When you think of the perfect space to relax and entertain, an outdoor lanai with a warm, inviting fireplace likely comes to mind. For this project, we had the exciting opportunity to transform a lanai on a new-build home into a beautiful and functional retreat, complete with a custom brick wood-burning fireplace, stylish storage solutions, and luxurious finishes. Donna Kirsopp and Kenny Choikhit worked with the client to create this beautiful project while Mark Franklin and Andy Gower brought it to life.
The Lanai Before
There is no doubt this home is absolutely beautiful however our clients purchased it after it was already completed, and they wanted to put some personal finishing touches on it. This lanai was first on the list. While the ceiling fan and three ceiling heaters made it functional it lacked the cozy, inviting ambience our clients wanted. It was a bit of a blank slate with a tv mount and cement floor.
Designing the Fireplace: A Stunning Focal Point
What our clients really wanted was a wood burning fireplace. Not only would it provide extra heat on chilly evenings and colder days but an ambience second to none! Donna and Kenny helped them design the perfect brick fireplace with a herringbone tile interior. From the intricate details of the copper inlay to the practical touches like wood storage and durable flooring, this lanai exemplifies how thoughtful design can elevate outdoor living spaces.
Creating a functional wood-burning fireplace in a new-build home also required constructing a brand-new chimney with a flue. This addition was not just a technical necessity but also a design element that we designed to integrate with the home’s exterior architecture. The new chimney ensures proper ventilation for the fireplace while maintaining the home’s clean and cohesive look.
Constructing a Stunning Lanai Fireplace
We first installed the 36” fireplace and then constructed the brick shelves and mantle. The brick work required scaffolding.
Once the masonry work was done the tile was all laid.
The chimney extends through the roof.
Stunning Design, Smart Storage, and Elegant Lighting
To complete the fireplace design, we painted the brick and surrounding walls a soft, inviting white. It’s the thoughtful details, however, that truly elevate this project. The upper chimney is adorned with a cast stone chimney piece, echoing the same material used for the mantel and the tops of both wood storage cubbies. Then we installed copper bands on both sides of the cast stone and across both storage cubbies. These bands layer in materials, inject warmth and glimmer beautifully against the warm glow of the flames. This intricate detail not only enhances the fireplace’s aesthetic but also introduces a subtle metallic accent that ties the space together.
To make this lanai as practical as it is beautiful, we incorporated custom cubbies for wood storage on either side of the fireplace. These cubbies are both functional and stylish, keeping firewood neatly organized and easily accessible. Above each cubby, we installed gas-burning light fixtures that exude a soft, flickering glow, adding an enchanting ambiance to the space. These lights not only enhance the functionality of the area during the evening hours but also contribute to the overall charm and warmth of the design.
A Holiday-Ready Haven
With the holidays approaching, this lanai becomes even more magical. Draped in festive decor, the space feels warm and inviting, perfect for gathering with loved ones. The gas-burning light fixtures cast a soft glow, enhancing the festive ambiance and making this lanai the ideal spot for celebrating the season.
Are you dreaming of transforming your outdoor space into a cozy, functional retreat? Contact us today to start planning your next home remodeling project!