This home had a worn-out pergola that didn’t provide any shade. The family wanted to have a nicer space to hang out while using the pool, as well as protection from bugs and mosquitoes. 

The new screened-in patio is about 430 SF with a gabled roof and a vaulted ceiling. The knee walls are brick and painted to match the home, and we used Hardie trim to finish the screened area. We built an 8’ kitchen that’s the perfect size for prepping and serving. The silver-gray counter is from Instyle Granite and Marble. All of the appliances are from Cunningham Gas, including a 38” grill, vent hood, storage, and an outdoor fridge. The kitchen is faced with painted brick, and the flooring is concrete. 

The fireplace at the end of the screened porch is a 42” gas insert with a herringbone pattern from Perfection Fireplace. It is faced with painted brick and has a raised hearth. The ceiling is Woodtone Real Soffit pre-stained tongue and groove in West Coast IPA. 

This screened porch gives the family the needed room and ability to enjoy their backyard. Picture yourself wrapped up in a blanket with a glass of wine in front of the fire while a steak is grilling. Pure perfection.

Summer is right around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about refreshing your patio for the upcoming warm weather. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing patio or build a new one from scratch, there are plenty of ways to make your outdoor living space more functional and inviting. From adding an outdoor kitchen to redoing your fireplace, here are a few ideas for refreshing your patio in time for spring and summer.

Outdoor Kitchen

If you love to cook and entertain outside, an outdoor kitchen is a must-have. Adding a grill, sink, refrigerator, and countertops to your patio will make it easier to cook and serve food outside and will also create a central gathering spot for your guests. You can customize your outdoor kitchen to fit your needs, whether you’re a casual cook or a professional chef.

Redoing Your Fireplace

The spring days may be getting warmer, but the nights can still be chilly. If you have a fireplace on your patio, refreshing it can breathe new life into the space. You can update the look of your fireplace with a new mantle, surround, or hearth, or you can even replace the entire fireplace with a more modern or efficient model. A fireplace is a great way to warm up your patio and entertain during the spring.

Refresh Existing Patio Cover

Want to enjoy your patio during spring rain or summer heat? Patio covers can give your space a new level of functionality and a whole new look. You can repaint or stain the cover to match your home’s exterior, or you can replace it altogether with a new cover made from a different material or in a different style. A new patio cover can also provide additional shade or protection from the elements, making it more comfortable to spend time outside. 

There are plenty of ways to refresh your patio in time for spring and summer. Whether you’re adding an outdoor kitchen, a new ceiling, redoing your fireplace, or refreshing your existing patio cover, these upgrades can make your outdoor living space more functional and inviting. With the right improvements, your patio can become a comfortable and enjoyable space that you’ll love to spend time in all season long.

Spring is here, and it’s time to use outdoor living space to the fullest. Your patio is the best place to enjoy the warm weather, and with a few upgrades or a new build, you can transform your patio into the ultimate springtime hangout spot. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Outdoor Dining Area

Spring is a great time to enjoy meals outdoors. Set up a dining area on your patio with a large table and comfortable chairs. Choose weather-resistant materials for your furniture, and add colorful cushions or pillows for a pop of color. Consider adding a grill or outdoor kitchen to make cooking and entertaining even more effortless. For more info on building an outdoor kitchen, check out our previous blog for inspiration.

Fire Pit or Fireplace

Although the weather is heating up, spring nights can still get chilly. So stay warm and cozy on your patio with a fire pit or fireplace. Not only will it keep you warm, but it also creates a relaxing ambiance and a focal point for your outdoor space. Roast marshmallows, tell stories and enjoy the nighttime.

Games and Entertainment

Bring some fun to your patio with games and entertainment for the whole family. Depending on the size of your backyard and the number of people playing, there’s plenty of fun to be had on your patio. For five great activities to enjoy in the sun this spring, check out our blog on backyard games.

