An outdoor kitchen is a great addition to your outdoor living space. It elevates the aesthetics of your property, increases the functionality of your outdoor area, and provides an ideal space to host your guests! When designing your outdoor kitchen, you’ll want to carefully consider various things so your new outdoor feature is everything you want it to be.
First, you’ll want to consider the climate in your area in North Carolina when picking the material so your outdoor kitchen can withstand the elements. Second, you’ll want to choose amenities that will make your outdoor kitchen more convenient. Lastly, you’ll want to consider adding outdoor lighting to your outdoor kitchen so you can utilize it even at night. Keep reading to learn more about the 3 things you need to consider when designing an outdoor kitchen!
1. Consider Your Climate When Choosing Materials
The material you use for your outdoor kitchen will significantly affect its appearance and longevity, so you’ll want to consider the climate in your area to ensure you choose the perfect material. The material for your outdoor kitchen should be able to withstand the elements in North Carolina that it will be exposed to.
A great choice that you can consider is granite, especially for your countertops and the sides of your outdoor kitchen. Granite is a natural stone known for its durability. It can withstand high temperatures and, if properly sealed, can also endure snow and precipitation.
As a natural stone, granite comes in unique slabs that will ensure you get a beautiful material unlike any other.
2. Think about convenience when choosing your amenities
Outdoor kitchens, like indoor ones, are customizable, and you can add different amenities to them. This part is perhaps the most exciting when designing your outdoor kitchen! When picking which amenities to add, you should think about functionality and what features will make your cooking experience more convenient. Here are some common features that you can add to your outdoor kitchen:
- Sink - A sink is a staple for most outdoor kitchens, as it will allow you to clean your cooking utensils and plates while outside. It also means you won't have to run inside to wash your hands.
- Refrigerator - With a refrigerator, you can conveniently reach and store drinks, food, and ingredients.
- Pizza Oven - Adding a pizza oven to your outdoor kitchen allows you to create delicious, restaurant-quality pizzas.
- Bar - A bar is a perfect place to talk with your guests and enjoy the outdoors while you whip up some food.
3. Do you want to use your outdoor kitchen at night?
The great thing about an outdoor kitchen is that you can maximize it day or night. To be able to utilize your outdoor kitchen at night, you’ll want to add outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting will illuminate your outdoor kitchen at night, making cooking easier and safer. It also means you and your guests won’t have to move indoors even if you have events that start later in the day because your outdoor kitchen will be well-lit. Installing outdoor lights can also improve the ambiance of your outdoor kitchen and highlight its beautiful features!
