Q. In terms of materials, should the style of an outdoor kitchen mirror house style?
A. Homeowners will need to determine what kind of materials to use. Do they want brick? All stone materials? The addition of a wooden pergola to cover a dining area or other space? Special decorative accents? All of this needs to be considered. It is suggested homeowners strive to match / coordinate with the décor of their homes. Many choose to create an entirely different ambiance outdoors, though, given the interior is a second or different type of priority for them. A professional helps summarize and execute a plan of design and action steps that are organized and scheduled. This tends to ward off surprises during the process.
The ideal outdoor kitchen should be a reflection of the homeowner’s personal taste. In terms of design / style, the materials used should mirror the home’s style. The outdoor kitchen, home, and landscape should all transition into a one beautiful space. It is important that the flow between the home’s interior and the backyard space is well thought and planned, including typical interior design principles used for the space outside. For example, many homeowners using stainless steel appliances in their interior kitchens prefer stainless appliances for their spaces outside. If the color palette is in sync with the surrounding materials, home paint colors, hardscapes, and other aspects, the inclusion of the outdoor kitchen will appear seamless and perfectly fitted in place – as if it were there from the time of the home’s construction.
Q. Do you consider outdoor kitchen construction to be a viable DIY project?
A. For the handy homeowner, plans exist online (and through other resources generally available at local home centers or in home improvement books) for outdoor kitchen construction. But we strongly advise that an experienced designer be involved in the project, even if you are a DIYer. Although it is possible, I do not consider outdoor kitchen construction to be a viable DIY project. Much of the construction requires the knowledge of a licensed professional. Also, to ensure that the creation will bring decades of hassle-free enjoyment, it is always better to have it done right the first time. Most cities require permits for outdoor kitchen construction that involve the support of a professional.
Q. Even for handy homeowners, are there disadvantages to “going it alone” with outdoor kitchen construction?
A. Yes. Besides the fact that the services of a licensed contractor may be required for permitting purposes, there are several disadvantages of “going at it alone” in outdoor kitchen construction. These include having to collect materials, run gas lines and install electrical outlets, just to name a few. “Going at it alone,” is risky due to the technical nature of appliances installation. Having a professional design and construct the space often ensures long-term use of the space, with fewer (or even zero) problems occurring later.
Q. When hiring professionals outdoor kitchen construction, what steps should consumers take before entering into contracts?
A. For those homeowners looking to hire someone and not tackle the job of outdoor kitchen construction themselves, it is always wise to do a check with other people who may have had similar work done. Ask for references, licenses and photos of previous projects before committing to a project. Also make sure to be clear about project time lines. Secure written estimates.
It is very important to make sure the design / build team is capable of creating a space to match the homeowner’s personal taste. A worthy contractor should discuss possible ideas, rather than merely offering one or two basic design templates. If possible, the consumer should visit a few of the contractor’s previous jobs to see work first-hand. Also, it is usually a good idea to “interview” several contractors to receive the best price. If there are questions about the contract, contact an attorney to simplify it. Searching online for contractors is a good idea because it allows an opportunity to see photos of their work and read first-hand accounts about them. Verifying two or three references is always a smart step.
Q. What are a few of the best ways to plan landscaping (plants, shrubs, trees, etc.) with and around these spaces to create a natural setting and soften the hardscapes?
A. The addition of plant material will strengthen the overall appearance, coinciding with the overall theme of the space. Pre-planning a composition of plant material in keeping with the colors and styles of the space is a means to softening otherwise fairly “hard-looking” settings.
In addition, ask yourself how will the area relate to other areas of the yard? Is it to be a focal point, or a more hidden nook, needing some plant cover? Also, is the feel of the adjacent areas tropical? Formal parterre gardens? Wildflower garden or English cottage garden? And what landscape colors in the existing gardens are prevalent is very important as well, so as to blend seamlessly with the whole. With thousands of plants available on the market, homeowners are able to work with landscape designers with a goal of a beautiful space outside infused with living color and foliage, giving the space natural composition.
Lighting, stone accents, accessories, patio furniture, outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, brick ovens and appliances are just some of the components used in the type of backyard space discussed above -– all of which are covered in detail in the following resources (just click any of the links to continue):
