Back in 2020, the home renovation craze was mostly limited to bathrooms and indoor remodeling. Now that we’re all done with the interiors, we’re taking it to our outdoor spaces.
For a designer, getting an outdoor kitchen design project is a great opportunity. They get to explore both interior and landscape design at the same time, their usual playground on a bigger scale.
For carpenters, this is a great chance for collaboration. Projects like these are becoming more frequent, so let’s explore how to run them successfully.
What to Include in an Outdoor Kitchen Design
First, we need to explore the features. This isn’t a simple backyard refresh; it’s a project designing an entire room. These are the components you need to take care of:
A Bar
Outdoor kitchens are mostly built for recreation and gatherings, so it’s very likely that clients will ask for a bar.
The bar can be part of a bigger grill setup with cabinets and stools, all creating a beautiful wooden island.
Many clients also ask for roofs over their grills and bar, often made of metal arches and wooden roofs, adding both style and function.
Cabinets
Outdoor kitchen cabinets have a different vibe and come with specific requirements.
They need to be durable first, beautiful second.
So when picking the wood and building them, it’s essential to consult a carpenter. Carpenters usually recommend PVC and resin finishes to guarantee durability.
For example, a designer consulted with an expert carpenter and realized they couldn’t use real wood for the cabinets as the client had asked for, unless the area was fully covered. It is important to be wary of moisture. A simple PVC material that looked just like wood did the job, satisfying both the client’s vision and the project’s practical needs.
Furniture
The designer’s first choice for outdoor kitchen furniture is usually stools for the bar, since the bar or island are typically part of a bigger setup.
For those with a more bohemian taste, pillows, cushions, and even ottomans are great options.
There is also a chance that benches will come in handy for communal spaces or for those who love a vintage look.
Grill Station
Grill stations are the most requested and the ultimate outdoor kitchen design feature.
Aluminum is a common choice for the setup, but most people still go for a rustic look offered by wood. It is best to use PVC with wood-like looks for durability. Clients usually prefer stations built from scratch, and this is where carpenters and designers must collaborate closely.
Flooring
Flooring for an outdoor kitchen can look like porcelain tiles. However, those asking for a rustic backyard often ask for wood. This is when a designer should advise them on going for wood-look porcelain tiles instead. These tiles give the aesthetic of wood but with the resilience and low maintenance required for an outdoor space.
Roof
Many people prefer their outdoor kitchen to be covered and shaded, but it is the designer’s role to advise on the best aesthetic and practical solution.
For those on a low budget, you can recommend a combo of half walls and an umbrella.
If the mere function is aesthetics, a fixed wood or metal slatted pergola that offers some shade but no protection from the rain is a good option.
Others have the pergola to one side for sitting under, leaving the kitchen uncovered. But most clients prefer it this way, keeping the barbecue materials durable and using covers for them instead of a full roof, to feel the true essence of the outdoors.
Let's Get Building
Ultimately, building an outdoor kitchen is a collaborative effort between the designer and the carpenter. It’s your job to take the client’s vision and turn it into a reality that not only looks great but is also built to last.
This means creating an outdoor kitchen design that is durable, easy to maintain, and simple to clean.
From selecting the right materials that can withstand the elements to ensuring the layout is functional for cooking and entertaining, every decision plays a part in the project’s success.
The final result should be a beautiful, custom-built space that extends the home’s living area and provides a place for the client to create lasting memories outdoors.
Find your partner on Decolinx platform to be prepared for your next big project.