Building an outdoor kitchen is exciting, but it also brings with it a lot of decisions, stress, and of course, cost. That means that it is crucial to consider all your options and really think things through before jumping into such a large project. So what exactly do you need to consider when building an outdoor kitchen?
Budget
It can be extremely easy for outdoor kitchen projects to get out of hand budget wise. With a wide variety of upgraded appliances, luxury finishes, and other options available, line items can really add up. Before you do anything else, set a reasonable budget you can stick to. More than anything else, your budget will determine what is possible for your outdoor kitchen.
Functionality
One of the most important things to consider is this: what do you want your outdoor kitchen to do for you? Do you want to be able to prepare and serve full-blown meals? Do you just want a simple setup for outdoor grilling? Or do you just want a sink for washing up and a small fridge for keeping drinks cold? The sky’s the limit when it comes to modern outdoor kitchens. Just remember: this decision will shape all the other decisions you make during this project.
Space, placement, and layout
Now that you know what you want your outdoor kitchen to do, it’s time to think about where you are going to put it. Is everything you want going to fit well in your yard? Are you going to have to rearrange any existing features? Most people keep their outdoor kitchens near the entrance to their house so that they can bring food in and out easily. Will that work for your yard? Will you be able to set up a dining space near your outdoor kitchen? At this point in the process, it would be extremely helpful to work with a landscape design professional who can help you finalize the placement and layout of your kitchen.
Style and finishes
There are many different options when it comes to functionality for your outdoor kitchen. There are even more options when it comes to style and finishes. This includes things like the flooring, the cabinetry, the backsplash, appliances, countertops, and more. There are so many options to choose from that it can become overwhelming.
Consider the walls of your outdoor kitchen, for example. Will they be stuccoed, or covered with stone or tile? What color do you want them to be? Choose something that coordinates well with your home, style, and any existing landscaping in your yard.
Lighting
Your outdoor kitchen will be useless after dark if it isn’t well-lit. What is your plan for lighting the area? Can lights, an overhead fan with lights, task lighting on countertops, string lighting overhead, wall sconces, etc. are all options for lighting your outdoor kitchen area. When done right, lighting will add to both the style and functionality of your space.
All of these are important things to consider when building an outdoor kitchen. So take your time, evaluate your wants, needs, and options, and create a space that is perfect for your yard and your family.
