Over the past few years, one of the fastest growing home improvements has been the installation of dedicated outdoor living areas. Often called A-frame patio covers or pergolas, these spaces offer a whole new world of dining and entertainment options. The layout and construction of these spaces is quite varied, ranging from simple covered patios to ornate custom designs boasting fireplaces, kitchens, televisions and cozy seating areas.
While their popularity has increased over the past decade, the growth of pergolas accelerated with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Faced with restaurant closures and restrictions, social distancing requirements and quarantine scenarios, many homeowners turned to custom outdoor living spaces as a way to continue some semblance of normalcy for safely entertaining small groups of family and friends.
One such homeowner is Taylor Ford.
Taylor, his wife Laura and business partner Justin Huffman are the owners of the Covered Patio and Titan Garage Flooring Solutions. Both of these companies are deeply involved in the construction and retrofitting of outdoor living spaces. The Covered Patio, LLC offers a comprehensive array of exterior shade products, including stationary and motorized awnings, screen and four-season rooms and aluminum and wooden patio covers. Titan Garage Flooring Solutions offers custom garage finishing solutions, along with concrete patio coatings which are perfect for modern outdoor living spaces.
Taylor and Laura decided to build their own outdoor entertainment area after seeing the design on social media.
“After working on a number of A-frame/pergola projects, we came across a design that we liked on Pinterest,” says Taylor. “After talking it over, we decided that we wanted to build it for ourselves.”
The design chosen was one of the more elaborate types, consisting of a 16’ by 20’ covered space featuring a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, a fireplace and the capacity to seat 8 to 10 people.
“Our A-frame space includes a grill area that is mounted directly into a granite counter in order to provide a cooking and serving area all in one,” says Taylor. “In addition, we added a fireplace and a television area to round out our entertainment options.”
Soon after finalizing their plans, Taylor and his team went to work on the project, with a total build-out time lasting two weeks, at a cost of approximately $50,000 dollars. After the construction, was complete, the Fords were very pleased with the results.
“Our A-frame project has greatly expanded our ability to entertain and dine outdoors on a year-round basis,” says Taylor. “Being able to spend time outside with family and friends, regardless of the weather, is priceless.”
For homeowners who may be contemplating their own outdoor living space project, Taylor has some advice based upon his personal and professional experience.
“Before you embark on your project, be sure to set a budget that you are comfortable with,” says Taylor. “Changes and additions can drive your costs up quickly if you don’t stay disciplined.”
Along with managing the financial aspects of the project, Taylor also recommends designing and building your patio space to adapt to changing needs.
“Be sure to take into account the potential for future family growth (e.g. children, grandchildren) when designing your outdoor living area,” says Taylor. “Make sure that you build your space large enough so that you can continue to enjoy it comfortably with your family and friends.
If you are contemplating building your own outdoor living space, be sure to reach out to Taylor and his team for sage professional advice before beginning your project.
The Covered Patio
414 Andover Drive,
Smyrna, TN 37167
615.649.7757
