Sunday 11 August 2013

How to Create an Outdoor Kitchen Space

How to Create an Outdoor Kitchen Space

Why not create some fun and entertainment at home by adding an outdoor kitchen and living space. This article discusses the pros and cons of living outside and provides exciting ideas to get more space out of your present home.

Instructions

    1

    Among the hottest ideas for sprucing up your home and property is the addition of an outdoor kitchen and living space. While not inexpensive, this wonderful outdoor area can add beauty, functionality, and grace to your home, and hours of enjoyment, whether it is a simply cook out or large family get together. A step-by-step process to achieving this wonderful dream will make the project an easy goal to attain.

    2

    First, plan carefully to pick the best location for the new living space. Considerations like plumbing, electrical and position relative to other areas are important. Give careful thought to where you place your new outdoor space, because like adding a room to your home, it cannot be easily moved later. If you plan a true outside kitchen space with a sink and electrical hookup, you will need to locate near existing utilities and water lines. Consulting a professional designer will prove invaluable at the onset of the project.
    Another consideration is available space. If your neighbors are near and the space is small think about placing your outdoor living space where you can enjoy the most privacy. Think about the relative closeness or distance of the outdoor kitchen to the indoor, and the positives and negatives associated with each. How will your space look to your neighbors, from inside the house, and from the street are also important points. Be sure the overall size is relative to your house as well. A space that is too large for your house and property can seriously hurt resale and curb appeal.

    3

    Second, will your outdoor area connect to the house or be freestanding? Obviously, connecting to the house has its advantages. It will be cheaper to use an existing structure to connect the space, and existing walls will also buffer the space from wind and weather. Attaching to the house means you will need to match the design and materials of the new area to the existing, which may or may not be an easy project.
    A separate area away from the house adds more of a retreat feel to your outings. It becomes, in a sense, a hideaway and gives a nice ambiance to your gatherings, but may be less convenient. With or without a separate structure the outdoor kitchen becomes a magnet to family and friends and provides a relatively inexpensive get-away for relaxation.

    4

    The outdoor kitchen allows you to prepare food, cook, and even clean up without missing out on all the fun. Consideration to the layout for the cooking area, prep area, etc. can encourage others to join in the process without missing the activities.
    Another important consideration is traffic flow. Make sure the cooking area is not in the path of traffic to and from the house, or near where sports and other activities are happening. The first step in your design should entail a rough outline for cooking, serving, drinks, socializing, and deciding how these areas should be outlined. Outlining or defining your outdoor space can be as simple as using pavers or small shrubs, but the importance of giving purpose to space will prove invaluable when you have a large party or gathering. Landscaping, topography, and space management can turn your project into the dream area you have always wanted.

    5

    The availability of cabinetry and appliances for use outside has fueled outdoor kitchens into one of the hottest trending in recent years. A variety of stainless steel cabinets allows for versatility of design and a wonderful look. Special weatherproof appliances provide all of the conveniences of an indoor kitchen as well. Again, it is a good idea to work with an outdoor kitchen designer, an architect, and landscape designer to get the most out of your available space.
    A wide variety of appliance options include much more than the conventional grill. Infrared technology, ovens, including smoker, clay, and conventional, dishwashers, refrigerators, ice makers, and beer dispensers are just a few of the new innovations to make outdoor living convenient and fun. Weather resistant cabinetry, in conventional 3"increments, also provides as many options as indoor cabinets, and with all the bells and whistles. A competent kitchen designer can help you with the selections that best suit your needs.

    6

    Finally, while the outdoor space will provide many hours of enjoyment and fun for family and friends, the more you plan before construction begins, the happier you will be with the final product. Outdoor living space will add much to your home and family time, and returns on your investment will continue for many years to come.

No comments:

Post a Comment