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Outdoor Kitchen Design

November 26, 2014 by admin

Covers are available to keep most grills safe from the elements. Any other parts of your outdoor kitchen should be made of materials that are weatherproof. It is best to select countertops made of materials such as granite and flagstone that will weather well, especially the darker tones. You can seal your granite as well so it will withstand the elements better.

The ideal location for your outdoor grill is one that is close to the house and perferably covered. This will allow you to use the grill even in the Winter. A covered outdoor grill will allow you to use it when the weather is poor, however ventilation should be considered as well. Leave enough ventilation so smoke from the grill can blow away and not suffocate your guests. If your grill is in a totally enclosed area, consider adding an exhaust hood.

As with an indoor kitchen, proper design of the space will make cooking more comfortable and convenient. You don’t have to adopt the traditional work-triangle design, but think carefully about the way you and your guests use the outdoor space.

There should be plenty of space for people to watch you as you cook, and there should be room for foot traffic to flow around the food preparation area. Leave an area for people to sit and socialize without being involved with the cooking. Make sure children won’t be playing near the grill.

Follow these guidelines for an efficient design:

•Put 36 inches of work space on either side of the grill and burners.

•Keep 18 inches to 24 inches of open space on either side of the sink.

•Allow 36 inches to 42 inches between the edge of the dining table and whatever is around it, so people can walk behind the chairs. Place the table well away from any stairs.

•If you’re including an eating counter, allow 24 inches of width per stool and 15 inches of leg room.[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_3″ last=”yes” class=”” id=””][fusion_text][/fusion_text][fusion_separator style_type=”none” top_margin=”” bottom_margin=”30″ sep_color=”” icon=”” width=”” class=”” id=””/][fusion_text][/fusion_text][fusion_separator style_type=”none” top_margin=”” bottom_margin=”30″ sep_color=”” icon=”” width=”” class=”” id=””/][fusion_text][/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_separator style_type=”none” top_margin=”” bottom_margin=”” sep_color=”” icon=”” width=”” class=”” id=””/][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Outdoor Fireplaces vs. Fire Pits

November 26, 2014 by admin

But how do you extend the season in which you can enjoy your space and entertain friends and family? The answer is simple, just add fire!

Fire Pits

Firepits create a communal space that is perfect for entertaining. Your guests will gather around the firepit and stare at the fire for hours. The low profile of the firepit ensures minimal visual impact on the space. The circular seating arrangement will allow for more guests to gather around it compared to a fireplace.

If you’re looking for design flexibility, you could first consider a movable, not built-in fire pit. Because you can place them anywhere, they offer 360-degree access, which makes them perfect for group gatherings and are the most affordable option. If you are certain that you will love your fire pit and want something that is more permanent and more of a statement, consider a built in fire pit.

Outdoor Fireplaces

If you feel that you need a more permanent and eye catching statment to your outdoor spacen, an outdoor fireplace may be what you need. Fireplaces create an intimate hearth feeling and can visually invite guests to the space. An outdoor fireplace creates a living room space outdoors. In addition to providing fire, it will visually define the space and your guests will gravitate towards it. Above the fireplace mantle is a perfect place to hang a TV outdoors. Fireplaces typically cost much more than firepits, however they are also more of a statement. The heaviness of the structure and stone creates a focal point that is also functional.

One advantage to built-in fireplaces is that they’re protected from the elements – namely wind, which can kick up embers and shift the direction of the smoke – and direct smoke upward and away from your guests’ faces. That protection will also make it much easier to light.

As far as materials go, you’ll be building out your fireplace in a material that matches or coordinates with the other materials in your outdoor space: brick, stone, manufactured concrete, whatever matches your space. Aesthetically, the sky’s the limit. Some are wood fueled, and others are hooked into your home’s natural gas line just like any indoor fireplace would be.[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_3″ last=”yes” class=”” id=””][fusion_text][/fusion_text][fusion_separator style_type=”none” top_margin=”” bottom_margin=”25″ sep_color=”” icon=”” width=”” class=”” id=””/][fusion_text][/fusion_text][fusion_separator style_type=”none” top_margin=”” bottom_margin=”25″ sep_color=”” icon=”” width=”” class=”” id=””/][fusion_text][/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_separator style_type=”none” top_margin=”” bottom_margin=”” sep_color=”” icon=”” width=”” class=”” id=””/][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Project Spotlight- Curb Appeal in Oakton, VA

November 4, 2014 by admin

[fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”#faf7ef” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” bordersize=”0px” bordercolor=”” borderstyle=”solid” paddingtop=”30px” paddingbottom=”30px” paddingleft=”30px” paddingright=”30px” menu_anchor=”” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_title size=”2″ content_align=”left” style_type=”single solid” sep_color=”” class=”” id=””]Before[/fusion_title][fusion_text]This client wanted more curb appeal for their beautiful home located in Oakton, VA. In addition to a paver driveway, they wanted some entry columns with lights to accentuate the end of their long driveway. They had two Crape Myrtles that they wanted to keep flanking the driveway.

