you don’t
have to fight the landscape to enjoy a
healthy dose of the great outdoors —
invite it inside instead! Take this home
gym as inspiration: Located amidst a
sandstone outcropping, the space is
built right into an enormous boulder,
which also features an indoor swim spa
and a host of fitness equipment among
a garden of ferns and flowers. As an
added bonus, the sandstone helps
to keep the humid space cool and
comfortable.
LEF
T:^ Appalachian^ AntiqueHardwoods;^ RIGHT,^ FROM^ TOP:^ Jenn- Ai
r^ photo;^ James^RaySpahnphoto