Cedar & Stone Sanctuary

Project Overview

This custom-built outdoor living space embodies the refined craftsmanship and elevated functionality that define AY Luxury Designs. For this Jacksonville Beach residence, we transformed a standard backyard into a cohesive outdoor retreat that flows effortlessly between covered comfort and open-air leisure.

Anchoring the design is a handcrafted cedar A-frame patio extension, complete with exposed cedar rafters and tongue-and-groove ceiling detailing that showcase the natural beauty of the wood. The structure’s soft neutral tones complement the home’s coastal blue exterior, creating a seamless architectural connection between indoor and outdoor living. A sleek ceiling fan keeps the space cool year-round, while evening light plays off the rich stain of the cedar beams.

This patio features a half-and-half enclosure concept, balancing the best of both worlds. On the right, a screened-in lanai built with 20/20 no-see-um mesh provides full protection from insects while maintaining airflow and visibility. The expanded-view screen design eliminates vertical posts for unobstructed backyard views, extending sightlines toward the lush landscape beyond. To the far right, a four-foot door opens to the open-air patio—ideal for grilling, entertaining, or soaking up the sun.

That open section is framed by a LENZA retaining wall system that doubles as a seating wall, featuring coordinated stone caps that echo the tones of the LENZA fireplace inside the covered area. This continuity in materials ties both zones together into a single, harmonious environment.

Beneath the cedar roof, a linear gas fireplace serves as the dramatic centerpiece. Crafted from LENZA wall block and finished with a Glacier-gray base row that matches the bordering pavers, the design creates a floating, illuminated effect once the flames ignite after dark. Flanking the fireplace are custom privacy walls that lend both intimacy and decorative potential—ideal for hanging planters or the homeowners’ coastal-inspired art pieces.

The Stonegate retaining wall foundation elevates the entire structure, providing definition and dimension while integrating beautifully with the matching paver flooring. From the back lanai to the front yard, a continuous stone walkway connects each area of the home, offering a clean, polished transition from space to space and keeping the homeowners’ path mud-free year-round.

Whether gathered under the A-frame beside the glowing fireplace or grilling in the open air on the adjoining patio, this project delivers the perfect balance of design, durability, and everyday comfort—showcasing the hallmark AY Luxury Designs approach: luxury that feels livable, personal, and perfectly tailored to the way our clients want to enjoy home.