During the warmer months, many British people enjoy dining outdoors whenever possible. Whether it’s having a picnic in the countryside, enjoying a BBQ party with friends in the garden, or simply making the most of your garden or outdoor space during summer, the idea of taking dining outside is quite appealing. While there are plenty of opportunities to have BBQs and dine al fresco, the preparation and cooking aspect can sometimes be a bit challenging. It often involves numerous trips back and forth from the kitchen, the risk of dishes getting cold, or forgetting essential sauces and condiments you simply cannot do without.
One thing that can truly enhance your outdoor eating experience is to create your very own outdoor kitchen or BBQ kitchen for your garden! This is something that is becoming incredibly popular and can make cooking even more exciting and enjoyable. After all, who doesn’t love eating al fresco!?
An outdoor BBQ kitchen is the perfect choice for those looking to make their garden feel like a holiday home in the summertime. There are numerous factors to consider when planning your outdoor kitchen ideas, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Fortunately, with years of experience and expertise in building luxury kitchen designs for your home, we’ve compiled a list of our top tips to consider when planning your outdoor kitchen design.
Plan and Design
Determine the location for your outdoor BBQ kitchen. Consider factors such as space availability, proximity to your home, and any local regulations or restrictions.
Sketch out a design for your outdoor kitchen, including the layout, measurements, and the features you want to incorporate. Consider the size of your grill, countertop space, storage cabinets, sink, and any other amenities you desire.
Incorporate into the Garden
Placing potted plants throughout the outdoor kitchen area and if space permits, even on the kitchen worktop will really emphasise the garden aspect. To ensure a year-round vibrant look, you can incorporate artificial plants or foliage if you’re not confident in your gardening skills. This way, your outdoor kitchen decor will thrive regardless of the season.
Include a Fridge and Outdoor Bar
To enhance your outdoor dining experience, it is essential to have refreshing beverages readily available. Incorporating a refrigerator or wine cooler into your outdoor cooking area is a must. This ensures a constant flow of drinks for your guests. Additionally, you may want to create a dedicated bar area complete with the necessary supplies and utensils, adding an extra touch to your alfresco dining affair. Remember to include pots of herbs to add to the aesthetics of your outdoor space. Don’t forget to factor in a fridge suitable for outdoors and ensure access to an electrical supply for this purpose.
For an enhanced outdoor bar experience, consider adding a few bar stools to your setup. This allows your guests to relax and enjoy themselves while you impress them with your culinary skills. Bringing the indoor bar vibe outdoors ensures that everyone can unwind and savor the moment.
Choosing the Right Materials for Your Outdoor Kitchen
Stone worktops and flooring are excellent options for outdoor use due to their weatherproof nature and easy cleaning requirements. They provide the perfect choice for durability and low maintenance in outdoor environments. Our Quartz and Granite stones are perfect for creating modern outdoor kitchens and BBQs for the summertime, offering enhanced durability, longevity, and luxury to your garden.
Unlike materials such as lino and wood, which degrade when exposed to outdoor conditions, stone worktops and tiles are highly resistant. This makes them an ideal choice for outdoor applications. With our wide range of stones, you can achieve impressive results when using them outdoors.
Alternatively, we also provide marble effect worktops that excellently mimic the elegant look of marble for your kitchen design project. Marble effect worktops are low cost compared to marble worktops and generally provide less maintenance. Our team of skilled stoneworkers can provide valuable guidance on selecting the most suitable materials and stones selection that suits your needs and complement your outdoor space.
For further information please call us and ask any questions you may have on 01428 651940 or visit our showroom.
Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas FAQs
Is Marble or Granite better for outdoor kitchen worktops?
Both marble and granite are popular choices for outdoor kitchen worktops, but they have different characteristics that may make one more suitable than the other depending on your specific needs and preferences so there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, granite is generally more durable than marble. Granite is a dense and hard stone, making it resistant to scratches, chipping, and heat. Marble, on the other hand, is softer and more porous, making it more susceptible to damage from impact and exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Secondly, granite is highly resistant to water, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations, making it a great option for outdoor use. Marble, being more porous, can absorb water and might be prone to staining if not sealed properly. Exposure to direct sunlight can also cause fading and discolouration in certain marble varieties.
Further, granite requires less maintenance compared to marble. Regular sealing is recommended for both stones, but marble may need more frequent sealing to prevent staining and etching. Granite’s lower porosity makes it easier to clean and maintain over time.
