This year's Garden Walk Project

Each year I take on a project I have had in my head–with a deadline of getting it done by Garden Walk (THIS WEEKEND!!!). This year's project was my "Outdoor Kitchen." It's in quotes because it's not what you might think of an outdoor kitchen. There is not, nor will ever be an outdoor refrigerator, sink, garbage compactor or outdoor dishwasher. It's basically counter space around the grill, with a couple nice features. It's tiled with slate, in a diagonal pattern. The only thing left to do is to add grout, which I may get to tomorrow or Thursday. As long as it's dry by Saturday at 10 a.m., I figure I met my deadline.

Seen above is the counter along the house wall, with the grate I attached to the house from a few posts back. I built into the counter a planter to grow some climbing vines and herbs. It's attached to the wall with a 2x4 cleat, so it's solid. You can dance on that thing.

Here it is in progress.


The hole cut out for the planter.


The area in question–those wimpy wing shelves that come on grills are so inadaquate!


Cleat secured to wall.


Base up with temporary legs. It's even level!


Second counter top built, installed & stained.


Installed but not yet tiled.


Idea was to have the counters wrap around the grill.


Believe it or not, the stain colors are the same–just six years apart.


The inset planter on the left is intended to act as an ice bucket for drinks. I may get another one and fill it with herbs and just switch them out when there's a party going on. Be wary of slate tiles, they of different thicknesses.


Can't wait to fill this with mandevilla, or sweet peas, or chartreuse flowered Nicotiana 'Limelight' or clematis, or phormium pink stripe. I'll probably try something different each year. Unfortunately, they won't be in for Garden Walk.

And now, finally, I have a great spot to rest my gin & tonic while barbecuing.