[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ last=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_text][/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ last=”yes” class=”” id=””][fusion_text][/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_title size=”2″ content_align=”left” style_type=”single solid” sep_color=”” class=”” id=””]Design Phase[/fusion_title][fusion_text]We decided to elaborate upon the column idea in order to keep the entry in scale with the rest of the home. We designed “wing walls” on each side of the driveway, with an interesting, sweeping shape to them to make them more inviting. The tapered heights of the wing walls really create a visual emphasis on the entry. In addition, we designed several options continuing these walls along the street, both with masonry walls and another option with Boxwoods, as a way to create more separation and definition of the front of the property. Ultimately, we decided against this because we felt the walls and columns themselves were enough.

[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ last=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_text][/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ last=”yes” class=”” id=””][fusion_text][/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_title size=”2″ content_align=”left” style_type=”single solid” sep_color=”” class=”” id=””]After[/fusion_title][fusion_text]The paver driveway was installed by milling down the existing asphalt and overlaying it with pavers. This allowed us to keep the driveway base intact. The driveway base material is left on site and we did not have to import much base material at all. In addition to keeping costs down, this method was the most sustainable option we had. The final project turned out outstanding, a very close representation of our original design intent.

M&M Professional Landscaping wins LCA award for 2014!

October 27, 2014 by admin

[fusion_builder_container backgroundcolor=”” backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” bordersize=”0px” bordercolor=”” borderstyle=”solid” paddingtop=”0px” paddingbottom=”0px” paddingleft=”0px” paddingright=”0px” menu_anchor=”” class=”” id=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text]Congratulations to our design team for winning a LCA (Landscape Contractor’s Association) award for 2014! These awards are given to the top landscape contractor’s in Northern Virginia, DC and Maryland. M&M Professional Landscaping was given an Honorable Mention Award in the “Outdoor Living Area” category. The project is located in the Belmont Country club community in Ashburn. We are very honored as it was our first year entering the competition and look forward to creating many more outdoor spaces to enter in the years to come! You can see the full list of winners here[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible” margin_top=”15px” margin_bottom=”” background_color=”rgba(255,255,255,0)”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_separator style_type=”none” sep_color=”” icon=”” width=”” class=”” id=””/][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_3″ last=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_text][/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_3″ last=”no” class=”” id=””][fusion_text][/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_3″ last=”yes” class=”” id=””][fusion_text][/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Landscape Design for the Fall and Winter

October 24, 2014 by admin

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text]When most people think about landscape design, they think about warm weather and plants blooming. While those are certainly the peak seasons to enjoy your outdoor space, the late Fall and Winter seasons should not be left out during the planning stages. In many ways, good landscape design is most obvious when there is snow on the ground, and only the “structure” of the space is left.

Choose plant material with interesting bark and branching structures. A Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick is an often overlooked plant with unrivaled Winter interest. The peeling bark of a Riverbirch will stand out all year, especially in the Winter.

Features such as your BBQ grill and spas should be located close to your home in such a way that you can still use them when there is snow on the ground. Do you want to traverse the cold in your bathing suit to get to your spa when it is 20 degrees outside?

Outdoor fireplaces and firepits are a great way to extend the season as well. Have some friends over for a glass of wine and gather around a warm firepit. If you are not interested in fumbling with wet firewood in the cold, struggling to get that fire lit, consider a gas feature where you can start the flames with the press of a button.

When designing a water feature, consider what it will look like once it is frozen. A frozen waterfall can be breathtaking, in addition it will attract birds and other wildlife searching for a drink.

You will get more enjoyment and value from your space if you keep in mind the Winter season when you are designing your space. Any one of our talented designers can help too, just call us today!

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M & M Landscaping Services

October 3, 2014 by admin

We are a family owned and operated business, serving homeowners and commercial businesses in the greater Northern Virginia area since 1989. Our work can be seen in the finest and most sophisticated landscapes throughout the Washington Metro area. Our clients love our quality and service and return year after year. We offer a complete range of services from concept and design, to construction and implementation along with superb service and quality craftsmanship. Projects include new gardens and garden renovations, plus various structures, stonework, outdoor kitchens and fireplaces, and water features, pools and spas. We also do lighting and irrigation, all lawn care and maintenance, plus custom fences and snow removal.

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