8 TOP TIPS WHEN BUILDING AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN

3) Measure up and plan the layout

A kitchen outdoors is for good times and good food so getting the layout spot on; the prep area to cooking to dining ratio, is key. The layout ideally needs to consider 4 main areas – the hot zone, cool zone, dry zone and wet zone.

• Hot zone – where the cooking will happen. This can be a BBQ and smoker, a wood fired pizza oven, a kamado grill, gas cooker or teppanyaki grill.
• Cool zone – for the fridges and drinks coolers.
• Dry zone – where the food will be prepared.
• Wet zone – for sinks, dishwashers and making drinks.

As well as appointments in branch, our Showroom team can visit the property to discuss requirements and view the space available. We’ll focus on what’s important to you and create a 3D CAD design to show how the finished space will look.

4) Choosing your materials

Outdoor kitchens need to be able to withstand the elements, from heavy wind and rain to the unpredictable UK heatwave. Choose materials which are durable and low maintenance. If unsure, the Huws Gray branch team will work with our showroom designers to advise on the best materials for the job from timber and bricks to landscaping and electricals.

The location will also make a different to the choice of materials. For example, if by the coast then Marine Grade 316 Steel is more suitable than 304. Will the outdoor kitchen be under trees? Then you’ll need to consider how the sap could affect the materials and how easy the materials are to clean.

For worktops there are a choice of materials and colours to help achieve the look desired including tiles, concrete, resin granite and now even Dekton style worktops, all offering a durable option for outdoor cooking.

5) Create atmosphere with lighting & don’t forget the plumbing!

Lighting in your garden kitchen will serve two purposes – providing you with light when cooking as well as to create an atmosphere when you sit down to enjoy your meal.

For visibility add spotlights above the cooking and food prop areas to cover your basic needs. For the all-important atmosphere, LED lighting including wall lights and lanterns, under countertop light or ground & deck lights will help to create a welcoming, relaxed feel. For chilly evenings, consider an electrical heater. For advice on lighting, speak to your local Electricbase team.

For running water or if cooking with gas, remember to factor in the plumbing and drainage required to make the outdoor kitchen fully functional.

6) Easy storage solutions

If storing plates and glasses outside, sealed containers in units is a great way to stop any bugs from making a home as well as keeping items clean and fresh, ready for when you need them.

Air-tight bins are ideal especially in rural locations where foxes can be a factor, and they can be incorporated into the units to keep the area tidy. Drinks fridges specifically designed for outdoor use are durable and also look attractive with the glass panel displaying what’s inside.

7) Get a Wi-Fi Extender

Don’t eat up all your data. Get a Wi-Fi extender to stream music whilst enjoying time in the garden.

If you’re creating an outdoor sports bar or want to install a TV, it’s also good to invest in a Wi-Fi extender.

Don’t forget, as well as placing in a covered area, protect your TV from moisture and rain with an outdoor TV screen cover.

8) Once the cooking is done, where will you relax?

Whether you use an existing patio area or include a dining space into your design, create a comfortable space considering the seating, lighting and temperature.

Stools around a breakfast bar or an actual bar are great for casual dinners or drink and a chat, whereas for relaxed meals and long evenings low, cushioned seating will keep things cosy when paired with soft lighting like LED lanterns and wall lights, ground spotlights and string lights.

To keep warm and create a glow, how about a fire pit or outdoor heater?

To view the range of patios, decking and garden furniture available, download our landscaping catalogue.