How to Design a Modern Outdoor Kitchen
With summer right around the corner, more families are looking into the possibility of designing their very own modern outdoor kitchen. A chance to bring the fun and creativity of cooking to your outdoor space, an outdoor kitchen can completely revolutionize how you cook and how you spend time in your yard.
But how do you get started? With a project like this, you certainly don’t want to rush into it and end up wasting both time and money. A poorly designed outdoor kitchen often proves to not function right and then you may not even want to enjoy your new space. But don’t worry—we’re here to help. Here, we’re taking a closer look at how to design a functional and appealing modern outdoor kitchen, such as choosing the right appliances, incorporating an outdoor island, and how to make the best use of your space.
TIPS FOR DESIGNING YOUR MODERN OUTDOOR KITCHEN
1. Location
The first rule of real estate is also an important one for designing your outdoor kitchen. Before you can get down to picking modern outdoor kitchen appliances or patio furniture, you need to assess the space you’re working with. Size up your yard so you begin your project with realistic expectations. Most homeowners don’t want their outdoor kitchen to take up the entire yard, so think creatively about how you can best use your space.
Where exactly do you envision your outdoor kitchen? Right off your home or further back into the yard? This will be important when it comes to lighting and electrical components. Also think about how your outdoor kitchen design will complement any existing patio or deck you already have out back.
2. Outdoor kitchen layout
Next, you can begin planning out your outdoor kitchen layout. This is where the size of your outdoor space really comes into play. Some homeowners are looking to recreate a similar layout as they have for their interior kitchen, complete with countertops, cabinets, and even an outdoor island.
If you’re restricted by size or budget, many opt to stick with a few cabinets and a grill. Keep functionality in mind as you design your outdoor kitchen layout. How will you be using this space? Full meal creation or more so as a space to entertain friends and family? Remember, it’s all about making your outdoor space work for you.
3. Outdoor kitchen appliances
Now it’ll really feel like your project is coming to life. After you’ve got a clear layout in mind, you should start thinking about the appliances you’ll need. Again, this comes down to how you envision this space. For the avid cooks out there, you’ll want enough countertop space to enable an easy and comfortable meal prep.
Then you can move on to your core appliances. Including a stove, refrigerator, and sink will make it easier to cook outside and not have you constantly rushing back inside. Always make sure you purchase kitchen appliances that were designed for outdoor use. Using powder coat cabinets and stainless-steel appliances will help keep your outdoor kitchen functional even through a spell of bad weather.
4. Bring the heat
No kitchen (indoors or outdoors) is complete without a little sizzle. The only real question is what type of heat will you bring to your new outdoor kitchen? The classic choice, of course, is the grill, here you could find the best electric grills. Often the centerpiece for any backyard cooking adventure, it’s tough to beat the taste of freshly grilled burgers, hot dogs (or even vegetables). But don’t feel limited by the classic choice. Many people are getting creative with their outdoor cooking options, including a smoker or an outdoor pizza oven. These appliances will help you get even more creative with your outdoor cooking.
5. Storage
A practical question that you shouldn’t avoid—how will you be storing all your plates, cups, utensils, and outdoor kitchen appliances? In addition to dealing with the elements, including rain, heat, and precipitation, dust and pollen and other irritants can sneak into even the most secure cabinets and drawers. This is why you should consider safely storing all your utensils in plastic containers that will keep them clean and undamaged. Depending on where you live, you may have to deal with unwanted guests (not just your neighbors, but deer, rabbits, or other local wildlife). Safely storing all your kitchen gear will limit these unwanted interactions.
6. Entertainment
Many homeowners love designing a modern outdoor kitchen because, compared to an indoor kitchen, there’s much more space to work with. By incorporating patio furniture, space for a bar, or even a flatscreen television, you can quickly turn your outdoor space into a fun and functional gathering place.
And don’t forget about seating. The number of seats and space dedicated to your outdoor kitchen will be important factors in dictating how you use your new outdoor space. Is it designed for big parties with friends and neighbors or more just for your family to spend a little more time together? If you’re looking at throwing the hottest party on the block, consider dedicating more room to the patio space. Patio tables, chairs, and even a couch can help everybody kick back and relax.
CONCLUSION – HOW TO DESIGN A MODERN OUTDOOR KITCHEN
Your kitchen is a special place in your home. In many ways, the kitchen is the heart of your home and serves as a place where you can gather, create, and share delicious meals with those people you care about. But who ever said that a kitchen needs to be confined to the four walls of your home?
Set your cooking free by designing and building an outdoor kitchen in your yard. Start with a clear understanding of the available space before beginning your kitchen layout. From there, you can begin bringing your outdoor kitchen to life. Just don’t forget to purchase materials and kitchen appliances that were designed for outdoor use. Before you know it, you’ll be relaxing and enjoying a delicious meal under the open sky.
