Your backyard is an extension of your home, so it should feel as comfortable and functional as any other room inside your house. If you want to make the most of your outdoor space, create an outdoor kitchen that’s both cozy and comfortable while also giving you the flexibility to prepare meals year-round with ease. Here are 5 tips for creating that perfect outdoor kitchen space where you can spend time with family and friends during parties and barbecues, or simply enjoy some downtime in the sun with a good book.
1. A Mini-Fridge Makes the Space More Convenient
If you have limited outdoor space, consider opting for a mini-fridge. It’ll still allow you to store items (like cold drinks) but won’t take up as much room as its full-sized counterpart. To keep things fresh in hot weather, store drinks, fresh fruit and other cool snacks, advises Country Living. Whether you’re hosting an outdoor brunch or need an alternative beverage station in case of inclement weather, this addition adds so much convenience, you won’t want to live without it!
2. Build an Outdoor Brick Pizza Oven
An outdoor brick pizza oven can provide endless summer entertainment. With an outdoor brick pizza oven, you get a taste of the old country. Not only is it a great place to make homemade pizzas and breads, but you also have an attractive feature that can help turn your backyard into a space where friends and family gather year-round. The fire pit in particular adds ambiance with its impressive flames and smoky scent; even if it’s not being used as an actual cooking tool, it provides romantic appeal.
3. Buy Colorful, Comfortable Furniture for the Space
Give your outdoor kitchen a cozy vibe by adding colorful, comfortable furniture that encourages lingering. It can be as simple as bringing in some outdoor pillows or chairs to transform your space into an impromptu hangout spot. Making your guests feel at home will not only make them happier but will also give them something to talk about when they get back inside!
And nothing says backyard like bright colors and cozy furniture, but not every outdoor space is suited to its surroundings. Before you buy any patio chairs or loungers, make sure your space has enough sun or shade to accommodate them. When it comes to cushions, choose ones made from materials that dry quickly and resist mold, mildew, and insects.
4. Think About Putting in an Outdoor Sink
In most cases, you don’t need to install an outdoor sink—the kitchen sink will work just fine. But you may want to think about it if your outdoor kitchen is more than just a place to store your grill and utensils. After all, it’s a place where you also do your food prep and cooking. As Martha Stewart points out, having an outdoor sink nearby can be quite convenient—it means one less trip inside for rinsing dishes and hands. If possible, find a spot near your grill so you can conveniently scrub down grilling equipment right after use as well.
5. Consider an Outdoor Living Room to Expand the Space Even More
If you have the space and the budget, you may also want to consider adding an outdoor living room next to the outdoor kitchen. Having an abundance of outdoor living space allows you to entertain comfortably. You can do something as simple as adding a comfy couch and chairs alongside some casual side tables, or something as elaborate as building a whole covered space that has been wired for electricity.
Final Thoughts on Building an Outdoor Kitchen
At its heart, an outdoor kitchen is about expanding your living space outdoors. With that in mind, it’s best to think about how you want to use your new outdoor space: Is it just going to be an extension of your regular cooking area? Will you regularly be eating outdoors? Or will you start throwing parties in your backyard? Once you know the answers to these questions, you’ll be in a better position to build the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.