Outdoor Lighting

Create an atmosphere on your patio with outdoor lighting. String lights or lanterns can help create a warm, rustic style, while a chandelier can add class to your backyard. Lighting can also increase safety on your patio by illuminating walkways and steps. To learn which outdoor fixtures fit your patio best, check out our blog.

With a bit of creativity, your outdoor living space can become the ultimate spring break hangout spot for you and your friends and family. Contact us today to start building or upgrading your outdoor living space.

Outdoor kitchens can be a great addition to your patio, giving you a functional and beautiful space to cook and entertain guests. Whether you’re looking to update your existing patio or build a new one from scratch, there are plenty of sources of inspiration that can help you create the perfect outdoor kitchen.

Getting Inspiration

Social media is a great place to start looking for inspiration. Luckily, TCP Custom Outdoor Living has you covered with Pinterest, Instagram, and Houzz accounts filled with patio inspo. Take some time to browse through our previous projects and save the ones that catch your eye. This will give you a good starting point for your design ideas.

Choosing Materials

When getting ideas for materials, it’s essential to consider both form and function. You’ll want to select materials that are durable and able to withstand the elements, but also ones that look great and fit your personal style. For tips on which material to use, check out our blog on choosing the right countertop for your outdoor kitchen.

Appliances

An outdoor kitchen is only as good as its appliances. Luckily, there are plenty of options to fit your needs, from grills and dishwashers to ice machines and pizza ovens. To learn more about patio appliances, check out our blog for some of our favorites. If you cook outside, it’s important to have the right sink for water and dishes. Visit our blog on patio sinks to learn which one fits your kitchen.

With some inspiration and careful planning, you can create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. Explore your options today, and get ready to enjoy a beautiful and functional outdoor space for years to come.

This project added a 1200-square-foot patio cover, a new composite deck, an outdoor kitchen, and a fireplace equipped with drop screens to close off the entire space. They already had a minimal covered space and an extended deck, but we created a much larger space with an area for their hot tub. 

The covered patio now extends out along their driveway and the back of their home, creating an L-shaped cover with lots of space for outdoor living. The ceiling is 1X6 pre-stained Texas Honey Brown tongue and groove. All of the flooring is Ivory Beige Versailles pattern travertine from QDI. The columns and fascia of the kitchen and fireplace are full stone. Motorized DropShade screens were installed to keep those pesky bugs away. 

This kitchen has an RCS brand grill, an outdoor fridge, a sink, and lots of storage. Granite for the kitchen is New Venetian Gold from MS International. Having a bar top island is the perfect way to create additional seating and serving space. This outdoor kitchen is truly perfect for outdoor cooking. 

The fireplace is a masonry wood-burning fireplace with a stone hearth and extended seating wall, with a mantle made of stained cedar. Low-voltage lighting is placed all around the space, on the fireplace, and around the kitchen island. We also installed Bromic heaters around the patio cover to make the space useable year-round. 

We also built an elevated composite deck to hold the hot tub just steps away from the covered space, leaving the client with a perfect way to finish up a long day.

This space is large enough to allow for large gatherings and not feel cramped. With two living room areas, a pool table, a dining area, a large kitchen, and an open deck with a hot tub, why would you ever go inside?

March basketball is on its way, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than with friends and family in the comfort of your backyard. So whether you already have a newer patio or are looking to upgrade, here are a few easy ways to ensure your outdoor living space is ready for hosting any big event.

If your patio is in good condition, simple cleaning and refreshing your furniture can do wonders. Clean your patio with mild detergent and water to remove any grime or dirt. If your furniture is looking worn, consider replacing it with new, comfortable seating options that will make the space feel more inviting.

Next, consider the lighting. Good lighting can make a big difference in your outdoor space’s ambiance and can keep the party going even when the sun goes down. Invest in some outdoor lighting fixtures, such as lanterns or string lights, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. For more lighting recommendations, check out our blog on patio lighting.

