Key Takeaways:
- Creating an outdoor kitchen is becoming increasingly popular since it adds value to the home and increases the homeowner’s investment in their property.
- The must-have appliances for a functional outdoor kitchen include a grill, prep station, storage, sink, pizza oven, bartending station, trash can, and dishwasher.
- An outdoor kitchen must have a refrigerator or beverage cooler to keep drinks cold.
- Comfortable seating and a fire pit are also crucial for creating a relaxing atmosphere in your outdoor living space.
Creating or improving an outdoor living environment entails careful planning, budgeting, and the selection and placement of amenities to create an entertainment paradise. Adding an outdoor kitchen is becoming increasingly popular since it adds value to the home and increases the homeowner’s investment in their property. But what are the must-have appliances and amenities that will make your outdoor kitchen the envy of all your friends?
In this blog post, Denver Patio Masters will discuss the appliances and amenities that transform a simple BBQ island into a fully functional outdoor kitchen.
A Refrigerator or Beverage Cooler
A good refrigerator or beverage cooler is one of the essential appliances for your outdoor kitchen. After all, no one wants to keep running back and forth from the indoors whenever they need another drink! Outdoor refrigerators are adaptable since they can contain built-in freezers and ice makers and even work as a kegerator, serving cold tap beer.
When choosing a fridge or cooler for your outdoor kitchen, pick one that is durable and specifically designed for outdoor use. That way, you can be sure it will withstand the elements and keep your beverages nice and cold all summer.
A Grill
Of course, no outdoor kitchen would be complete without a grill! When choosing a grill for your space, consider how much cooking surface you’ll need and what fuel you prefer.
A grill offers a broad range of culinary choices, from burgers and hotdogs to steak and grilled vegetables, making it ideal for serving hungry visitors. The grill is the center of outdoor gatherings, whether alone or integrated into your counter area. Grills can be powered by gas, charcoal, or pellets. Some are even self-igniting and feature built-in burners for warming food.
Most current premium barbecue models have smart technology that eliminates most guesswork and unpredictability associated with grilling.
A Prep Station
A prep station is another must-have for any serious outdoor chef. Having a designated area for chopping vegetables, marinating meat, or mixing cocktails will make your life much easier when it comes time to cook (or serve!) up a feast. Plus, having everything in one place will help keep your counters clutter-free. Many prep stations also come equipped with cabinets or drawers to store pots, pans, utensils, or other necessary cooking items.
Storage
Speaking of storage, any good outdoor kitchen needs plenty of it! Not only do you need somewhere to store your plates, silverware, and glassware (if you’re using real dishes instead of paper), but you’ll also need a place to keep dry goods like spices, rubs, and marinades. Cabinets or shelves are essential for organizing everything so you can quickly grab what you need. And if you live in an area with particularly harsh weather conditions (looking at you, blizzards and hurricanes!), having closed cabinets where you can store perishable items is even more critical.
Sink
Having a sink outdoors may completely transform your outdoor cooking space, especially if you love hosting parties and gatherings. It simplifies food preparation and cleanup, allowing you to create meals without losing pleasure. It can also assist you in washing your hands and sanitizing utensils or dishes without the need to go inside. Remember that a sink requires a water connection, so design it appropriately.
Outdoor Pizza Oven
The outdoor pizza oven, despite its name, can cook nearly anything. If you consider yourself a creative outdoor cook, a gas-powered outdoor pizza oven will appeal to you. From meats to bread to desserts, your outdoor pizza oven allows you to be creative.
Bartending Station
Some cold beverages are bound to be wherever there is outdoor cooking, dining, and entertaining. Increase your hosting credibility by providing a cocktail station/beverage center that meets your thirst-quenching demands. A beverage center organizes and makes all your drinks and drinking materials available.
Trash Can
A trash can in your outdoor kitchen is essential to keep garbage out of sight (and smell)! A pull-out trash bin or cabinet in your outdoor kitchen simplifies meal preparation and cleaning. Choose between one or two baskets and a drawer above the pull-out.
Outdoor Dishwasher
When attempting to enjoy a beautiful lunch outside, washing dishes is usually the last thing on your mind. Fortunately, outdoor dishwashers hook up directly to your water supply, making cleanup a breeze. Most outdoor dishwashers come in compact sizes that are perfect for smaller kitchens, but there are also some full-size models available if you have the space.
Comfortable Seating
No one wants to stand around at a party—that’s what chairs are for! Whether you choose patio furniture, lawn chairs, or picnic blankets spread out on the grass, ensure enough seating for everyone invited, plus a few extras just in case unexpected guests drop by.
A Fire Pit
S’mores anyone? Fire pits are great for providing light and warmth once the sun goes down. They’re also perfect for making those classic summertime treats we all know and love (plus, they smell amazing!). Make sure you have extra wood on hand to keep that fire burning all night!
Ending Note:
Outdoor kitchen appliances increase the utility of an outdoor cooking environment while saving you time when preparing meals.
Do you want an outdoor kitchen that is a reflection of your personality? Denver Patio Masters serving Centennial can assist you! We are experts in outdoor kitchens. Whether you need a built-in grill, a sink, storage, counter space, or anything else, our skilled staff will ensure to incorporate it. We can also add a pizza oven, smoker, or outdoor fireplace to your outdoor kitchen.
So, start planning your outdoors today and book a free consultation with us!
