7 Essential Features for a Great Outdoor Kitchen
Installing an outdoor kitchen can transform your yard into an entertainment oasis and increase your home's value. But creating this luxe space requires more forethought than just throwing a grill onto the patio. A cohesive, high-functioning outdoor kitchen requires careful planning and incorporating key features.
Investing in durable surfaces, ample seating, top-tier appliances, and task lighting will help you create an enviable space your family and friends will enjoy for years to come. Rather than picking pieces in isolation, use an expert design eye to incorporate all the elements thoughtfully to define a standout outdoor living, cooking and dining area.
At Stone Deck, we are committed to providing our clients with superior hardscaping services. Our team designs and builds outdoor kitchens that function well, look great, and last long.
Features That Will Uplift Your Outdoor Kitchen
If you are planning an outdoor kitchen project, consider these 7 essential features that define a standout outdoor cooking space:- 1. Ample Counter Space - Function meets form in an outdoor kitchen with abundant counter space. Granite, marble, or slate surfaces give you room to prep, cook, assemble, and plate, adding natural elegance. Built-in counters follow the flow of the space. Add a decorative tile backsplash and bar area for serving drinks. Draw guests in with plentiful surfaces styled for both cooking and mingling.
- 2. Dedicated Grill Station - The grill is the crown jewel of any outdoor kitchen. Make it a showstopper with a built-in specialty grill like a professional-grade stainless steel model from vendors like Viking or Lynx. Integrate it into the counter and add stylish ventilation. Frame the grill with stone or brick accents. Adjacent counters, a sink, and a fridge make grilling a breeze. Leave ample room to maneuver and plate foods hot off the grill.
- 3. Complete Storage - Storage maximizes functionality and keeps supplies organized yet out of sight. Incorporate cabinets, shelves, and drawers to store everything from grill tools to dishware. Waterproof outdoor cabinetry keeps items protected and concealed while adding a polished style. Label and organize storage so items are easy to locate. Ample, dedicated storage prevents outdoor kitchen clutter.
- 4. High-End Appliances - Include top-of-the-line appliances like a mini fridge, ice maker, pizza oven, wine cooler, and more based on your needs. Choose commercial-grade appliances designed specifically for outdoor use. Aim for powerful appliances that maximize convenience and complement your grill and food preparation space. Integrate small appliances into your cabinetry or counters for a unified look.
- 5. Comfortable Seating - No outdoor kitchen is complete without a place to relax and dine. Arrange barstools around counters or a nearby table and chairs for casual seating. Consider counters and surfaces at two heights - standard for food prep and bar height for sitting and dining. Include a conversation area with plush weather-resistant outdoor sofas, chairs, or dining sets. Navigation, traffic flow, and seating should be a focus.
- 6. Sleek Sink - An outdoor kitchen sink provides added convenience for tasks like produce washing, cleaning, and drink mixing. Select a deep double basin sink made of stainless steel or ceramic. Include a soap dispenser and towel bar. Ensure the sink has hot and cold running water, proper drainage, and hookups for garbage disposal to manage waste. Position it close to the grill, storage, and counters.
- 7. Effective Lighting - Both task and ambient lighting set the mood. Incorporate recessed lighting under cabinets to illuminate workspaces after dark. Hang pendant lights over counters for accent lighting. Line pathways with low-voltage garden lights and lanterns. Consider sconces, spotlights, and postlights for stunning effects. Choose outdoor-rated fixtures with energy efficiency and durability in mind. Proper lighting transforms your outdoor kitchen from day to night.
