With Father’s Day right around the corner, fam
ily members are once again trying to come up with a gift for Dad that he’ll really enjoy. One idea that Dad will love for years (and the whole family will, too) is an outdoor kitchen area designed just for him. Living in the Midwest, we all look forward to cooking, dining and socializing in our outdoor spaces, whenever the weather allows. This is a great year to plan and install a custom outdoor kitchen to suit your family’s needs. And it’s a wonderful way to say Happy Father’s Day!
The outdoor kitchen planning begins with deciding on a grill and the materials you’ll use for countertops, storage, serving and lighting. Many people incorporate the outdoor kitchen equipment into their patio plans before it’s built. If you have brick pavers, continuing the brick as a grill surround makes sense. Flagstone, bluestone or poured concrete can be complemented by the use of coordinating materials around your grill. Sitting walls provide definition to the space while adding conversation areas.
Placement of the kitchen is extremely important. You’ll want it to be close to the indoor kitchen to minimize the time and effort needed to carry food and prep materials, yet far enough away from walls and overhanging trees and eaves to prevent fires. Pay attention to wind direction, as well. If the kitchen is out of the wind, you’ll be able to enjoy it all year round with minimal discomfort.
Give some thought to adding items that your family will use. Ideas include adding a stovetop burner to prepare side dishes and sauces. This can be a real time saver and allow the chef to stay outside with family and friends throughout the cooking time. A small refrigerator will store beverages as well as condiments and salads. A water supply adds convenience, and lighting is important, since you’ll be enjoying your kitchen long into the evening.
With so many choices of patio flooring, grill materials, countertops and lighting, it’s wise to work with a landscape designer to finalize your outdoor kitchen plans. O’Donovan Landscaping has been designing and installing custom hardscapes and landscapes in the Naperville area for over 45 years. We are experts at designing the best solution to suit your outdoor space. Our patios, walkways, outdoor kitchens, seating walls and driveways are designed to fit your entertaining and relaxation goals. Call us at 630-355-3370 and we will help you get started.
