Dining al fresco is only part of the fun. The dinner party really starts to sizzle when you serve the entire cooking experience outside!

An outdoor kitchen not only allows you to cook, eat and entertain without having to book a reservation but it also expands your living space. Not to mention, a well-designed outdoor kitchen will allow you to enjoy cooking and dining outside beyond the summer months.

Incorporating traditional kitchen elements to your outdoor kitchen is a great way to add versatility, value, and fun to your space.

Here are a few of my must-haves for creating the perfect outdoor kitchen.

Start from the ground up

Designing the floor layout and material of your outdoor kitchen is essential to building the foundation of your amazing outdoor space.

When making your selections, be aware of the different weather in our area, as well as the overall weight of the appliances you are installing.

Flooring such as polished marble or granite will be slippery and slick when wet and may not hold up to oil or food stains. The right flooring will not only complete the overall look of your outdoor kitchen but will also add durability and value to the end product.

Milestone Tip: When designing a project of this scale, remember that safety comes first. Outdoor kitchens are typically located near wet surfaces like swimming pools and spa tubs.

Be sure to choose materials that meet safety criteria, stay away from flooring that may be too slippery or rugged, and select a material that can handle food spills and grease. Ceramic tiles or porcelain outdoor tiles are the best option in this area.

Location, location, location

Where you decide to place your outdoor kitchen depends on several factors. First off, you’ll want to make sure that smoke from the grill doesn’t drift back into the home.

It’s wise to have a good idea of the general wind pattern in your yard so you can set the grill appropriately. Secondly, if you like to entertain you want to engage with your guests and won’t want to walk a long distance from the indoor kitchen to the outside.

Consider placing your grill and outdoor kitchen near the entrance to the inside kitchen.

Lastly, if you want to preserve the view you currently have from inside the house to the outside, you’ll want to design your outdoor kitchen to the side or at an angle.

This way, you don’t obstruct your view from the inside of your home. Just like an indoor kitchen, the outdoor kitchen is full of hazards so place your kitchen in the right area of your backyard.

The right planning will help ensure that your outdoor kitchen is in the right location for your yard.

Milestone Tip: If you are considering completing a lot of landscaping changes to your yard, such as adding retaining walls, living walls or a swimming pool, be sure to include the outdoor kitchen as part of the overall design.

Choose your appliances wisely

Every kitchen needs a focal point and most outdoor kitchens center around the grill. Whether you choose gas or charcoal, your grill should serve as an accent to your space.

When creating an amazing outdoor kitchen be sure to include a sink and a small refrigerator. Some outdoor kitchens are fitted with other appliances to make the outdoor kitchen feel custom.

You can even add specialty appliances like a beer tap, smokers, hibachi grills and warming drawers. Be sure a licensed electrician installs your electrical connections so that your outdoor kitchen is up to code.

Pizza ovens and tandoors are becoming increasingly demanding.

When purchasing your appliances, be sure to order items that will make it through the seasons, both rain and shine. Stainless steel or ceramic appliances are very durable, require little maintenance and work in all weather conditions.

Milestone Tip: Gas powered grills are a popular feature in the outdoor kitchen. If you want a plumbed gas line for your gas grill, you’ll need to hire a licensed professional and most likely file a permit with the city.

Be sure you consult an expert for this aspect of the project.

Add a touch of ambiance

Your outdoor kitchen will provide a place to cook, eat and entertain family and friends. This area will become the center of your outdoor life and is an opportunity to enjoy the outdoor weather while having the comforts of your indoor space!

Be sure you incorporate features that really make this space the center of your summer. Chairs, tables, decorative objects, specialty lighting and custom water features can complete the look while injecting your personal tastes in your decor.

When it comes to furniture, choose sturdy pieces with comfortable outdoor cushions. Select the largest table you can for the space so you have, as you’ll be spending a majority of your time here.

A water feature, such as a small fountain or pond can also lend a relaxing vibe to your outdoor kitchen. Some outdoor kitchens are being fitted with television sets, truly making the outdoor kitchen both the place to cook, eat, relax and entertain.

Milestone Tip: If you have a small backyard try not to overdo it with an extravagant full outdoor kitchen. Sometimes less can be more.

An alternative option is to build a BBQ island, which has all of the essentials from a grill to countertops and is a better fit for a smaller space and budget.

The best outdoor kitchens are just as functional as your indoor kitchen, as welcoming as your living room, and as entertaining as your family room.

An outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a grill, table, and chairs, or as elaborate as a fully outfitted kitchen complete with built-in appliances and seating.

Although a homeowner can set up a simple and straightforward outdoor kitchen, designing a grand and impressive outdoor kitchen is best left to a professional like the design pros at Milestone.

