Blog

Why Your Outdoor Kitchen Needs Hardscape

Planning the outdoor kitchen of your dreams? Make sure you take the proper time to consider what hardscape elements you should include in your outdoor kitchen design to get the most out of your project.

When it comes to landscape and outdoor kitchen designs, there are two different categories that landscaping experts use to to create a beautiful, functional space: softscape and hardscape. Softscape is the “living” aspect of any landscaper’s design and is what pops into most people’s mind when they think of landscapes. It includes the horticultural components; living and growing things like flowers, shrubs, and trees. For example, your outdoor kitchen may include the softscape components of climbing vines and a surrounding well-maintained lawn.

While hardscape elements may not be as well-known, it does not mean that they are any less important when it comes to your outdoor kitchen design. Hardscape elements are the hard, yet moveable elements of design. These elements are unchanging and be natural or man-made. Some common forms of hardscape include:

• Gravel
• Pavers & Flagstone
• Water Features
• Retaining Walls
• Arbors & Pergolas
• Decks & Drives

When it comes to your outdoor kitchen, the right hardscape design can enhance your experience in a number of ways. Keep reading to learn why every landscaping project needs to include a proper hardscape design.

Keep Your Outdoor Kitchen Environmentally Friendly

If you live in an area that’s experiencing a severe dry spell, like California, you’re going to want to make sure your home is as drought-resistant as possible. Luckily, hardscape elements are a great way to artfully break up a outdoor kitchen’s space without the need of constant watering. This is a great way help conserve the earth’s limited supply of fresh water.

This environmentally friendly move can also be financially smart. Save money by replacing your money-eating lawn with cut gravel. Your local landscaping team can help you choose shrubs and vegetation that are drought resistant. Now instead of having to water your lawn three times a week just to keep it alive, you can use hardscape elements to create a beautiful landscape surrounding your outdoor kitchen that doesn’t need a lot of attention.

Enhance Your Guests’ Experience

If you love hosting parties and plan to have a lot of guests over at your outdoor kitchen, use hardscape material to enhance your guests’ experience.

Use hardscape material to help your guests navigate with ease. An artfully arranged stone path is a great way to guide guests to and from your outdoor kitchen. No longer will you have to worry about wandering guests leaving trails on your perfectly maintained lawn. For a special touch, have your landscaper add pathway lanterns to your stone or gravel path. This will create an magical effect once the sun sets and a soft glow appears to assist your guests.

A second way you can use hardscape to enhance your guests’ experience is to create shade using pergolas and arbors. These unique structures not only offer shelter from the sun, they also make a picturesque hideaway for guests to mingle. Gardeners will love their added benefit of planting space. It’s very possible for one to grow both flowers and vegetables. If one of your outdoor kitchen dreams is to have fresh herbs and vegetables growing within hand’s reach, make sure you tell your landscaping team. They’ll make sure the structures are ready for planting and growing in no time. Soon you and your guests will be enjoying fresh food beneath the shade of these hardscape elements.

Showcase Your Personality

Outdoor kitchens are becoming a popular addition to many American homes. Don’t let your outdoor kitchen project become lost in the crowd. After all, if you’re going to be investing in something as large as an outdoor kitchen, you’re going to want to make it memorable. Use hardscape elements to customize your outdoor kitchen.

Showcase your unique personality by using exotic stones to accent your outdoor kitchen’s countertops. Add a winding stone path that connects your outdoor kitchen to an enchanting waterfall. Attach a deck to gain additional eating options for yourself, your family, and your guests. Use arches to frame the entryway and exitway of your outdoor kitchen. The possibilities are endless.

Start Planning Your Hardscape Design

When it comes to planning your hardscape design, the details feel overwhelming. It’s common for many homeowners to feel this way, especially when they are also in the middle of picking out everything else they need for an outdoor kitchen. Luckily no homeowner, including you, has to do this alone.

When it comes to your hardscape needs, reach out to your local landscaping company. They’ll know hardscape elements work best for your area. If you live in the Santa Cruz or Watsonville area, reach out to K&D Landscaping, Inc. These landscaping experts will be happy to bring your outdoor kitchen and landscape visions to live.

by cmgroup

5 Essential Appliances Your Outdoor Kitchen Needs

If you've been developing an outdoor kitchen so that you can come home and enjoy an experience that rivals cooking and eating indoors, you've probably been dreaming of all the appliances you'd like to add to it. That is, if you haven't already stocked up on many of the basic appliances.

So, whether you are expanding or adding appliances for the first time, it isn't that hard to find good appliances for your outdoor kitchen. The key purchasing consideration for most families is how durable the product will actually be. If your backyard is in colder areas with lots of storms, you might put more wear on your grill than the average Californian will because the elements can be destructive.

Fortunately, most appliances ship with an anticipated life span so that you can determine how many years of use you will get out of them. The more expensive an appliance is, the longer it is likely last. However, you should always consider getting a warranty for additional financial safety. After all, it doesn't hurt to be prepared.

Now, aside from the basic appliances outdoor kitchens need to function, there are some key appliances that you should consider adding if you want to get the most enjoyment possible.

