18 Oct Outdoor Kitchen Design: Location and Placement Tips
When you begin your research in outdoor kitchen design, there’s a lot to think about. It’s tough to know where to start. Oddly enough, the matter of where your new outdoor kitchen belongs is the perfect starting point. After all, pinpointing the ideal location can be tricky. You’ll need to weigh several factors when deciding where to locate your outdoor kitchen.
Your Backyard’s Layout
Does your backyard have a garage or a garden? Is there a pool, patio or pergola? What about landscaping that you love? When deciding where to place an outdoor kitchen, think about how it will fit with the rest of your outdoor living space. How will it impact the lines of travel between your back door, the new backyard kitchen and any other features?
Proximity is another factor to consider when evaluating an outdoor kitchen design. Some like the idea of a summer kitchen just steps from their door so that supply runs are simple. They don’t want to have to circle the pool to grab more napkins. Others prefer to establish their outdoor kitchen as a retreat. They get away from the everyday by creating a separate space that is distinct from their home. If cost is a consideration, then your new outdoor kitchen should be closer to the house.
Where the Wind Blows
Where there’s grilling, there’s smoke. While a hint of smoke in the breeze can be pleasant, no one wants to hang out in a cloud of it. Therefore, you’ll need to consider how the wind blows when considering outdoor kitchen ideas. Dining areas should definitely be upwind of the grill. Your outdoor kitchen plans should also take into account how smoke will impact pools, seating areas, decks, windows and doors.
Access to Utilities
Picture your perfect backyard kitchen. Do you see a small refrigerator, lights or a sink with running water? If so, then you’ll need to think about whether a potential location will allow you to access utilities like gas, electricity and water as you make your outdoor kitchen plans. Most of the times, building an outdoor kitchen closer to your home will reduce the cost of implementing these utilities.
A Variety of Viewpoints
As you contemplate your outdoor kitchen design ideas, it’s easy to get caught up in how the new space will look. However, savvy homeowners will think about a variety of viewpoints.
- When you glance up from your culinary efforts, what will you see?
- What view will those gathered around your dining area enjoy?
- How will the new addition impact the views from your home’s windows?
- What happens when the seasons change?
After all, while people in the north might be content with a summer kitchen in their backyard, Florida’s gorgeous weather means that you’ll be able to cook outside comfortably throughout the year. Take some time to consider how your outdoor kitchen design will fit with its surroundings. It’s a chance to capitalize on the natural beauty that makes being outdoors so pleasant.
Your Outdoor Kitchen Design Can Be a Reality
American Backyard Concepts has more than 23 years of experience in making dreams a reality in Florida backyards. Designing and creating custom outdoor kitchens is our specialty. Let us help you transform your outdoor living space with an outdoor kitchen design that is tailored to your needs, your space and your style. Contact us today at 407-847-9322 to request your free 3D design consultation.
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