Outdoor Kitchens Add Year-Round Enjoyment

Whether you're a once-in-a-while BBQ novice or a bona fide grill master, an outdoor kitchen could be that extra touch that brings years of enjoyment to you and your family. Beyond adding value to your property, outdoor kitchens are as much about beauty as they are about functionality. The following tips are designed to help you design the right solution for your space.

What are your "must have" vs. "nice to have" items?
A great place to start your plan is by making a list of the "must have" items you'd like with your outdoor kitchen. These could include things like a grill, sink, an island, gas cooktop, pizza oven, refrigerator, dining space or a bar. If incorporating all of these items breaks the bank, split your list into "must have" and "nice to have" items. When working with your designer, talk about ways to add the "nice to have" items at a later date so he or she can create a layout to accommodate future additions.

What's your style?
Outdoor kitchens can be made in just about any style you can think of, but you'll want to talk with your designer so you pick the right materials to match your tastes, as well as to complement the aesthetic of your home and yard. Are you into a sleek, modern look? Or, do you prefer a natural stone kitchen? Different styles have their respective costs but your designer can help you find the materials that fit within your budget.

Do you have enough space?
When planning your outdoor kitchen, carefully consider the amount of space needed. You won't want the kitchen to overwhelm your space, but you will want to allow room for people to mingle or socialize (kitchens, indoors or out, are natural gathering spots). Will there be room for seating? Do you have enough space for food prep? Is there adequate space for walking around the outdoor kitchen to get to other parts of your yard?

Where are your utilities located?
One of the most important things you'll want to plan for with your outdoor kitchen is how and where your utilities run and what changes will be necessary to support your design. For instance, you'll want to make sure you have the necessary gas lines, electrical, and plumbing, ideally close to where you want to locate the kitchen. Your designer can help you get the most from your budget by positioning your outdoor kitchen for easy access to utilities.

Do you have ventilation & lighting?
Last, but not least, do consider ventilation and lighting. Even with an outdoor kitchen, ventilation is important to consider, as is lighting. There's nothing worse than trying to cook in the dark or buried in smoke. Your designer can help accommodate these needs and still maintain the aesthetic integrity of your overall design.

If you're interested in what an outdoor kitchen might look like in your space, give us a call at 541-729-8029. Our team of expert designers can work with you to plan the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.