Turn your home into the jewel of the neighborhood when you add these 5 essential appliances to your outdoor kitchen.

1. Grill

It is almost impossible to imagine any kind of cowboy cookout with your kids or pirate cocktail party with friends without a decent grill that can cook meat and vegetables all year around. When couples get started with their outdoor kitchen, they often use a barbecue grill that is portable and not built-in to a countertop. If you live in an area where the weather changes during wintertime, you might be tempted keep some of that portability factor for easier storage.

However, there are some gas grills that are designed to be set into counters and then removed periodically. If you buy one of those, it could be stored in a shed or garage while you are waiting for the weather to change. In addition, you'll enjoy the extra beauty a countertop grill brings to your outdoor kitchen.

And while there are electric grills available, unless you have a solar installation powering your electric grill, you will probably have a more enjoyable cooking experience if you use gas. However, the choice is really up to you. Take the time to consider the most important features you want your grill to have before you make your purchase. After all, you'll be the one who has to use it every time you entertain guests. It makes sense to chose a grill you'll fall in love with every time you use it.

2. Smoker

If you want to give your meat a flavorful twist, you need to invest in a quality smoker. Cooking with a smoker allows you to create food that has hickory or barbecue flavor that cannot be achieved when you are simply cooking on a grill. That is largely because most smokers are like an outdoor oven that filters a lot of smoke from wood pellets through the food that you are cooking. With a large variety of flavored cooking pellets available, it's easy to find a smoky flavor your tastebuds can't get enough of. You can even experiment and create new family recipes.

As you become expert with your smoker, you'll probably learn which type of wood flavors goes best with specific types of meat. Soon your backyard cookouts will become the talk of the neighborhood. Everyone will be eagerly anticipating an invitation to your next barbecue.

3. Pizza Oven

Having a brick pizza oven in your outdoor kitchen is a sign that you have arrived. You can cook pizza on a stone or create tandoori chicken any night of the week. You can also bake artesan Italian style breads and desserts with ease.

Interestingly enough, most Argentines have an outdoor pizza oven as one of the first appliances that they have in their yard because for old world or new world favorites, it will be one of the more popular things that you could demonstrate for friends and family.

With so many pizza fans in the world, it's easy to get a lot of value out of your pizza oven. One way is to create precious memories. Imagine how much fun you kids will have create their own personal pizza and eating it beneath the arbors of your outdoor kitchen.

4. Refrigerator

There are several refrigerators that you could get for your outdoor kitchen. The most inexpensive are the college dorm style, which are about 1/5 the size of a normal refrigerator and can be moved back into storage when the weather starts to change in late Autumn.

Some people prefer to get specialty refrigerators for the outdoors that offer more space for trays of food and condiments. If you find that you are entertaining often, it might be worth your while to look at customized sizes that can hold your appetizers and desserts while you wait.

Have your local landscaping expert make sure your outdoor kitchen is connected to a proper irrigation system. With water that freely flows to and from your indoor kitchen, you'll be able to keep your outdoor fridge well stocked with ice and cold water.

5. Soda fountain

If you have children, a soda fountain is one item that can make a lasting impact on their lives. Learning how to make their own soda will nurture their curiosity and creativity. Furthermore, if they can learn that healthy food can be enjoyable when they use natural ingredients in their soda creations.

Don't want to leave too many appliances in the kitchen at a time? No problem! There are several compact soda fountains available that are easily portable. Also, if you want to add more overall value, add carbon dioxide containers to your soda fountain. By doing so, you'll have a custom system that feeds live beer and soda from taps, just like at your local restaurant. This added feature can add an extra touch of professionalism and class to the evening. You should definitely add this feature if you're someone who likes to entertain business partners and clients.

Getting Started

Deciding which appliances would benefit your kitchen most can be challenging. And that's before you have to decide what crucial features you want each appliance to have. It's easy to see how this task can quickly become overwhelming. However, it doesn't have to be hard. Take a deep breath and relax. Soon you'll start to enjoy the thrill of finding the perfect additions to your outdoor kitchen.

After all, finding appliances for your outdoor kitchen is one of the more enjoyable design tasks that you could have during the year. As long as your outdoor appliances meet your durability test, you should consider being as creative as possible. Does the grill you want handle paella pans? Does your smoker auto-feed pellets to maintain an even smoke experience? Whatever the feature, if it is within your budget and will enhance your cooking experience, it will be worth the investment.

If you'd like to learn more about how to enhance your outdoor kitchen experience, reach out to K&D Landscaping, Inc. Their team of landscaping experts will be happy to help you meet your outdoor kitchen goals.

by cmgroup

Why Every Outdoor Kitchen Needs A Proper Irrigation System

Outdoor kitchens fit perfectly into landscaping design and planning. They are as useful as they are attractive. Today's landscaping professionals strive for the total picture of outdoor comfort and relaxation. With details like fire pits, pavers and flagstone paths, and artful garden stepping stones, it's easy to see how an outdoor kitchen can add to your property value. However, convenience is also important. A proper irrigation system is a big convenience for anyone with an outdoor kitchen.

