Your Guide to Outdoor Kitchen Design

If you love outdoor cooking, then you may want to think about an outdoor kitchen. When it comes to the installation, however, there are a lot of details that you need to plan out. From cabinetry, lighting, design and appliances, you have to have a solid plan ahead of you.

Cabinetry

Your outdoor kitchen cabinets do matter. Of course, you need to keep in mind that the outdoor kitchen will be exposed to the elements. This should factor into your decision on which type of material to use. You may want to use granite, brick or marble materials that can withstand the weather.

Design

Patio kitchens can come in a number of different designs. The most common kitchen designs include:

• L shaped islands
• U shaped centers
• Basic islands

Basic islands are smaller and tend to be best for smaller cookouts, whereas U shaped kitchens have room for preparation, cooking and even serving. With U shaped kitchens, you have room for preparation and cooking.

Lighting

Lighting matters when you are entertaining. Your patio kitchen needs lighting for the evening and will also need shade for the daylight. You may want a patio umbrella or awning to cover it during the day, but likewise, some soft lighting will keep your patio kitchen cozy and comfortable at night. You can decorate your outdoor kitchen with LED lighting.

Appliances

Your outdoor kitchen revolves around the grill. Your grill choice is crucial to the design. You have a choice between charcoal and gas, or even both. The biggest decision that you need to make is whether you want the grill to be movable or if you want it to be built in. If you choose a gas grill, then you will need to have a natural gas hookup.

If you are considering an outdoor kitchen for your home, then you need to have a solid design plan before you begin. Most contractors will assist you in the design and help you choose the elements that suit what you need.