5 Tips for Building the Outdoor Kitchen of Your Dreams

​Have you been dreaming of an outdoor kitchen? Don’t wait! As the weather warms up, a backyard cooking space is the perfect place to escape the heat. 
 
Barbequing has been America’s pastime since the 1950s – but summer entertaining has come a long way since then. The charcoal grills and backyard hibachis of the post-war era have been replaced by sophisticated design elements and high-tech appliances. Many outdoor kitchens have the same conveniences available inside, if not more.
 
Whether you’re building a new house, or only making better use of the space you have, now is the time to make your dream kitchen a reality. 
 
Here are five things to keep in mind during the planning phase so you can have a well-designed and long-lasting outdoor kitchen: 
 
Function. As with any design project, it is essential to consider the purpose of your space. Will you be using your outdoor kitchen for entertaining and gathering? Will it be a space for you and your family to relax during the long summer days? Or would you like to use your outdoor kitchen throughout the year? Once you have answered these (and other) questions, you can begin to decide which elements you’d like and need. 

Courtesy of DeckRemodelers.com.
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Surroundings. Today’s outdoor kitchen is an extension of the indoor living space – however, it also needs to fit into your yard and landscape. As you imagine your dream kitchen, think about your home’s exterior and the surrounding environment. Any design elements should mesh well with both. 

Courtesy of K&C Land Design and Construction
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Location. Most outdoor kitchens are situated close to the house – often an extension of the central (indoor) kitchen. This placement allows for easy access to utilities such as gas and water lines and electrical wiring. If this isn’t of concern for you, still keep in mind:  

1. Sun and shade.
2. Natural space. Do you have a beautiful garden? A pool or hot tub?
3. The view. You might have a gorgeous outdoor kitchen, but if guests are facing a brick wall when they sit down, it’s all for naught. 
4. Space. Don’t have a lot of yard to work with? Building your outdoor kitchen on the roof or deck is a very viable option!

Courtesy of Coastal Home Cabinetry
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Layout. The layout is just as crucial for an outdoor kitchen as it is for an indoor one – and it might be MORE important! When it comes to an outdoor kitchen, there are a lot of things to consider:  

1. Dining area. If you plan on entertaining in your outdoor space, consider the gatherings you’d like to have. Will you want a full dining table? A bar? Perhaps a television or a fireplace? 
2. Lounge space. When you’re planning a dining area for outdoors, it’s important to consider the weather and environment. Not only should you and your guests be protected from direct sunlight, but also rain, wind, and other elements. Likewise, lighting, ventilation, and pathways/walking areas are all critical. 
3. Cooking area. Like your indoor kitchen, the appliances and cabinetry you choose for your outdoor space are a significant investment. Splurge on the items that you’ll often use – like a quality grill and refrigerator – and remember to make counter space a priority! Everything, from work surfaces to storage spaces, needs to be durable and waterproof. 

Courtesy of Far Hills Design Build
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Who to hire. At Lyons-Archer, I can assist you with planning, specifying your outdoor kitchen and partnering with the right specialists, including architects and landscape architects. 
I will guide you every step of the way, from budgeting, to design, to installation.
 
The right kitchen starts with the right plan. Whether you’re a homeowner with a dream or a contractor on a mission, I will help you create a beautiful, peaceful haven, right at home.
 
Reach out today to schedule your free telephone consultation: 215-860-5059.  Lyons-Archer serves Bucks County, PA, and the greater Princeton, NJ, area. We are a Prodigy Cabinet dealer: ​https://prodigycabinetry.com/