Why Irrigation Systems Matter

A well- designed outdoor kitchen receives frequent use and must include a proper irrigation system. This is especially important when your backyard has been customized with a beautiful landscape.

If you've already invested in an irrigation system, you'll want your outdoor kitchen equipment system to be linked to it. This will help you avoid damaging water run off and expensive water bills. To save money and prevent future damage, it is crucial your outdoor kitchen has a proper irrigation system.

In addition to the already stated benefits, you will also be able to enjoy added convenience.  An outdoor kitchen without adequate water sources means lugging water from indoor sources. Furthermore, Outdoor water faucets for these kitchens can also result in additional landscaping repair costs if homeowners have no access to a state-of-the-art irrigation system.

Consult with Landscaping Experts

It's best to plan your irrigation system when you plan an outdoor kitchen. Avoid costly mistakes by seeking the advice of your local landscaping experts before you start building. Californians take no chances with landscaping results. This explains why Central Coast residents choose K&D Landscaping, Inc. for all of their landscaping needs, including installing a flawless irrigation system.

Our landscaping team is fully trained in landscaping design, planning and installations. Due to our many years of experience, our company has received industry recognition and numerous awards. When it comes to the importance of water efficient landscapes for California residents, there is no landscaping team more reliable than us.

Sometimes, an outdoor kitchen may require more than just an update. However, all outdoor kitchen irrigation systems require regular inspections and minor maintenance to prevent costly damage. Prevent these problems in the near and distant future by having a professional landscaping team install and maintain your irrigation system.

Make The Time To Find The Right Design

Want to make your outdoor kitchen stand out from the crowd? Consider having your new irrigation system attached to an outdoor kitchen bar center. This addition is quickly gaining popularity in trending outdoor kitchen designs. Bar centers require ice bins and features like bar sink stations. For this type of design, it's important that you have a good system to brings water to your outdoor kitchen faucets and sinks. After all, no one wants to run out of ice and water in the middle of a lively backyard party.

It's also important that this system reroutes drainage water away from dining areas and garden landscapes. Irrigation systems for outdoor kitchens should work very similarly to indoor water piping.

What Is The Best Irrigation System For Your Home?

We provides a broad range of irrigation system designs that fit your family's needs at K&D Landscaping, Inc. Each design is fully functional.  You won't have to wait long until your outdoor kitchen is ready for all backyard social events.

When we design an irrigation system for outdoor kitchens, our expert design team considers the location and the specific type of equipment needed. We also keep the overall lay of the landscape in mind. For example, a backyard with a slight downward slant will need a little extra attention to detail. We do this to ensure the irrigation system is installed right. For example, water that needs to go to outdoor sinks should always flow effortlessly through the irrigation piping. This helps protect the integrity of the soil without compromising the style of the landscape.

By using a control system, your K&D irrigation system will work separately from your garden sprinkling system.  Imagine how happy your outdoor kitchen users will be when they always have as much water as they need for cooking and other activities.

What Is The Installment Process Like?

It takes only a relatively short time to install a new irrigation system for most outdoor kitchens. Our professional team takes great care to leave your property as we found it: ready for use and enjoyment. In fact, many of our customers have expressed their satisfaction with the attention to detail and high quality work we provide without disturbing their landscaping.

What Material Should You Use?

Irrigation systems need to be durable and dependable. You can do this by using high quality materials like PVC or Polyethylene piping. At K&D Landscaping, we make sure all water systems meet all state water regulations. As a result, our irrigation systems are designed, fabricated and installed in compliance to California's water conservation regulations.

Relax and rest easy when you choose to work with K&D Landscaping.  Our team always uses landscaping materials that are environmentally responsible and friendly. In short, the material we use is perfect for anyone who wants a beautiful outdoor kitchen without hurting the environment.

Are you ready to add an irrigation system to your outdoor kitchen? Visit our website to get started. Or, call 831-728-4018 to speak to one of our team members today.

by cmgroup

How To Get The Most Value Out Of Your Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor kitchens are not only functional and make great places to enjoy the view or gorgeous landscaping, they also add value to the property. However, in order to fulfill all the hopes and dreams of the homeowner, outdoor kitchens need to have certain features that make the difference between a great outdoor kitchen and a sorry excuse for one.

According to the landscaping architecture experts, planning is the single most important step when building an outdoor kitchen. It should look like an intricate part of the home and not an obvious addition. There are many different designs of outdoor kitchens and to get the best for your home, it is worth taking time to plan. Here are five things you must consider before building an outdoor kitchen.

1. What Are Your Outdoor Kitchen Goals?

Is your main aim to invite friends and entertain outdoors or for small family gatherings? Are you a grilling aficionado who dreams of grilling or smoking all sorts of meats, fish and veggies? Do you want to avoid using your indoor kitchen during the summer months because it heats up your house?

The unique reasons you want an outdoor kitchen will influence its design. If you plan to entertain, you may want to include other landscaping to enhance the beauty of your outdoor kitchen. Adding pergolas is a great way to create shade and a beautiful hideaway to enchant guests with.  Including details such as low stone walls or a water feature is a subtle way to influence the mood of your social events.

