In 2006 Bonnie and Steve Wells dreamed of an entertainment space for every season. Fourteen years ago that was called a "backyard". Now we call it an "outdoor room".
Steve designed the area with a built-in gas grill, magnificent fireplace with raised hearth and seating walls with matching bluestone caps. For the patio floor, they selected a patterned bluestone. To create ambience, they added a trellis and a classical tiered fountain (left corner below).
Bonnie considers the outdoor fireplace a piece of artwork. She particularly likes the arch over the firebox, known as a "soldiers course" where the stone is turned vertically. The center stone is referred to as the "keystone".
On summer evenings, the candelabra (above) provides the twinkle of firelight without the heat. The citronella candles keep pesky mosquitos away. In winter, the Wells' enjoy the fire for warmth and for roasting oysters over the open flames.
Bonnie and Steve were trendsetters and garnered attention in the press. When the month-long project was completed, it was featured in November 2006 Wrightsville Beach magazine.
Now, fourteen years later, while we adapt to the coronavirus, this outdoor room offers a haven to social distance with family and friends. It is also a place where the Wells' fondly remember their beloved Ed, a Wheaton Terrier, who enjoyed resting on the hearth. ❤️RIP Ed ❤️
We hope you have enjoyed the history of the Wells' entertaining space, the first "outdoor room" that I remember in Wilmington.
We can help you build yours. Visit Stone Garden's website at www.stonegarden-nc.com to see more great ideas for patios, fire features and fountains.
Eden Village
Tiny Homes for the Homeless
Congratulations to Eden Village on the arrival of their first tiny home in Wilmington January 13.
