[link=http://www.jamesmartinassociates.com]James Martin Associates[/link], a landscaping company serving Lake Forest since 1977 received an award from ILCA (Illinois Landscape Contractors Association) for design of a deck, an outdoor kitchen with pergola and an outdoor fireplace at 1660 Paddock Lane in Lake Forest, IL.

The dramatic feel of the new deck came from adding a curved space and then enhancing it with arches in the support structure. The radius of the deck helped pull the space further into the yard and thus allowing for better views of the backyard. Stone material was incorporated into the deck to give a distinctive look but also relate to the house brick, as well as using stucco of the same texture and color of the house. To ensure the low maintenance aspect Trex was used for the deck and staircase.

The curved staircase uses the stone walls as the handrail. Custom wrought iron railings were specified so as not to obscure views across the deck from the house. A fire place was designed that extended the use of the patio from early spring into late fall and which its appearance went beyond the typical open fire pit. The materials that were used on the new deck were also used on the fireplace. The fireplace was placed on the edge of the bluestone patio so it could be enjoyed not only at the patio but viewed from the deck and the house windows. Once the firebox and masonry structure were built a gas line was installed to allow for quick igniting of a wood fire, or the fireplace could be heated entirely with the gas. The same stone used on the deck was used on the fireplace to create arches that frame the firebox and wood storage. A stucco finish with outcropping of stone gives the structure a pastoral look. The bluestone coping, hearth, and mantle visually ties itself to the deck copings. The curved appearance is further enhanced by the custom cut bluestone shoulders that taper to the chimney. The fireplace was capped off with a chimney pot that is similar to the ones used on the house chimneys. An outdoor kitchen with an eat-in counter and detailed pergola top was designed that truly enhanced the leisure activity of the space where friends and family could sit, relax and enjoy the activities of the pool. Placement of the outdoor kitchen and pergola was important so that the structure was in close proximity of the pool and new deck. The wall stone was detailed the same as the deck while the pergola posts were boxed with recessed clear cedar panels and topped with a detailed cornice all of which was stained white.

James Martin Associates provides Lake Forest homeowners with comprehensive landscaping maintenance services. Regular weekly lawn maintenance for most homes includes cosmetic work such as mowing, weeding and cleaning up plant debris, plus periodic horticultural care.

For more information on all of our services contact us at [link=http://www.jamesmartinassociates.com]www.jamesmartinassociates.com[/link] or call us at 847-634-1660. Stay connected with us on Facebook.