Outdoor Kitchen Design Tips to Get Ready for Summer!
It may be cold now, but the much-anticipated warm weather is coming. Are you ready to make the most of it? With an outdoor kitchen, you can! An outdoor kitchen is a great way to make your backyard feel like an extension of your home. Plus, with the right design, your outdoor kitchen can be the envy of all your friends and family. Here are some essential tips for setting up your ideal outdoor kitchen space.
How to Design the Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen for the Warm Weather
The warm weather is coming, so it's time to get your outdoor kitchen ready for summer. An outdoor kitchen is an essential part of any outdoor entertaining space, so you want to make sure yours looks great and functions precisely as you need it to. Here are some essential design tips so you can create a show-stopping outdoor kitchen that will be the envy of all your friends.
Location Matters
The first step in designing your ideal outdoor kitchen is choosing its location. You'll want to select a spot close enough to your house so that you don't have to schlep all your cooking supplies back and forth whenever you want to use them. You should also consider how well-shaded the area will be during warmer months and other environmental factors like exposure to wind or rain.
Make Sure You Have Enough Space
When designing your outdoor kitchen, ensure you have enough space for all the elements you want to include. This includes countertop space for prepping meals and enough room for grills, smokers, pizza ovens, fire pits, and more. If you are tight on space, consider using portable appliances or built-in models that tuck away into cabinetry when not in use.
Choose Your Grill
Once you've decided on the perfect location for your outdoor kitchen, it's time to pick a grill. There are many options available these days—from charcoal to gas grills to hybrid grills - so take some time to research which type would work best for you and fit within your budget. Be sure to choose one that has enough space to cook whatever meals you plan on making and comes with all of the necessary accessories like a thermometer or rotisserie attachment.
Choose Durable Materials
Your outdoor kitchen needs to be able to withstand the elements, so it's vital to choose materials that are both durable and low maintenance. Granite countertops look luxurious, but a ceramic tile is an excellent option if you want something more affordable. For cabinets, opt for stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum since these materials won't rust over time as wood cabinets can. And don't forget about flooring! Concrete pavers or brick look elegant and provide excellent drainage in rain or spills.
Think About Counter Space
Nothing can add function and elevate the style of an outdoor kitchen, like adding counter space around your grill. Granite countertops offer plenty of durability and style without breaking the bank; plus, they come in many styles and colors, so you can customize them to match (or contrast!) with existing patio furniture or decor in your yard. If granite is outside reach financially, concrete countertops offer a more affordable option while still looking great!
Think About Lighting
Lighting is critical when creating a cozy atmosphere in your outdoor kitchen area. String lights are always a popular choice no matter what season or occasion it is—they provide soft illumination and create a magical ambiance at night. But don't forget about task lighting too! Under cabinet lighting will help illuminate work areas, while pendant lamps add height and drama above an island or bar area.
Outdoor Appliances
With today's options and appliances, the limit to your outdoor kitchen's potential is only your imagination. You can add a built-in refrigerator, ice maker, kegerator, or commercial-grade appliances like a pizza oven or power burner. Just make sure you choose items that are made for outdoor use and are weather resistant.
Sitting Area
Make sure you create a comfortable sitting area for your guests. Look for furniture pieces that are weather resistant, like wicker or teak, and match them with colorful outdoor cushions that you can swap out seasonally to keep the space looking fresh and inviting. Create "conversation areas" with multiple seating arrangements and include a fire pit or outdoor fireplace for extra warmth and ambiance.
Outdoor Heating
Finally, outdoor heating is a must for those chilly evenings. Invest in a fire pit, outdoor fireplace, patio heater, or even an electric radiant heater to keep your guests warm and cozy while enjoying your outdoor kitchen. Adding outdoor heating creates a transitional living space between your indoor and outdoor areas that you can enjoy year-round.
Get Ready for Summer with American Made Grills
As summer quickly approaches, now is an excellent time to start planning for an outdoor kitchen set up in your backyard! You'll be ready for summer barbecues with just a few simple steps!
American Made Grills is here as your resource for the definitive grilling experience. We offer various sizes and styles of luxury grills, all made from high-quality stainless steel materials. Our grills are designed to withstand the elements and provide years of reliable use. With our selection of accessories and outdoor kitchen items, you can create an outdoor cooking area tailored to your needs.
No matter what size or shape your outdoor space may be, with these design tips, you can create an impressive outdoor kitchen that will highlight every summer gathering. With durable materials and clever lighting solutions, you can enjoy your outdoor kitchen for years without worrying about wear and tear from inclement weather or heavy use. So gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make this summer one to remember with an amazing outdoor kitchen!
