The Purpose
The homeowner already had a functional outdoor barbecue area, but the space lacked the shade needed to make cooking and gathering outside more comfortable.
Our goal was to create a simple, attractive shade solution directly over the existing barbecue without making the backyard feel enclosed. A freestanding aluminum patio cover with a lattice roof provided the right balance: meaningful protection from direct sunlight while preserving the open-air character of the space.
Because the structure did not need to attach to the home, we could position it specifically around the barbecue and create shade where it would be most useful.
The Challenge
The outdoor kitchen, barbecue equipment, pavers, and surrounding landscaping were already in place before installation began. Our team had to construct the patio cover without damaging or unnecessarily disturbing any of these finished features.
Two of the four support posts required new concrete footings beneath the existing paver surface. Instead of cutting through the area carelessly or leaving unfinished concrete around the posts, our installers carefully removed only the necessary pavers, completed the footing and post installation, and then placed the pavers back around the finished structure.
This required precise measurements, careful handling of the barbecue equipment, and thoughtful coordination throughout the installation.
Creating Shade Around an Existing Outdoor Kitchen
Not every backyard improvement needs to completely transform the property. Sometimes, the right addition simply makes an existing space work better.
This homeowner already had a built-in barbecue area that served as a natural place for outdoor cooking and entertaining. However, Arizona’s direct sunlight limited how comfortably the area could be used during the day.
We designed the patio cover around what was already there. The final structure provides shade over the outdoor kitchen while maintaining enough openness for airflow, visibility, and the feeling of being outdoors.
Why a Freestanding Lattice Patio Cover Was Selected
A freestanding patio cover is supported by its own posts rather than relying on the home for structural support. This allows the cover to be positioned over detached outdoor features such as barbecue islands, seating areas, poolside spaces, and other parts of the backyard.
For this project, the freestanding design allowed us to center the shade directly over the barbecue area instead of extending a larger structure from the house.
The lattice roof was also a natural fit. It creates partial sun protection while allowing filtered light to pass through, giving the homeowner a cooler outdoor space without the heavier appearance of a fully solid roof. Our patio cover options include freestanding, attached, and cantilevered structures, along with lattice, solid, insulated, and louvered roof styles.
- Freestanding Aluminum Structure
Designed to provide targeted shade without attaching the patio cover to the home.
- Open Lattice Roof
Reduces direct sunlight while maintaining airflow and natural light.
- Custom Concrete Footings
Two secure footings were installed beneath the existing paver surface.
- Built Around the Barbecue Area
The structure was positioned to protect the existing outdoor kitchen and improve comfort.
A Small Project Completed with Care
This was not the largest patio cover our team has installed, but smaller projects still require thoughtful planning and experienced craftsmanship.
The finished structure fits naturally around the barbecue, complements the colors of the backyard, and provides shade without overwhelming the space. Just as importantly, the existing pavers and outdoor kitchen were respected throughout the process.
The result is a simple and practical upgrade that makes the homeowner’s outdoor cooking area more comfortable, attractive, and enjoyable.
Create More Shade in Your Backyard
Looking for a patio cover that works with your existing outdoor space?
Our team installs custom aluminum patio covers throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area, including freestanding, attached, lattice, solid, and insulated options.
Let’s create a garden that not only survives the heat but thrives in it. Together, we can make Los Angeles greener, one landscape at a time.
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