Here in the Lowcountry  we are blessed with a climate that allows us to live outdoors practically all year long.

Many homeowners have already discovered the pleasures of creating attractive and comfortable outdoor living spaces. Using natural stone in creative ways to design outdoor living spaces make these spaces practical, comfortable, elegant and virtually maintenance free.

Patios, decks, walkways, a pool, gazebos, bars, showers, countertops, and kitchens can all be part of your wonderful outdoor oasis. In addition to the pleasure they bring you, they also enhance the value of your home.

A popular  lowcountry outdoor addition is a kitchen. From a simple bar that accommodates a grill-top and service counter, to an elaborate outdoor kitchen, there’s an option for every budget.

Of course, your countertop will be a centerpiece of your outdoor kitchen. Impervious to the elements, natural stone adds a timeless and luxurious quality to the outdoor kitchen.

Granite is by far the most popular outdoor surface stone. For resistance to bacteria, heat, scratches and stains, granite is unsurpassed in overall performance. It won’t chip or crack and is the least porous stone.

Granite is excellent for food preparation because it is one of the most bacteria-resistant surfaces. It’s nearly impossible to scratch and will not stain under normal use. A granite countertop is by far the best choice for durability and ability to retain its original luster and color with little to no maintenance.

Granite comes in so many colors, patterns and finishes, and has so many varieties, that it is a wonderful choice for creating a colorful focal point for outdoor design. Now you can get the same quality and timeless look outdoors as found inside your home.

Today’s most popular countertops inside the home are showing more colors, textures and patterns, as well as some creative mixing and matching of materials for more personalized designs. There’s no reason this can’t extend to your outdoor living spaces.

Travertine is an excellent choice for patios and pool decks, often preferred by architects and interior designers. With a surface that is brushed, the stone feels soft; it’s not hot or cold on your feet and it’s not slippery. It’s a great choice for floors in an outdoor cabana bath.

Limestone has been used in the construction of countless outdoor buildings, monuments and fine residences. It, too, is an excellent choice for exterior applications.

When planning your new outdoor living area,   be sure to consider all the opportunities, like a built-in grill, refrigerator, cabinets, all-weather furniture and landscaping. Plus, perhaps a pergola or gazebo for shade, a wet-bar for mixing and serving cocktails, ceiling fans, misters, a gas patio heater, fireplace or fire pit, special lighting and a good sound system.

Lighting, fabrics, furniture, seating arrangements, awnings, accessories and decorative accents are all personal selections for your outdoor space. Think beyond your walls – and let your imagination blossom!

Founded by John Antunes over 35 years ago, Distinctive Granite and Marble has become the lowcountry’s leader in granite, marble, quartz and natural stone. The Antunes family personally selects stone from quarries around the world and is a complete resource for commercial and residential stone, with thousands of slabs in hundreds of varieties.

  Combining modern technology with old-world craftsmanship, Distinctive offers superb stone fabrication and installation. The company remains committed to fine quality, broad selection, excellent value and personal service. Distinctive has showrooms on Hilton Head Island, in River Walk (Okatie), Beaufort, and Pooler (Savannah).

BY ANDREA ANTUNES MCGILTON
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DISTINCTIVE GRANITE & MARBLE