Open Kitchen Outdoor Ideas for Better Functionality and Lower Consumption
When thinking of an outdoor cooking space one would typically associate this with food preparation, cooking and consuming said food as well as the washing up of said food. This area should aid in all of the above issues with as little hassle as possible and not cause extra costs, extra clutter and reduce the flow of movement. A good open kitchen outdoor plan would allow for adequate space to prepare food in the kitchen as well as to cook, wash up and dine in the outdoor area of the home. This space can help save on energy and water consumption especially if it is used frequently.
How Can an Outdoor Kitchen Improve Daily Use?
Consider your actual behavior around cooking and how this can inform the design of your outdoor kitchen before you purchase any appliances or kitchenware. So for example, do you tend to make quick simple meals for yourself and then for your family in the evenings. Alternatively you might entertain from time to time whether that be family and friends on an informal basis or whether you like to serve guests on a more formal basis.
Keep the Work Triangle Simple
The grill, prep counter and sink should all be positioned in close proximity to each other so as to not have to walk across the patio with wet plates or raw food. A straight-line or L-shaped configuration typically works best for smaller yard spaces. Larger yards with more space may incorporate an island to act as a serving bar. Even extra steps seem to become exhausting when you’re in the midst of a very busy dinner.
Choose the Right Outdoor Kitchen Set
When selecting an outdoor kitchen set we like to match the product to the consumers style of cooking. For the majority of outdoor cooks a grill, a prep surface, storage and sink are typically the core components required to complete an outdoor kitchen. Large is not always better when it comes to components of an outdoor kitchen. Generally speaking larger units tend to cost more, use up precious real estate and can even consume more fuel to cook the same items as a smaller alternative.
For buyers purchasing a ready made outdoor living area, our product center at Joye Leisure gives details of the products that we supply for outdoor spaces including outdoor furniture, shading, barbecues, garden heating, garden furniture accessories and more. This means we can also supply your kitchen area with seating, shade and storage too.
Why Is the Patio Kitchen a Smart Choice?
The patio kitchen is useful as it is positioned near the house. Food can be moved from the main kitchen, supplies such as water and power cables are easier to connect. A patio kitchen has the advantages of fresh air and more space than a indoors kitchen.
Add Shade Before Adding Gadgets
Shade should be a priority in your design. Not only does it reduce heat and glare, it makes a space more comfortable at noon. Consider using a parasol, a gazebo, an awning or even a shade sail. The shade will also protect your expensive cabinets and furniture from the sun’s damaging rays and extend their life.
Plan for Weather, Not Just Photos
A kitchen that looks clean in a photo can look quite different in the great outdoors. Be sure to choose materials that can withstand rain, dust, grease and sunlight. We recommend powder-coated steel, aluminum, stone and porcelain as well as other durable, weather-resistant materials.
The Mesola Steel Outdoor Kitchen Set from Joye Leisure is made from steel which has been powder coated for use outdoors. Suitable for use in the garden, on a patio, in a backyard or on a porch. The product details also state that it is easy to assemble, wipe clean with a wet cloth and store in a covered area or indoors when not in use.
How Can You Lower Energy and Water Consumption?
Good habits and clever design can lead to lower consumption. Designing a living space to support the right behavior will make saving energy easier.
Use Efficient Cooking Zones
Keep your grill out of the wind. This will help to keep the heat on better and prevent fuel waste. Having a bit of counter space right next to your grill is also very handy. That way you can prepare each item in batches and therefore open the lid of your grill less often, saving time. A small outside cooking area, well set up, can be far more efficient than a big messy area.
Save Water at the Sink
A water-conserving outdoor kitchen sink could feature a low-flow faucet and a clear drain for the water to go down the drain quickly. Store a small tub near the sink to rinse produce and to soak items to be cleaned before being washed in the sink. Some locations even allow the use of rainwater for outdoor cleaning, so check local regulations regarding that before heading out to purchase any supplies.
Pick Lighting That Works Hard
For an outdoor kitchen it’s best to have lots of light near the grill and more dim light near the seats to your outdoor dining area. Using LED task lighting, solar outdoor lighting as well as using motion sensors can help reduce the amount of power needed to operate your outside lighting. Don’t need 5 lights shining down the side of an empty counter at night.
What Materials Last Longer Outdoors?
The materials you use for your cabinets can affect cleaning, safety and cost. A very cheap cabinet that starts to rust after the first wet season is not a good buy.
Choose Surfaces That Clean Fast
A smooth surface is easier to wipe clean than a textured one. Sealed stone, stainless steel, porcelain and powder-coated metal are all good choices. This type of surface means that grease has less opportunity to penetrate the surface, you’ll use less cleaner to clean up and less time scrubbing. It’s not the most exciting thing but it’s very useful for clearing up after a weekend of cooking.
Use Durable Outdoor Storage
Outdoor kitchen storage needs to hold items like tools, cookware, outdoor kitchen cleaning supplies, and fuel accessories for grills, fire pits and outdoor kitchen refrigerators. Protection from the elements is key, so look for weatherproof cabinets and drawers that stay closed. If you have an outdoor kitchen set, make sure to cover it when not in use as this simple action will extend the life of your outdoor kitchen set.
Joye Leisure has over 20 years experience in designing and manufacturing high quality outdoor living products. With many useful product ideas, plenty of choice, good quality and a helpful service, Joye Leisure is the ideal supplier for your outdoor space. The furniture range uses safe and recyclable materials such as aluminum and eco-friendly PE rattan, for your outdoor kitchen and surrounding area. This allows us to plan your seating, shade, heating and garden accessories as part of your overall outdoor space with one supplier who has many years of experience in this field.
How Should You Arrange Dining and Entertaining Areas?
An effective outdoor kitchen is more than just functional; it should not leave the cook isolated in a corner of the yard. Ideally, the area for seating and the cooking area should be proximate to each other to draw people toward the focal point of the area – the food.
Separate Heat from Comfort
Seat locations for dining should be kept away from smoke, heat, and high use cooking/palettes in preparation areas. A clear path should be maintained from the grill to the table. If children or pets utilize the yard, keep extremely hot appliances away from main walking path.
Build a Relaxed Patio Flow
Connecting cooking, serving and seating in simple form makes the patio kitchen feel better. A small counter for a bar, two stools and a shady table for dining in the yard creates a simple patio dining area while garden lights near the steps and at storage points can be added to the table lights already there.
FAQ
Q1: What Is the Best Layout for a Small Outdoor Kitchen?
A: A straight-line or L-shaped configuration is typically best for small spaces as it maximizes space and allows for the grill and prep surface to be close at hand. The layout can also include some seating.
Q2: What Should an Outdoor Kitchen Set Include?
A: A useful outdoor kitchen set can consist of a grill, a counter, a storage cabinet, a sink and weather cover. Anything else is superfluous.
Q3: How Can You Make the Patio Kitchen Use Less Energy?
A: Move the grill away from the wind, use energy efficient LED lighting, install some shade and avoid too large of appliances. The best placement of your items will save the most.
Q4: Open Kitchen Outdoor Design Good for Entertaining?
A: Yes. An open kitchen outdoor design is great for entertaining as it puts the cook near guests and makes for easy serving if the table is near.
Q5: How Do You Maintain an Outdoor Kitchen for Longer Use?
A: Wipe surfaces after cooking and cover cabinets and appliances. Make sure there is proper drainage. Clean grease and food off of surfaces regularly. Store parts that can be taken on and off such as faucets, grills, etc inside during bad weather.
