Design stage- Overall appearance

[Aegis]

I am in the general design stage of my wfo and possible outdoor kitchen. Of course funds are not unlimited so estimating costs are a consideration/concern. I would rather build a smaller kitchen area or none at all, than have it not look asthectically pleasing. I can estimate any counters etc. but the oven is(in my mind) a question mark. I am talking about surface finish area. My question is: How much, on average/approx. square feet of decorative brick/stone has anyone used just to finish off thier oven? Any help will be greatly appreciated. Also any suggestions for materials...brick,stone,cultured stone etc. Thanks
John

[RTflorida]

John, depends on what route you go - igloo style or an enclosure. Also, if your talking about some sort of brick or stone, prices depend on the specific type....marbles, granites, or various stones that are not native to you area (expensive for the stone yards to have shipped in) can get very expensive.

Personally, I finished my stand with inexpensive slate tile from Home Depot (99 cents a sq. ft.) and finished my igloo style with inexpensive mosaic tile from Lowes and an internet mosaic tile supplier. The total cost for all finishing materials is less than $200....you could pay that much for a single granite or marble slab in front of your oven entry. You really have to decide what you like...price it, and if overly expensive, try creative sourcing - ebay, Craigs list, internet wholesales, or go the recycled route; several members have built beautiful ovens with recycled brick, stone, etc. that cost them virtually nothing.

RT

[Aegis]

Thanks for your input, I would like to keep the top portion as small as possible. Mostly due to where it will be located in the yard. Do you have a pic of your oven on here? If so, where can I find it.
I would like to have some type of overhead protection from the elements being in New England and wanting to have pizza at least 9 months of the year.
Again thanks for your input.
John

[gjbingham]

Look through the Photo gallery at finished ovens. RT's awesome finish is posted in there, as well as many other options you may want to consider.

[Aegis]

Just got done looking at all the gorgeous ovens in the finish photo gallery. WOW people sure did put a ton of work into the finished product. I know I could see myself being too busy with pizza making and eating once the oven was usable to ever get the finishing touhes done. I am salivating thinking about it and I don't even have a design concept in my head, let alone on paper. RT your oven is fantastic! How long did it take for the mosaic work? Did you have one huge mosaic party? Simply beautiful work, lots of pride went into that oven and I'm sure lots of great food is now coming out.
JL

[maburton]

just getting my first post in so I can see pics