How to Plan to Build an Outdoor Kitchen
Building an outdoor kitchen is a challenging project. Even the planning stage can have some pitfalls. Thinking it through step-by-step will help you be sure that when you start building, the project will go smoothly and your outdoor entertainment area will be everything you need it to be.
- Select the best location. Remember you will likely be carrying stuff between your indoor and outdoor kitchens a lot. The best solution is direct access between the two. The overall traffic patterns should also be considered. Flat ground is another vital feature.
- Look at the design of your house. The kitchen should complement your home's exterior architecture. Materials chosen need to be durable but matching colors with your paintwork and siding will help make the kitchen look like it is a seamless part of your home.
- Think about climate. Outdoor kitchens need to be able to withstand the extra stress of weather. In most cases this simply means to use stainless steel or sealed natural stone and avoid limestone. However, if you have cold winters, tile countertops should also be avoided, as they tend to do poorly with freezing and thawing.
- Plan for utilities. Running water, gas and electricity to an outdoor kitchen can be challenging. Also, make sure you have adequate task lighting, as you may well want to cook after dark.
- Eensure that you integrate your kitchen into your outdoor entertaining space. For example, consider a design that allows you to run a second electricity line for an outdoor entertainment center. Plant shade trees and be sure to allow for heating.