Jan 18, 2022
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Getting Started

5 Key Things to Consider When Building an Outdoor Kitchen

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Philip Shepel
Shepel Homes rated 5/5 based on 22 reviews.
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utdoor kitchens are the ideal location for outdoor gatherings. They give a terrific place to entertain, greater storage space, and the option to be more daring in the kitchen. When creating an outdoor kitchen, you must consider several variables, including budget and location, overall aesthetic, and, most importantly, storage capacity.

1. Budget

Outdoor Kitchen with ornamentals

While it is true that anyone can design a functional kitchen, the difficult part is making these ideas a reality. A functioning kitchen entails more than simply arranging a collection of cupboards and equipment in a room. It is all about linking these elements to maximize space and function. This does not happen overnight and should be viewed as a long-term endeavor. As a result, homeowners need to have an approximate budget in mind that does not alter throughout the installation process. To demonstrate, make a list of all the products you want to include in your new ideal kitchen, as well as their respective prices. Break down the entire cost into smaller amounts (for example, cabinets, countertops, and lighting) to give yourself a clearer sense of your pricing range, allowing you to change your spending accordingly. This is not just for budgeting the expenses of materials, but also for keeping in mind the costs of utilities such as gas, water, electricity installation, and sometimes adding wifi and other technologies.

We at Shepel Design & Build would love to help you transform your existing space into an outdoor kitchen! Get in touch with our team for a free consultation.

2. Design Layout

Umbrella as a design for an outdoor kitchen

Outdoor kitchen ideas, like interior kitchen plans, are not fixed in stone. Outdoor kitchens can be enlarged or constricted, adjusted, or maximized to meet the needs and tastes of each person. While some aspects influence the overall architecture of an outdoor kitchen, most notably the location of equipment and storage units, it's also crucial to consider available space. As a result, the style and arrangement of outdoor kitchen ideas vary greatly. Also, one should complement the existing or the planning of landscape, outdoor dining area, deck, pool, or patio like better traffic flow, with exact architecture details.

3. Functionality and Capacity

An Outdoor Kitchen with appliances for functional use

When designing an outdoor kitchen, consider how many people will be utilizing it. A smaller space would serve if you simply need to attend to the demands of a small gathering of friends or relatives. A well-designed outdoor kitchen may be the focal point of any property. It creates a practical family room while increasing the value of your home. The kitchen layout impacts how well your day will proceed during the rush. The arrangement must be practical, with clear distinctions between cold, hot, and moist zones. By zoning your kitchen, you can increase food storage and preparation space while reducing waste and expense. Each zone in a kitchen is purpose-built for a specific function. COLD zones are used for refrigeration and freezing, HOT zones are used for cooking on grills or cooktops, WET zones are used for sink and dishwashing activities, and DRY zones are used for the preparation process, storage, and laundry services.

4. Aesthetic Fixtures

Aesthetically design concept for an outdoor kitchen

The space transition from day to night should be carefully addressed while designing it. A well-transitioned outdoor space will see greater use and enjoyment throughout the year. Lighting is one of the most critical aspects of achieving this transition, but it should be considered before it begins. Several different types of lights may be employed to improve the overall atmosphere of an outdoor location while also providing additional functionality. Consider adding task lighting, especially if you use the outdoor kitchen at night, for adequate lighting and even an aesthetic feature.

5. Material Selection

Stainless Steel Griller setup for an Outdoor Kitchen

The outdoor kitchen is designed to be used outside and does not have a roof or walls like interior kitchens; therefore, it must be exceptionally sturdy. Do you intend to use your kitchen throughout the winter? Is your climate sweltering? Then you'll need a kitchen that can survive the elements, as well as low-maintenance accessories.

Consider adding outdoor kitchen facilities and spending more time in your yard if you enjoy cooking. Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners trying to improve the curb appeal of their properties. Existing outside areas can benefit from some creative thinking about what to do with your old grill or refrigerator if you don't have a place for them indoors. You may have used your kitchen daily, but have you ever considered turning it into an outdoor kitchen? Creating your outdoor kitchen can add a lot of value to your home. The benefits are numerous, and we hope that you will have a newfound appreciation for the joys of outdoor cooking after reading this post.