Are you looking for a striking and unique extension of the house?
Even if outdoor kitchens aren’t a necessity or a common occurrence, they can be the perfect summer addition to your home’s design.
If you apply the right tips in designing the best outdoor kitchen, you can come up with lots of great ideas that will make this space a fun and stunning area.
Image source: Clarke Appliance Showrooms
First, focus on the function
If you are wondering how to build an outdoor kitchen, you need to know what the purpose of this space will be as different purposes have different requirements. For a chef in training, the main focus is on the equipment, and the layout and materials will also be very important. The most important things might be different if you consider the space to relax – a small satellite kitchen, for example. For the dinner party types, there are always the preparation, clear cooking and serving zones that you should consider. Whatever you choose, decorate accordingly.
Image source: HOME IMPROVEMENTS GROUP, Inc.
The site
Since this is an outdoor area, it is important to consider wind, shade and sun in the area. You also need to consider access to features like lawn or pool. People put their outdoor kitchens near their house because it is easier to get everything you need when the house is nearby, as it also makes it easier to transport food and other materials.
Image source: Frederick + Frederick Architects
Look around
It is best if your outdoor kitchen matches the house as it is inevitably part of it. Use materials that are compatible with the entire landscape. Use the same ornaments and stones that were used on the landscape and home. It is good to be on your budget, but be careful. For example, stucco is a good, easy-to-use material that is inexpensive. However, if you only use this material for the outdoor kitchen, there will inevitably be a noticeable difference.
Image source: The Collins Group / JDP Design
The choice of appliances affects the size of the kitchen
It’s not difficult to come up with a good design plan and arrange all the equipment you need in a compatible order, given the space they take up. You may want to use some cooling and cooking utensils, as well as something that meets your entertainment needs. Make sure there is enough space between the elements to ensure good compatibility between the elements. The grill takes its place so make sure you leave something on each side; You can place tools and plates there.
Source: AKL Designer Kitchens
The right materials
Do you think the materials you are thinking of will withstand the weather of your climate? Durability is very important here as choosing a durable material like stone, slate, stucco, tile and stainless steel will hardly affect your kitchen depending on weather conditions. Choose hardware and work surfaces that work well in an outdoor setting. When building a kitchen on a deck, make sure it can support its weight just to be sure.
Image source: McCaleb construction
Adequate storage
Outdoor kitchens work the same way as indoor kitchens, as they require a lot of space to accommodate all tools and supplies. When making an outdoor kitchen, the same types of storage must be made from a material that is durable and waterproof because they are outdoors. Eliminate the clutter with cabinets and countertops and create a fresh and stylish look by combining them with the floor. You can achieve a real contemporary and modern look by choosing counters and cabinets made of stone and steel.
Image source: AquaTerra outdoors
Let light fill the room
People often forget that even though the space is outdoors, it definitely needs a lot of lights. Bright work lighting is useful for keeping track of the food you’re cooking on your grill. While lighting workplaces is the most important part, when decorating an outdoor kitchen that doubles as a dining area, you should add some decorative lights to the atmosphere. A good idea is to get lights that are dimmable and adjustable to perfectly manipulate the mood you want to emit.
Image source: Frankel Building Group
Sockets
You need electricity for the devices and lights, especially if you plan your outdoor kitchen to be free-standing. Placing an electrical outlet near the area where the most cooking and electricity is consumed gives you enough power to work in any way you want, day or night.
Image source: Christopher Burton Homes, Inc.
Play with the ambience
In an outdoor kitchen you can cook and eat in a pleasant way and at the same time spend nice moments with family and friends. It provides a comfortable environment for alfresco dining. With tables, chairs and decorations combined with the perfect lighting, you can make this space the focus of your summer activities.
Image source: Backyard builder
Choose furniture that is durable and can withstand the damage caused by weather conditions. Use a large table that you can use as a dining table or buffet, and choose chairs that fit your table and that can be stacked and put away in the winter. If you want to try something a little more interesting, a pond or fountain may be for you. Some people even think about installing televisions.
Too many flashy decorations don’t look good in small backyards. Therefore, customize the decorations with practical use through good organization. For example, try building a barbecue island. There are a large number of backyard kitchen designs out there, so be sure to try a few!
Include mini devices
You probably don’t want to have drinks and feed all of your guests for long periods of time. one meal is just enough. To do this, use devices with a small space, as they use little energy, take up little space and are very affordable.
Image source: Anthony Albert Studios
Bringing indoor comfort outside
One way to protect your outdoor space from the harsh weather conditions is to build a pergola or high roof over it. This way you can cook even when it’s too hot or raining. A stone roof or umbrellas might be just what you need to have the ideal protection you need. Use heat lamps and possibly even a fire pit if your area is cold. In hotter regions, the fan and spray work fine.
Image source: Timeline design
If you have a bug problem, a mesh or mechanical device can help you get rid of all the pesky flies and mosquitos. Lighting is important as it is not only a time extender but also a safety measure.
Summary
It is not easy to install all appliances, but there are many professionals who can help you with this problem. Your job is to make the selection in terms of color, design, materials, location and style of the room. Although you can choose the furniture and its design yourself, the technical part will require a specialist. Do not forget that the most important characteristic of an outdoor kitchen is practicality and functionality. You should therefore focus on making the space relaxing and user-friendly. Colors inspired by nature always go well together.