Outdoor kitchens allow you to socialize, cook, and host parties in beautiful weather, making them the perfect home project for spring. Just like your indoor kitchen, a quality outdoor cooking area will require some thought and planning. Below are a few tips to think about when you’re designing your dream space.

What to Consider When Planning an Outdoor Kitchen

1. Use a Durable Countertop Material

Durable counters are necessary for any cooking space, due to all of the chopping, slicing, pouring, and preparing that happens on them. When these counters are outside, however, their resistance to moisture, stains, and dirt is especially critical. Marble and granite countertops are ideal for the outdoors because they’re strong, long-lasting, and can withstand the weather. These materials come in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing you to have plentiful design options. 

2. Make Sure There’s Space for Storage

You won’t necessarily have a room full of cupboards outside, but having space to store utensils, pots, pans, cups, plates, and cutlery will be needed. Plan for large counters with space for utensil containers on them and ensure there are large cabinets beneath them. Adding a backsplash with small shelves or hooks to store cooking utensils or glasses will provide more space as well.

3. Consider the Flooring

You’ll need flooring that’s comfortable to stand on, but strong enough for outdoor use. The surface you choose should be resistant to stains and cracks in case of spilled liquids and dropped utensils. Natural stone maintains the aesthetic of the outdoors, adds visual interest, and will wear nicely. It complements the color schemes of marble and granite countertops, too. Tile and cement are also hardy options that have aesthetic appeal and can withstand adverse weather. 

4. Know What Appliances & Features You Want

The electrical appliances, lighting features, and special ovens you want your kitchen to have will also affect the design and layout of your kitchen. Items like a mini-fridge, stovetop, brick pizza oven, grill, and sink will impact the size, shape, and configuration of your counters, as they may need to be set into them. You may also have to consider where your electrical circuits and water access points are located to decide where your plumbing and energy-required appliances will live. 

Are you ready to bring your outdoor kitchen to life? The team at Bluegrass Marble & Granite of Richmond in Madison County, KY, has everything you need, including natural stone, granite, marble, counters, sinks, and outdoor cabinets. Licensed and insured, they’ve provided custom fabrication and detailed installation services for over seven years. Get some inspiration from their website, and call (859) 575-1558 for a free estimate today.