Before you start your project you have to take into considerations certain things.
Let's begin with define what an outdoor kitchen is.
An outdoor kitchen is a place outside of the home where you can entertain, cook and prepare meals while enjoying the open-air. It expands your living room to the outdoor space. Your outdoor kitchen is the centerpiece of an outdoor entertaining area which lets you entertain family, friends and guests outdoors.
Any home renovation project takes a lot of energy and time for research, planing, creativity to finally get with the perfect idea for your patio space. Whether you hire a professional or you like the DIY projects, it will be necessary to consider some important things. A good outdoor kitchen is surely an inversion but remember that it greatly expand the value of a home and it's perfect for outdoor entertaining.
1. Budget
It is important to define a budget and stick on it. Be sure to get an itemized estimate that include all the part of the project. The budget items to keep in mind :
Material Quality: Higher quality finishes and materials may cost more, but they also tend to last longer.
Utilities: More than likely, utilities such as electricity, gas and running water will need to be added to the area. Planning for this extra expense is important as it will include additional trades, materials and may be subject to local permitting/inspections.
Technology: If internet or cable will be in demand in the new space, be sure to include additional WiFi and network installation line items.
2. Location
An outdoor kitchen is the centerpiece of an outdoor entertaining area, so it is so important the location you choose. It could be considered as the connecting point of the patio. People is going to be around the food and drink zone.
The most important things to consider are the sun and rain protection, the air flow and the connection with the main kitchen of the house. When you are planing you outdoor kitchen you have to think in terms of functionality and connection. Make yourself this question: How well connected is the O.K. with my house? How connected is in the rest of the patio?
3. Layout
Here we start thinking on design. time to consider which shape you like most, the size that fix your budget and the space you have available for it. On our website you can find the most popular functional layouts we know after years for experience.
Among the most popular are the Straight line, the minimalist island, the "L" shape and the "U" shape.
4. Style
With outdoor living spaces becoming increasingly popular, many homeowners are looking to duplicate their indoor kitchen color, style and design. Others want to create a separate living space making it unique to the outdoors. Either way, there are plenty of options available. Fully-functional Stainless Steel cabinets and doors that provide storage have become the focal point of the outdoor living area. Available with powder coating that reduces corrosion and staining, these cabinets serve a dual purpose. They allow for additional opportunities to incorporate design through colors and finishes, while also adding to the lifespan of the investment.
5. Appliances
Appliances increase the value of outdoor kitchens. Base your appliances selection on your preference of cooking and levels of entertainment. Consideration should be given on purchasing appliances that are versatile. For example a grill that can smoke, roast, grill and bake will save space and extend the budget.
Most popular appliances to consider are: grill with roasters, teppanyaki grills, pizza ovens and side burners to cook. Then you have to think in the beverage center like outdoor fridge, ice makers and beer dispensers. Therefore, choosing high-performing models ensures the best value for the investment.
