Energizing and Inviting, Accent Lighting Transforms this New York Home with a Herringbone Deck, Huge Pergola, and Gourmet Kitchen

Today, outdoor living means a lot more than having a sunshade and a few lounge chairs. Homeowners across the country are embracing outdoor life by extending the square footage of their home into outdoor rooms and spaces. Especially in mild climates, there is an expectation for builders to incorporate specialized outdoor spaces equivalent to 10-20 percent of the living space. This upstate New York home has been increased in size and function with the addition of the outdoor living space. The team at Designing with Elements created three additional zones for the family to enjoy gorgeous sunsets and evenings.

The expansion's footprint is represented by a raised herringbone deck that is gorgeous to look at and creates a slightly terraced feel from the grass yard. A large white pergola distinguishes the outdoor living room, providing shade for the sofa, chairs, and side tables for relaxing throughout the day. An open-air dining area sits between the living room and the outdoor kitchen, keeping smoke away from the seating but still close enough for conversation. The use of accent lighting makes the entire area come alive at night with distinct shadows and highlights.

The outdoor gourmet kitchen features everything needed to host a large party or a romantic evening meal. Attached to the home, white outdoor kitchen cabinets provide clean, bright lines and plenty of storage. A stainless steel sink and trash drawer keep everything clean without the need to return inside the home, while an outdoor refrigerator keeps drinks and ingredients cold and refreshing. The vast wraparound island and counters provide plenty of prep and serving space. The grill island has been raised on the backside to bar height, creating a convenient place to lean and talk with the chef while grilling masterpieces on the stainless steel grill and matching side burner. This backyard has been transformed into a multiuse space that increases the value of the home; from an inviting haven for the family to an energizing entertaining venue for larger events.