Outdoor Kitchen Design

Elements of an Outdoor Kitchen

The elements of an outdoor kitchen are truly only limited by the homeowner's and the designer's imagination. However, more of these spaces include at least a few common basic elements. These include:

• A Cooking Station – In addition to a grill, most outdoor kitchens include counter space, a sink, cabinets, and some sort of refrigerator. More elaborate set-ups include a built-in cook-top, a dishwasher, and a wet-bar. Although not essential, according to "This Old House" magazine, adding these extras will go a long way to increasing the value of your home.
• Seating for Guests – An ideal outdoor kitchen should include ample seating for your family and for guests. Typically, people will gravitate to the cooking area, so make sure that guests can see the action without being underfoot. If your property has a view, consider that also when planning your seating arrangements.
• A Dining Table – The ideal outdoor table is big enough to accommodate friends and guests without being too formal. It should be near to the cooking area and take advantage of your property's view or your landscaped yard. A round or oval table is usually best.

The Grill

The most important element of your outdoor kitchen is the grill. The grill may be simple or it may rival the best industrial kitchen. Grills range in price from a few hundred dollars to over $10,000. Features on the higher end grills include stainless steel frames, rotisseries, smokers, and multiple burners. Some grills even have drop-in charcoal trays that allow you to choose among gas, hardwood, or charcoal grilling.

Furniture

Equip your outdoor kitchen with seating, a table, and built-in or portable storage. In addition, you might want to consider a bar, benches, and flower boxes in your design plan. Furniture may be built-in or free standing. Commonly used materials include wicker, teak, and natural stone.

Keep in mind also, that in most climates it is prudent to build some sort of sheltered area for rainy and cooler days.

Where to Shop for Outdoor Kitchen Equipment

Depending on your outdoor kitchen design, you can do-it-yourself or enlist the aid of a contractor. For DIY projects, "big box" retailers, such as Home Depot and Lowe's, can provide much of the cabinets, counters, patio stone, and other elements for the kitchen.

Grills and other appliances for the cooking area may be ordered online from such vendors as GE, AllGrills.com, Viking, and Jenn-Air. A good online (and retail) source for patio furniture and outdoor cooking accessories is Smith & Hawken. Cooking utensils, cookware, and outdoor dinnerware may be found at Cooking.com.

• Country French Style Basics
• Designing for Small Spaces
• Common Themes for Teenage Bedrooms
• Basics of Color Design
• Asian Style Interior Design

• Outdoor Kitchens
• Kitchen Decorating
• Basics of Kitchen Design
• French Inspired Home D%C3%A9cor
• Rustic Barnwood Furniture

• Bathroom Galleries