Summer is upon us, meaning it’s time to enjoy the warmer weather. You’re probably thinking of getting your outdoor spaces ready for summertime use. If you love to entertain, then an outdoor kitchen is essential for hosting memorable outdoor meals and gatherings.
There are many different options and layouts to consider when it comes to outdoor kitchen design. What appliances should you include and how much space should you dedicate? It can be hard to know what configuration will work best for your space.
That’s why we’re reviewing all things related to outdoor kitchen design so you can create your dream alfresco cooking environment. Keep reading for our expert advice.
Assess Your Outdoor Space and Plan Your Layout
Whether you’re working with a large yard or a smaller patio or balcony, the first step will be to take stock of your current outdoor space and see what you can dedicate to your outdoor kitchen.
When planning the layout keep in mind that traditional indoor kitchen layouts also work for an outdoor kitchen, just on a smaller scale. So think galley style, L-shaped, or U-shaped as starting points for inspiration. If you’re working with a more limited space, the most basic outdoor kitchen will include a grill and prep space with a simple run of cabinets.
If you have more room to work with, a full-size kitchen will include hot, cold, wet, and dry zones. Hot zones for cooking, cold zones for keeping food and drinks chilled, wet for a sink area, and dry for counter and prep spaces.
When considering your layout and what kind of appliances you’ll need ask yourself what type of meals will you be preparing and how many people will you need to accommodate. Perhaps you’ll be mostly barbecuing and just a grill will suffice or you’ll be cooking a greater variety of meals and you’d like to add side burners or an oven. It’s important to consider how you want your kitchen to function so you invest in the right equipment.
Also, think about off-season care and maintenance when you won’t be using your outdoor spaces as much, if at all. A more elaborate kitchen will require more time to store and prep everything for winter, especially in colder environments.
Consider Electric, Plumbing, and More
Electricity and water are a few of the utilities you’ll need to bring outside for your outdoor kitchen. So be sure to consult with an electrician and plumber to see what’s feasible, especially when you’re planning your budget.
You’ll also need to think about how you’re cooking appliances will operate. Again this will depend on how much you want to invest and what’s realistic for your current space. Gas, propane, electricity, and charcoal are the main fuel options to compare.
Choose Outdoor-Friendly Materials
Another important aspect of outdoor kitchen design is selecting materials that not only look great but are made for outdoor use and will withstand varying weather conditions. Materials to consider are
- Stainless steel
- Natural stone or brick
- PVC and Resin
- Tile
- Concrete
- Wood
Before purchasing any materials check with the manufacturer or vendor that the material is suitable for outdoor use. You don’t want to invest in a new outdoor kitchen only to have to replace certain finishes after a year or two.
Create Shade and Privacy
When it comes to outdoor living, be mindful of ways you can create shade and privacy. This will depend on where you live, the climate, and how close your home is to your neighbors.
So you’re not baking in the hot sun, you may want to add a patio roof extension, pergola, awning, canopy, or umbrella to keep your cooking and dining spaces comfortable. Keep in mind that the more sturdy the structure, the better protected the area is for winter.
Plan Outdoor Lighting
A well-functioning outdoor kitchen will include thoughtful lighting.
You’ll need to think about ambient lighting for when people are dining and lounging, along with task lighting for meal prep, cooking, and cleaning. Some outdoor lighting options are
- String lights
- Recessed lights (if you have a roof extension)
- Sconces
- Under counter lighting
- Landscape lighting
- Path lights
- Pendants or chandelier lighting
Don’t cut the evening short just because it gets dark outside. Good lighting will allow you to enjoy your outdoor entertaining and lounging spaces well into the evening.
Design Outdoor Dining and Seating Areas
Along with space for cooking and meal prep, you’ll want to ensure that your whole household and guests will be able to dine and sit outside comfortably. This typically includes a dining table and lounge area.
It’s important to go with outdoor furniture that’s durable and meant to last.
Consider a Holistic Design
Your outdoor cooking, dining, and living areas should coordinate the design of your home overall. This means you should consider your home’s architecture along with the style, color scheme, and materials inside your home. So that your outdoor spaces feel like an extension of the inside of your home.
This doesn’t mean you have to use the same products and materials, but the aesthetic should be cohesive.
Don’t Forget Plants and Landscaping
Plants and landscaping are an important part of your outdoor environment and equally important when designing your outdoor kitchen.
They not only make your outdoor living spaces more inviting, but they also add shade and privacy. Think about including vertical vines along a wall or fence, or add small trees and bushes to help zone and define your spaces. A hedge is a great way to screen your yard from neighbors. Or maybe you’d like a herb garden to add fresh rosemary, basil, or mint to your summer meals.
Whatever your goals, you can find great plants and greenery that’ll do the trick.
Compare Outdoor Luxury Kitchen Extras
If you want to go all out and create the ultimate outdoor dining and entertaining experience then you may want to consider luxury upgrades for your outdoor kitchen. Below are some examples of additions you can incorporate
- Wet bar
- Wine fridge
- Kegerator
- Dishwasher
- Island
- Ice machine
- Warming drawers
- Smoker
- Pizza oven
- Side burners
- Venthood
- Ample storage
- Fireplace, firepit, or fire table
- Patio heaters
It’s the luxury extras that can take your outdoor gatherings to the next level. Really consider how the space can be customized to work for you.
Hire an Interior Designer for Your Outdoor Kitchen
A well-designed and maintained outdoor kitchen not only adds value to your life but it can add considerable value to your home. Hiring a designer can make the difference between creating a mediocre outdoor kitchen on your own and one that’s perfect for your home and family. Below are just a few other reasons why an experienced interior design firm like AHG Interiors will help make the most of your outdoor living space.
- We create beautiful and functional designs to meet your lifestyle needs, so you can make the most of your outdoor space
- We consider your home as a whole so you have a cohesive design
- We help you decide on the best layout, materials, appliances, and more
- We make expert recommendations to meet your unique needs
- We provide you with customization options, so your outdoor space is a unique reflection of your lifestyle
- We coordinate with contractors and subcontractors so that you don’t have to
- We help you make smart design decisions so the space adds value to your home
Overall, we’ll save you time and money. Ready to reimagine your outdoor space and create an entertaining oasis? Get in touch with us today!
