The backyard is often considered an extension of the home and a place where families gather to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. But if you really want to take your backyard design to the next level, consider incorporating a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen. These steps would help you do just that in the Dix Hills, NY, area.
Related: 5 OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGNS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF AN ENTERTAINING-CENTRIC HOME IN SOUTHAMPTON, NY
Practical Benefits
An outdoor kitchen almost by definition becomes one of the central hubs of your outdoor living space, especially when you consider how your inside kitchen often becomes a place where people gather. But with an outdoor kitchen, you have everything you need to entertain all in one place. And perhaps, best of all, you don’t have to go back and forth between the indoors and outdoors!
Grilling
The grill is usually the heart of any outdoor kitchen, so it's important to choose one that’s stylish, functional, and suits your needs. When it comes to what kind of grill, you’ll have various choices. Two standard options are gas or charcoal. But your landscape contractor can help you think through the possibilities. You may also want to consider a wood-fired pizza oven which can appeal to people of all ages. After all, who can resist the outside aroma of fresh pizza being cooked to perfection?
Preparation and Storage
Countertops and cabinetry provide a place for preparation, storage, and serving. You’ll want to consider materials that are durable, weather-resistant, and that fit your overall design scheme. Popular choices include: stone, concrete, and stainless steel.
Refrigeration
Having a good refrigerator could be considered an essential part of a high-quality outdoor kitchen. This is the appliance that will allow you to be both host and cook at the same time because everything you need should be within your reach. The last thing you want is to be stressed out trying to find this or that, while your family or guests are enjoying themselves and wishing you could be more present. The addition of a refrigerator can help ensure that doesn’t happen.
Sinks
Having a sink is a key aspect of an outdoor kitchen. A sink means you can wash vegetables or fruits on the spot as part of your food preparation. It also means you’ll be able to wash your hands often as well as have everything you need for cleaning up.
Landscape Lighting
Lighting may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering an outdoor kitchen. But lighting brings practical benefits that maximize entertaining at night. Overhead and task lighting help with visibility in and around your kitchen. And accent lighting helps create a warm, inviting atmosphere that helps tie everything together.
Seating and Outdoor Dining
As you consider your outdoor kitchen, don’t forget to think about seating, especially bar seating that allows you to interact with family, friends, and guests as you prep food, cook, and make drinks.
Weather Protection
An added feature that can also help you maximize your use of an outdoor kitchen is some kind of covering like a pergola or have the outdoor kitchen be under a pavilion. Providing protection from sun, wind, and rain would make it easier for you, family, and guests to enjoy outdoor time together throughout the year.