2. Which Hardscape Complements Your Home Best?

The transition from the indoors to the outdoor kitchen should be harmonious.  You don't want the size of the kitchen to overwhelm the backyard or to look so tiny it appears to be just an afterthought. Designers can incorporate several structural elements such as cabinets, screens and pergolas to make the kitchen effortlessly fit into its surroundings.

A designer will want to know the size of appliances you plan to install and how many. The appliances you choose such as a cooktop, refrigerator and sink will also have a bearing on the size of the kitchen. For example, if you plan on hiring caters, you may need more working surfaces.

3. Which Appliances Will Enhance Your Experience?

Sofas with cushions, a TV, fireplace, bar and dining area are all possibilities according to how elaborate you want the area to be. You can enjoy the outdoor weather with all the comforts of sitting inside. Your landscape designer will know tricks for the best use of the space available such as a large table that can be used for counter space, a buffet and for dining. A waterfall or pond are popular water features that add to the atmosphere. Make sure a TV is installed out of the elements and away from the cooking heat. For a small space, a barbecue island that has all the essentials including countertops and storage cabinets may be the best option.

4. Should You Add A Roof, Pergolas, Or Trellises & Arbors?

Depending on where you live and when you plan to use your outdoor kitchen, you should consider whether to have a roof or not. There are other options such as a pergola, which is great for reducing heat from sunlight. However, you may need a roof and heat lamps or a fire pit if you want to use your outdoor kitchen from spring through fall. Before finalizing the position of cooking surfaces and furniture, consider the climate, wind direction and rain. It is also essential to have flooring that is not slippery when it is wet. If you want a grill, a designer will not install it under eves or a roof unless it has a professionally installed ventilation hood. You need plenty of clearance space between the heat source and the ceiling.

5. What's The Perfect Location For Your Outdoor Kitchen?

Some of the factors to consider for location include ventilation. The smoke from the grill should not blow back into the house. The location of your cooking surface is another consideration because if you plan to entertain, you do not want to be carrying heavy pots or platters for long distances. In addition, the location of the grill should not be right next to the place where children and adults are playing on the grass. Furthermore, you do not want to block the spectacular view that is the main reason you wanted an outdoor kitchen.

Work with your landscaping design team to figure out the best location for your outdoor kitchen. It should be somewhere that allows the kitchen to be aesthetically pleasing, functional, easily assessable and safe.

What's The Next Step?

When you take the time to consider all the factors of an attractive, functional and safe outdoor kitchen, you will have a better chance of enjoying it for years. If you are planning to do extensive landscaping in your yard such as a swimming pool, retaining walls and a water feature, designers recommend that you incorporate your outdoor kitchen into the overall design.

For the best experience possible, experts recommend working with a local landscaping company. If your a resident of the Central Coast, K&D Landscaping Inc. would be happy to help bring your outdoor kitchen dreams to life. Just give us a call at 831-278-8855 to get started.

by cmgroup

5 Biggest Mistakes in Landscape Design

So, you've done all you can to make the interior of your home a wonderful oasis for you and your family. You have your favorite place to read, your favorite spot to relax after a long day at work, the nice kitchen you've always wanted to share a meal with friends and family. But now you've turned your sights outward and have decided to bring the exterior of your home to the same level of sophistication as the inside, right? That's a great move. Many find the way your home looks from the outside to be just as important as how it appears on the inside. But before you go too crazy on making your landscaping fantasies into realities, let's take a quick look at some of the biggest mistakes those looking to do it themselves often make in their landscaping designs.

1. UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF SITE PLANNING

A big step many overlook is the overall planning stage. All the elements in landscape in a landscape need to flow together cohesively, so it is important to know how they will integrate. It's important to undertake thorough site planning so you know how the pieces of the puzzle will fit together. Stock up on the tools your job requires so they're available just as you need them. This will help avoid any procrastination on your part and keep your job on track.

2. Plant Selection and Soil Preparation

Selecting the right plants and trees for your yard, geographical location and soil type is important. Some trees may end up being too large for the location you planted them in. For example planting a Redwood tree under powerlines can lead to heavy pruning. “Right plant right place” is a saying we often refer to. Some plants will not do well in poorly drained soil and some plants thrive in wet conditions. In some cases, we may even have locations in our yard that the water drains to and selecting the right plant for each section of the yard is important.

Depending on your soil type you may need to perform some soil preparation. This includes adding organic soil amendment and fertilizers to the soil to help balance PH and provide the plants with an ideal growing medium. Overlooking the soil preparation can be a costly mistake and lead to plant replacement. By choosing the right plants for your location and coupling that with proper soil preparation you will increase your success rate.

3. Make Sure You Know how to Irrigate

This is where redoing your landscape design gets extremely technical. Irrigation can be tricky, especially if you try to do it yourself. This is important to ensure that the new plants you want in your yard get water even while you're away. You're there to plant them, but you might not always be around to water them. This is even more important for those of you who like to travel. You don't want to come back to a yard full of dead plants because you didn't have a way to water them.

