Working outside is not always a pleasant task in Canada. With our winters and the uncertainty of the weather, it can be quite unforgiving. However, when the sun is out, it’s all the more reason to get outside and create an outdoor retreat that you can enjoy for the balmy months ahead. Here are eight of my favourite outdoor reno projects that I’ve worked on – I hope they inspire you, too!
Bryan Baeumler is one of HGTV Canada’s go-to contractors and the host of Bryan Inc., House of Bryan and Leave it to Bryan.
Chicken Coop
This wasn’t necessarily a renovation (more of a new build) but putting the space together for our chickens was such a fun project. We’ve really enjoyed having chickens, and they’ve given us more eggs than we can eat! The coop provides the chickens with a nice little home, and I am quite proud of it. It’s one of my favourite outdoor reno projects ever. See more here!
Pizza Oven
This was another worthwhile project, and one that we continue to use over and over again. Creating the backyard pizza oven was a bigger endeavor than we expected, but the result was incredible. When we’re home, it’s our go-to for delicious weekend dinners. Homemade pizzas are the best! Here’s a closer look at how the pizza oven was constructed.
Big Backyard Overhaul
During the latest season of Bryan Inc. we completed an outdoor renovation for the Harvey family. I enjoyed being part of this one, and I think we did a great job of managing the budget while producing a beautiful backyard for the homeowners to enjoy. It features everything from multiple defined lounge areas to a new pool retaining wall to lush landscaping.
Here’s an inside look at the full backyard transformation.
Cottage Deck
Designing, planning and constructing the deck at our past cottage (the focus of House of Bryan: On the Rocks) was one of the most difficult decks I have ever helped build. The geographical issues that we had were one thing, not to mention the fact that the ground wasn’t flat. But the final result was even more enjoyable thanks to all the hard work involved. I miss that deck. Tour the entire cottage here.
Our New Barn
The new barn that we built during Bryan Inc. 2 (see it here!) was a fun project. Adam and I built this together, and it’s always fun to work on a project with a good friend. The barn is an imposing structure in the backyard now, but I think it works with its surroundings.
Outdoor Entrance
Although this doesn’t stand out as one of the most beautiful outdoor renos I have worked on, it’s in here because it was a difficult and complex project. It required a great deal of thought, thorough planning and was a learning process for me. In the end, creating a separate outdoor entrance to this home’s basement level enhanced the functionality of the space and gave the homeowners’ parents added privacy for their lower-level apartment. Here’s a peek inside the in-law suite.
Our Fireplace and Patio
Our outdoor fireplace (as seen on House of Bryan: In the Sticks) is one of my favourite spots in our entire house. The wood-burning fireplace is an amazing feature for our outdoor patio, and I often find myself sitting there while doing work or reading a book. It’s very relaxing.
Water Feature
I really enjoyed constructing the water feature we have at our home. I like the fact that it’s one-of-a-kind. It also adds that little bit of zen, making you feel closer to nature.
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