outdoor projects
the bulk of projects undertaken has been for the interior, however all outdoor projects have been lots of fun and successful. getting the materials right is an interesting and important challenge when working outdoors, for these projects a combination of treated timber and masonry was chosen.
the foundation for the stepped flowerbed was a reinforced concrete slab and hollow blocks laid on top and the upper level made from treated sleepers, all lined with weed control membranes. the finish chosen for the masonry blocks was slate tiles and the timber left to naturally grey.
the sitting area doubles as a soil retaining structure which was set on a layer of hardcore over a membrane for a stabile and well draining foundation. the entire structure is built out of
treated railway sleepers which had all contact points with the earth coated in bitumen for extra durability. for ease of maintenance and avoidance of damp timber the material chosen for the seat was anthracite composite decking boards, also adding a nice contrast in materials. at the centre of the seating are a multifunctional fire-pit was included, built out of hollow blocks sat on a concrete footing at the base and a fire basket made from fire bricks on top. with built-in air vents and roomy basket, the fire-pit provides an ample source of heat for everyone seated. three cast iron grates/ griddles fit side-by-side in the pit to offer a social bbq space and a stainless steel lid was made to convert the bbq into a smoker. when not in use for heating or cooking a composite table top can be laid over the pit as a table for those seated. to tie in with the stepped flower beds, the fire-pit and the fronts of the seats was tiled in slate and the sleepers left to naturally grey, but sanded smooth for comfort.
with flower beds grown-in and removable cushions for the seating area, these two designs works very well together, providing a functional and sociable garden space with seating for 10-12 people.
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