Heyku.me – Outdoor kitchens have a variety of requirements. For example, they need to be equipped with counter tops, appropriate flooring, and adequate storage. Outdoor kitchen storage can include all of the usual kitchen cabinet features like utility drawers and shelves. You can also choose to get custom storage units to suit your specific needs. These include shelves for cookware, dishes, barbecue tools, and more.
How to Maximize the Area Around an Outdoor Kitchen
To maximize the seating area around your outdoor kitchen, consider installing a built-in banquette. This seating option can be space-saving and offer you more options for cooking. Tamara Day, star of Bargain Mansions on HGTV, recently teamed up with Outdoor Kitchens Unlimited to build a customized outdoor kitchen for her home. It features a power burner and an upgraded grill. Other features include a refreshment center, pull-out trash, and storage.
Your outdoor kitchen setup should include a seating area with varying heights so that you can perform various tasks while cooking. For instance, a thirty-inch-high counter will allow you to cook while sitting or standing, while a 42-inch-high counter, also known as a bar table, is perfect for eating.
Another option for your outdoor kitchen setup is a freestanding kitchen. This kitchen can be easily moved from one area to another. Besides its mobility, it also includes a giant DIY-friendly chalkboard wall. It’s a great way to keep menus, to-do lists, and even entertain kids. Just make sure that you use chalkboard paint that is suitable for outdoor use.
Ideal U-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen
A U-shape outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven is ideal for pizza night. This space has a built-in pizza oven, a refreshment center, and double-door access. The U-shaped outdoor kitchen also includes a counter that extends beyond the edge of the kitchen and doubles as a buffet-style serving surface. The center island is equipped with an oven, a power burner, and a double drawer. It also has a glass water dispenser. The counter is long enough to allow the kitchen to sit out of the wind on warm days.
Another important consideration when setting up an outdoor kitchen is the type of lighting you need. Outdoor kitchens should be well-lit during the evening hours. The right type of lighting can help you prepare food in the dark. For instance, if your kitchen includes a bar, you’ll want to consider adding sconces above the bar or installing ceiling fans with integrated lights.
The position of your outdoor kitchen is also important. Ideally, it should be located near the main kitchen so that it is convenient to access and use. This can help you avoid having to walk a long distance to prepare dinner. Additionally, it can make the task of running plumbing and gas lines easier. It’s better to choose a location where there are fewer trees and raindrops. The perfect location for your outdoor kitchen will provide you with the perfect conditions for cooking and entertaining.
Popular Outdoor Kitchen Layouts
One popular outdoor kitchen layout is an L-shaped one. This configuration features cabinets on three walls, including the peninsula, while the fourth wall is partially covered by cabinets. This design is ideal for larger kitchens because it provides ample workspace. However, you should keep in mind that it is not appropriate for every outdoor kitchen. This is because you’ll need to leave a little floor space for appliances.
While choosing a tile for your outdoor kitchen, think about the durability of the material. You should choose something that will not fade or stain. Tile is also easy to clean. It also comes in many colors and is inexpensive. However, you have to be careful when choosing tile because it can catch stains if not sealed properly.
When selecting the material for your outdoor kitchen, you should consider the climate. If you live in a colder climate, you should consider the use of materials like tile and natural stone. During the summer, PVC and metal countertops are more likely to warp and crack. If you live in a coastal region, you should opt for stronger materials such as 316 steel.