O
utdoor kitchens, fire pits and pergolas are buzz-
words for residential landscape contractors.
Demand for these design features remains
strong. In a survey conducted by the American
Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), which
polled residential landscape architects about the estimated popu-
larity of various design elements for 2014, 94.2% of respondents
agreed gardens/landscaped spaces would be the hottest trend of
the season; and 92% anticipated kitchens and entertainment spaces
would also be in high demand.
While the results likely come as little surprise, the challenge for
landscape contractors is to offer a blend of services that incorporates
these features to create a customized living space that seamlessly
transitions indoor amenities with the tranquility of the outdoors.
Entertainment systems
Outdoor living spaces have truly become an extension of one's
home. Outdoor ranges, refrigerators and fire pits provide all of the
comforts of the indoors, with the benefit of being outdoors. With
a homeowner's interest in enjoying the conveniences of their
homes while outside, it's only natural a television and/or sound
system be incorporated into the design.
"A lot of people will put it (the television) by the BBQ, as it
really allows them to get the most out of their backyard," said
Corey Felter of Soundworks in Armonk, N.Y. "They can be
outside, spend time with their family, and catch the game."
Designed to tolerate changing weather conditions, manufac-
turers have released televisions specifically designed for outdoor
installation. New televisions designed specifically for outdoor use
are heated and cooled to accommodate all weather conditions.
"Some people think we can create a hook-up and they can move
their TV from indoors to outdoors and back, but it's really not a
good idea nor the ideal installation option," he added.
Whether used to enhance a TV's sound system or used to play
tunes, an outdoor sound system sets the mood. Bulky, unsightly
speakers are a thing of the past. Speakers are disguised as planters,
22 Landscape and Irrigation August 2014 www.landscapeirrigation.com
Landscape Design and Construction
Beyond Fire Pits and Pergolas
By Katie Navarra
Create customized outdoor living spaces
Photos on pages 22 and 23 by Melissa Napolitano.
