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3 Tips for Outdoor Kitchen Design - Outdoor Kitchen Millstone

The best way to create a backyard oasis, in conjunction with your pool, is to bring the outdoors in – with your kitchen of course!

3 Tips for Outdoor Kitchen Design - The best way to create a backyard oasis, in conjunction with your pool, is to bring the outdoors in – with your kitchen of course! There is no better way to enjoy a summer barbecue than on the grill amongst your friends while the party is going on. No one wants to cook inside and bring it outside. You’ll miss all the good times! Here are some helpful tips for designing your own kitchen:

  • Make Your Budget Work for You: There are ways to choose quality materials that also don’t cost you an arm and a leg. Where you can spare the extra cash, go for surfaces that are easy to clean and maintain, such as high-quality stainless steel, which happens to be sanitary and corrosion-resistant. You don’t need natural stone to make a real impression. Faux granite works just as nicely. As long as your counters and patios are resistant to grease stains and withstand the high temperatures of the summer, you’ll be good to go. Don’t forget to seal your patio pavers to preserve the floor and save cash on replacement or repair later.
  • Create a Plan: First step is to come up with a list of your must-haves. If you like to do all cooking and cleaning in one spot, incorporate island areas that have a sink and dishwasher or drying rack as well as stove and prep areas. Love making your own pizza? Make sure the plan includes your own brick pizza oven. If you’re on a budget, make a list of nice-to-haves as well as must-haves, with the intention of firming things up later once you see the budget and prices of items.
  • Consider Layout: Don’t neglect the flow of your outdoor kitchen. If it’s too cramped, you will see that it’s quite hard to navigate the area. Where will you place your appliances? They should be close to plumbing, electrical or gas lines. Your contractor can assist you in positioning your outdoor kitchen for non-invasive access to existing utilities. In the same vein, plan out your ventilation and lighting. Draw it all out on paper beforehand and make sure your contractor can make it all work with the least amount of disturbance possible.

If you’re handy, you can nix the contractor and instead purchase prefabricated and modular outdoor kitchen kits available in many customizable styles. In these kits, you’ll find compact refrigerators, stainless steel cabinets, countertops and complete dining spaces. If you are using prefab kits, don’t forget to apply sound kitchen design principles for functional zones. HGTV says that means keeping cold areas (refrigerators and freezers) separate from hot areas (grills and stovetops), as well as wet areas (sinks) from dry areas (prep counters and storage).

Nothing goes better with an outdoor kitchen than a pool. Think about the awesome summer barbecues you could throw for your family and friends! Call Central Jersey Pools at 732-462-5005 to get more information on how we can extend your backyard oasis with a new pool or hot tub.

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