Reasons to go for an outdoor kitchen
Installing an outdoor kitchen has several advantages.
- Its elements are more stable and higher than a barbecue : They are therefore less dangerous for children (risk of burns and projections to the face).
- Modules, composed of a worktop and doors, allow you to cook easily and store equipment, as well as condiments, like in an indoor kitchen. Functionality and space are privileged.
- Built under an awning, equipped with a pergola, sheltered under a canvas wing or a gazebo, your kitchen has little fear of rain and wind. Essential items such as the barbecue are stored in the cellar in winter.
- But, above all, the outdoor kitchen is synonymous with the pleasure of cooking together, outside, even after dark. You have a “real” space to enjoy your garden even more often.
What type of outdoor kitchen to choose?
The modular kitchen: easy to install
Several brands offer modules, often in drinkin metalin rock or in glasswhich can be composed according to your needs and the space available:
- The sink can be connected to fixed water inlets and outlets to benefit from hot water. You can also connect it to the garden hose, like outdoor showers, if the kitchen is too far from the house.
- The grill and the plancha work with a gas bottle, like a barbecue. A lid keeps them out of reach when not in use. The trend is plancha, which comes directly from Spain. This cast iron or steel plate, heated to 300°C and above, sears meat, fish, vegetables or fruit. Cooking is fat-free, healthy and even. Ideal when you hate seeing small foods slip between the grills and fall onto the charcoal!
The masonry kitchen: an extension of the house
You can also build base elements made of brick or cellular concrete, and integrate a sink, a grill or a plancha, and arrange storage furniture underneath. A raised bar top will give a friendly touch to the installation. As for the tiled roof, thanks to it you will be able to stay outside even if the weather is uncertain.
It is preferable to install this type of kitchen next to the house, as an extension of the terrace. If you have a swimming pool, you can even approach it and double it as a changing room.
The different styles
There are a wide variety of styles and types of outdoor kitchens, depending on your tastes, needs and budget. Here are some examples :
- The nomadic outdoor kitchen: composed of mobile modules that you can move as you wish. It is ideal if you have little space or if you want to change your decor regularly.
- The outdoor kitchen kit: prefabricated, you can assemble it easily. It is practical if you are looking for a quick and economical solution.
- The tailor-made outdoor kitchen: composed of personalized modules that you can design according to your wishes. It’s perfect if you want a unique kitchen that fits your space.
- The designer outdoor kitchen: characterized by clean lines, noble materials and sober colors. It is elegant if you like contemporary and minimalist style.
- The natural outdoor kitchen: it is distinguished by ecological materials, soft colors and plant motifs. It is harmonious if you appreciate the natural and authentic style.
10 tips for setting up your outdoor kitchen
Once you have chosen the type of outdoor kitchen that suits you, you need to think about its layout. Here are some tips and tricks to optimize the space and comfort of your summer kitchen:
- Choose a sheltered location wind, sun and prying eyes.
- You can use privacy screensparasols, shade sails or climbing plants to create privacy and freshness.
- Provide a floor that is easy to clean and durable to the elements, such as tiles, concrete, wood or slabs.
- Avoid materials that are too light which get dirty quickly or too dark which heat up too much.
- Install suitable lighting to cook and enjoy your meals even in the evening. You can opt for spotlights, light garlands, lanterns or candles. Also think about solar lighting, ecological and economical.
- Decorate your outdoor kitchen with colorful accessories, aromatic plants, flowers or fruits. You can also create a thematic atmosphere, such as Mediterranean, exotic, rustic or modern.
- Maximize workspace with spacious worktops and dedicated cooking and preparation areas.
- The central island can serve as a focal point for meal preparation and convivial gatherings.
- Consider smart storage solutions to keep utensils and condiments close at hand.
- For a touch of conviviality, add a comfortable seating area nearby so guests can relax while enjoying the outdoor ambiance.
Design ideas for all styles
Whether you prefer a coastal, industrial, bohemian, or minimalist, modern style, your summer kitchen can be customized to reflect your personal taste.
- For a seaside effect, favor blue and white tones, with driftwood furniture.
- An industrial style will go well with wood and metal elements.
- A bohemian spirit will be highlighted by the use of macramé and rattan.
- For those looking for simplicity, a minimalist kitchen with clean lines and neutral colors will be perfect.
Wood for outdoor kitchen: prefer it certified!
- The label of the Good Forest Management Council (Forest Stewardship Council, FSC) guarantees that the rules laid down have been respected: transgenic species are banned and pesticides banned or highly regulated;
- the woods must be felled and cleared in such a way as to protect animals and other plants;
- the rights of forest dwellers must be respected. This label is recognized by major environmental organizations and many social institutions.