From Outdoor Kitchens To Patios How to Upgrade Your Outdoor Amenities

by Madelaine Brauner Landry

In SWLA, both the climate and culture lend themselves to enjoying the outdoors in the fall. Homeowners search for the most affordable and popular amenities to enhance their personal outdoor living style. But consumers wonder, “which amenities will combine functionality while remaining aesthetically pleasing? How much do I budget? What are the latest trends?”

Thrive recently sat down with Stephanie Eckler, owner of Busch Fireplace Grills & Furniture and Patio Center for tips for homeowners. For decades, Busch has been helping families in the Lake Charles area create spaces that make being outdoors just as enjoyable—and often more memorable—than staying inside. 

“In Southwest Louisiana, life has a way of spilling outdoors,” Eckler says. “From backyard barbecues to crawfish boils, our culture is about gathering outside with food, family and friends. That tradition has only grown stronger. Following COVID, many homeowners are choosing to invest in outdoor living spaces that blend comfort, function and style. Outdoor living is not just about having a grill and a picnic table. It’s about creating a seamless extension of the home, where kitchens, dining areas and even living rooms can be enjoyed under the open sky. It’s a lifestyle upgrade that combines Southern hospitality with modern design.” 

Eckler emphasizes, “Outdoor living is a luxury because it’s an investment. We want people to love—not just like—their outdoor environment. We work closely with every client to tailor a design that fits their vision, their needs and their budget.” 

One of the biggest requests Eckler sees today is for outdoor kitchens. Whether it’s a simple setup with a quality grill and counter space or a full chef’s kitchen with sinks, refrigerators and storage, Busch brings those ideas to life. Using a 3D design system, the team can map out each project in detail, ensuring everything will fit perfectly and flow seamlessly. 

“We ensure our customers have plenty of counter space for prepping and serving, along with the right equipment to handle anything from weeknight dinners to big family gatherings,” Eckler says.  

Busch offers a wide selection of trusted brands, including Blaze, RCS, Fire Magic, and Le Griddle, which give homeowners options at every level of performance and price. But what makes the company unique is the ability to complete the entire outdoor living environment. 

“Since we also own Patio Center, we can go beyond the kitchen,” Eckler notes. “We install motorized shades, awnings, patios and screened rooms—everything you need to make your backyard comfortable year-round. Outdoor living begins with us, and if we can’t provide it, we’ll usually point you in the right direction.” 

The demand for outdoor living has become so strong that many homebuilders in the Lake Charles area now include outdoor kitchens in their new construction plans. It’s a reflection of how families in SWLA truly live.  

“Being outside, cooking and making memories with family and friends has always been a part of Louisiana life,” Eckler says. Homeowners are elevating that tradition by creating spaces that are designed for comfort, entertaining and making lasting memories.” 

For those who love to host, there’s no better way to embrace Lake Charles’ culture of food and fellowship than by transforming the backyard into the heart of the home. And as Eckler and her team at Busch believe, outdoor living isn’t just a trend—it’s a way of life.