How to Create an Outdoor Kitchen
Design and build an outdoor kitchen that fits the entertaining style of the family. Plan to install a larger grill, for example, if many people will be served in the outdoor kitchen space. Keep the kitchen more simple if only the immediate family will use it. Build all component parts to resist wind, rain, rust and lots of wear and tear. Invest in stainless steel framing to add structure and stability to the layout. Remember to design all aspects of the kitchen to be as fireproof as possible. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Concrete
- 2-by-6 boards
- Metal gridwork
- Porcelain ceramic tile
- Graph paper
- Metal framework
- Bricks
- Stainless steel stove/grill
- Stainless steel outdoor refrigerator
- Outdoor sinks
Instructions
-
-
1
Create the foundational surface or patio to hold the kitchen. Install a concrete patio by pouring six inches of concrete into framework constructed with 2-by-6 boards. Add metal grid work in the framed box before pouring the concrete, to add strength. Allow to dry thoroughly for a couple of days. Add porcelain ceramic tile over the concrete for an upscale look, if the budget permits.
-
2
Use graph paper to design a layout. Include a stove, refrigerator, sink, counter space and cabinets at minimum. Consider adding an outdoor fireplace to the space, if room permits. While laying out the design on paper, consult with an electrician concerning electrical needs. Find a route from the house or garage to run conduit that will enclose the electrical wiring. Disguise the wiring by running it along the back wall of a house, under ground or along the side perimeter of a patio.
-
-
3
Secure stainless-steel metal framework to the patio base that will hold kitchen appliances and cabinets. Bolt the framework to the masonry base before starting to enclose it. Use bricks or brick veneer to enclose the ends of the space. Install appliances along the layout, and construct cabinets with doors.
-
4
Create a fireproof countertop by using metal sheeting or heavy tiles. Build the cooking surface to hold items coming off the stove or grill, so allow enough depth for counters. Install counters that are no less than 30 inches in depth. Position a sink in the countertop for washing vegetables. Create a water supply with a garden hose and sink attachments, unless the budget will allow for full-scale plumbing.
-
5
Paint all cabinetry to blend with the home's exterior. Don't make the kitchen stand out, since this will detract from the beauty of the home. Use pale-gray paint, for example, to blend with stainless steel appliances and framing. Consider using exterior stain for wood cabinets to match bricks used on the outdoor kitchen or bricks used on the house.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Construct the outdoor kitchen around the cooking and grilling area. Invest most of the usable budget in cooking equipment or appliances, since a refrigerator or sink are typically used only during meal preparation.
Create a sturdy kitchen counter space, since wind alone can dismantle a poorly constructed outdoor kitchen.
Build the kitchen far enough from the house to allow for fire protection. Install an outdoor fire extinguisher near the cooking space.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit steaks on grill image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
