Changes Coming to the East Fork

It’s no secret that the East Fork of the San Gabriel River is both one of the most popular areas in the San Gabriel Mountains as well as one most in need of some TLC. The perennially overused and under-maintained region along East Fork Road and the Oaks Picnic Area are frequently cited by critics…

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Creating Outdoor Living Spaces

We have worked with a few clients over the years that needed to have a larger living space but didn’t have the land or the budget to build a 5,000 square foot custom log home. We recommended that they consider building a home to the maximum size that they could and then adding outdoor living areas to create additional living space.

Even if you don’t live in a warmer climate like California, your outdoor living areas can be designed to complement the weather with fireplaces, overhangs and heaters.

Outdoor Kitchen and BBQ Area

Creating a large cooking area outside can free up a lot of space in your home. We have built some beautiful outdoor cooking areas perfect for barbecuing or everyday cooking.

Outdoor Living Areas

A simple and cost-effective way to gain more space is to build large decks and overhang areas. Include a double-sided fireplace and you can make any deck livable anytime of the year.

Living Roofs

One of the recent projects we completed included the installation of two living roofs. This not only added living space but also helped with insulation and water runoff from the home. There are some design elements that need to be taken into consideration when building a living roof. Water pooling can eventually cause rot and water damage, but done right a living roof can be a great way to increase livable space.

Gazebo

Depending on your land restrictions and your lifestyle, building outdoor livable space directly onto your home may not be feasible. Consider creating a gazebo or other outdoor living structure further away from your residence. This is perfect if you have waterfront property and want a space closer to the water.

Regardless of your budget or lot size, we can help you to design a space that fits with your lifestyle. Visit our gallery and plans section to get some additional inspiration and ideas.

The post Creating Outdoor Living Spaces appeared first on Artisan Custom Log Homes.

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Help Save Murphy Ranch from Demolition

According to the site LAHikes, the Murphy Ranch site in Rustic Canyon is due to be partially demolished by mid-February. The story was picked up by LAist and CurbedLA, who heard from a representative of Councilman Mike Bonin that only some of the buildings were to be demolished, while others were to be sealed with…

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Outdoor Retailer Winter 2016 Highlights: Part 2

Earlier this week, Shawnté gave her initial impressions from Modern Hiker’s very first trip to the Outdoor Retailer show in Salt Lake City. Here are some of my favorite picks from the Outdoor Retailer Winter 2016. Best Way to Stay Dry During El Niño: Columbia Sportswear OutDry Extreme Hiking in the rain can be fun,…

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Outdoor Retailer Winter 2016 Highlights: Part 1

Most industries boast a signature trade show and the massive outdoor industry is no exception – our crowning glory is the biannual Outdoor Retailer extravaganza. This mecca for the adventure-inclined boasts over 1,000 exhibitors, countless educational panels, and a bevy of beer-soaked happy hour events to keep the stoke high. Retailer buyers, outdoor journalists, and athletes attend to discover new trends,…

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