Our outdoor patio area, which is accessible from three entry doors, was the perfect spot to build an indoor braai.
It was a labour of love; it took about two months, including all the preparation work.
Whilst I did all the surveying, measurements, design and layouts, my handyman prepared all the timber.
All the timber was salvaged from machines imported from Germany, most likely from the Black Forest.
I made the bench below the port captain’s nook from Wenge, an exotic type of wood that originates from DRC.
The design of the braai was a challenge in that we had to ensure the correct ratio between the area of the herd opening and the area of the chimney at the discharge end. All the woodwork was done by my handyman and myself.
The main beams measure 150 x 100mm and they are 6.5m long. It’s no easy task to install these beams above your head but the two of us managed.
The roof of the nook by the kitchen back door had to be removed to match the height and elevation of the new roof and was then bricked up to the new roof.
Due to the vast area (+- 33sqm) being covered with roof sheets, I opted to install two polycarb sheets alternately with two sheets chromodeck sheeting. The area gets plenty of natural light and on warmer days the vintage General Electric fan cools the area.
I managed to source a good contractor to brick up the nook area, brick up the window on an outbuilding, build the braai as per my design and supply and install roof cladding, including all waterproofing.
We have used the braai area extensively – it’s a blessing when inclement weather is the norm in PE and you live on a hill.
The port captain’s nook developed when I decided to ‘box in’ a window and create harmony in the braai area; being fascinated by naval interests, my first choice was to create a port captain’s nook.
The centre table and bench I made to complement the seashore holiday feeling, hence the signage BUOYS/GULLS indicating the direction to the guest bathroom. We opted not to brick up the only section not walled but to install a durable canvas awning with a clear view to connect with nature.
I converted the salvaged vintage oil can to a light to enhance the mood.
The butcher basin looked a bit tired, so I refurbished and built a cabinet below to hide the pipe work.
Another find at an antiques shop was the oven door of a Caledonia Dover stove which we had to incorporate under the braai area, and which serves as a food warmer.
When making plankie vuur en potjie, we chill on these barstools which I made from cocopan wheels.
What a lekker braai area.