Like many of us whose priorities shifted after 2020, our clients dreamt of an add-on to serve as a relaxing outdoor retreat or welcoming gathering point. The new pavilion aimed to elevate the property without feeling “new” or abrupt – it needed to be in picturesque harmony with the rest of the estate. This made it critical for the pavilion to be meticulously designed in balance with the existing architectural and landscape elements.
For this to happen, the crew had to first transplant a 20’+ tall River Birch. The tree was hand dug and star laced so that it could be successfully relocated on site. The open layout, exposed beams, tongue-in-groove ceiling, and elegant drop-down lighting all contribute to a kinship with the natural environment.
A fireplace with a palette of warm neutral stones creates a cozy, luxury getaway that is always within reach. The rustic reclaimed barn wood mantel set on stone corbels adds depth to the feature and grounds the above-mounted outdoor television. The firebrick lined fire box is a little more special with a herringbone pattern, and the flagstone capped hearth is set above the patio to double as a comfort height seat while building a fire and a designated spot for fireplace tools to be stored.
The outdoor furniture was selected to proportionally meet the scale of the pavilion’s grand stature – oversized sectional sofas and a generously sized dining table begin to break up and program the space with a beautiful yet very functional layout. Draping curtains hung between stone columns and posts offer shaded protection during low lying sun hours. Elegant lighting, outdoor heaters, and ceiling fans all extend the comfort and enjoyment of the space during evening hours and even into the cooler temperature days of fall and winter.
The fully customized outdoor kitchen features a large grill, sink, refrigerator, ice maker, wine cooler, and storage vaults set within the natural stone walls and granite countertops. Both the kitchen and main living spaces of the pavilion are conveniently equipped with electrical outlets. The pavilion’s complete design strikes that forever sought-after balance between form and function and is perfectly suited for any family-fun day, occasional special event, hosting a watch party, or even makes for a great remote home office. The classically handsome property was further brought to balance with cohesive heritage elements like winding stone walkways, specimen trees, and idyllic flora. Overall, the design resulted in a structure so attuned to its surrounds that it feels like it was always meant to be there – one that enhances the value and enjoyment of the property and encourages lingering.
