Building an outdoor kitchen is an investment. It’s the equivalent of building a new room for your home. Only you aren’t expanding on real estate—you’re using your backyard. There are many things you have to consider, including location, layout, and design. So, what are  some things you must know when designing an outdoor kitchen ? Let’s dive in.

Protection

You can’t get around it: you’ll need an awning or pergola to protect your outdoor kitchen during rainy days and inclement weather. You’ll want to get stainless steel or water-resistant furniture and appliances because you never know what the weather will throw at you. If winds are an issue in your area, add screens or natural barriers. Umbrellas provide shade from the sun, and wall-mounted heaters are useful if temperatures are cooler. Ceiling fans are also important and can provide the added benefit of keeping mosquitos away. The weather is a key  factor you need to consider when designing your outdoor kitchen .

Durable Materials

Even with the proper protection, an   outdoor kitchen can still be vulnerable to the elements. The materials you use for your cabinets, countertops, and appliances must be durable and cannot be prone to decomposition. Choose materials that can handle temperature fluctuations without cracking or warping over time. The proper composite materials can last a long time outside. This makes them ideal for countertops. Metal is great for its strength and durability and is another popular choice for this reason.

Get the Right Appliances

There are many different appliances to choose from. Pizza ovens, grills, and smokers abound. To narrow down your options, ask yourself what you’re going to cook most often. If you don’t make pizza inside your home, will you use a pizza oven outside? Do you love to grill? If you’re a fan of making margaritas at home, you’ll likely want an icebox and a mini fridge to whip them up outside.

The Proper Layout

Let the space you have available dictate your layout. T-shaped kitchens are wonderful for larger patios where you entertain. However, you can ditch the bar and get a few cabinets if you don’t have a lot of space. Make sure you plan for electricity, gas, and water, all of which you’ll need for your appliances. You want to strike a balance between form and function.

Think About Seating

Determine the number of seats to include based on your family size and how often you plan to entertain. You might want a dozen or so seats if you plan to entertain often. Remember, you can always store extra chairs in a garage or shed when you aren’t using them. You might also want to consider the design so the seating complements your home. These are just a few things you need to consider when building an outdoor kitchen. We hope you enjoy your new space!