Entertain In Style With A Professionally-Designed Outdoor Kitchen
Do you love hosting backyard barbeques, dinner parties, or just casually dining al fresco? Imagine maximizing your outdoor living space with a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen. Professionally designed and installed, an outdoor kitchen allows you to cook, entertain, and relax in style. Keep reading to learn all about how to create the ultimate outdoor gathering spot.
Outdoor kitchens have grown in popularity thanks to their ability to seamlessly extend living areas outside. Home chefs can fire up the grill or prep food with total ease. Guests can comfortably lounge on the patio near the fully-stocked kitchen. Let's explore the benefits and components that make an outdoor kitchen such a luxurious addition.
What Is An Outdoor Kitchen?
An outdoor kitchen refers to an outdoor set up equipped with the typical appliances and features of an indoor kitchen. This includes elements like:
Main Components
- Grill - gas or charcoal grilling station
- Sink - double bowl stainless steel for washing
- Refrigerator - keeps food cold outside
- Counter space - flat surface for prep work
- Storage - cabinets, drawers, shelves
- Seating - bar stools, chairs, benches
- Lighting - task lighting and ambient
- Ventilation - vents for removing fumes
Benefits
Investing in an outdoor kitchen offers many advantages:
- Cook, dine, and entertain outdoors anytime
- Extend living space outside the home
- Host gatherings day or night, any season
- Access to appliances and storage
- Higher quality build when professionally done
With an outdoor kitchen fully equipped with the comforts of an indoor cooking space, homeowners can get outside more. The days of being stuck inside when you want to whip up a meal are over.
Design Elements To Consider
When planning your dream outdoor kitchen, there are several elements to think about in terms of design and layout:
Layout
Consider the workflow between appliances like the grill, sink, fridge, and counters. Make sure there is adequate space for food prep, cooking, serving, and seating guests.
Also factor in accessibility from entry points like the home's back doors. You want the kitchen design to be open and easily reached.
Appliances
Think about the specifications of appliances like:
- Type of grill - gas, charcoal, or combination
- Type of refrigerator - undercounter or full size
- Ventilation needs based on the grill
- Additional specialty appliances like a pizza oven, burner, or smoker
Materials
The materials used for surfaces, cabinetry, and flooring impact the overall look and durability:
- Countertops - stone, tile, stainless steel
- Cabinetry - stainless steel, wood, composite
- Flooring - tile, stone, concrete
Aesthetics
Factor in the overall style you want for your space. Consider details like:
- Modern or rustic look
- Decor accents - tiles, lighting, wall art
- Island design or built-in construction
Hiring A Pro For Installation
While DIY outdoor kitchen kits exist, hiring a professional to tackle the design and installation is wise. This ensures your kitchen is high quality and built to last. Here are the key benefits to having an expert developer handle your outdoor cooking space.
Benefits
- Higher quality construction and materials
- Can navigate permits, codes, regulations
- Full service - design, layout, materials
- Proper installation for drainage, wiring, etc
What To Look For
When researching contractors, look for:
- Extensive experience building outdoor kitchens
- Examples and photos of past client work
- A dedicated project manager
- Full range of design to build services
Costs
Pricing varies significantly based on the size, features, materials, and complexity of the kitchen. High end custom outdoor kitchens can cost $20,000 or more. However, more basic installations can range from $5,000 - $15,000. Be sure to get quotes from at least three reputable contractors before selecting one.
Maintaining an Outdoor Kitchen
While outdoor kitchens are designed to withstand the elements, they do require some regular care and maintenance:
Regular Maintenance
- Deep clean the appliances and surfaces
- Check for any damage after bad weather
- Touch up surfaces and apply new sealants as needed
- Store/cover appliances in cold winter months
Upgrade Over Time
- Enhance lighting features and decor
- Add more storage and counter space if needed
- Replace appliances if they become worn or outdated
With proper maintenance and care, your outdoor kitchen can stay looking fabulous for years. Periodic upgrades keep the space feeling fresh and updated over time.
Investing in a professionally built outdoor kitchen allows you to entertain and cook in style all year long. Work with an experienced contractor to design the ideal layout and features for your home and needs.
An outdoor kitchen seamlessly extends your living area outside, so you can fire up the grill or host guests any time. Create an opulent outdoor oasis with all the comforts of an indoor kitchen by your pool, patio, or garden. Contact a developer today to get started designing your dream space.