Do you have an outdoor space that you believe isn’t fully utilized? Or maybe you’re looking at patio designs for a change? Then how about turning it into an outdoor kitchen? Not only will it become an additional utility area, but you could also use it as an entertainment space for your loved ones where you can interact leisurely; it’s like hitting two birds with one stone! This article will guide you to creating the best outdoor kitchen design that you can customize freely to fit your own needs.
Getting started: planning your outdoor kitchen.
Before you go ahead and run to the nearest hardware and appliance store near you, you must first plan things out and consider the following factors:
Identify your needs and define your budget. First things first: what kind of outdoor kitchen do you have in mind? As soon as you identify what your peg is, list down every essential you need, such as paint, appliances, and other tools you will use for renovation and cooking. After that, create a realistic budget plan so you won’t overspend and break the bank when purchasing your needs.
Choose the perfect location. Moving forward, choose a location that’s easily accessible to your indoor kitchen while also having enough space to accommodate people. Consider its proximity to utilities and if it offers privacy to a certain extent.
Design your layout. Now that you have all the aforementioned figured out, design your layout and be mindful of the flow and “work triangle.” If you don’t know what the work triangle is, it’s basically an area where the sink, grill, and refrigerator triangulate each other for easy access. Make sure to be mindful of the traffic flow and workspace needed when you do food prep.
Choose your essential furniture and equipment. Next, choose a grill according to your cooking style, but generally, there are three types to choose from, such as gas, charcoal, and electric. Outdoor refrigerators are also a welcomed addition to the space, so you can store food, ingredients, and condiments without running back and forth to the house.
Materializing the vision: seeing your design come to life.
Now that you have the essentials out of the way, here are some additional tips when you’re finally working on the construction of your outdoor kitchen.
Be mindful of the materials you choose. Since it’s outdoors, durability and weather-resistant materials are paramount. For your kitchen storage and countertops, consider using granite, stainless steel, tiles, or composite decking since these are the ideal ones that can withstand the weather. Don’t forget to provide a tent or retractable awning to protect your guests from the elements.
Create a warm and inviting atmosphere. For the place to become a haven of entertainment and leisure, create a cozy ambiance by setting up comfortable seats, a fire pit, and decorative accents so your loved ones can relax and unwind comfortably.
Safety first. Don’t forget to have a fire extinguisher ready that’s within reach, and check if the gas and water lines are installed properly and securely.
Add more beauty through landscaping. Lastly, beautify the connected space by adorning your garden with lush landscaping to complement your outdoor kitchen design.