With so many different types of outdoor kitchens, designing the best kitchen for your family takes the time to plan and may require permitting from the city.

Regardless of whether you hire a pro or not, you can follow the above tips to get started on the right foot. An amazing outdoor kitchen will provide all the comforts of home in the serenity of your backyard! Bon’ Appetite!

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Modern Landscape Design Ideas for the Minimalists

By Sejal Nagjee on

October 1, 2016

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I absolutely love incorporating modern and minimalist themes to enhance landscaping. Personally, it truly is my favorite choice for landscape design.

I am attracted to the simplicity of lines, linear structure, neutral color pallet, innovative materials and focus on sculptural details. All of these aspects combine with simple shapes creating an elegant and charming design that is very appealing.

Typically, the combination of grey, white, beige, brown, and black form the color pallet that serves as the foundation for modern gardens. These colors come together exceptionally, allowing other accents of colors and accessories to stand out against the background.

Grass, plants, and pebbles also provide additional colors, enhancing your minimalist design. These little accents look beautiful against the neutral base found in your landscape design flooring and exterior walls. The result is awe-inspiring!

I’ve put together a few tips to help you take your modern and minimalist landscape to the next level!

Create Clearly Defined Areas

A key trait of modern landscaping lies in creating clearly defined spaces. The geometry of modern garden is sleek, unique, and pristine. We’re not talking about a boring, and stuffy space, though. Keeping things interesting is essential!

You can create a defined space using gravel or pebble to create rectangles to break up the lawn, creating a stunning stepping stone effect.

Or you can create many distinct areas, using a pool, water features, or an abundance of simple flower beds to create fun and different areas in your backyard.

When placed properly, the right combination of gravel, tile, water and lush plants will combine to form your perfectly planned modern landscape.

Match Exterior Design with Your Architecture

Usually, a modern garden places more focus on the architecture and materials than on the plants and greenery. Landscape should always be designed keeping in mind the architecture style of your villa.

When designing your landscape, be sure to use the style and theme of your home and then incorporate those ideas into your landscape. Remember that you will often be looking from the inside of your home to the outside.

So it’s important to connect the color theme and styles so that your home effortlessly extends into your exterior landscape, creating a peaceful transition from one space to the other.

Use Linear Form and Geometric Shapes

A modern garden is typically characterized by a sleek, streamlined and sophisticated style. Modern garden designs also draw on the simplicity of minimalist Asian design practices.

Usually, a modern garden places more focus on the architecture and materials than on the plants and greenery. Geometric shapes and repeating patterns are commonly incorporated in modern outdoor spaces.

The main idea is to design a garden that has a managed and organized presentation.

Use Innovative Shade Structures

Modern designs use shade structures that are simple and functional. Whether they are concrete, white in color or shades of brown, they are always simple. Steer away from gazebos designed with thatched roofs and Mediterranean roof tiles.

These ornate structures don’t mix well with a modern theme. Instead, keep your shade structures simple and sleek.

Focus on Accessories and Outdoor Furniture

Modern gardens often rely on structural accessories to achieve their minimalist look, with plants used as accents rather than focal points to provide contrast and color.

Enhance your minimalist design with modern outdoor furniture crafted from natural elements such as wood, metal, wicker, concrete, and marble. Use weatherproof geometrically inspired cushions and pillows to further enhance your outdoor furniture.

When creating a modern design, it’s important that your accessories incorporate innovative shapes for planters, modern sculptures, vertical gardens, and sleek benches. For an added touch, be sure to include modern and easy to maintain water features.

Its contemporary linear form combined with the soothing sound of water can insert the culminating finish to your design. You can even get creative and make things on your own, adding a distinct personal touch to your modern landscape design.

Remember Less is More!

One of the most important aspects of creating a modern garden is creating a space that is clean and clutter free. Stick to the minimal use of furniture and accessories, allowing enough space to move around.

Also, be sure to remember that plants are meant to be used sparingly. When you do incorporate plants, remember that repetition and groups of plants are crucial elements to modern style.

Use plants that are simple and make a statement, like an Olive tree. Steer clear of unruly and wild plants; they simply don’t belong in this clean and sleek design.

Modern minimalism is exactly that: minimalist! This is a style that focuses more on form, color, and abstract ideas. Remember that when it comes to modern themed gardens, less is always more.

Their refined forms, pure materials and the achievement of balance distinguish the quintessential aspects of modern garden designs from all others landscape designs. I just know that you will love this style as much as I do!

