Tips for Creating your
Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen
As the warmer weather approaches, we find ourselves spending more time outdoors with family and friends. Sharing amazing meals often plays an important part in these memorable moments, so if you are dreaming of the ultimate backyard oasis, an outdoor kitchen is the perfect solution. Here are some important tips to keep in mind when designing your outdoor kitchen space:
1.Flow is important in a kitchen, both indoors and outdoors
Think about food preparation, cooking and dining as three distinct functional zones in your outdoor kitchen space. It is important that all three are integrated to create a seamless work flow.
Photo Credit: Fisher & Paykel Appliances, Inc. – Canada
2. Choose materials that will be able to withstand the elements.
For cabinets, marine-grade polymer is ideal and countertops use mold resistant materials, such as natural stone, concrete or stainless steel. For flooring, avoid materials that get slippery when wet. Use instead concrete, brick or natural stone.
3. Protect your kitchen from the elements.
Our weather can be unpredictable, so it is important to protect your kitchen from sun and rain. Awnings, roofs, retractable canopies, and pergolas are great ways to add shelter to your outdoor kitchen and entertaining spaces.
Photo Credit: Fisher & Paykel Appliances, Inc. – Canada
4. Choose appliances based on how you cook and entertain.
New to the BBQ scene, the DCS Series 9 Grill delivers the full package of beauty, brains and brawn with impressive new features. Built to withstand the demands of the serious cook and the weather, 365 days a year, the ultra-reliable Series 9 Grill offers a variety of special features including: a secondary cooking surface, a powerful rotisserie, a charcoal smoker tray and intuitive lighting.
Photo Credit: Fisher & Paykel Appliances, Inc. – Canada
5. Lighting can transform any space and create the right atmosphere.
Think about two distinct lighting areas for cooking and dining. For cooking, use bright task lighting to ensure that the grill and prep area are well lit. Ceiling fans are great for over top of the dining area and will keep the mosquitos away. Remember to include dimmers on all lights so you can set the right mood.
6. Music is synonymous with ambiance.
When you are planning your electrical requirements, consider if you want to wire your outdoor kitchen for a sound system. There are sound systems designed specifically for outdoor use that can be seamlessly integrated with your landscaping.
7. Your outdoor dining area is an extension of your home.
So when choosing colour palette and fabrics think about the aesthetic of your home. The outdoors is also the place to be a bit more playful if your home is more of a neutral palette. Navy, brown or charcoal are great neutral starting points that can be paired with patterned pillows with a pop of colour.
Most importantly, remember that your outdoor kitchen is as an extension of your indoor space.
Let it be a complement to the style of your home and create a space that is ideal as an outdoor retreat for family and friends.
For more information and to learn more about selecting the perfect appliances for your outdoor kitchen, please contact Caplan’s Appliances at outdoorkitchen@caplans.ca.
