Steeped in South American tradition, the gaucho grill is a unique and fun cooking experience. Usually fired by charcoal, many outdoor gourmets opt for mesquite firewood as an alternate open-fire method.

At this Clarendon Hills home, an active family uses the space 2-3 times weekly with the lighted pavilion offering opportunities at night and when the weather doesn't cooperate. Trellis panels are integrated into the kitchen design as both aesthetic and functional screening components.

The natural bluestone patio softly mirrors the home color while limestone bases on the pillars and kitchen match the limestone details on the front of the house.

Social space around a fire pit allows for casual gatherings early in the spring and late into the fall . Low-profile plantings around the patio extend the space visually without overwhelming the perimeter of the patio. One side is open lawn to allow for expanded play space.

Sometimes we hear 'backyard retreat' or 'backyard oasis' to describe a backyard environment. But when you have a gaucho grill as the centerpiece at family gatherings then it's more than that...........It's an experience!