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How to Bring the Mediterranean Vibe Into Your Garden

By Sejal Nagjee on

September 24, 2016

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Do you ever wish that you could enter the Mediterranean coast but by stepping outside your door? Perhaps you have visited the Mediterranean on holiday. Or maybe you admire the Mediterranean from a far, combing through pictures on the internet.

Either way, your outdoor living spaces can embody the rustic, natural design of Mediterranean romance and extravagance.
The Mediterranean region is full of distinct countries, each with its own culture, beauty, lifestyle and natural charm.

However, a few characteristics seem to illustrate the region as a whole. The Mediterranean aesthetic is known for its unique textures, calming colors and laid-back vibe.

You can easily incorporate these elements into your design, transforming your outdoor space. I’ve put together a few design ideas that will help you feel as though you are relaxing along Italy’s coast without ever having to pack your bags!

Mediterranean Old World Charm

When I first think of the Mediterranean I am transformed to lovely little pebbles, intricately cut pavings, and textured roof tiles. I can’t help but think of the turquoise waters of Greece, the terracotta homes in Spain, or the Travertine marble clad Roman monuments.

By design, the Mediterranean is unique. It’s not linear, simple lines, but almost seems to come to life through a more natural, flowing topography. Don’t be afraid to draw upon the ancient. A key characteristic of the Mediterranean region is its rich ancient history.

You can draw inspiration from the medieval history that this area is known for. Column end tables or other vintage-looking pieces are a great place to start. Perhaps a stone coffee table to bring in an “ancient ruin” feel.

Terra-cotta pavers or Spanish tiles are an excellent addition to enhance your Mediterranean outdoor living space. These simple elements will immediately transport you and your guests to the charming Mediterranean countryside.

Consider including areas of gravel where you can add accents with potted plants and mosaic tiles along a wall that offers privacy from neighbors.

You can also add thick columns around the pool or garden area to incorporate a bit of Rome’s most famous architecture into your design.

Landscaping for a Laid-Back Mediterranean Look

To embody the Mediterranean vibe, you’ll want to incorporate wild plants and brightly hued flowers into your outdoor living space. Along the various Mediterranean coastlines, vibrantly colored tropical plants are abundant and they remain wild and untamed.

While of course you’ll want to keep the greenery in your backyard orderly, adding large planters and vines will lend your space the same untamed look without the high maintenance.

Consider wild Zoysia grass or Scaveola plants that will help you create an awe-inspiring oasis in your backyard.

Plants are often secondary to the hard landscaping in a Mediterranean garden, but you do not have to ship in stone from abroad. There are plenty to choose from in Dubai to help you achieve that laid-back Mediterranean feel.

For example, Travertine Marble natural finish for walls and floors, Terracota tiles for patios, stone cladding and brick claddings for dry-stone walling and riven stone slabs for paving, retaining walls and terraces.

The result is spectacular! Pennisetum Rubrum grass and Cyperus grass make a great backbone for your Mediterranean-style border, not simply for their structure, but also for the sound and movement they achieve when the breeze blows through.

Use True Blue Accents with Neutral Highlights

Create a vibrant color palette of turquoises or blues to instantly lend your space a Mediterranean vibe. Warm tones can be applied throughout your entire outdoor living space or garden, or you can use them sparingly, for example, creating a walkway.

Mix various shades of blue, but be sure to keep them within the same tone. If you desire something a little softer, use your favorite light shade of blue as the neutral instead. Turquoise looks marvelous with other neutral tones and adds tons of personality.

You can even get creative by incorporating soft, purple lavenders, or rich mauve and lilac hues to add to your Mediterranean vibe.

Incorporate Soothing Water Features

Water features are a must for any Mediterranean inspired garden. They are soothing while creating a touch of cool to the heat of the summer.

The gleam of water adds a wonderful new dimension of your garden, while the trickle of shallow water reminds you of the calming sea.

Whether in ornamental ponds or pools, or custom fountains and features, the sight and sounds of water always provide a wonderful relief that draws upon the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.

By adding a few details and accents to your garden you can create a Mediterranean oasis right outside your door.

You can easily incorporate various textures, calming colors, water features, and pathways to transform your space into the laid-back vibe area that embodies the Mediterranean. So for now, you can set your passport aside and enjoy the comforts of your backyard!

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Design a Backyard That’s Perfect for a Rocking Party!

By Sejal Nagjee on

September 7, 2016

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What good is a back yard if you can’t enjoy it with our family and friends? There are few things in life that can compare to creating lasting memories.

Whether you are looking to throw a rocking party for the neighborhood, host an intimate dinner party for a few close friends, or simply want to create a space that will be enjoyed by your family for generations to come, your backyard can serve as a pivotal space for all of your outdoor entertaining.

Here are a few tips to ensure that your backyard is certain to become the envy of the neighborhood!

