Creating an Outdoor Oasis

Jeff and Carolyn Imhoff are talented DIYers that have taken on one project at a time to update and remodel their home’s interior but had dreamed for years of a backyard oasis. This time, the Imhoffs wanted the full outdoor project planned and completed so they would be able to enjoy it with their family and friends.

When they met Nick Haslag at the HBA Home Show a year ago, they were immediately drawn to him for their project. Nick worked with the homeowners to put together a complete plan to transform their outdoor space. Together, they created a backyard paradise they would enjoy for years to come.

The Imhoffs knew they wanted to include a full outdoor kitchen. When they were planning the space, Nick knew how important the really big kitchen was to them. Wow, did he give them what they wanted! The area features a huge bar area with concrete countertops, a grill, sink with hot and cold water, two refrigerators and ice chest, storage drawers and trash receptacle. As a result of the considerable space they had created, when it was almost finished, they decided to add an island for prep and serving space. Long gone now are the days of running in and out of the house while entertaining because everything a cook could need is right at their fingertips. On game days, everyone pulls up a bar stool and gathers round the TV to watch their favorite teams, making the kitchen area a full entertainment hub.

The existing sports pool is perfect for their family. The ends are 3-foot-deep and everyone congregates there to relax. When they are in the mood for more activity, they put up the volleyball net and a friendly game begins. Originally surrounded by concrete, Nick cut away a large part of the old concrete and replaced it with pavers. They also removed planting beds to simplify the design and enlarge this entertaining space.

On cool fall nights, the grandchildren roast marshmallows and chase the chill away around the new woodburning fireplace. Like the kitchen, the Imhoffs wanted the fireplace to be a substantial feature of their backyard, big enough for the entire family to assemble around without being too crowded.

At night, the posts, which surround the perimeter of the project, are accented with ambient lighting. Along with other landscape lighting, it creates a beautifully illuminated space. Nothing is more relaxing than enjoying a well-lit space at night while the water is glistening in the moonlight and a fire is dancing in the fireplace.

To cap off the entire project, existing deck, railings and Hardie siding on the back side of their home also got a refresh. Stonework on the posts was added, pulling everything together and creating a cohesive design.

Jeff and Carolyn Imhoff can’t say enough about how easy it was to work with Nick and the nice men he has working on his crew. As is key with an outdoor project dealing with weather conditions during construction, Nick was a great communicator, keeping them in the loop all along the way.

The Imhoffs now have all the conveniences that they could ever want outside. They have created an outdoor oasis that they can share with their family and friends, making their home complete.