Outdoor living spaces will be in high demand during 2014, according to the Residential Landscape Architecture Trends Survey conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects. Its poll in January and February of 179 landscape architecture professionals who specialize in residential design found that lighting topped the list of popular features, with 98.3% of respondents reporting interest. Next were seating/dining areas (97.7%) and fire pits/fireplaces (95.4%). Here are a few products that we think will fulfill those desires.
Steak Out
This compact wall-mount barbecue grill (above) works in urban courtyards and balconies, or for decluttering the suburban patio. The 21 ½-inch fire bowl folds up onto a sleek steel disk measuring 29 inches in diameter, which also protects the wall from smoke. Two screw-in fastening points make the grill easy to install at any height, and an ash pan tilts down for fuss-free emptying. Fueled with wood or charcoal, it comes with a stainless steel grate and three handy barbecue tools.
Sigmafocus | 905.681.3070 | focus-creation.com
High & Dry
The Zip-Up UnderDeck system features interlocking PVC components that fit under a raised deck, creating a waterproof barrier that enables the space below to stay dry. The surface is washable, paintable, and mold- and mildew-resistant; it also has a Class A fire rating and meets Miami-Dade hurricane standards. The panels can be “unzipped” easily. The product comes in three finishes, and the main rails and panels are made in 12- and 16-foot lengths. MP Global Products | 888.449.4787 | zipupceiling.com
C’est Magnifique
Created in 1945, Bevolo’s French Quarter lantern qualifies for “timeless” status. Hand-crafted from copper and brass parts with lifetime burners to ensure operability in any climate, the lantern is available in styles that run on natural gas, liquid propane, or electricity. Sizes range from 14 to 36 inches tall.
Bevolo | 504.522.9485 | bevolo.com
Look Ma! No Puddles!
StormPave permeable pavers look like ordinary brick, but when you combine them with the right drainage systems you achieve a patio surface that keeps water from puddling. Pavers have a larger surface between them to allow water to filter through.
Pine Hall Brick | 800.334.8689 | pinehallbrick.com
Craig Webb is president of Webb Analytics, a consulting company for construction supply dealers, distributors, vendors, and investors. Contact him at [email protected] or 202.374.2068.
Craig Webb is president of Webb Analytics, a consulting company for construction supply dealers, distributors, vendors, and investors. Contact him at [email protected] or 202.374.2068.
