5 Things to Consider Before Adding an Outdoor Kitchen
Adding an outdoor kitchen to your living space is a great way to enhance your home’s value and functionality. Not only does it provide a perfect spot for entertaining guests, but it also allows you to take advantage of often underutilized outdoor spaces. When planning your outdoor kitchen addition, there are a lot of elements and factors to consider. As with any addition or remodel, you’ll need to consider the layout, location, and materials you want to use. Additionally, think about the appliances and features you want to include, such as a built-in grill, pizza oven, sink, or refrigerator.
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1. Design
If you’ve been considering the addition of an outdoor kitchen to your home, you’ve likely been saving some design inspiration. The design of your kitchen will determine the features and materials used to create your unique space. You’ll want to contemplate the space’s look and style; will it be modern, rustic, or more traditional? What kind of materials and elements do you want to incorporate? You may have your heart set on brick, or perhaps you like the look of stained wood and granite. You’ll want to give this plenty of consideration as the design elements you use in your outdoor kitchen build will bring forth the overall feel of the space.
2. Layout
When planning your outdoor kitchen, you must assess your outdoor space and determine the best place for the build. Choosing the ideal placement for your outdoor kitchen will ensure it is easily accessible and promotes ease of use. If you plan on incorporating cooking elements, strategically placing your grill or stovetop will be essential to prevent potential fires. The layout of your outdoor kitchen will be one of the most important steps to make sure the space meets your needs and any regulations.
3. Location / Climate
Your geographic location and climate will significantly influence how you design your outdoor kitchen. If you are in a hotter climate, you may want to incorporate a fan or water feature into your build. A more northern location with shorter summers may require heaters to prolong your time using your outdoor space. Many areas can benefit from a pergola or roof to shield some of your outdoor living space from the elements, including sun rays and rain. Additionally, some materials are more weather resistant than others, which can play a role in selecting the materials your space will be constructed of.
4. Lifestyle
Your lifestyle will significantly impact what you’ll desire from an outdoor kitchen space. Is the space mainly for your immediate family? Is your family large or small? Will you often host friends and extended family gatherings in your outdoor kitchen space? Answering these questions will help you identify the size of your outdoor kitchen and what features are essential when allocating your budget.
Read More: Tips for Remodeling a Small Kitchen
5. Who to hire
Building an outdoor kitchen is a big undertaking. You’ll want to work with an experienced, full-service construction company to complete the job. Installing an outdoor kitchen will generally require permits, plumbing, and electrical, among many other things. By working with a professional team with years of experience, you can ensure the job will be completed correctly and safely.
An outdoor kitchen can be an incredible addition to your home and lifestyle. There are many things to consider, including the design, layout, location, and lifestyle. The last important point comes down to who will help bring forth your outdoor kitchen dreams! By carefully planning your outdoor kitchen project, you can create a beautiful space that will bring enjoyment to your home for years to come.
If you are considering remodeling your bathroom, The Chuba Company can help! The Chuba Company is proud to be your partner in home renovation and construction. From windows and roofing, to additions and green construction, to bathroom and kitchen remodels, and more, The Chuba Company is ready to help with any home project. We’ve been proudly serving Elk River, Zimmerman, Ramsey, Monticello, Albertville, Rogers, Champlin and surrounding areas for 50 years. Contact us to talk about your remodel ideas or to receive an estimate!