Keep your cool with an outdoor kitchen

It's easy to see why outdoor kitchens are one of the fastest-growing home trends. With an outdoor kitchen, you can squeeze every drop out of the summer sunshine. Save on air conditioning by running in and out of the house less. Socialize with your guests as you cook (and enlist their help). Prepare more elaborate grilled dishes. And open up and enjoy a whole new aspect of your home.

But before you get your heart set on whipping up fabulous meals al fresco, make sure you have the appropriate space. You can't just put grill and folding table on your lawn and call it a kitchen. You need a level patio area, preferably covered to ensure that your outdoor kitchen stays protected from the elements. A cement patio surface is best, because it is fireproof and will be able to support the weight of your kitchen.

If you have a small yard, you can still have an outdoor kitchen. You just have to be mindful of the space you need. Leave enough space for foot traffic around the kitchen area and standing space for anyone chatting with you or helping with the meal. And leave an area where people can socialize without being involved in the cooking.

Here are some good guidelines:

• Give yourself at least 36" of work space on either side of the grill and burners
• Keep 18"-24" of open space on either side of the sink
• Allow 36"-42" between the edge of the dining table and whatever is around it so people can walk behind the chairs (Don't put a table near any stairs)
• For a counter area, allow 24" of width per stool and 15" of leg room

After you solve any space issues and have your area ready for a kitchen installation, it's time for the fun part; figuring out which accessories you want and choosing your grill and furniture. There are many magazine and home improvement stores that can give you some ideas. Before you know it, you'll be hosting the hottest barbecues on the block!

 

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