Summertime is here! You know what that means – it’s time to get outside, uncover the grill, and get cooking. A celebration isn’t complete without good food; and there’s no better way to prepare summer cuisine than in an outdoor kitchen. If you’ve dreamed of a backyard that allows your inner chef to shine, kitchens and grill stations are the perfect features for you!
There’s an outdoor kitchen for every style and budget. The key to finding your ideal setup is taking the time to analyze your space and needs. How much of your yard are you willing to give up for an outdoor kitchen? Would you love to have a large cooking area, or would open play space for kids and animals better suit your lifestyle? Questions like these will guide you through important design decisions. Here are the top three items to consider before building an outdoor kitchen:
Stand-Alone Vs. Built-In Grills
Built-in grills and cooktops are extremely popular. They are easily incorporated into traditional kitchen designs, and they pair well with other elements like refrigerators, food prep areas, and islands. The only downfall of built-ins is that they’re stationary.
If a centralized cooking area isn’t your top priority, a stand-alone could be the way to go! These grills grant mobility – allowing you to barbecue from your patio, yard, pool deck, or wherever you have the best view of the TV. Stand-alone grills fit in any yard, no matter how small.
Let There Be Light
Outdoor lighting may seem like a minor upgrade, but it can make a major difference in your patio space. Not only does lighting create ambiance and set the scene for outdoor events; it is an important safety feature – especially in a kitchen setting. You need excellent visibility for food prep and cooking, and a well-lit area will ensure that you get as much use out of your grilling station as possible. When the sun goes down, great lighting transforms outdoor living areas into something truly special.
Bring The Bar Outside
If you are an entertainer that loves to host events, outdoor bars are the perfect feature to include in your backyard. Keep things easy and casual with access to a refrigerator or wine chiller. Or create a focal point for activity and interaction with a drink rail. Either way, outdoor bars provide the perfect space for friends and family to gather and unwind.
To Build Or Not To Build
Don’t let your backyard become wasted space when there is so much potential to create and build! Outdoor kitchens are not only fun; they increase the value of your property and heighten the functionality of your yard. Whether you opt for a small patio with a stand-alone grill or install a complete built-in kitchen, a personalized outdoor living space will be an invaluable addition to your home.
If you’d like to learn more about designing an outdoor kitchen or grill station, give us a call at (816) 608-8870 or book an appointment on our website. We can’t wait to show you how to get things cooking in style!
