A patio or deck is an extension of your interior living space. Therefore, if you like to entertain outside during the warmer months, consider constructing an outdoor kitchen. Not only is this a more convenient way of preparing food for summer barbeques, but it can also help save you money since the heat it produces won’t fight with the air conditioning, unlike the indoor stove. To create your dream cooking area, below are a few design points to keep in mind. 

What Factors Should Influence Your Outdoor Kitchen Design?

1. Placement of Each Zone 

Separating appliances into zones will make it easier to determine a layout. There should be a cold area for the refrigerator and ice, a hot area for the grill, and then an area for food preparation,countertop and possibly a sink.  If you like the flow of the house kitchen, consider using the same arrangement outside.

2.  Appliances and fixtures

Stainless steel cabinets are durable, rust resistant, resist moisture and they go with any application. Granite countertops are most typical.   When choosing fixtures, there are many options available.  Most commonly used fixtures are a grill, ice chest, trash can and drawers for storing cooking utensils.  That’s the great thing about an outdoor kitchen, you customize it to your wants and needs.

3. Atmosphere You Want to Create

An outdoor kitchen is an extension of your existing home.   It creates another living space for entertaining and for enjoying the outdoors.  For the gathering space, consider if you want a patio space for table and chairs, or is a fire pit with seating walls more your style for gatherings.

4. Lighting for Different Tasks

If you want to cook after the sun sets, make sure there is task lighting near all of the appliances and counter areas.  Low voltage LED lighting creates a warm, inviting space.  A properly lit kitchen space enhances your cooking and dining area.  You will also want to light up your pathways and seating areas.

5.  Budget

An outdoor kitchen is an investment and adds value to your home.  The price of outdoor kitchens vary.   Basic outdoor kitchens can be a grill stand with countertop . Large outdoor kitchens can have a large bar area, with grill, sink, warming drawers, cabinets, refrigerator and ice chests.   Basically they are customized to your budget, and wants for the project.  Most importantly, know how much you want to spend, that helps in the design and layout process.  A lot of time goes into estimating an outdoor kitchen,  Knowing what you want and how much you want to spend will save time for everyone.

Want to make your yard the perfect spot for entertaining? Contact the staff at Dreamscapes about adding an outdoor kitchen. They also install fire pits, patios, and hardscaping features for residents throughout the Lincoln, NE, area. To discuss your project with this highly-reviewed team, call (402) 421-7496. Visit the contractors online for answers to commonly asked questions or follow them on Facebook for photos of their work.