August 25, 2014

Anthony Carrino, star of HGTV’s hit shows, “Cousins Undercover” and “Kitchen Cousins,” is currently adding an outdoor rooftop kitchen and living space to his apartment in Jersey City. The project is one of the first to use Dekton by Cosentino for surfacing in an outdoor setting. In the following interview, Carrino previews his project and addresses some of its unique characteristics and considerations.

From where did you draw your inspiration for your roof deck?

AC: The concept for the space originated from my long-time desire to incorporate shipping containers into a design. As I was developing my overall vision, Cosentino had just introduced its new compact-surface, Dekton. The moment I saw the product line, I instantly decided that it had to be the surfacing used throughout the space, as the decking and as the countertop for the kitchen area.

What characteristics of Dekton convinced you it was the choice for your roof deck?

AC: Its UV resistance was an important quality for an outdoor space, plus its stability in drastic temperature changes, from freeze to thaw, ensured that it would be able to withstand the Northeast’s seasonal climate changes without damage. Dekton’s large-slab format for flooring was another other major factor in its appeal for the project. Most roof deck systems are 2-ft. x 2-ft. tiles of wood or concrete, but Dekton’s 56-in. x 126-in. slabs reduced the number of seams along the decking. In terms of aesthetics, the combination of Dekton and the industrial effect of the shipping container was visually stunning. Using the same material for both the decking and the counter also created a consistent look and feel.

Which elements of creating and building out the roof deck were most challenging to execute?

AC: For this project, structural engineering considerations were the most critical hurdles to overcome. Considering the combined weight of the shipping container and the 12 slabs, I needed to be completely confident that the roof could handle the point loads. I worked closely with my structural engineer to ensure everything was supported properly, and from there the installation of the decking was just a matter of skilled execution.

What have initial reactions been like as you are previewing the space?

AC: The project is nearing completion, but I have brought a few close friends up to preview the progress. I have to say the reactions are pretty fantastic. My friends know I am always pushing boundaries in my designs, but when they walk out of the door onto the roof deck, I’ve generally been met with a look of disbelief as to how I made it all happen.