Gone are the days when dad would head outside with a bottle of lighter fluid to fire up the hibachi and toss on some burgers.
Today’s trend is outdoor kitchens with a mix of landscape design and upscale indoor kitchen design.
Kevin Rice, owner and landscape designer at Rice’s Nursery, says the trend is catching on here, following the lead of the West Coast, Florida and Carolina scenes.
“It’s a great way for people to extend their entertaining areas,” he explained. “It’s an extension of their home.”
Rice said the typical new grilling area or outdoor kitchen now consists of a grill island with a grill, preparation area, and often a dining top. The grill is set into the stone or brick island and the counter space is made with either granite or masonry concrete, all materials that will withstand the elements.
Often, they also will include a sink, refrigerator, and lighting, as well.
And believe it or not, said Rice, some outdoor areas include flat screen televisions set under the eves of the home.
Fire pits, either gas or wood-burning, are popular, too.
“We design by looking at the client’s needs and wants and combining that with the style of the home,” he said.
Rice said homeowners creating an outdoor living space can decide how big they want to go with the project — from elaborate to basic.
“We’re just getting away from the picnic-table look.”
A simplified outdoor kitchen can be as easy as adding a nice grill with some patio furniture.
An important consideration, he said, is the size of the space.
“You want to have a large enough space for seating and dining,” Rice said.
Planning your outdoor kitchen
1. Select location: Best near the house, particularly the kitchen, with minimum exposure to the elements and wind. Beware of flammable materials overhead.
2. Allow for utilities: A sink will require a water supply and drain. Electricity and gas will be needed for lighting and grilling. Consider how these will be routed from the house.
3. Design for comfort: Countertops should be 32 to 36 inches high and at least 24 inches deep.
4. Use sound construction: Some barbecues require a concrete pad poured over a bed of gravel. Use low-maintenance, high-quality materials.
5. Follow codes: Build according to zoning codes.
Source: www.hometips.com
