By properly utilizing the available outdoor space and choosing practical solutions, an outdoor kitchen can be set up both in a spacious yard and in a smaller terrace. An interior designer advises on where to start planning it and what to pay attention to so that cooking outside is convenient even in a small space, according to an Ikea press release.
“An outdoor kitchen does not necessarily have to be large or expensive. Some people are satisfied with a cozy grill corner, while others choose a fully equipped kitchen with plumbing, electricity, and household appliances. The most important thing is that you don’t have to rush to set everything up at once. First, take care of what you really need, and later, as your needs change, you can add new solutions to the outdoor kitchen,” advises Morta Bučinskienė, Head of the Interior Design Department.
First, plan the space
Before choosing equipment, it is worth considering what the main purpose of the outdoor kitchen will be. Will you cook there every day? How many people will use it? Will a grill be enough, or do you want a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with a sink, refrigerator, and countertop? If you plan a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, arrange for water, sewage, and electricity connections in advance, and if necessary, gas supply as well.
“It is best to set up the outdoor kitchen near the indoor kitchen – this way it will be convenient to quickly bring products, dishes, or other necessary items. When choosing a location, it is also important to consider the Lithuanian climate. Materials designed for outdoor conditions should be frost-resistant, and surfaces should be designed so that water does not accumulate on them,” says M. Bučinskienė.
Convenient layout is as important as equipment
When designing an outdoor kitchen, it is worth following the same principles applied when planning an indoor kitchen. One of the most important is the so-called work triangle, where the main zones – storage, food preparation, and cooking – are arranged so that it is convenient to move between them. This reduces the need to walk back and forth while cooking.
When planning the equipment layout, the refrigerator should not be placed next to the grill or pizza oven. It is best if they are separated by a countertop and a sink. It is also worth allocating additional countertop space near the cooking zone – it will be convenient to place ingredients, prepared food, or serve dishes there.
Suitable location and durable materials
When planning an outdoor kitchen, it is worth considering how long you will use it during the year – only in summer or from early spring to late autumn. When choosing a location, it is important to consider not only the size of the space but also the direction of the sun and prevailing winds. If possible, it is best to set up the outdoor kitchen in a place protected from the wind by a house wall, fence, or hedge – this will make cooking more comfortable throughout the season.
Equally important is choosing the right materials. They should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also adapted to withstand temperature fluctuations, moisture, and cold. One of the most durable choices is stainless steel, while wood provides more coziness and naturalness but requires regular maintenance. It is also worth ensuring that household appliances and lighting intended for the outdoor kitchen are safe to use in a damp environment.
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Under a roof or in the open air?
If the budget allows, a roof over the outdoor kitchen is one of the most practical solutions. It protects from rain, allows you to enjoy the outdoor kitchen longer, and extends the lifespan of furniture and equipment. If it is not possible to install a permanent roof, an umbrella, awning, or canopy can be a great alternative – they protect from both the scorching sun and rain.
Gas grill, charcoal grill, or pizza oven?
When choosing outdoor kitchen equipment, it is first worth thinking about your habits – what you usually cook, how many people you typically entertain, and how much time you want to spend preparing food.
A gas grill is a practical choice for those who value convenience and speed. It heats up quickly, the temperature is easy to control, and there is less mess when cooking. Moreover, such a grill is easy to maintain. A charcoal grill gives food a distinctive smoky aroma, especially popular when preparing meat dishes, but requires more care and cleaning.
Meanwhile, a pizza oven not only expands cooking possibilities but also helps create a special atmosphere – it is perfect for cozy family evenings, parties, or larger gatherings of friends.
The designer also emphasizes that it is important to properly prepare the outdoor kitchen for the cold season.
“The Lithuanian climate is changeable, so preparing the outdoor kitchen for winter should become an annual habit – even if it is made from the highest quality materials. Spending a little time in autumn to protect furniture, household appliances, and engineering systems will allow you to use the outdoor kitchen again in spring without any additional worries,” advises M. Bučinskienė.
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