Bring Your Indoor Conveniences Outside With A Decked Out Outdoor Kitchen
Imagine stepping out your back door into an outdoor oasis, complete with a fully-loaded kitchen ready for grilling lobster tails and chilling champagne. An outdoor kitchen takes alfresco dining and entertaining possibilities to thrilling new heights.
Outdoor kitchens are surging in popularity as part of expanded outdoor living spaces. Homeowners increasingly desire seamless indoor-outdoor integration. An outdoor kitchen allows convenient cooking and prep while being immersed in fresh air.
Designing Your Dream Outdoor Kitchen
Thoughtful design is key to crafting your ideal outdoor hangout. Consider the layout, features, and materials to create a stellar space.
Layout Considerations
The proximity to your indoor kitchen, traffic flow, views, sunlight, and utilities will inform placement. Allow ample room for multiple cooks by incorporating 100 sq ft or more.
Essential Features
While sizes and styles vary, most outdoor kitchens include these fundamentals:
- Grill station - gas or charcoal
- Countertops for prep and serving
- Sink for washing up
- Refrigerator or beverage cooler
- Storage for cooking tools
- Task lighting
- Seating/dining area
Optional Enhancements
Take your outdoor kitchen up a notch with built-in amenities like:
- Brick pizza oven
- Smoker
- Wine fridge
- Ice maker
- Fireplace or fire pit
- Heat lamps
- Sound system
Materials
Use weather-resistant materials that can withstand the elements:
- Countertops: stone, stainless steel, tile, concrete
- Cabinets: composite or stainless steel
- Appliances: stainless steel
- Sink: stainless steel
- Flooring: stone, tile, pavers
Building Your Outdoor Cooking Oasis
Constructing an outdoor kitchen requires planning for permits, utilities, and prep work before installation.
Hiring Contractors vs DIY
Consider time, skill level and budget when deciding whether to DIY or hire a landscaper or contractor.
Permits and Regulations
Research permit requirements and fire code restrictions for outdoor kitchens in your area before building.
Gas and Electrical
Safely running new gas lines, electrical circuits, and lighting typically requires professional help.
Prep Work
Proper grading, drainage, framing overhead structures, and structural footings must be in place.
Installation Tips
- Allow ample ventilation around grills
- Use heavy-duty fasteners
- Caulk seams
- Slope surfaces to prevent water pooling
Get Cooking in Your Outdoor Kitchen
Once built, it’s time to fire up your outdoor kitchen and put it to use! Learn techniques for grilling, safety, and maintenance.
Grilling Guidance
Master temperature regulation, direct vs. indirect heat, and using flavoring woods for pro-level grilling.
Keep it Safe
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby
- Don’t leave grills unattended
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance
Maintenance
- Use covers when appliances are not in use
- Clean surfaces with stainless steel cleaner
- Reapply protective sealants annually
- Drain water lines before winter
With thoughtful design, solid construction and pro tips, an outdoor kitchen can completely transform your outdoor living space. Imagine the memories to be made while cooking, conversing and relaxing in your own personal outdoor paradise.