Is this what outdoor rooms have come to?

I had a rare quite moment on Saturday, so I flipped the TV to DIY Network where I was treated to an episode of “Indoors Out.”

I was sucked in, watching the contractors create a beautiful stonework patio and fireplace surrounded by stately arborvitae. A comfy outdoor couch and chairs were the finishing touch. Or at least that’s what I thought.

I didn’t see the first part of the show, so I didn’t realize the designers were striving to create an outdoor media room. My mouth hung open as the contractors placed an $8,500 specially made outdoor TV atop a beautiful marble-topped table.

A mondo big-screen TV. Outside. What?

It seemed way over-the-top and downright decadent to me. Sacrilegious even! How could you ruin a peaceful outdoor retreat with an obnoxious TV? I’m sure the neighbors will love overhearing strains from "Shrek the Third" as they try to relax by their water garden.

I believe the entire project cost around $30,000. Which, in my neck of the woods, would almost cover the costs to add a room to the house. Where a less-expensive TV could be safely ensconced out of earshot.

-- Sarah

Comments

[outdoor cooking equipment]

Great post. I suffer with the same concerns.

As an outdoor cooking equipment specialist I look at the emerging grills and outdoor kitchen in stark amazement; and whilst I have a commercial interest in them I simply am amazed, indeed I can't believe, that people are willing to spend tens of thousands of dollars on grills and outdoor kitchen set ups which in reality completely destroy anything that muight be called 'outdoor cooking authenticity'.

Undoubtedly emerging technology brings us new gizmos and new ways of doing things but with all its fancy design and technology [and unbelievable costs which simply cannot be justified] I doubt whether it brings us any greater sense of satisfaction or sense of an improved quality of life.

[Lawn Care Specialist]

i agree- a garden should be an oasis of calm, and all you really need is a blanket and a well kept lawn. Although part of me would have like to have seen their outdoor masterpiece