If your yard already has a built-in sprinkler system, great, you're all set. But a lot of times this is an additional step in landscaping that you're going to have to think about. Irrigation systems can not only save you time and money, but they can also help you save water. This will be an increasingly important issue in the near future. Irrigation systems run more efficiently nowadays, some even being able to sense when your lawn requires watering and only watering during those times. Landscaping has gotten technical!

4. Don't Evade the thought of Erosion

Many people who find their yards to be less than appealing visually might think that because they have a yard that is prone to erosion. Maybe you live in an area prone to heavy rain, which makes it hard to retain your soil. Or maybe you live in a hilly neighborhood and find it difficult to plant things because you don't have a flat surface to do so? These issues can all be solved and avoided by building a retaining wall before planting begins.

Retaining walls themselves can become an important aesthetic element to your yard, which is why they're important to get right. Don't just settle for any design. Instead, find one that works with the rest of your home and complements it. Consider the material and the manner of construction you'll use. You'll also need to form a solid base first to avoid the wall itself from falling victim to the erosion we just discussed.

5. Make Sure You Account for Wildlife

If you live in an area that is known for having very active wildlife, make sure that you know what you might be getting yourself into when redoing your landscape. It's important to not plant too many things that will attract animals. Otherwise they'll show up every night looking for a snack and you'll only be left with more work to do the next day. Deer resistant plantings are of the utmost importance in many areas of Santa Cruz county and Monterey county. Many landscaping companies have proven expertise in these areas, so you should plan on doing adequate research if you're going to take a project like this on yourself.

Take this as an opportunity to plant things that will repel these animals rather than draw them in.

If all of this seems too daunting, as IT DOES FOR MANY PEOPLE, don't be afraid to seek help in your landscaping endeavors. Contact K & D Landscaping for your Landscape design needs; we make it our business to ensure these mistakes are avoided.

K & D Landscaping
Design – Install – Maintain
831-539-0619

by cmgroup

Increase the Value of Your Outdoor Kitchen with Pergolas, Trellises & Arbors

Because of the near perfect climate here, outdoor kitchens stay open year-round. Further encourage their use by adding more beauty nearby from pergolas, trellises, and arbors. It makes sense to upgrade outdoor rooms, adding more comfort and direction to encourage easy access and use.

Adding such hardscape features works well with many existing designs. Fill an empty space, create an entrance to the outdoor kitchen or provide a space for climbing vines to grow. The addition of a well-conceived, quality structure makes the landscape more complete and often worth more, raising property values.

Adding Hardscapes to the Yard

Consider the landscape surroundings. Does it feel like something is missing there? Envision a slatted pergola with fragrant, flowering vines delicately creeping upward filling the void. Add seating inside the structure, if desired, to offer a hide-a-way and a private place of retreat. Perhaps there is a spot to attach the pergola to the home. If new construction is underway, such a structure fits right into the design plans and can increase the overall value of your home.

Use a pergola to cover an existing patio. The options are numerous, and styles are limited only by the imagination. Attach a matching trellis for the ultimate in vertical growing, giving a unique perspective to the grounds.

Use a Trellis with the Pergola

Trellis structures come in different forms and designs and are used as both functional and decorative elements in the landscape. The trellis, in any form, directs the growth of both ornamental plants and edibles. Adding a trellis to a pergola can afford more privacy inside the pergola. The trellis functions as a wall when located at the end or side of the pergola and serves a variety of purposes that can add to the benefits of your outdoor kitchen.

Perfect Addition to the Outdoor Kitchen

Utilize the trellis inside the pergola as a support for twining vegetables. Not only will this create a lovely display, but you will conveniently have fresh vegetables growing near your outdoor kitchen! Some varieties of tomatoes, cucumbers, and even melons can grow on a trellis; however, it should be constructed with materials that are sturdy enough to support heavy harvests. Use the trellis as a base for a living wall, filled with other vegetables and herbs to harvest right from the comfort of your outdoor kitchen. Trellis can even support grapes and other fruiting vines.

Plant vines that climb on the outdoor structures are a popular way to create a hassle-free decorative display. Annual flowering vines add a special touch to the pergola wall and provide shade for plants growing in the interior. This enables the gardener to grow shade-loving plants that might not otherwise survive the hot summer afternoons here. Dappled or filtered sun inside of the pergola encourages growing many different kinds of flowers and foliage plants, much to the delight of any gardener.

Blooms in the Landscape

Display hanging baskets inside the pergola, or from the top of the trellis. Fill them with fragrant, cascading foliage, such as jasmines or the Moonflower whose blossoms open in the evening. Coordinate flowers and vines with hanging baskets. If you want to add a special touch to you outdoor kitchen, go exotic with tropical plants such as the Plumeria. Commonly called Frangipani, or fragrant flower, this blooming beauty is low-care and tolerant of poor conditions and neglect. This small tree propagates from cuttings and is a fun undertaking for homeowners interested in this type of project. Use the umbrella shape of the Plumeria to provide summer shade near the pergola. This beautiful display is sure to impress your neighbors and wow your guests.

Don't Forget Arbor Entrances

Add coordinating arbors to mark the entrance to the outdoor kitchen. If not yet added, lay a beautiful walkway or scenic garden path to go through the arbor. Pathways can lead to secret spots in the garden, or guide new guests where you want them. Arbors, of course, are a beautiful means of supporting flowers and climbing vines. Use them as exits, as well, or pass-throughs to other outdoor rooms.

