Tips to Improve Your Outdoor Kitchen Design

Summer is just around the corner and, among other things, is the season for barbecues—the sweet smells of meat sizzling, the tinkling of refreshing beverages, and the cheerful conversations of people learning new things about each other. An outdoor kitchen is one of the best ways to host a barbecue, keeping you in the middle of the action at all times. Whether you have only recently enlisted the help of outdoor kitchen remodelers or are already a veteran outdoor cook, here are some tips to help you plan or improve your outdoor kitchen for the coming summer.

•  Practice basic kitchen design principles throughout your outdoor kitchen. All areas of the kitchen—from the cold fridge to the hot grill to the dry counters to the wet sinks—should work in conjunction and allow for an easy flow from one to the other. You should have plenty of space to work at each station comfortably. 

• The most prominent difference between your outdoor and indoor kitchens is exposure to nature’s elements. Consider the durability of each element of your outdoor kitchen, from countertops to sinks, as well as the shelter that your outdoor kitchen provides itself and potential guests. 
• Remember that you may only be using your outdoor kitchen three months out of the year, giving the area nine months to collect dust and take a beating. The easier it is to clean, the more you’ll use it. As a general rule, use low-maintenance materials and equipment that can stand up to inclement weather. Stainless steel is easy to maintain and resistant to corrosion. Counters should be resistant to heat and grease stains. Avoid tile countertops if you live in any icy climates; they will not be able to withstand the constant freezing and thawing. 
• As any home remodeling expert will tell you, matching parts of your home with the overall home design is an important but difficult part of any remodel. Complement your existing home design and the surrounding landscape. A fireplace makes for a good anchor and focal point that works with many styles. 
• You can extend barbecue season with some heaters and some simple shelter and shade. Set up awnings, pergolas, and trees over dining areas. Portable propane patio heaters, used in conjunction with an overhang, are an effective and affordable option for staying warm at night or when the weather gets chilly.
• Provide plenty of task lighting so you can keep that barbecue party going well into the night.

Barbecues are fun for everyone, and a great outdoor kitchen can keep the fun times going all year long.