An outdoor kitchen creates an opportunity to extend your living space for cooking, eating, and entertaining. When appropriately laid out, an outdoor kitchen provides an escape from your four walls and a visually satisfying extended living area. To make the most of your investment, however, an outdoor kitchen requires some analysis and planning. The following are several ideas for beginning the process of designing your outdoor kitchen.
Research your appliances
At minimum, you will likely want a charcoal or gas grill, a sink, and a refrigerator. It is critical to choose appliances that can withstand the elements that predominate in your geographic area. If you live in a region that receives copious rain or sun, consider purchasing stainless steel appliances to resist wear and tear. A roof structure will maintain the life of your appliances and furniture, not to mention it will keep the elements off of you! Remember to call in the pros to connect your sink to a water source, or your grill to a gas line. This may also require a permit. http://porch.com/advice/7-tips-best-outdoor-kitchen/
Plan your space and materials
As you design your space, think functionality. An outdoor kitchen is more likely to be used if it has space for storage and food preparation. Likewise, you are more likely to use a product if it is easy to clean and maintain. Just as you want durable appliances, you also want cabinets and countertops that are waterproof and resistant to temperature extremes. Look for contemporary countertops and cabinets that coordinate with your flooring, such as stone or concrete countertops and steel cabinets. http://www.houzz.com/outdoor-kitchen.
http://porch.com/advice/7-tips-best-outdoor-kitchen/
Set the mood
Consider the feeling you want your outdoor kitchen to invoke. The colors, shapes, textures, and lighting you choose will determine what atmosphere your space projects. If you want to create an organic feel, you might choose a wood-fired grill, bamboo stools, and built-in planters. Alternately, you might want to play off of the existing landscape, incorporating similar colors and textures into your patio, furniture, or countertops. http://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/kitchens/g9/outdoor-kitchen-design-ideas-0511/?slide=2
Whichever design you choose, your well-planned outdoor kitchen is sure to provide versatility and enjoyment to your home.