Imagine it’s summer again. The grill is fired up, the drinks are perfectly chilled in your outdoor fridge, and friends and family are just starting to arrive.
Backyards have become an extension of your living space. From high-end appliances to smart technology, outdoor kitchens are no more just a simple BBQ setup. We can help you design a comfortable, luxurious outdoor space where you cook and relax all summer.
Here are 8 tips to build your dream outdoor kitchen:
List down all ways you’d like to use the space
You can either build a modest space perfect for your family or go all out and add cool lights and smart technology. Outdoor kitchens are designed for functionality, so make sure you know what you want before contacting a contractor.
Ask yourself these questions:
Do you want to host small parties of up to 10 people? Or house parties for 40+?
Do you just plan to grill occasionally or cook full meals?
Do you want a seating arrangement near the cooking area or away from it?
Separate cooking, prep, and entertaining zones
Like any other kitchen, this one needs an effortless flow. Many homeowners make the mistake of placing seating too close to the grill, leaving guests in a cloud of smoke. Here’s our recommendation for these four zones:
- Cooking Zone – Grill, side burners, smoker, or pizza oven
- Prep Zone – Sink, cutting board space, fridge, and trash pull-out
- Serving Zone – Buffet-style counter or bar area
- Lounge Zone – Fire pit, outdoor TV, or dining table away from smoke and heat
Choose appliances that are built to last
When choosing outdoor appliances check that they are built with 304 stainless steel with sealed burners on grills and side cooktops. If you’re willing to splurge, Bluetooth-connected grills or digital temperature controls make the experience more luxurious.
Install hidden storage
Storage looks odd and unappealing but without it, your countertops will look messy and cluttered. We recommend that every outdoor kitchen has a hidden propane tank storage, weatherproof pull-out drawers for utensils and spices, sealed dry pantry storage, and cabinets for trash and recycling bins.
Pick heat-resistant countertops
Pick a material that looks beautiful but also is easy to maintain. Porcelain slabs, Dekton or sintered stone, and sealed granite are all great options depending on your budget. Avoid quartz because it fades and warps in high heat.
Smart lighting
Lighting makes your outdoor kitchen feel aesthetic and functional. Your kitchen’s incomplete without task lighting over grills and prep areas, recessed or strip lighting under counters and bar seating, and smart lighting systems with dimmable, color-changing options for the seating area.
Soundproofing and privacy features
If you live near neighbours, your outdoor kitchen should have sound control and privacy solutions. You have plenty of options to choose from, from sound-absorbing panels to reduce echo to a fountain to cover unwanted noise.
Stay connected with the internet
Smart lights and other technologies need a strong internet to function smoothly. You don’t want to go quiet suddenly in between a jam session. Use a couple weatherproof Wi-Fi extenders for a small outdoor kitchen or hardwired connections for an elaborate set-up.
Already picturing your luxury outdoor kitchen in Kingston? Team YKC’s got you covered. Schedule your free consultation today.
