Everything you need for an outdoor kitchen

Many Australians enjoy their meals outdoors, especially when the weather is warmer and during daylight savings. The only problem is that your kitchen is far away from the deck area, which means you have to keep making multiple trips up and down to get food and various supplies for the meal. It would be much simpler and more practical to install an outdoor kitchen. This can range from a basic unit to a fully equipped model. If the idea sounds exciting, you need to do more research on the subject. For starters, here is a handy reference guide.

Definition of an outdoor kitchen

An outdoor kitchen is a place where you can cook food. In its simplest form, an outdoor kitchen will consist of a countertop, a few shelves and a barbecue grill. The more elaborate outdoor kitchens will have a fridge, sink with plumbing, a set of cabinets and other accessories. This type of kitchen is built on a deck or patio, where you usually entertain guests. It’s important to place an outdoor kitchen in an area that has an overhead roof to keep everything dry and comfortable. 

The size of your budget and the amount of space you have available to use will determine how big and elaborate your outdoor kitchen can be.

What tools and accessories do you needed?

Start by making a list of the essential tools, gadgets and accessories you would use in the outdoor kitchen on a regular basis. A barbecue is present in the majority of units, but you can choose between a free-standing or built-in design. Counter space is another essential element of an outdoor kitchen. Depending on the amount of food and drink you want to keep chilled, you can get a mini or full-sized refrigerator or a freezer. You may need a sink to wash the dishes or clean your hands. Cabinets are convenient for holding utensils, crockery, cutlery and kitchen linen. Additionally, cabinets and drawers will keep any stored items from getting dirty outside. 

If you are planning a full-fledged outdoor kitchen and your budget allows for it, you can install a dishwasher, ice machine and even an oven. These items are not necessary to an outdoor kitchen if you already have a fully equipped kitchen inside. However, it will elevate the types of food and drinks you can create in your outdoor kitchen.

Space and cost factors

Cost takes priority over space. Once you decide your budget, you can start planning the space. Keep the outdoor kitchen proportionate to the rest of the house and the garden. At the same time, it should be big enough to accommodate all the gadgets, tools and accessories you have planned. The total cost includes the expense of buying new appliances as well as the construction costs. 

If you are planning an outdoor kitchen, you should also be planning a beautiful outdoor eating space where you can enjoy the food you prepare in the outdoor kitchen. Do not let the outdoor kitchen overshadow the main entertaining area, so make sure you factor in enough space for both. The kitchen should be placed to one side so that there is ample room for furniture and moving around.

Durability

The outdoor kitchen is exposed to the elements of nature. Keep this in mind during the design phase, and choose construction materials that can withstand the sun, wind, rain and dust. Installing an outdoor kitchen is a big investment, so it should be operational for several years at least. The best material for your cabinets and electric appliances is steel since timber is prone to rotting or warping over time. Countertops, shelves and other surfaces can be made of stone veneer, which is both durable and aesthetic. Choose cabinets made of glass or stainless steel in any colour, preferably one that goes well with the rest of your entertaining area.

Safety

Safety is extremely important to factor in when planning an outdoor kitchen, especially if you are installing appliances such as ovens or built-in BBQ’s. You should assess the area to ensure there is enough airflow, as well as install proper ventilation systems such as vent panels and vent hoods. Insulated jackets are also a priority when installing cooking appliances.