Can it even be considered a Palmetto Bluff home without a mind-blowing outdoor space?
Story by Barry Kaufman + Photography by Wayne Moore of Back River Photography
Palmetto Bluff is a place where outdoor living reigns supreme, and the Stein household is certainly no exception. With the help from Pearce Scott Architects, the home was built from the ground up to get the most out of the lot’s stunning lakefront views. The design incorporates a slew of sitting areas, as well as an upstairs balcony, all oriented toward the water. The home also reflects the Steins’ love of entertaining, from the way the great room gives way to smaller more intimate space to the upstairs den. Both of these pillars of the home’s design come into play in the dazzling outdoor spaces, where mesmerizing lake views and spaces for entertaining come together.
TAKE IT OUTSIDE
Put up the shutters – In any construction project, plans change along the way as the rendering becomes reality. The large hurricane shutter seen here was not part of the original plans but emerged as construction was underway and it became clear that guests would be looking out at a neighbor’s house. The shutter was an inspired solution, blocking the view while still letting natural light and breezes in.Keep your options open – One of the most brilliant aspects of this outdoor space’s design is the flow between it and the kitchen. Like many Palmetto Bluff homes, the Stein home enjoys a full back kitchen where most meal prep takes place. This one, however, opens just as readily to the rear patio as it does the main kitchen, creating a versatile spot for entertaining.Fire up the grill – The grill area bridges the concepts of an indoor and outdoor entertaining space, with the three-burner grill anchoring wide countertops, shelves and drawers that wouldn’t look out of place in the kitchen. With the dining area outside, this space serves well as a buffet or sidebar for large gatherings.
