Culling an idea from a time when kitchens were outbuildings, Atlanta-based architect Keith Summerour felt this weekend home along the shores of Lake Keowee, S.C., was an ideal candidate for a semi-detached summer kitchen. Connected to the house via a covered breezeway, the screened 16-by-16-foot room features a built-in grill, sink, and large copper basin for keeping food or drinks on ice. Summerour pushed the building envelope to the edge of required lakefront setbacks so that this easygoing outdoor room would enjoy three elevations with water views. The sloping site presented space below the outdoor kitchen for a bunkhouse with full bath, so family and friends can forgo using the 2,800-square-foot main house altogether. Local materials such as gray crab orchard slate, field granite, and river stones can be found throughout the project, creating an integrated natural environment. Exposed rafters support the vaulted roof, which is finished with painted V-groove roof decking. Builder: Southern Homes & Remodeling, Clemson, S.C.;Architect: Summerour and Associates, Architects, Atlanta.
Photographer: Jim Lockhart.
