Designing the Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen

As the smell of grilled hotdogs and bonfires fills the air, you can long for a space to entertain friends and family while enjoying the summer sun. You can create the ultimate outdoor kitchen with careful planning and the correct design elements. Outdoor kitchens have evolved from simple barbecue grills to fully-equipped culinary havens, transforming backyards into extended living spaces. The thought of sizzling steaks, zesty salads, and chilled drinks can be enough motivation for you to begin the process of building a personalized outdoor kitchen. Check out our special ingredients for designing the ultimate outdoor kitchen.

Planning the Layout

The size and shape of your outdoor space are crucial in determining the layout of your outdoor kitchen. Every detail, from the position of your grill to your dining space, needs careful consideration. Setting the layout is the first step in creating an innovative and efficient outdoor kitchen space. Consider an L-shaped configuration, which strikes a balance between your culinary workspace and the entertaining area. Kitchen islands are another popular choice, providing a compact and accessible space for all your appliances, with the added benefit of dividing the cooking and entertaining zones. When determining where to locate your outdoor kitchen, our team of expert craftsmen at OHi will guide you through the process, considering your backyard's existing electric, plumbing, and gas lines. They also ensure compliance with local building codes for any required setbacks and permits.

Choosing the Right Materials 

Surviving the outdoors requires a certain level of strength. This principle applies to the materials you choose for your outdoor kitchen. We suggest opting for durable, weatherproof materials that withstand rain, wind, and harsh sun rays. Popular choices for countertops are granite, soapstone, and concrete, whereas cabinetry can be crafted from wood, polymers, HDPE, concrete, or even stainless steel. The goal is to choose materials that not only harmonize with the overall design of your outdoor space but also ensure the longevity of your kitchen, making it a worthwhile investment.

Invest in Outdoor-Grade Appliances 

 Outdoor-grade appliances are not just any appliances. They are specifically engineered to brave the elements, ensuring your outdoor kitchen stands the test of time. A built-in grill, for instance, is a popular choice and can vary significantly in size, style, fuel type, and unique features. Other integral appliances you should consider include outdoor refrigerators, sinks, ovens, and beverage centers.

Sprinkling In Additional Features

No project is complete without finishing touches. Additional features like trash pull-out cabinets, outdoor grill hoods, upper cabinets, and floating shelves can boost convenience. Want to take things up a notch? Add a brick pizza oven, blackstone griddle, warmer drawer, wine cooler, and keggerator for a versatile culinary experience. Remember, the devil is in the details; our finishing touches coordinator will help you add pillows, rugs, colorful planters, string lights, flat-screen TVs, or firepit tables to create a cozy ambiance that makes your guests feel at home.

Designing the ultimate outdoor kitchen involves a thoughtful blend of layout, material selection, appliance choices, and additional features. When done right, it can result in a functional, stylish, and inviting space that makes cooking, dining, and entertaining outdoors a delight all year round. Contact us today if you are interested in building your ultimate outdoor kitchen.