If You Don't Want to DIY

Perhaps planting and growing is not an agreeable chore or something for which no time is available. Yet there is a wish for a manicured landscape with flowing beauty in a way that raises property value. Count on the professionals at K&D Landscaping, Inc. for all of your planting and hardscape needs. Years of experience allow familiarity with local soils, temperatures and what grows best where. If an addition to the landscape is desired, count on K&D. If a new landscape needs structures and a master design plan, K&D has expert designers. Whatever the outdoor need, don't neglect to call K&D Landscaping, Inc. Browse our previous work and give us a call to learn more.

K & D Landscaping
Design – Install – Maintain
831-728-4018

by cmgroup

5 Details To Consider Before Building Your Outdoor Kitchen

Feel like there's not enough room in your kitchen to accommodate your family's and your hosting needs? An outdoor kitchen is perfect solution for the homeowner who wants to expand their living space. Adding an outdoor kitchen to your home is a fantastic way to create more room to  cook, eat and entertain. In order to ensure an outdoor kitchen will be as welcoming as it is functional, it's important that you carefully plan a design that's tailored to your family's unique needs. Consider these five crucial factors when planning an outdoor kitchen for you and your family to enjoy:

1. Budget

One of the most important factors you as a homeowner must consider when planning an outdoor kitchen is your family's budget and how much you can afford to set aside for this important project. If you don't stay within the family budget when planning your outdoor kitchen, the overwhelming expense could unfortunately take away from the enjoyment the area is meant to provide. Checking out salvage yards and reuse businesses for like-new cabinets, countertops and waterproof appliances can be easy on the budget. Furthermore, if the pieces are in good condition, it's entirely possible no one will even notice the pieces aren't brand new.

If you're not completely comfortable with building on your own, consider buying material from stores. Big-box stores carry modular components that can be mixed and matched to suit individual tastes. Discount stores are ideal shopping stops for practical, affordable outdoor furniture and weatherproof accessories. Benches with storage areas can serve multiple purposes. Don't forget to consider stores that sell camping supplies. Most camping materials are designed to be compact and efficient when it comes to washing and serving.

Add to the beauty of the area and set the mood with affordable, local landscaping plants. For example, such greenery as moss, ferns and hostas can attractively complement a peaceful living area. Make sure you reach out to your local landscaping professionals to find out which plants would thrive alongside and enhance your outdoor kitchen the most.

2. Location

As is the case when considering real estate, location is also an important factor in planning an outdoor kitchen. You need to consider both safety and convenience when designing the layout for an outdoor kitchen area. An indoor kitchen can be a dangerous area if everyone's not careful, and an outdoor kitchen is no different. The grill shouldn't be placed near the kids' play area. In addition, the grill should also be away from where a prevailing wind might blow smoke toward the house. To aid in convenience, your outdoor kitchen should be near the entrance of the indoor kitchen. This makes it easier for the cook to transport food and utensils to and from designated cooking areas.

In the world of design, the plan for convenient access throughout the living area is known as flow. Dependent on your family's unique needs, planning for flow is probably the most individualized factor in designing an outdoor kitchen. Make sure you express your overall flow desires to your landscaping team to ensure your vision is accurately brought to life.

3. Landscape

When planning the design of your outdoor kitchen, consider  using the same materials for the outdoor kitchen as those that decorate the home and surrounding buildings. An outdoor kitchen design that doesn't incorporate the same materials as the home will stick out like a sore thumb. It's important to view your outdoor kitchen as an extension of your residence. Try to find ways to link the two together in an aesthetically pleasing way. For example, the same type of flooring that's used in the indoor kitchen can attractively help guests navigate between the indoor and outdoor area of your home. If the outdoor kitchen is not directly adjacent to the home, a charming paved pathway can provide an inviting welcome to the area.

4. Size Matters

The size of the outdoor kitchen should be compatible with the home. An over-sized outdoor living area will make an already small home appear even smaller. A good-sized outdoor kitchen will be a nice complement to a large home. Likewise, a small outdoor kitchen will be a perfect addition to a small residence. The size of the home shouldn't overtake the outdoor kitchen and vice versa. A practical option for a small residence might be a barbecue island, which could incorporate such essentials as a countertop and grill in a compact area.

5. Lighting

Because the kitchen will be outdoors, the you might think it'll receive plenty of light. Unfortunately, this misconception can lead to the failure to plan to include necessary lighting. Outdoor entertaining often takes place after dark, so it's important that both task and ornamental lighting factor into your outdoor kitchen plan.

Night cooking requires plenty of bright task lighting, and with sufficient ambient and ornamental lighting, the dining area can be the inviting place it's meant to be. Halogen lights are especially helpful above the grill, as they emit a natural white light perfect for cooking tasks.

