After collecting the necessary materials from my nearest home improvement stores, and yes, I had to use both Home Depot AND Lowes as neither had everything that I needed in stock, I started laying out the cinder blocks. This to get an idea of the exact size of the platform. For those who are interested the ground pad is 96" x 72", and the platform for the oven will be 88" x 60". This gives plenty of space at each side of the oven for placing pizzas before and after cooking. I intend to also include a trough where basil plants can grow, so you always have fresh basil ready to put on the pizza. Behind the back wall is an 8" strip of concrete where extra fire wood will be stored. The front of the platform supports is not right up against the edge of the pad as I will be adding decorative stone fronting later.
