Backyard Retreat

BEFORE

Outdoor living area renovation by Canyon Stone, 1423 E. Wait Ave., Wake Forest, NC 27587, 
(919) 562-5005, www.canyon-stone.com

This North Raleigh transitional brick home came equipped with a backyard play area complete with swings and a trampoline for the kids, but the owners wanted more of an “adult getaway” to entertain family and friends. Canyon Stone in Wake Forest was brought in to work with an architect and develop a design that fulfilled the homeowners’ desire for functionality and style; a retreat the whole family would enjoy. The new outdoor living area features a place for grilling and storing cold refreshments, and conveniences like a gas starter for the wood burning fireplace, dreamy accent lighting and a digital music system conveniently controlled from the homeowners’ iPad. In addition, a water feature and fire pit for the children were connected by a flagstone walkway. To complete the feel of a relaxing outdoor “room” in which to entertain and socialize, a large pergola with a ceiling fan was installed, which integrates into the stone structures. A beautiful fireplace covered in Canyon Stone’s Autumn Blend Field Stone and featuring two wood boxes serves as a focal point in the gathering area. Plants were chosen to add texture and color accents to the entire area, completing the look.