Outdoor kitchens are becoming a huge deal right now. They allow homeowners to cook outside when the weather is great, allow for entertaining outdoors instead of inside, and make it possible to cook just about anything outdoors instead of having to go in the kitchen to make the sides then back out again to check on the burgers. Plus, adding an outdoor kitchen can help boost the value of the home for those who may be planning to sell in the near future. When it comes to installing a new outdoor kitchen, the right planning is crucial. Read below to learn everything you need to know before you start planning an outdoor kitchen.
Pre-Designed Versus Custom
Homeowners may want to consider whether they prefer pre-designed outdoor kitchens or if they’d like something that’s customized to meet their needs. A website like rtaoutdoorliving.com offers both options, so it’s easy to see the differences and determine which one is the best fit. In most cases, a pre-designed outdoor kitchen is easier to install since it’s delivered ready to go and is going to be the less expensive option. A customized outdoor kitchen, however, allows homeowners to get exactly what they want and make sure it fits their needs completely.
Combining Options
It is possible to combine options and opt for both pre-designed and customized components in the outdoor kitchen. Homeowners can use pre-designed components, but add in a completely customized sink area or use a customized kitchen island to make the kitchen exactly what they need. When combining, it’s important to pay attention to all of the little details to make sure everything will look great together, but this can be a great way to customize some of the kitchens yet keep costs as low as possible.
Layout and Spacing
The layout of the kitchen is important to consider. There are different theories for how to set up a kitchen, whether it’s indoors or outdoors. Many people prefer the kitchen triangle method, which makes it easy to move around the kitchen while cooking. Others, however, prefer to split the kitchen into zones. This is perfect when there may be multiple people in the kitchen or the kitchen is too small for the kitchen triangle to be effective. No matter what method is used for the layout and spacing, if any, pay attention to how much room there is to move around and how easy it is to access all of the appliances.
Island or No Island?
Outdoor kitchens, just like indoor ones, may include an island. This provides more counter space for prep work, displaying the food, and more. However, an island can take up quite a bit of space. If the amount of space for the outdoor kitchen is limited, it may be better to skip the island and consider alternatives for where to place the food. If there is plenty of room, however, an island can significantly increase the amount of space available for cooking and provide an easy way for family and friends to grab their food when it’s ready.
You can also install a concrete benchtop in your outdoor kitchen for permanent use, especially if you want to welcome and entertain guests in the landscape garden or pool area. You may learn how to make a concrete benchtop by going online and reading credible guides made by experts.
Concrete countertops and kitchen islands are durable, heat-resistant, and can provide your outdoor kitchen with an upscale look.
What Appliances to Include
An outdoor kitchen will likely include a number of larger appliances typically found in indoor kitchens, such as a sink, refrigerator, stovetop, and more. However, it is crucial to make sure the appliances are able to be used outside. Outdoor kitchen manufacturers can often recommend appliances known for their ability to withstand the elements and continue working properly outside. Otherwise, it’s necessary to make sure any appliance is built for outdoor use. Refrigerators, for instance, need a special certification to ensure they are able to be used in an outdoor kitchen.
Grill Type to Purchase
The grill is an essential part of an outdoor kitchen. Instead of using the stand-alone grill that’s commonly found in backyards today, it might be worth looking into a new grill that’s designed to work with the outdoor kitchen. There are plenty of options, many of which are designed to work with the outdoor kitchen for a seamless look. It’s possible to choose from charcoal grills, pellet grills, gas or propane grills, and other types of grills depending on the homeowner’s preference. Then, consider how the grill will fit into the kitchen and what accessories may be needed to protect the grill from the elements and ensure it continues to work perfectly.
The average grill sizes for outdoor kitchens range from 34 to 40 inches. Most homeowners prefer this size of a freestanding grill. If you prefer a small-sized outdoor grill, you can buy one with three burners for maximum cooking capacity. Large-sized grills have four to five burners, ideal for large family gatherings and home barbecue parties. Also, choose a high-quality grill for your outdoor kitchen, one that can withstand harsh elements.
Space for Storage
When designing the outdoor kitchen, pay attention to the amount of storage space available. Storage may be needed for dishes, drinking cups, cutlery, napkins, extra drinks, shelf-stable foods, cooking utensils, pots and pans, and a lot more. Think about everything that needs to be outside to prevent running back and forth between the kitchen inside and the one outside, then consider how much space is needed for storage. Everything doesn’t have to fit in the kitchen itself, but should at least be stored where it can be easily accessed while outside in the kitchen.
Budgeting and Getting Started
The cost of an outdoor kitchen can quickly add up once everything desired is included, so it’s important to determine a budget and stick with it as much as possible. There are options for homeowners to use pre-designed components and DIY the installation themselves to save money, allowing them to get more from the new kitchen. It also may be possible to spend a little more on the things that are more important and look into savings for things that may not be as important. Once the budget is set and the design is planned out, it’s time to work with a professional to start creating the perfect outdoor kitchen.
Choose a professional contractor to execute your outdoor kitchen design plans. Hire an experienced local kitchen construction company that can show its credentials and portfolio. When choosing a contractor, ensure you deal with an insured and bonded company for your protection and peace of mind. Before you agree to anything, ask questions and read the agreement. Find out important information, such as the contractor’s rates, timeline, and service warranty.
If you’re ready to start enjoying the yard more, installing an outdoor kitchen can be well worth the cost. You’ll be able to enjoy meals outside, have guests over and cook for everyone as often as you want, and really get more use out of the backyard. No matter what the reason is if you’re ready to have an outdoor kitchen, use the tips and information here to start planning what it will look like and what it might include.