Gorgeous Landscape

First and foremost your backyard should feel like an oasis away from the frustrations and stresses of life. Create a landscape that is soothing and relaxing. Keep in mind that your backyard is more than just the lush plants and flowers you choose to incorporate.

You can get creative! Vertical gardens offer a stunning visual effect that will also serve as a great conversational piece. Custom water features and fountains not only add the soothing sight and sound water, but they also work to enhance your space.

Be sure to add some of your favorite artifacts and unique benches to place the finishing touch on your little slice of paradise.

From Japanese Zen inspired gardens to modern minimalist gardens, you can create a space that speaks to your personal tastes and vibrant personality.

Customized Fire Pit or Fire Wall

Everyone loves gathering around a fire pit! A custom-built fire pit can serve as a focal point, creating a distinct area in your backyard while simultaneously lending a little warmth.

For example, a patio provides a nice place for friends and family to gather outside and spend time together. Unfortunately, a patio can also be aesthetically boring. Even when it’s textured, a flat surface is still a flat surface.

Adding a fire pit to your patio is like adding a centerpiece on your dining room table. A fire pit breaks up the monotonous flat, injects depth, and makes the surface area much more interesting, especially when you’ve got a fire burning!

You can take this love of fire pits to the next level by incorporating a fire wall to your outdoor living space. A custom built fire wall takes that traditional fire pit to the next level!

The firewall is a self-contained unit that can provide more heat than a traditional fire pit. It can be designed in any shape or form. They are truly unique and will help to keep your party going long into the night! Check out a few of my favorites below.

Take a Plunge in Your Pool!

What better way to keep the party going on a hot day than by taking a dip in your pool? Regardless of the size of your backyard there is a pool design out there waiting for you!

Take it up a notch with an awe inspiring infinity pool, that effortlessly extends into a limitless horizon. Limited on space, a plunge pool provides a space saving alternative that also keep you cool and refreshed.

Take a look at some of our favorite designs below. Each was designed to fit into the lifestyle and space for the client. A backyard pool is a sure fire way to create a rocking party!

Outdoor Kitchens and Barbecues

In the Mediterranean, it’s very normal to see families cooking outdoors. Today, this style of outdoor cooking has become a popular trend in Dubai.

Homeowners are experiencing the delights of using their outdoor kitchens and barbecues in their own backyards. One benefit of having an outdoor kitchen is that they’re perfect spaces for entertaining!

When food is cooked out on the patio, guests can gather around the grill and socialize as dinner is being prepared (and later served). It might get crowded in an indoor kitchen when everyone hangs out with the chef, but outside there’s so much more space!

Additionally, you can increase the comfort for your party guests by adding outdoor furnishings, custom mood lighting, and great music. After all, a great meal is a key element to creating a rocking party for your guests!

Comfortable Sitting Areas

Perhaps one of the most important features for outdoor entertaining is to provide a comfortable space for your guests to relax and enjoy the comforts of your spectacular outdoor living space.

Shaded areas with comfortable and unique furniture provide the perfect retreat from the heat and inclement weather so that the party never has to end! Gazebos and pergolas can be accented with lights, plants, and your favorite accent pieces to add to their ambiance.

Be sure to use elements that you love, incorporating special pieces that mean something to you. Items that you pick up along your travels always work well to create a personal space that reminds you of your past adventures.

These unique items will have you loving your space even more! Shop your own home or head out to your favorite local shop for items that not only speak to you and look cool, but serve a purpose as well.

As you create your outdoor entertaining oasis, remember that this is your space! This is the area that you and your family will enjoy, creating lasting memories for years to come. So let’s get the rocking party started! If you ever need any tips, leave a comment below!

I love hearing from you!

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Tips for Designing an Outdoor Kitchens that Really Cooks

Start from the ground up

Location, location, location

Choose your appliances wisely

Add a touch of ambiance

blog

Modern Landscape Design Ideas for the Minimalists

Create Clearly Defined Areas

Match Exterior Design with Your Architecture

Use Linear Form and Geometric Shapes

Use Innovative Shade Structures

Focus on Accessories and Outdoor Furniture

Remember Less is More!

blog

How to Bring the Mediterranean Vibe Into Your Garden

Mediterranean Old World Charm

Landscaping for a Laid-Back Mediterranean Look

Use True Blue Accents with Neutral Highlights

Incorporate Soothing Water Features

blog

Design a Backyard That’s Perfect for a Rocking Party!

Gorgeous Landscape

Customized Fire Pit or Fire Wall

Take a Plunge in Your Pool!

Outdoor Kitchens and Barbecues

Comfortable Sitting Areas