Dine Out At Home?
Many people are choosing to dine out at home these days, and it’s due to the joy of owning an outdoor kitchen! With so many options available, you can customize the kitchen to your needs, space, and budget. If you are thinking about adding this amenity to your home, here are some things to consider.
Budget
Your budget will determine your design. Always consider available space when you begin planning your outdoor kitchen. Are there other entertainment areas in your yard such as a pool, garden, play area, etc.? Be sure your plan allows enough room to enjoy all of the outdoor areas you enjoy. Don’t underestimate the value of using an existing patio or expanding your existing area. If you do not have any designated area in your backyard for seating and entertaining, you will need to create an area. This will cost more, but you have a clean slate to create what you want! You will have to decide what amenities are most important to you. Any outdoor kitchen will need a floor covering that can range from gravel, to a poured patio or decking, to stone pavers and tiles. A covered area will add to your budget, but will be a huge help in keeping surfaces cleaner and rain from ruining your outdoor plans. Lighting and ceiling fans will add to your costs as well, but it will make entertaining easy any time of day. If you need to stretch your budget for one of the areas already mentioned, you might be able to save on appliances. Maybe opt for a less expensive grill or smaller refrigerator. These will need to be replaced throughout the years, so you can always upgrade later. There is always flexibility in a budget. Start with a priority list and work your way down!
Convenience
Outdoor kitchens should always be designed with convenience in mind. A covered area directly outside the back entrance of your house is ideal. If there is rain, you do not have to navigate an uncovered walkway from your house to the outdoor area. Consider how you arrange your appliances. You will not want to run back and forth or in circles trying to access all the things you need to prepare a meal. Design your layout with that in mind. Make sure you provide yourself adequate counter space for food prep and serving. Choose surfaces that are easy to clean, non porous, and durable. Built in storage allows you to keep cookware, utensils, and serve ware ready for use without the burden of dragging it all in and out of the house. Convenience planning in your design will make your outdoor space more enjoyable and more likely to be used.
Resale Value
Many people worry about recouping the price of a project should they every sell their home. Although outdoor space cannot be included in square footage for your home, it still creates a usable living space for your family and guests. This is always considered an asset to homebuyers and they will usually consider paying a little more for a home with completed bonus that they can move in and enjoy. The key is to keep your design neutral so it appeals to a large population. If you over personalize the space with permanent features, buyers may instead view this as just another project they would have to fix before feeling at home in the space. Look at outdoor design books and magazines for ideas. This will give you a good indication of what is most appealing to a large population because that is how they select their sample photos for marketing. You can always personalize it with wall art and patio furniture.
Outdoor kitchens are becoming more and more popular! Families find it easier and more enjoyable to entertain people outdoors at home instead of trying to coordinate a sit down meal at a noisy restaurant. It makes grilling possible year around, rain or shine! It adds a desirable value to your home, and it can be designed to your taste! Do your homework, and you will have a fun outdoor space to enjoy for years to come!
