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Open Air and Outdoor Kitchens are Hot

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Adding an outdoor kitchen is a great way to enjoy your home year-round. Spaces that mingle activities with fresh air environments rate high on the homeowner satisfaction scale.  The 2021 Outdoor Living Report  reveals that 82% of American homeowners see the value of adding an outdoor living spaces.  This is more than a passing fancy, it is a shift in lifestyle.

Blurring the Lines

Blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor space is a trend with staying power.   This home built by Lowell Custom Homes opens the kitchen with a NanaWindow. This allows the well appointed indoor kitchen to serve double duty.

We love the way this kitchen opens up to the screened-in porch for a refreshing breeze.  The counter height bar is perfect for casual dining or buffet service.  Protection from the elements and additional seating extends the outdoor season gracefully.

 

Creating a Moment

It’s about more than cooking, this kitchen integrates with the outdoor environment for an inviting experience.  Transitioning from cooking to dining and entertaining is effortless when designed into your landscape plan.

 

 

Long-lasting Durability

Our choice is Danver for cabinetry with a long-lasting stainless steel powder coat finish.  We pair these cabinets with natural stone countertops, stainless steel appliances and all-weather furnishings made to withstand the elements.  Choosing quality will help bring a return on the initial investment.

Customized Kitchen Design

Our designers are inspired by you to create an outdoor ensemble that caters to your cooking and serving style.  Equip your outdoor kitchen with a grilling station, pizza oven, warming drawers, refrigerator, bar, and plenty of weatherproof storage.

 

For more design tips visit our Outdoor Kitchen Guide then call us to get your plan started.

262-245-9600

 

 

 

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Outdoor Kitchen Design Guide

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The key difference between an indoor kitchen and an outdoor kitchen is entertainment value.   Cooking outdoors turns everyday meal prep into a special occasion.  The variety of equipment for outdoor kitchens can take your weekend BBQ to the next level and provide culinary inspiration for entertaining family and friends.  Keep our design guidelines in mind and create the perfect outdoor cooking venue for the upcoming summer season.

Choose the location with convenience in mind.

The best location will blur the line between indoor and outdoor space allowing you to move easily without wasted footsteps back and forth. Certainly your outdoor kitchen will be used for entertaining, but remember that often you will want to cook outdoor and bring food indoors to dine.  When located close to your indoor kitchen, amenities for each area can be shared.   This could add up to a substantial savings on the overall project.

Design for functionality

Outdoor kitchens come in all shapes and sizes to go along with your space and budget.  The basic plan should provide an area for food prep, cooking and serving. Before creating your layout, locate the most direct access to gas, electric and water utilities.  This will cut down on the additional expense of running services further than necessary.

 

Material Selections

Choose the materials and finishes carefully with respect to your climate.  Cabinetry, countertops and appliances should be maintenance free.  Include stainless steel, teak and concrete for long lasting waterproof design.  We used Danver Stainless Steel Outdoor Kitchen Cabinetry in the featured projects to achieve high design, exceptional efficiency and lasting durability.

 

Beyond the Basics

The design options are endless, but once you cover your basic cooking functions it’s time to add even more convenience.  A sink in the outdoor kitchen makes clean-up a breeze and storage cabinetry will keep provisions at your fingertips.

 

Refrigeration is a plus for self-service beverages and holding perishables before cooking.

Specialized Cooking

The latest specialized outdoor kitchens feature artisan pizza ovens, slow-cook grills, smokers, and stoves with infra-red burners.  Any outdoor cooking enthusiast will love the restaurant quality options now available.

 

Protect yourself rain or shine

Protect yourself and your equipment with a little overhead coverage from a canopy or pergola.  Nothing will spoil the fun like the typical midwest storm blowing through.  Plan ahead so the party doesn’t become waterlogged or wither in the heat.   While you’re at it, add air circulation with ceiling fans and outdoor lighting so the good times don’t end at sundown.

Stop by our showroom and take a tour of this complete outdoor kitchen.   Designers Stephanie Nelson or Joyce Zuelke, ckd can answer your questions and walk you through the design of an outdoor kitchen where you can expand all of your cooking and entertaining possibilities.

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

 

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