Planning on building an outdoor kitchen with a roof? Consider adding a ceiling fan with handy downlights. Ceiling fans with downlights serve at least two purposes:

1. They effectively illuminate the dining and sitting areas
2. The fans chase away mosquitoes and other unwanted insects

Make sure you talk to your landscaping team about including powerful energy savers like dimmers and speed controls. Not only will these additions help you save on your energy bill, but dimmers are also valuable for all types of outdoor lighting due to their ability to add to the evening's overall mood.

If you find yourself feeling completely overwhelmed while planning the design of your family's outdoor kitchen, don't worry! A lot of homeowners feel the same way when it comes to expanding their living area. Don't be afraid to seek help from a reliable, local landscaping team. If you live in the Watsonville and Santa Cruz area, consider reaching out to K&D Landscaping, Inc. With over 30 years of experience, this award-winning landscape company knows exactly how to bring your outdoor kitchen vision to life. Take the first step towards achieving your family's outdoor kitchen goals by contacting K&D Landscaping, Inc. today.

by cmgroup

Why You Should Be Investing in Your Landscape

by cmgroup

A Brief History of Landscaping

The idea of a landscape company is relatively new but the art is nowhere close to being a recent discovery. Though it may seem like a modern invention, public and residential landscaping has been practiced throughout history for hundreds of years by many different cultures. For each culture, landscaping represented something different and was made up of different elements.

Basic Elements of Landscaping

Before we get into the long history of landscaping, let’s first take a look at the elements included in lawns and gardens throughout the years. These elements can be broken into two different categories: softscaping and hardscaping. Softscaping involves the living elements of the landscape. This includes trees, flowers, plants, shrubs, and others. Hardscape elements are non-living additions like water features, paths, statues, patios, and more. Both softscape and hardscape pieces are used in landscape design. Each type plays a distinct role in the landscape and each works with the other to create the intended ambiance.

European Gardens

Many people believe that landscaping rose to popularity during the ancient Roman era. The garden, back then, was an area devoted to peace and served as an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. These gardens were usually designed based around religious and symbolic elements and often held both softscape and hardscape elements. Roman gardens were highly influenced by Greek, Egyptian, and Persian gardening techniques.

Unfortunately, the art of landscaping got lost somewhere during the middle ages and emerged to popularity again during the Renaissance period. Landscaping in Italy during this time period grew from basic gardens to outdoor piazzas and elaborate villas. Prevalence only grew and designs became more sophisticated and ornate. In the 17th century France, we have such high end landscaping examples as the gardens at Versailles and Vaux-le-Vicomte, designed by Andre le Notre.

These two designs alone inspired a whole generation of 18th-century landscapers in England, including William Kent and Lancelot Capability Brown. These men created multiple large parks, remodeled the grounds at Blenheim Palace, and incorporated architecture in order to work with and imitate nature.

Islamic Gardens

The Islamic gardens in the middle east were zones created for rest, reflection, and to serve as a reminder of paradise. The idea of paradise revolved around water, fruit trees, flowers, and shade. Unlike many European gardens that were created for walking, these gardens were made for peaceful contemplation and sitting. These gardens were also often enclosed in order to shut out the roughness of the surrounding land. Man made canopies and pavilions offered shade. Islamic gardens also featured ornate architecture that often showcased fractal geometry and domes.

Asian Gardens

The gardens and landscaping of Asian countries have been well-documented (and some well-preserved) throughout the years. In Japan, landscapes were typically influenced by the major religions of the day. This included Shintoism, Taoism, and Zen Buddhism. The Japanese gardens, including rock gardens and zen gardens, were created as places for quiet reflection or meditation. Japanese gardens were made to represent the peacefulness of nature and provide people a place to silently look back on themselves. Often, these gardens included water features, waterfalls, stones, bridges, trees, and plants.

The gardens of China were built for visitors to contemplate nature, both alone and socially. They were called the Chinese Scholar’s Garden. They were designed to offer a spiritual utopia. People could go to these gardens to reconnect with nature, become one with one’s heart, and re-establish ancient idealism. In order to be considered a genuine garden, the landscaping needed to be designed and built according to 17 necessary elements. Plants in these gardens were symbolic. The most common were bamboo, which was used in every Chinese garden. Bamboo represents strength and resilience of character.

Malaysian gardens are also known as Neo Nusantara traditional gardens. These focus showcase outdoor living designs inspired by Malaysian crafts and culture. These gardens serve as a peaceful sanctuary where one can relax and refresh their senses. This style of landscape has been adopted by many around the world.

North American Landscapes

Many North American landscapes were influenced by Sir Humphry Repton, who created both the Birkenhead Park and Victoria Park in Liverpool. However, the two parks greatly influenced landscape architecture in Canada and the United States.

However, it was Frederick Law Olmsted that was named the “Father of American Landscape Architecture.” Even though he initially rejected the title at first, his styles gradually seeped into American architectures, including the U.S. Capitol Grounds and Central Park in New York. He famously used a concept on functional, well-designed parks with plenty of green pastures among the city buildings. He also founded the American Society of Landscape Architects in New York in 1899. This group represented the majority of architects in based in the United States. Eventually, Frederick Law Olmsted’s son took his first course in landscape architecture in 1900 at Harvard University, following his father’s footsteps.

