An outdoor kitchen is a great addition to any home, offering an ideal space for all your outdoor cooking and entertaining needs. However, selecting the right place for your garden kitchen is crucial to maximise its benefits and make sure it makes your outdoor living experience as stress-free as possible. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the perfect spot for your outdoor BBQ kitchen. 🤩
1. Accessibility
Distance to Indoor Space: The closer your outdoor kitchen is to your indoor kitchen, the easier it will be to transfer food, utensils, and other outdoor cooking essentials between the two spaces. Placing your BBQ kitchen closer to your indoor living space will mean less trips, so may be more efficient. 🏡
Pathways: Make sure there are clear and safe paths leading to your outdoor kitchen. These should be well-lit and free of obstacles to prevent any accidents, especially when carrying hot BBQ food or outdoor cooking utensils. 🪴
2. Scenic Views
Choose a location that offers nice views of your garden, pool, or other beautiful features of your outdoor living area. Having a good view whilst you barbecue will create a more enjoyable outdoor cooking experience! ⛲️
3. Weather Considerations
Shelter from Weather: While you want your outdoor living space to be open, protection from the elements is essential. Consider placing your outdoor kitchen under a pergola or other type of shelter to protect against the weather. This will protect your outdoor cooking appliances from rusting and make sure that you can use your outdoor kitchen for BBQs throughout the year, no matter the weather. 🌦️
Wind Patterns: Pay attention to the wind direction in your area. By positioning your grill or outdoor cooking station so that smoke is blown away from your outdoor dining area and house, it ensures a comfortable environment for everyone. 💨
4. Access to Utilities
Water Supply: If your garden kitchen includes an outdoor sink or dishwasher, being near to your home’s water supply is essential. This will minimise plumbing costs and make installation a lot easier. 💧
Electricity: Many BBQ kitchens require electricity for outdoor cooking appliances, outdoor lighting, and other features. Ensure your chosen location can easily connect to your home’s electrical system. Make sure to use outdoor-rated outlets and proper wiring, as they are essential for safety. ⚡️
Gas Line: For those planning to include a gas BBQ grill, BBQ pizza oven, or other gas-powered outdoor cooking appliances, being close to your home’s gas line will simplify installation. Ensure you contact a professional to have safe and proper connections. 👷
5. Avoid Enclosed Areas
While it might be tempting to tuck your outdoor kitchen into a cosy corner, it’s important to avoid overly closed off areas. Good ventilation is necessary to prevent smoke from lingering. Make sure there is good airflow around your outdoor cooking space to maintain a pleasant and safe environment. 🌬️
6. Social and Entertainment Considerations
Dining and Seating Areas: Think about how your outdoor kitchen will integrate with outdoor dining and seating areas. Ideally, there should be a smooth flow between the outdoor cooking, eating, and lounging areas to create a cohesive outdoor living space. 🍽️
Entertainment Features: If you plan to include features like a TV or bar, the outdoor kitchen will need to be close enough to seating areas to ensure good lines of sight. 📺
7. Privacy
Your outdoor living space should be a private place where you can relax and entertain without feeling too exposed. You may want to use landscaping, such as hedges, trees, or other plants, to create a sense of privacy while still maintaining an open atmosphere. 🌳
Choosing the right location for your outdoor kitchen is a big choice, and can impact your outdoor living experience. By considering accessibility, views, weather, utilities, and other factors, you can create a functional and beautiful outdoor cooking area that enhances your home and lifestyle. With careful planning, your outdoor kitchen will become the favourite gathering spot for family and friends, providing great memories and tasty BBQ dishes for years to come. 🧑🍳
If you have any more questions about outdoor kitchens, check out our other community forum posts, or contact us! We would love to help. 📲
Sizzle on,
Team AOS