When it comes to planning an outdoor kitchen many people don’t know where to start even thinking about what features they want and how to design the kitchen. Then once you start to investigate the task it can seem even more daunting because you’ve been inundated with information. Here’s some of the most important points you should consider:
1. Quality. An outdoor kitchen is going to need to withstand the elements so you need to use quality materials. Granite bench tops are an obvious choice but porcelain tiles and timber bench tops are also great option. Stainless steel should be 316 marine grade to prevent staining and corrosion, especially in coastal areas.
2. Services available. The cost of installing natural gas appliances may not be economically viable if the services are not readily available. If there are extensive site works and the gas pressure needs to be increased it may not work out cheaper in the long run to have the appliances running on natural gas. Same goes for dishwashers that need to be connected to the mains. It may end up costing a lot more than just the price of the dishwasher if there are extensive site works involved.
3. Kitchen Shape. Think beyond an outdoor kitchen that is tucked away up against a wall. Think about where you will be spending time preparing food and try to have those areas facing towards where guests might be seated. It’s always good to be able to look out at a nice view while cooking. Think about adding an island or an L shaped kitchen to take advantage of the views.
4. Value for money. Think about how often you will use your kitchen. Would you use it more if you could store all your cooking utensils, crockery and glassware near by? Would you be more inclined to use it if you didn’t have to track everything inside to wash up? By the same token be realistic about how often you will use the features you choose. There is no need to fill every inch of under bench space with cupboards just for the sake of it.
5. Complement the surrounds. Try to design your kitchen to fit in with the feel of your surrounds. A Kabana style kitchen with a bar would suit nicely next to a pool. Where possible you can try to match the finish of the kitchen with the finish of the house, for example matching face bricks or rendered finish. Rock cladding and texture coatings are also popular.
If you need some design inspiration for your outdoor kitchen contact us for a free consultation and get ready to enjoy the summer months ahead.
