Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor cooking spaces can incorporate fun and function.

Outdoor kitchens can bring color, style and design to your backyard landscape while adding a fully functional living space to your home. Whether you prefer to enjoy your backyard with close family or frequently host a larger group, creating a work zone there lets you keep tabs on all the fun. By bringing the same luxuries and conveniences of interior kitchens outdoors, you can stay near friends and family while serving up meals that keep the party going well into the evening.

The options are nearly endless when it comes to designing your ideal outdoor kitchen. Consider these factors as you begin planning your project:

Location comes first

A well-designed outdoor kitchen flows from the home and creates a natural transition to the rest of the landscape. As you contemplate orientation, think about how the kitchen will be incorporated into your existing outdoor living space. You’ll need to consider your present landscape’s flow and features, potential entries, and whether you will be adding hardscapes like a stone patio or working with existing hardscapes.

Seamless style

The aesthetic style of your outdoor kitchen is another vital ingredient. You’ll want to ensure the design complements your home’s exterior architecture and landscaping.

Layout

A grill is an obvious element, but there are still plenty of decisions to make, such as the best placement of your grilling appliances. Factor in wind, which may force smoke into your house or dining areas, or create the need to incorporate a ventilation hood. Also keep your cooking style in mind, which may help you determine how to lay out other features, such as the work space and other cooking and cooling appliances, so they are in easy reach.

Appliance options

Think about the types of foods and beverages you’ll want to serve outdoors. For example, a backyard bar may warrant an extra sink, larger refrigerator, ice maker, wine cooler and/or beer dispenser. For interactive kitchen fun, you may opt for an attractive pizza oven.

Know the code

You’ll need to ensure you have proper plumbing, gas and electricity. Do your research to determine any local building code requirements and be sure to check with your homeowners association or any other group that may govern a remodeling project on your property.

To get your project started on the right track, considering enlisting the help of a kitchen design professional. You can find inspiration from the photo galleries at danver.com and brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com.