Another vital factor to consider is the grill. If you don’t already have one, invest in a high-quality grill for the best backyard experience. A good grill can make a big difference in the taste and quality of the food you serve. Make sure to stock up on charcoal or propane, and have all of your grilling tools on hand. For more grill recommendations, check out our blog on types of grills, or read our blog on mastering your grill.

Finally, don’t forget about the drinks. Keep your guests hydrated with cold drinks and plenty of ice. If you have a bar area in your patio, consider setting up a drink station with a cooler filled with ice and drinks. It’s also worth considering setting up a bar cart with glasses and mixers for making cocktails. For more recommendations on your outdoor kitchen, check out our blog on outdoor kitchen appliances

In addition to these tips, consider adding some personal touches to your outdoor space to make it feel special and unique. This could include adding some outdoor artwork, potted plants, or even a fire pit for roasting marshmallows.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to host the perfect tournament party in your backyard. No matter which teams you’re rooting for (or if you’re just watching for the commercials), you’ll be sure to have a great time with friends and family on your new and improved patio. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the games!

This home had a small patio cover off the corner of their home, and the client wanted a much larger space with an outdoor kitchen and a fire pit, as well as a place for a fountain. Their backyard was totally transformed into the perfect outdoor living space. 

The new patio cover required TCP to remove and resize second-floor windows to build the roof with the correct pitch. The new windows are from RAM Windows, and they now have about 350 SF of covered space. The ceiling is RealTone Fineline American Nut Brown pre-stained tongue and groove. This space is equipped with DropShades, so they can turn it into a screened porch during the year when mosquitoes are bad. The flooring is Brazillian Slate from Thorntree. We installed Bromic heaters from Cunningham Gas to keep the space warm on chilly days and evenings. 

The kitchen sits in the corner and has RCS appliances from Cunningham Gas. Including a 42” Cutlass Pro Grill, a side burner, a sink, storage, and a fridge. The home features Viscon White granite from Pomogranit Stones, and the kitchen is faced with black ledge stone natural stone veneer from Legends Architectural Stone. We also created a bonus counter area along the existing wall with storage and the perfect place to have a buffet. 

We created a space for the custom firepit outside of the cover. The flooring under the firepit is also Brazillian Slate from Thorntree, and the firepit is faced with the same black ledge stone natural stone veneer from Legends to match the kitchen. For the rest of the yard, Brazillian Slate 2” thick pavers from Thorntree with rock separating them. A space was created for a fountain to install, and we added decorative landscaping to the fences to create the perfect retreat.

If you’re planning on building your dream outdoor living space for a specific time of year, like July 4th or Christmas, this helpful timeline can get you on the right track. Keep in mind that project timelines can change depending on the size of your project, but this timeline is a good estimate of when you can expect your patio to be completed.

To have your project completed by January-February, call us by August.

To have your project completed by March-April, call us by October.

To have your project completed by May-June, call us by December.

To have your project completed by July-August, call us by February.

To have your project completed by September-October, call us by April.

To have your project completed by November-December, call us by June.

When you’re ready to build your project, reach out to TCP to help guide you through the process and make your dreams of a new outdoor living space a reality. 

Winter is often seen as the season to huddle indoors, but why not take advantage of your patio and enjoy the crisp, cool air? Here are some of the best ways to make the most of your patio during the winter months.

Invest in a Fireplace or Fire Pit

Nothing beats the warm feeling of a crackling fire on a chilly winter night. Whether you opt for a built-in fireplace or a portable fire pit, you’ll be able to extend the use of your patio well into the winter months.

Add Cozy Outdoor Furniture

Don’t let a little chill in the air keep you from enjoying your patio. Invest in weather-resistant furniture that will keep you comfortable, like plush outdoor pillows and blankets or a swing or hammock.

Create a Comfortable Outdoor Space

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your patio. Add heaters, outdoor rugs, and curtains or shades to create a cozy outdoor living space. Check out some of our favorite heaters here.

