Outdoor Kitchens: How to Create a Stylish Dining Area in Your Backyard

Have you always wanted to throw summer get-togethers in your backyard? Building an outdoor kitchen is a great way to entertain guests during the summer months. If you’re considering an outdoor kitchen as part of your backyard remodel this summer, check out these helpful tips and start planning!

Choose the location

If you have an existing patio or deck, that’s the best place for your kitchen. If not, you’ll have to create a foundation in your yard somewhere level and convenient. For example, a spot in direct sunlight would not be ideal since it will expose your kitchen to more weather elements than a shaded area.  Your patio must be strong enough to support the weight of the features you wish to include in the kitchen, as well.

Choose your features
There are a variety of features you can include in your outdoor kitchen! Besides your grill, you can install countertops, a hearth, a pizza oven, a sink, a stove, a bar or a refrigerator to make cooking and preparation a part of your entertaining! An atmospheric fire pit is also great to keep your guests warm and cozy and add ambience when the party is still going into the evening hours.

Hook up utilities and plumbing
Your outdoor kitchen will need to be connected to your utility lines. A sink requires water lines and proper drainage, a gas grill will need a gas line hookup-you may even want electricity for appliances or lighting. Make sure to discuss these hookups with your hired contractor (or any licensed plumber or electrician you consider for the job).

Pick your flooring
If you don’t already have a patio for your kitchen, you’ll need to create one. Do you want a raised deck or a ground level patio? What kind of materials do you want? There are a variety of patio options--brick, pavers, stone, concrete, etc.

Weatherproof
Since this is going to be an outdoor kitchen, all the materials you use will need to be weatherproof, such as: concrete, flagstone, soapstone, stainless steel, brick, sealed tile, granite, and pressure treated lumber.

Photo by: Landscape Design Advisor (Flickr.com)