Nowadays, an outdoor kitchen is more than just a BBQ and cooler of soft drinks. Though many outdoor kitchens hail the grill as the central feature, many kitchens are extensions of the home living space. Why not have the same indoor-conveniences outside? A custom kitchen may include pizza ovens, wet bars, smoker, side burners, smokers, warming drawers and many other other items. One could easily grill any night of the week or have the guys over for poker night.
Form and Function
When considering an outdoor kitchen function is just as important as form, if not more so. What will be the primary function of your space? Are you a master grillsmith? Do you plan to host and entertain? Is there a pool nearby? How about relaxation?
Is there a space to kick your feet up? Figure out your must-haves in each area of your kitchen. Do you want a kitchen that’s fully independent from the main house with it’s own drainage and refrigeration, for example?
Form and Function
Cooking Space
Regarding utility, one of the most important investments will be in appliances. Quality of, not quantity of, appliances is paramount. Think about items you’ll use often and the ones you will use occasionally (e.g. a grill and pizza oven). This kitchen below masters the basics and has a few nice extras. It includes a grill with hood, side burner, kegerator, refrigerator, and storage.
All of our appliances are Underwriters Laboratories approved and plug into ground fault circuit interrupter (GGCI) outlets and are approved for outdoor use. Safety comes first.
Proximity
Many outdoor kitchens typically sit in the backyard near the main residence. This provides easy access to indoor appliances and power. However, consider having a self-contained outdoor kitchen, independent from the rest of the house. Why risk spilling food or beverage on your carpet?
Think about shade, sun and wind as we dream up the perfect place. A covered pergola will help protect against rain, for example.
Keep Your Cover
It’s beneficial to have a covered outdoor space. The occasional summer shower doesn’t have to change your outdoor plans and plus you’ll have shade and shelter from the wind. It’s a great idea to make sure this area is well ventilated as well.
Lighting
An oft forgotten element is lighting. A well-lit kitchen provides for a safe environment as well as other areas where people congregate. Pathways should be well lit. Lounge areas work best with adjustable mood lighting.
Centerpiece
What will be the focal point of the area? Many assume it has to be the grill, however a pizza oven, fire place or fire pit can be the centerpiece. A nearby place to relax should be considered as well. Consider combining a water feature and fire feature into on structure.
Florida has great outdoor weather nearly year round, but winter months can get chilly. Consider a simple way to warm of the place during those Holiday parties or Super Bowl get-together. Portable heaters, fire pits and fireplaces could be a solution.
Pavers
This element has the power to ultimately beautify and add character to your outdoor living space. Like the carpet in a house or even the upholstery in a fine automobile, pavers help to tie the space together.
Here are some questions to consider: Are you more modern or do you like traditional? What textures and patterns do you like? How can we creatively combine different materials to create a unique look?
Consider a beautiful material like travertine, flagstone or one of our various thick paver solutions. Effective use can also help draw distinctions between different areas in a larger space (e.g. a lounge area from dining area).
Outdoor Impressions ...it all starts with DESIGN 