Enjoy on your patio.
A patio is an ideal place to enjoy the outdoors during the warm months. Turn it into a space where you can enjoy dining al fresco by incorporating an outdoor kitchen. From relaxed barbecues to formal sit-down dinners, an outdoor kitchen is a place where you and your family and friends can experience memorable meals.
Overhead Cover
When planning your outdoor kitchen, you need shelter to protect the equipment, as well as you and your guests, from the elements. Build a pergola or install an awning over the patio. If you have a second-story deck, build the outdoor patio kitchen underneath it.
Counters
A counter is an essential feature in an outdoor kitchen, as it provides a space for preparing food. In an outdoor kitchen, choose materials that will stand up to the conditions of both the kitchen and the outdoors. Granite not only looks sleek, it is also extremely durable. Concrete is another resilient material that you can use for your outdoor kitchen counter. Ceramic tile comes in a variety of colors and designs and is able to withstand water and sun exposure.
Appliances
Of course, appliances are a necessity in kitchen. For an outdoor kitchen, a barbecue grill is likely to be your primary cooking surface. There are several options available, including oversized commercial grade grills and smaller charcoal grills. If you have always wanted a wood-burning stove but don't have the space to accommodate one in your home, put one in your outdoor kitchen. A gas cook-top is an ideal spot for boiling or sautéing. And install a mini-refrigerator.
Lighting
Lighting is another necessity for your outdoor kitchen. If you have built your kitchen with overhead protection, install overhead lighting fixtures--such as pendants over the work space for task lighting and a chandelier or ceiling fan/light fixture over the dining table. Set the mood and create a soothing look by surrounding the area with tiki torches, candles and strings of twinkle lights.
Accessorize
Make the space comfortable and inviting with accessories. Incorporate an outdoor dining set. There are many options available; shapes include round, rectangular and oval, and materials include teak, aluminum, wicker and resin. Lay an outdoor rug on the floor to soften the look. Plant flowers in the ground around the patio or plant arrangements in pots and hanging baskets and place them around the area. Add focal points with outdoor art elements. A birdbath, a sundial and wind chimes create interest and help to soften the space.
Tags: outdoor kitchen, your outdoor, kitchen, options available, outdoor dining