Cabinetry should be equipped to handle rain and protect the items inside . Weather-tight cabinets have seamless rain gutters around the door and drawer openings to help divert water .
By incorporating the right design principles , an outdoor kitchen can be the place where you and your guests enjoy delicious meals for years to come .
Photo courtesy of Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet .
Photo courtesy of Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet .
and cabinetry is more self-reliant , but will require more space and connections for gas , water and electricity .
In the zone — You ’ ll get the most out of your outdoor kitchen when you have different functional zones designated . Plot out where you will position four key zones , wet , cold , hot and dry , to make prepping , cooking , serving and cleaning much easier .
The cold zone should be next to the wet zone . This will simplify moving food from the refrigerator ( cold zone ) to the sink ( wet zone ) to wash and get ready for grilling in the hot zone .
Also plan for uninterrupted counter space or landing areas for placing platters and utensils while cooking . Grills should have at least 24 inches to one side and 12 inches to the other . Sinks should have 18 inches on both sides for room to wash food or place dirty dishes .
Be sure to dedicate enough space for each zone and think about the relationships among them for cooking and serving activities .
Left outside — Being outdoors means your refrigeration and cabinetry will need to be equipped to handle the elements .
When considering refrigeration for an outdoor kitchen , Faulk stresses food-safe rated options . With these products , meats won ’ t go bad and drinks will stay cold , even when it ’ s above 95 degrees outside .
9 Steps to a Better Backyard
Follow these simple steps for building your dream escape — right in your own backyard .
Enlist an expert . Much like you might consult an interior designer , deck contractors can help make your dream outdoor space become a reality . Unless you plan to build the deck yourself , the first item on your to-do list should be hiring a contractor . When researching contractors , look for someone who specializes in decks — conduct interviews , review portfolios and gather references .
Make low-maintenance a high priority . Everyone wants to spend time outdoors , but no one wants to spend that time sanding , staining or replacing worn-out wooden deck boards . For enduring beauty with minimal upkeep , consider high-performance composite decking that resists fading , staining , scratching and mold — and won ’ t rot , warp , crack or splinter .
Factor in function . Plan your outdoor space to align with how you ’ ll use it , whether that will be for relaxing , entertaining , dining alfresco , etc . Consider all-weather cabinetry and outdoor storage for added convenience . Additionally , think about factors such as views , sun / shade and entryways that will have an impact on your design layout .
Frame your space . While railings provide a necessary safety function , they also serve an aesthetic role by creating a decorative frame for an outdoor space and defining the setting ’ s style .
Forego the folding chairs . Make your backyard more comfortable with inviting furniture pieces . Mix and match a variety of weatherresistant outdoor pieces — from benches and Adirondack chairs to cozy couches with colorful cushions — to provide multiple seating options and create a welcoming atmosphere .
Heat things up . One of the hottest trends in outdoor living is incorporating warming features into outdoor spaces . Create physical and ambient warmth with candles , tiki torches , lanterns and firepits .
Let there be light . Lighting is another effective way to add warmth , ambiance and safety to an outdoor space . Designed for easy installation , outdoor lighting provides sophisticated silhouettes for enhancing decks , railings and landscapes .
Go high-tech . With the increasing popularity of home automation , it ’ s only natural that this trend should migrate outdoors . There is now a wealth of electronics and entertainment systems designed specifically for outdoor use , and available at all budget levels .
Create a unique space . Just like you would for interior rooms , infuse your personality into the design of your outdoor space . Choose colors and patterns that reflect your style and customize with personal touches , such as pillows , throw blankets , art , tableware and plants . Switch accessories seasonally to keep your space fresh and fun . n
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