It is worth noting that both marble and granite offer unique and beautiful aesthetics, but they have distinct appearances. Granite typically features a speckled, granular pattern, while marble often exhibits elegant veining. The choice between the two comes down to personal preference and the overall design theme of your outdoor kitchen.
Consider how you plan to use your outdoor kitchen. If you anticipate heavy usage, frequent spills, and exposure to various elements, granite’s durability and resistance make it a more practical choice. If you prioritise aesthetics and are willing to provide more maintenance, marble might be a viable option.
In conclusion, while both marble and granite can be used for outdoor kitchen worktops, granite is generally considered a more practical and durable option for this purpose. However, if you prioritise the unique beauty of marble and are willing to take extra care in maintenance, it can still be a viable choice for your outdoor kitchen.
How much does marble or granite cost for an outdoor kitchen?
The cost of marble or granite for an outdoor kitchen can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the quality, type, source, thickness, and size of the stone, as well as the complexity of the installation.
Other factors that can add to the overall cost include the labour charges for fabrication and installation, any edge treatments you choose, and the cost of sealing the stone, which is essential for outdoor use.
To get an accurate cost estimate for your specific outdoor kitchen project, it’s best to contact local stone suppliers and countertop fabricators in your area. They can provide you with quotes based on your specific requirements and the materials available to you.
It is recommended to consult with a professional or visit a showroom to see the options in person and make an informed decision.
Where is the best place for an outdoor kitchen?
The best place for an outdoor kitchen largely depends on your specific preferences, available space, and local conditions. Here are some factors to consider when determining the location:
- It is generally convenient to have your outdoor kitchen relatively close to your house for easy access to utilities like water, electricity, and gas. This also allows for easier transportation of food and supplies between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Assess your outdoor area and consider the available space for the kitchen. You’ll want to choose a location that provides enough room for the kitchen itself, as well as any additional features or seating areas you plan to include.
- Adequate ventilation is crucial when it comes to outdoor kitchens, particularly if you have a grill or cooking appliances. Ensure there is enough airflow to dissipate smoke and fumes, and avoid placing the kitchen in enclosed or tightly confined spaces.
- Consider the amount of shade and sun exposure in the proposed location. Too much direct sunlight can make the outdoor kitchen uncomfortably hot, while excessive shade might limit the usability. Find a balance or consider adding shading structures like a pergola or umbrella.
- Pay attention to the prevailing wind direction in your area. Position the outdoor kitchen in a way that minimises the impact of strong winds on the cooking process and overall comfort.
- If privacy is important to you, choose a location that offers a degree of seclusion from neighbors or passersby. This can be achieved by positioning the kitchen against existing structures or creating barriers with landscaping or fencing.
- Take advantage of pleasant views or focal points in your outdoor space. Consider the aesthetics of the surroundings and choose a location that complements the overall landscape design.
Remember to also consult local regulations and building codes that may dictate the placement of outdoor kitchens in your area.
How much value does an outdoor kitchen add?
An outdoor kitchen can add significant value to your home, both in terms of financial value and overall appeal. While the exact value added can vary depending on factors such as location, quality of construction, and the specific features of the outdoor kitchen, here are a few ways in which it can contribute:
- A well-designed and functional outdoor kitchen can boost the overall value of your property. Outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular and sought after by homebuyers, making an outdoor kitchen an attractive feature that sets your home apart from others on the market.
- An outdoor kitchen expands your usable living space, providing an additional area for cooking, dining, and entertaining. This extension of living space can be particularly appealing, especially in regions with favourable climates that allow for year-round outdoor enjoyment.
- Outdoor kitchens create an inviting environment for hosting gatherings, parties, and family get-togethers. It offers a unique and enjoyable experience for socializing and entertaining guests, which can significantly enhance your lifestyle.
- By cooking and entertaining outdoors, you can reduce energy consumption indoors, especially during hot summer months. This can lead to cost savings on utility bills and appeal to eco-conscious buyers.
- An outdoor kitchen that is well-designed, visually appealing, and harmonises with the overall landscape can greatly enhance the curb appeal of your home. It creates an inviting and upscale impression for visitors and potential buyers.
It’s important to note that the actual value added by an outdoor kitchen will depend on various factors, including local market conditions, the quality of construction, and the specific preferences of potential buyers. To maximise the value added, it’s advisable to invest in high-quality materials, functional design, and professional construction.
