Commentary by Randy Sorrell

Amazing!  I love hearing that word ooze from our clients as we walk their project. And, it’s a great description of this comprehensive space that allowed thrilling on-site adjustments as updated ideas percolated.

PERGOLA

Who knew a decade ago that these overhead wood structures would dominate conversations regarding relevant outdoor living spaces?  But they do, perhaps because they accomplish so much.  This 2-post cedar pergola is a classic design and was built to enhance privacy and provide an intimate feel to the exposed site-lines.  It felt very vulnerable without it.

FIREPLACE

Fire features continue to bring people together, sort of like your kitchen granite counter.  While we love building fireplaces, budget often interferes and pushes us towards boulder fire pits, modular units from Godby Hearth and Home in the Indiana Design Center or stone fire features we construct.  Gas starters are installed in most and allows for an easy start when burning firewood or a smoke free environment when entertaining without wood.  The sexy flames lick up through textured lava rock or tumbled glass medium.

LANDSCAPE

Never dismiss the power of plants.  Our industry has neglected its value, instead gravitating towards the popularity of brick patios.  Why not excel in both?  Trees, shrubs, perennials and groundcover complete a space.  Designed and installed properly, landscapes can offer privacy, provide shade and add colorful drama to an otherwise benign area.   Lowell, at ProCare, excels at this … so do we!

WALL

Few materials speak to Indiana like this locally sourced, snapped limestone on the retaining wall.  Produced in several shapes, sizes and a few colors, national demand occasionally makes this favorite of ours difficult to secure.

Large or small, most amazing outdoor living spaces appreciate one of these delicious elements.