Little Cate's Patio

This project started and ended with a bang.
The original focus was to just clean and seal the existing patio ... the end result, well, just look at the final pictures. I will not go into full details but let's just say that it included some tricky materials, some wonderful (and understanding) clients and a company willing to stand behind it's finished product to complete the project with a result that exceeded not only our clients, but my own, expectations.

Here is a before shot.
Some of the highlights include natural bluestone steps, holland ashlar pattern patio and of course the firepit and seat wall. The material consisted of Paveloc's Creta seat wall to give a natural look to blend better with the thermal bluestone cap stones. The firepit was lined in firebrick and refractory mortar to provide a safe burning structure that will last for years to come. Also please note the solid brass accent lighting added to the seat wall and surrounding patio which allows a busy family to enjoy their outdoor escape regardless of the time of night.

Here are some of the after shots.

As for the name of this posting, let's just say little Cate was just a small bump in a belly when the original planning for the project was started and we had it completed with only two days to spare.

Good luck to Cate and her family, I know they will enjoy their new outdoor living space for years to come!

Here some additional images.

A Fall Festival Overload

If anyone ever needs any help locating and discerning the best fall festivals, including dates, times, activities, food and entertainment schedules, just let me know. Every fall, our weekends are filled with these fun outdoor activities. My wife is an internet guru when it comes to apple festivals, hay rides etc.



At the Barn, we are still busy working on landscape projects. If you havent seen the customer story we are working on, check out our website. This will be a long term project for a customer that has been a long time friend of the Barn. With similar ideals and tastes, we are a good match.



All I can say with this cold weather is that now is the best time of year to install a fire pit or outdoor fireplace. Many that know me would say bonfires are about my favorite outdoor activity, besides hunting. If you need any pointers give me a call. Last year I installed a fire pit on my patio and even without all the bells and whistles that you can add on, it truly does act as another room in our house, espcially when we entertain. My wife would say the best thing about it is that its size does limit the tendancy I have to get a bit carried away with the size and scope of my bonfires.

Have a good weekend, everyone.

TKJR