Host An Outdoor Winter Party

Invite friends and family over for a winter-themed outdoor party. Serve hot cocoa, make s’mores over the fire pit, and enjoy games and activities in the great outdoors.

Take Advantage of Natural Light

Even on the darkest days of winter, the sun can provide some much-needed warmth and light on your patio. Add plants or a small garden to bring a touch of life and color to your outdoor space.

Get Creative With Lighting

String lights, lanterns, and candles can add a warm and inviting glow to your patio during the winter months. Consider installing permanent lighting fixtures for added convenience and ambiance.

With a little creativity and some cozy additions, your patio can be the perfect winter retreat. Embrace the cold and enjoy the beauty of the season from your outdoor living space.

No outdoor appliance has more versatility than the grill. But with so many grills to choose from, you may be experienced in one type but have no experience with another. While we’ve previously covered each grill’s pros and cons, here are some tips and tricks to prepare you to cook in no time.

Charcoal Grills

1. Avoid Lighter Fluid

While charcoal has great flavor, lighter fluid brings a much less desirable taste. If you’re looking for a different way to light your charcoal grill, electric or chimney starters are great ways to heat your coals before grilling. Or, if you’re in a pinch, traditional firestarters for kindling, like paper and cardboard, work well.

2. Be Patient

It’s easy to throw food on the grill before the temperature is hot enough, but you’ll have a much easier time cooking when you let your grill surface get hot. Less experienced grillers may also flip their foods too early, preventing their food from cooking all the way through. Patience, patience, patience.

3. Let Your Meat Rest

Although you’re hungry and ready to go, give your meat a few minutes before slicing. This allows the meat to absorb all the juices possible, giving you the perfect bite of steak paired with the perfect red wine.

Gas Grills

1. Leave Some Room

Although saving time and throwing everything on the grill makes sense, it might lead to uneven cooking. When you give your meats a chance to breathe, you have a much better chance of evenly grilling your food all the way through.

2. Here to Sear

For the perfect seared meat, get your grill as hot as possible. Put the meat on the grill, then wait a minute or two. Then flip, repeat, and turn the heat down as you allow the meat to continue cooking. This helps caramelize the outside of the meat for that great seared taste.

3. Grill Indirectly

If your gas grill has multiple burners, use the heat by grilling smaller items like veggies on the side or allowing your seared meats to continue to roast. This allows you to multitask and finish whole meals in one fell swoop.

Flat-Top Grills

1. Oil Your Surface

Like a painter with their tools, ensure you’re taking proper care of your grill, and the grill will treat you well in return. Oiling your flat-top grill with canola, avocado, or olive oil gives you a non-stick surface to work your magic.

2. Add Some Pans

Use the flat surface and throw pots, pans, or skillets on the grill. This keeps you from going back and forth from the indoor stovetop to the outdoor grill.

3. Trap Your Grease

You’ll start accumulating grease while you’re cooking, which is normal. Just make sure you’re cleaning while cooking, taking time to scrape the grease off the griddle with a scraper into a disposable drip pan. This saves you time and effort when your food’s good to go and you’re ready to eat.

Smokers

1. Fuel Wisely

Regarding wood smokers, less wood can mean more when cooking. Putting too much wood in your smoker can cause too much smoke, turning your perfect steak into beef jerky. Even though a lot of smoke can make you look like you know what you’re doing, it can turn south quickly.

2. Keep A Good Airflow

Most smokers have vents at the top for a reason. It’s best to allow your smoker to ventilate the entire time, if possible, for maximum taste and even cooking. 

3. Low And Slow

This tried-and-true method has been treating grillmasters and hungry families well for decades. Cooking at around 225-250 degrees over a longer period gives the meats a better opportunity to retain and absorb their juices, making for the perfect, tender bite.

No matter which you’re using, you’ll be ready for your next gathering in no time.