Love, Legacy, & the Patio We Built: Meet the Murtaughs

There's a particular magic that happens when a backyard becomes more than just a plot of land. When stone and cedar transform into a time capsule of future memories and untold stories.

That transformation is exactly what we witnessed in the Murtaughs' backyard- a space that became so much more than what we designed in their 3D rendering.

"It turned out a lot better than we ever anticipated," Jason Murtaugh shared.

A Family Tribute

When we first arrived at the Murtaughs' property, the potential was evident, but something else was present too- something intangible that seemed to whisper through the trees. This wasn't just going to be another patio project. This would become a tribute.

Mr. Murtaugh had a vision that went beyond outdoor living. Not only was he envisioning Broken Bow in his backyard, he also wanted to create a living memorial to his mother Sharon, a woman whose love for family gatherings and outdoor moments had shaped his own approach to life.

“She would’ve loved it out here,” Murtaugh explains in his interview with us. 

What makes this particular project touch our hearts so deeply is how each of the elements- concrete, cedar, stone- came together to create the stage for life's most precious moments. Our team being part of that is insurmountable to the spaces themselves.

Crafting Spaces for Life's Turning Points

Our craftsmen approach each outdoor living project with the understanding that we're not just building structures- we're creating the backdrop against which life will unfold. The precision with which our masons laid each stone in the Murtaughs' kitchen wasn't just about style or permitting; it was about creating something that would witness countless family stories.

The fireplace wasn't just measured and constructed to code- it was positioned to create the perfect glow across faces deep in conversation as evening falls. The seating wasn't merely arranged for traffic flow, but designed to naturally draw people together.

Our attention to both technical excellence and human experience is what transforms our craftsmanship into something more meaningful. As our boss often says, "We want to build a space that is uniquely yours.”

Cause for Celebration

When we said the Murtaugh’s backyard became a place for their most precious memories, we weren’t lying. 

It was a brisk New Year's Eve, everyone huddled around the fireplace for warmth. Though cold and shivering, everyone could feel there was magic in the air. The patio we built became something more than just stone and mortar that night. As Mr. Murtaugh knelt down on one knee, time seemed to fold upon itself.

As if surrounded by a warm embrace from Sharon herself, Mr. Murtaugh asked the question that would change his and Carollan’s lives forever. Feeling the comfort of friends and late loved ones, she said yes.

The transformation that occurred that special night became a bridge between the past, present, and future. One location where generations exist simultaneously. 

A Deeper Purpose of Outdoor Spaces

For mothers who have spent decades nurturing homes and families, outdoor spaces often represent something different than they do for younger homeowners. Outdoor spaces are not just about entertainment or property value. They become places to reflect on life's journey, watch grandchildren discover the joy in nature, and drift off to sleep after a long day. 

We understand this deeper connection to home and legacy. It's why we take such care with every joint, every beam, every angle of light. We know these spaces will hold far more weight than their physical structures suggest.

When designing outdoor living spaces for families like the Murtaughs, we consider how the space will feel during quiet morning coffees, milestone celebrations, moments of reflection when someone might sense the presence of those who have passed.

Your Invitation to Create a Sacred Space

We share the Murtaughs' story not to suggest that every outdoor living space needs to be tied to such profound emotional moments, but to illustrate what's possible when a space is created with intention and heart.

Your outdoor sanctuary might become the place where:

• Your daughter tells you she's expecting your first grandchild

• You celebrate retirement after decades of dedicated work

• Your family gathers after a funeral to share stories and find comfort

• You discover a deeper connection with your spouse after children have grown

• Your grandchildren come to play in the summers

Our craftsmanship ensures that whatever moments unfold in your space will be supported by structures built for generational enjoyment. 

Your Story Awaits

Every homeowner we work with has a different story in their outdoor space. Some, like the Murtaughs, are looking to honor the past while creating space for new beginnings. Others are entering new life phases and want to create environments that reflect who they are becoming rather than just who they have been.

Whatever your story, our craftsmen bring the skill, experience, and heart to help you create the perfect setting for the next chapters of your family's life. Because ultimately, your home does tell a story; we're here to help you tell it beautifully.

When you're ready to transform your backyard into something more than just outdoor living, we would be honored to help bring your vision to life.