Ten Outdoor Kitchen Design Tips

A top quality designed outdoor kitchen can really bring your entertaining of guests to the next level. A recent release from Houzz polled landscape professionals to share what the best design elements are and why. As summer season comes close to an end, it is a perfect time to consider some of these elements as you prepare for next year’s projects. 

Top Quality Grill

It all starts with your grill as your kitchen’s main focal point so make sure you select a top-quality one and build around it. The better your grill, the less you will be limited to what you can prepare for yourself and your guests.

The Right Location

Most design pros will suggest doing your outdoor kitchen in a convenient location to encourage frequent and ease of use. That most often means having it just outside the house. Running electrical and plumbing is typically easier in this location, just be mindful of the grill location and its proximity to the house.

The Right Layout

The right layout should be a priority. An L or U shape typically will yield enough room needed for cooking, prep and entertaining. You should also consider how easy it is to maneuver around just like an indoor kitchen.

The Right Materials

The elements will always have their lasting effect on an outdoor kitchen even if it is covered. Choose high quality materials such as counters that are sealed, smooth concrete or granite.

Stylish

While you plan out your design, don’t forget the “fun” in function. Let your home’s personality on the inside continue outside into your outdoor kitchen design. Keep a similar theme of colors, design and personality as it basically is another room of your house. Have fun with it!

Appliances

Once you have the essentials accounted for in your design, you can personalize it with more appliances. Pros recommend of course a refrigerator, but you can also consider things like smokers, warmer drawers, ice drawers, sinks or trash receptacles.

Lighting

This is a crucial one. Your typical outdoor lights won’t usually suffice for when you are cooking. You will want to make sure your cooking area is well lit so you can clearly see the progress of your food while you prepare it.

Shield From The Elements

Consider some protection against the elements to make things remain both clean and comfortable. Perhaps it could be a canopy or use of screens to shield from the hot sun or rain. Or consider some overhead heaters to extend your season for when it gets cold. 

Dining Area

Despite some designs featuring counter bar seats, a formal table is always best for family or guest entertaining. Just as you would do inside, having a table for comfortable seating right next to the kitchen is always preferred. 

Garden

Go for a win/win and add an edible garden. Whether it is in the ground next to your kitchen or simply well placed pots of herbs this can add some life and ambiance combined with the function of herbs to help you prepare the perfect meals!