Outdoor kitchens are growing in popularity, especially in the warmer states, because they can be used throughout the year. According to a 2022 National Kitchen & Bath Association report, 61% of respondents believe outdoor kitchens will be a superior design in the next three years.
Outdoor kitchens provide an extension of your indoor kitchen. An outdoor kitchen takes barbecues and pool parties to the next level and provides an alternative place for entertaining guests. Originally, outdoor kitchens only consisted of a grill, a side burner, and a refrigerator. Now, outdoor kitchens have become an additional living space for homeowners.
Some Ideas for Your Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchens can provide a place to hang out with friends and family. If you have ample space in your backyard, why not turn it into something useful, such as an outdoor kitchen? Here are some tricks to enhance your outdoor kitchen experience.
1. Weatherproof the Area
You must ensure that your outdoor kitchen suits all weather conditions. During the summer, the sun’s scorching heat can be a problem, so you need to keep your outdoor kitchen cool during those hot months. In addition, if you live in a more relaxed area, ensure that you have overhead protection from the elements.
2. Set Your Budget
Once you have an idea of what you want to do with your outdoor kitchen, it is essential to have a budget for the overall project. Allocate funds for the materials, appliances, layout, and labor. Once you have set a budget, stick it to the letter.
3. Decide on the Materials
The choice of materials for your outdoor kitchen is an important consideration. Materials like brick or stone can be suitable materials for your project. However, you want to choose climate-appropriate materials. If your area always experiences heavy rains, you might need a strong roofing material to protect your guests and furniture from the elements. Use porous or hardy materials for construction.
4. Plan the Kitchen Layout
This goes hand in hand with knowing what you want to do with the kitchen. Doing so can help you make the appropriate plan, such as choosing appliances and materials. Planning can go a long way toward creating your dream outdoor kitchen.
5. Consider the Lighting
Try to incorporate natural light into your outdoor kitchen as much as possible. Having adequate lighting is crucial for creating a functional cooking and entertainment space. Chandeliers and pendants will look good in outdoor kitchens. Ensure that the lighting fixtures you are considering are suitable for damp conditions. It is best to consult a licensed electrician when installing lighting in your outdoor kitchen.
6. Mirror Current Materials
Planning may become daunting for you with so many things you can do for your outdoor kitchen. Use the current materials you already have, whether for interiors or outdoors. Experts say that designing with existing materials can help create a seamless connection between the new space and its surroundings.
7. Find a Quality Grill
Outdoor kitchens will never be complete without a grill. You may be tempted to find the cheapest basic grill; however, a quality grill will help boost every aspect of your outdoor kitchen. When choosing a grill, consider the number of potential guests you are likely to have and the features that will add fun to the cooking experience.
8. Find a Good Ambiance
A good ambiance for your outdoor kitchen will set the mood for a memorable night of barbecues, booze, and entertainment. Considering pergolas and trellises will add to the air. Other great ideas for setting that mood include adding a firepit or fireplace to your outdoor kitchen.
9. Keep the Outdoor Kitchen Close to Your Interior Kitchen
The purpose of outdoor kitchens is to give your indoor kitchen a break. But it does not mean you should isolate your outdoor kitchen from its interior counterpart. It would not be convenient to run from your outdoor kitchen to your inner kitchen for electrical, gas, and water needs.
Aside from that, you would want to ensure a smooth transition between the two kitchens. The best way to do this is to install a sliding or bi-folder to create this connection.
Boost the Appeal of your Outdoor Space
Outdoor kitchens can be an excellent addition to your home. If you have yet to give it a second thought, consider the benefits mentioned above. Special occasions spent around the patio while making some barbecue or grilling steak will also be something you will cherish.
Palmetto Outdoor Kitchens can help you enhance your outdoor space. They offer high-quality grills that will improve your outdoor kitchen experience. Palmetto Outdoor Kitchens can meet all your outdoor kitchen needs. Give them a call today!