Thoughtfully Designed Outdoor Living Retreat in Atlantic Beach

Rockaway recently completed a multi-phase outdoor living transformation for a private residence in Atlantic Beach, delivering a cohesive blend of landscape architecture, specialty carpentry, and functional outdoor amenities. Designed and overseen by Rockaway Landscape Architect Kathleen Burson, the project evolved over several months and reflects a holistic approach to outdoor living—where infrastructure, aesthetics, and craftsmanship work together seamlessly.

Smart Infrastructure Hidden Beneath the Landscape

One of the most critical elements of the project is one most visitors never see. To meet City of Atlantic Beach requirements and ensure long-term stormwater performance, Rockaway installed approximately 75 linear feet of underground stormwater retention running from the backyard to the front yard. The underground storage system provides effective water management without disrupting the beauty or usability of the property—an example of Rockaway’s commitment to solving technical challenges with clean, unobtrusive solutions.

Sun-Driven Planting and Coastal-Appropriate Landscaping

The landscape design takes full advantage of the home’s sun exposure and coastal environment. On the sunniest side of the property, Rockaway introduced productive and ornamental citrus, including a key lime, Meyer lemon, and grapefruit tree—already producing blossoms and early fruit. Throughout the backyard, the planting palette emphasizes cold-tolerant, semi-tropical species well-suited for Northeast Florida’s coastal conditions. Camellias, iris, holly ferns, bromeliads, orange bird of paradise, philodendron, and newly installed sabal palms create layered texture and year-round visual interest. The palms were carefully staked to ensure stability through their establishment period, even after enduring a hurricane season during installation.

Custom Carpentry Defines the Outdoor Kitchen and Living Room

At the heart of the project is a newly constructed outdoor living room and kitchen—spaces designed to feel like a true extension of the home. Rockaway’s in-house master carpenters handled all specialty carpentry, fabricating custom elements both on-site and in the company’s shop.

The outdoor kitchen features custom-built cabinetry, locally sourced Diana Royale stone countertops, and finely detailed woodwork throughout the rafters and trim. Every component was precisely designed and dimensioned to accommodate the client’s selected appliances, including a built-in grill, sink, and specialty features such as a dedicated ceramic “egg” grill. A custom rear cabinet was engineered specifically to store outdoor furniture cushions, complete with magnetic closures, ventilation for airflow, and weather protection to prevent moisture and mold.

Structural Renewal and Seamless Expansion

An existing deck was fully removed after Rockaway identified significant structural decay beneath the surface. The team reconstructed the porch system from the ground up, extending the footprint to support the new outdoor kitchen and living space. All work was fully designed, engineered, and permitted through the City of Atlantic Beach, ensuring both safety and longevity.

An Outdoor Living Room Built for Year-Round Enjoyment

Adjacent to the kitchen, the outdoor living room offers a comfortable, sheltered space that is accessible directly from the home’s main living areas and primary bedroom. Large openings frame views of the landscape while maintaining a sense of enclosure and comfort. A custom-designed electric fireplace anchors the space, thoughtfully positioned alongside the interior fireplace on the opposite wall. Stainless steel finishes, electric log detailing, and a white veneer brick surround create a modern yet timeless focal point—ideal for cool coastal evenings.

A Complete, Integrated Outdoor Solution

This Atlantic Beach project highlights Rockaway’s ability to manage complex outdoor renovations from concept to completion. By combining landscape architecture, stormwater engineering, custom carpentry, permitting expertise, and refined construction, Rockaway delivered a highly personalized outdoor environment designed for long-term enjoyment. The result is a functional, beautiful, and enduring outdoor living retreat—one that reflects both the client’s vision and Rockaway’s commitment to craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and coastal expertise.