The major movement that he created began to influence city architecture in the 20th century, which led to the L’Enfant Plan in 1901. From then on, Cleveland and Chicago began using landscape architects to develop and create urban parks and residencies. In the 1902’s urban planning became its own degree program from landscape architecture. However, landscape architecture even today plays a large role in both urban design and planning.

The history of landscaping is long and rich. Outdoor spaces meant different things for different people around the world, though many recognized the relaxing effect nature can have. From ancient Asia to current day America, high end landscaping is still going strong, though nowadays the focus is on residential landscaping. No matter where in the world or when in time, landscaping has played a mighty role.

A landscape company like K&D Landscaping can help you to transform your yard into the green space of your dreams. Regardless of your style, you will likely incorporate elements of the past into your residential landscaping. Contact K&D Landscaping today for more information about high end landscaping.

by cmgroup

Landscape Design and Install Trends for 2017

Looking to add more to your boring lawn or outdoor vibe?? Even if you had a previous residential landscaping overhaul, you still have to maintenance it, so why not install a few small additions that can improve its aesthetic? In this guide, we will be taking you through some of the most common high end landscaping trends of 2017 that you can have your local landscape team install in your lawn.

Natural Stone Steps

Natural stone steps are one of the best ways to add a natural feature to your garden path and deepen your garden’s naturalistic style. Plus, it will also give your visitors more of a reason to take their time walking along your garden. Stone steps landscape installation can also give your garden more complex context that can complement the style of your home. Planting ferns and setting boulders in place along your stone step path can also add to the naturalistic appeal of your landscape.

Bistro Lights

Bistro lights, otherwise known as string lights, are a common trend in landscape lighting design. You can easily swing them around your pool or patio area to help set the mood for backyard parties. At the same time, these lights can create a peaceful atmosphere for anyone to enjoy. You can also get a dimmer switch for your landscape lighting that you can connect your bistro lights to for a more romantic atmosphere.

Outdoor Kitchen

A newly built outdoor kitchen may not be in your price range, but it is a hot new trend of 2017 that can greatly improve your landscape design. Especially, if you’re going for a modern theme, simplistic, outdoor app-controlled appliances can dial up the aesthetic of your backyard space. Though landscape installation of your kitchen may cost a lot, it will be well worth it.

Spiller Plants

If you have a container garden, you should have a least one filler, one thriller, and one spiller plant. However, for your home, one single plant can fit all those positions. This type of landscape design can add personality to your pathways and make your family feel more at-hand with nature.

The Birds and The Bees

Adding heavily pollinated plants can encourage for birds and bees to frequently visit your yard. Not to mention, this is among the largest landscape design trends that have gained popularity this year. You can also add bird feeders to increase the number of birds that appear in your yard as well.

Fun Attractions

Even though you want to adopt beautiful landscape design, doesn’t mean you can’t have fun too! You can easily add a jungle gym or a swing set in your backyard for your kids to enjoy. You can even scatter games around your yard such as horseshoes and ultimate frisbee. This will help make your yard seem more welcoming to your guests and brings a little more thrill to the outdoors.

Seat Wall

The sculpted seat wall as continued to show popularity, especially when made of rusted steel. Or, if you want a more naturalistic design, you can try making a bench out of concrete or stone. However, whichever one you choose, seat wall landscape installation can allow for your family and guests to lounge while they enjoy the beauty of your yard.

Core Drilled Lights

A core drilled light is a type of light that is placed in a hole drilled out of concrete or stone. This is usually done in a driveway to spotlight the home, or in pillars where there is high foot traffic. However, no matter where it’s used, it can be set into place instead of a lower light fixture, to make sure enough landscape lighting covers your walkways.

Central Axis

Most classic and modern high end landscaping styles rely on the design of a number of axes, but you can set your garden in the center axis to show a more balanced look and create an order to your landscape.

Outdoor Living Areas, Walkways, and Driveways

Gravel has become a modern staple in residential landscaping to shape outdoor living areas, walkways, and even driveways. Not only is it low-maintenance, but is much more affordable than other materials. Plus, it’s available in a number of colors and sizes that can be used in an array of projects, big to small.

Water Additions

If you would like to add a relaxing addition to your landscape, you should consider adding a water feature to your lawn. These additions include ponds, waterfalls, fountains, and more. They can not only improve the complexity of your landscape but also add a soothing effect to your home’s environment.

Edible Landscapes

Edible landscaping is much more than adding a heightened aesthetic to your lawn. In fact, many homeowners develop an edible landscape to their yard to help support their local Farmer’s Market. In addition, placing this sort of addition to your lawn can also help you and your family eat healthier, due to the fresh fruit and vegetables you can grow. Besides that, you can even grow plants such as mint and basil and collect their oils to create a number of home remedies.

From stone steps to edible landscapes, there's no limit to residential landscaping. Before autumn arrives, fall into some of most popular high end landscaping trends we mentioned above and turn your backyard into a desired meeting place for your family and guests. K&D Landscaping, Inc services the Monterey County and Santa Cruz County area. They can help make any of the described upgrades a reality. Contact them now for an outdoor paradise that you and your family deserve.

by cmgroup