11 Big Ideas for Creating a Small Outdoor Kitchen
Brandessence Market Research projects that by 2028, the home improvement market will have grown at a CAGR of 4.6% and would be worth $1093.40 billion. The most common types of home improvement are updating the HVAC system, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Outdoor kitchens are incredibly popular among home buyers. You can increase your home’s value if you have one. Are you looking to add a small outdoor kitchen to your home? If so, you’re probably looking for some ideas.
And if you’re not sure how to get started, we’re here to help. Check out these eleven outdoor kitchen ideas to get more inspiration to use.
1. Optimize Space With Built-Ins
Built-ins are a great option for maximizing space. This includes seeking built-in items such as grills, brick ovens, countertops, and storage shelves.
Measure the area and determine the best layout and type of material for the space. Paint and check if it’s weatherproof to ensure it can withstand the elements. Installing shelves not only increases storage space but also adds visual interest.
A bar cart is also a great way to add versatile functionality. With the right built-ins, you can create the amenities you want in a fraction of the space.
2. Utilize Vertical Space
Utilizing vertical space is an excellent big idea for creating a small outdoor kitchen. Using shelves or walled planters helps to maximize limited countertop space.
Shelves help in storing ingredients and keeping cookware within easy reach for when you’re ready to prepare a meal. Wall-mounted pots and pans can be displayed with ease when you make use of vertical space. You might even consider wall-mounted grilling tools so you can keep them within arm’s reach and out of the way when not in use.
By raising some preparations, you can free up ground-level space for seating, centerpieces, or even a plant. Get creative to cram a lot of amenities into a small space.
3. Use Weather-Resistant Materials
To ensure durability and longevity, select weather-resistant materials for its construction. Wood can warp and rot over time due to the effects of sun and rain causing cracking, splitting, and rotting. Metal is also another popular choice, but, it is not as able to withstand rain and moisture and can rust.
Materials such as stainless steel, stone, composite, and concrete are excellent choices due to their ability to stand up against any elements. These are all low maintenance, long-lasting, and create a great atmosphere.
4. Include Proper Lighting
Proper lighting is one of the simple outdoor kitchen ideas. It gives a great ambiance and atmosphere to the kitchen.
Look for lighting that is low-voltage, rain-resistant, and durable. LED lights are a great option for outdoor lighting because they are energy efficient, and you can customize the intensity of the light for the mood.
Additionally, consider getting adjustable lights so you can move them around to get the perfect lighting, and to avoid over-lighting the area. Make sure to get weather-proof outlet boxes so they stay in great condition.
5. Go Green With a Living Wall
A living wall is an excellent way to add beauty and nature to any outdoor space. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it provides a great way to purify the air, encourage wildlife, and reduce noise pollution.
It can be built to fit any outdoor kitchen space to grow vegetables and herbs for easy access. More importantly, a living wall can be a great conversation piece and will help elevate the entire cooking experience.
6. Keep It Cozy With a Fire Pit
A fire pit is one of the best features outdoors and provides a warm and pleasant ambiance to the area. You can use it to make meals such as roasting hotdogs or marshmallows and to stay warm during cooler evenings. It also adds a lot of character to the area while being easy to install and manage.
7. Add Comfortable Seating
Adding comfortable seating is a great idea for maximizing the enjoyment of your outdoor space. Comfortable seating can provide a place to relax and entertain guests. It can be built into the outdoor kitchen or be separate pieces of furniture.
For a modern and unique look, consider adding durable and stylish wicker or rattan chairs. The style and construction of the chairs can be perfectly matched to the other features to create a cohesive look.
Alternatively, you can choose colorful and vibrant chairs to bring a touch of personality and style to your patio area. With elements such as soft cushions and throw pillows, you can make the area inviting and comfortable.
If you need help with seating or any other construction aspect, consult professional outdoor kitchen builders.
8. Integrate Technology
Technology can bring convenience and automation to outdoor cooking. Smart home technology devices like Alexa and Google Home can also be installed.
Consider adding a wireless audio system with integrated speakers connected to a laptop or smartphone. It allows for playing music or entertaining audio. Smart technology can check and manage energy efficiency in the outdoor kitchen.
9. Install an Awning or Canopy
An awning or canopy not only does it provide shelter from the elements and adds aesthetic value, but it also helps to keep the kitchen cool in the summertime. It can be custom-sized, allowing for plenty of room. Furthermore, many of these come in a variety of fabrics and colors, allowing them to blend in with the style of a covered outdoor kitchen.
10. Consider Compact Appliances
Consider things like mini-fridges, which save on space but allow you to keep your ingredients handy and fresh. A two-burner cooktop, for quick and easy cooking and saving on space, as well as a built-in grill or smoker. These options help you maximize the potential of your outdoor area, and all take up very little space.
11. Add a Splash of Color
Incorporating vivid colors in the kitchen will create an inviting atmosphere. For instance, use bright colors such as yellow, red, or blue for countertops.
Make a more profound effect, by choosing bold and bright colors to dress up the kitchen walls. To further enhance the look, consider bold pops of color that would brighten up the area.
Have the Best Small Outdoor Kitchen
Overall, with a little imagination and the right resources, creating a small outdoor kitchen can be easy and fun. Consider the various big ideas for outdoor kitchens presented in this article. With a bit of creativity, you can customize the perfect kitchen for your yard.
If you found this article helpful and would like to read more home improvement posts, check out the rest of our blog.
