Outdoor kitchens might feel like a trend fit for the Mediterranean, but more homeowners are now realizing the potential of these key features for giving their gardens a complete and functional glow up.
Not only do outdoor kitchens look great, but they also serve the very real benefits of introducing more regular outdoor dining and enhancing a garden-based entertaining space. Far from back-to-basics barbecues, these areas can come complete with everything from plumbed sinks, to proper grill/ovens, and even ready-stocked, chilled bars.
If you fancy turning your outdoor space into a Michelin-starred restaurant this summer, simply keep reading for top tips on how to turn up the heat in a sizzlingly stylish outdoor kitchen area.
# 1 - Think About Positioning
Ideally, you should position your outdoor kitchen close to your home, on a flat surface like a patio or decking area. Such proximity makes it easier to transport your food or pop in for gadgets from your at-home kitchen should you need them. Positioning your outdoor kitchen close to home can make life easier when you seek exterior renovation services, as it ensures an added level of ease for tasks like plumbing in an outdoor sink.
You might also want to consider the sun when choosing where to put your outdoor kitchen. A location that gets plenty of sun in the evenings can make for especially fantastic outdoor eating opportunities for you and your guests.
# 2 - Know Your Gadgets
Outdoor kitchens are a haven for gadget lovers, and it’s important to know what gadgets/appliances are most deserving of a place in this space. Most obviously, you’ll need the basics that you use within your indoor kitchen, including access to a working sink, oven, and grill or hob. Admittedly, you probably won’t need a full outdoor fridge, but drink coolers or minibar fridges should also feature here.
Aside from those essentials, you have a lot of leeway with what you would like to add. Some outdoor kitchens are fitted with everything from authentic pizza ovens to easily movable barbecues. Smokers are also increasingly popular for achieving more authentic al fresco flavors. You could even go all out with a specially designed outdoor dishwasher that makes cleaning up a breeze!
# 3 - Focus on Aesthetics
So far, we’ve considered the more practical elements of outdoor kitchen design, but what about aesthetics? After all, you want this area to look good if you intend to host guests here. But, what exactly does an ‘attractive’ outdoor kitchen include?
Perhaps the main point to bear in mind here is that you should embrace, rather than resist, this kitchen’s outdoor nature. Incorporating natural countertop colors, and even adding plants, will ensure that your outdoor kitchen looks like it belongs in nature, rather than becoming an eyesore. Nature-based materials, like natural stone countertops, can also help to make your outdoor kitchen look amazing and well-blended with its surroundings.
Are you ready to get cooking in your outdoor kitchen? You certainly will be once you’ve put these design pointers into action!