7 Step Guide to Building your Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular in American homes, and for good reason. What better way to spend the summer months than outside enjoying a meal with friends and family? The Freedonia Group, a leading international business research company, recently analyzed the U.S. market for outdoor kitchen equipment. What their research found was that outdoor kitchen sales are projected to rise by 6.3% by 2024- a market valued at $780 million! If you want to add value to your home and create a lively outdoor space, see our guide below to constructing your ultimate outdoor kitchen.
1. Have a Vision
Before spending a ton of money a new outdoor kitchen, have an idea of what you want your kitchen to look like. Give some thought to the little things like storage space, refrigeration, prep stations, and materials. You should take several days to think about the layout of your kitchen and set it up in a way that makes sense.
2. Hire a Contractor
Unless you are very handy, you should hire a contractor to execute the build, as it will be fairly complex. Do your research and employ a trustworthy and well-rated company to bring your vision to life.
3. Flooring
An outdoor kitchen floor is susceptible to a lot of wear. In addition to the elements, the floor may take damage from grease, moisture, and from people walking on it. Review durable floor options with your contractor to guarantee your kitchen floor will last a long time.
4. Select Appliances
Selecting appliances is where you get to add your own personal flavor to your kitchen, no pun intended! Some homeowners are self-proclaimed pitmasters that want a grill at the forefront of their kitchen, while others are pizza lovers that cannot imagine an outdoor kitchen without a pizza oven. No matter what you decide, choose appliances that you will utilize and enjoy for years to come.
5. Cabinets and Storage
Remember that outdoor cabinets and storage options have to be durable enough to withstand the elements. Consider using a long-lasting material such as wood, stainless steel, or high-density plastic. Consult your contractor to nail down the aesthetic of cabinetry that you want and make sure that it fits in well with the overall look of the outdoor kitchen.
6. Ventilation
Most local legislation will require you to include a vent hood over the stove or grill if it is located under a structure like a deck or patio. Proper ventilation will also preserve your outdoor kitchen appliances by preventing smoke, moisture, and cooking damage.
7. Lighting
Ensure there is adequate lighting all throughout the kitchen, but especially around the cook and prep stations. Also make sure that walkways and stairways are lit up to prevent injuries.
An outdoor kitchen is an amenity that can be enjoyed during any time of the year. Take time to cultivate a design that makes it easy to spend more time outside. Also consider the aesthetic you are trying to achieve, and select appliances and features that compliment it. A loaded outdoor kitchen is an invaluable home feature that can not just increase the value of your home, but also provide a space to make memories with family and friends.
