When designing this outdoor kitchen, I faced a unique challenge—a beautiful apple tree standing right in the middle of the space. Instead of cutting it down, I saw it as an opportunity. This tree had been a part of the garden for years, providing shade, character, and delicious apples, so I knew it had to stay.

My vision was to build the kitchen around the tree, seamlessly integrating nature into the space while ensuring the kitchen remained fully functional, practical, and protected from the elements. The solution? A carefully designed overhead cover that stops leaves and debris from falling into the workspace while still allowing the tree to breathe, thrive, and bear fruit.

I then set to work crafting a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, complete with electricity, running water, and a gas BBQ—turning this once underutilised area into a stylish and practical cooking space. Every element was designed with functionality and aesthetics in mind, from handmade worktops and clever storage solutions to rustic hanging racks and an integrated log burner.

Now, this space is more than just an outdoor kitchen—it’s a harmonious blend of craftsmanship and nature, offering a stunning and functional area for cooking, entertaining, and enjoying the outdoors, all while the apple tree continues to flourish.

Why remove a tree when you can design around it? This project proves that with a bit of creativity and thoughtful planning, you can have the best of both worlds!