3 Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas to Get Things Cooking Al Fresco
Organic, nature-inspired design has become one of the most on-trend interior design choices in recent years, especially as more people embrace sustainability.
While the phrase “bringing the outdoors in” is commonly used to describe the use of eco-friendly home decor like houseplants and natural lighting, we never talk about the reverse – “bringing the indoors outside.”
If you have the available outdoor space, there’s no reason not to see it as another room of your home and align its overall vibe with your established interior style.
No matter how big or small, there are plenty of ways to utilize your outdoor space so that it becomes an additional spot for gatherings, relaxing, or even cooking! That’s right – transforming your outdoor space into an extra kitchen is quickly becoming a huge value add for homeowners.
Particularly in locales with warmer climates, an outdoor kitchen space is great for several reasons. For one, outdoor kitchens are extremely convenient, making it easy to prepare, cook, serve, and enjoy meals in one beautiful setting. Secondly, outdoor kitchens provide an excellent space for entertaining, offering the ability to host backyard barbecues, parties, and other social events.
Before getting into the nitty-gritty construction planning, you should first spend time getting inspired and searching for the type of space that best suits your lifestyle. Here are our favorite ideas for designing the perfect outdoor kitchen!
1. Incorporate durable, natural materials like concrete
Perhaps the most important focus area of any outdoor living space or kitchen is the materials used. Weather-resistant materials must be a priority, especially if your kitchen space won’t have any overhead coverage or protection from the elements.
Choosing durable materials, like concrete, for features like countertops and tables is a wise way to ensure the kitchen will withstand extreme temperatures or precipitation. For example, this sleek BLOK table from our Woodform Concrete Collection is a much better option for an appetizer table than a linoleum one, as it will be incredibly long lasting. The BLOK table’s fiber-reinforced material won’t splinter, crack, or corrode, which is perfect for the outdoors.
2. Center the space around a beautiful outdoor fireplace
From water fountains to tiki torches, there are so many fun features that can bring your outdoor kitchen to life, but none will compare to a glorious concrete fireplace. Again, choosing concrete is the way to go, as it will be the most long-lasting material and withstand exposure to the elements while still looking chic and modern.
Adding a fireplace to your outdoor kitchen will not only increase your home’s value, but it will boost the area’s aesthetic quality and make it more comfortable and cozy. Plus, certain outdoor concrete fireplaces allow you to cook food within them like pizzas or roast marshmallows for s’mores, providing a fun activity for friends and family.
3. Make sure there is plenty of seating
Last but certainly not least, every great outdoor kitchen is not complete without plenty of spare seating. To make the space not just a kitchen but a true living space, there needs to be stylish seating so you can welcome and host any number of guests.
Fortunately, there are many different types of seating that will work well in an outdoor setting. For example, adirondack chairs are a classic choice with their distinct design including wide armrests and high backs. Other seating options offer a clear nod to relaxation, like hammocks or extra-large loungers. Placing a few ottomans or outdoor poufs around is also a good idea, as they can be used as additional seating during larger gatherings or in combination with sofas or chairs for better comfort.
Even concrete can make for good seating. The multi-tasking BLOK can be used as either a table or seating. Its wood-look adds to your design while ensuring longevity.
Ready to transform your outdoor living area into the kitchen of your dreams? Learn more about outdoor countertops here.