In most areas of North Carolina and South Carolina, spring, summer, and fall are all ideal seasons for outdoor living. The fact that the weather tends to be suitable for quite a bit of the year means that Carolina homeowners usually want to have nice outdoor living areas for their friends and relatives to enjoy. Outdoor kitchens are among the most popular trends right now, but figuring out exactly how to create the outdoor kitchen you’ve always wanted can be something of a challenge. After all, there are so many ideas online and in-home decor magazines that it’s easy to get overwhelmed! Here, you will find several tips that will help you curate your dream outdoor kitchen space.
Although you may be tempted to start thinking about furnishings and finishes right off the bat, it’s important to remember that outdoor kitchens are still kitchens and appliances matter most. Therefore, the best plan is to decide what types of appliances you need and want, then start planning the rest of your new outdoor kitchen. Many Carolina homeowners choose to splurge on their grills, selecting high-end options that include both traditional charcoal, gas, or propane grilling surfaces and smoker units. It’s also becoming popular to have full-size stainless steel refrigerators and ranges in outdoor cooking areas.
Consider seating
If you thought your loved ones liked hanging out in your outdoor living space before you added an upscale kitchen, you haven’t seen nothin’ yet! It is important to make sure you have plenty of space for your immediate family members and all of your potential guests to sit, eat, and relax in your new outdoor living area. Comfortable seating in an outside kitchen can take-on many forms; it’s up to you to figure out what the best option is for your crew. If, for instance, most of your friends and relatives have young children at this stage of their lives, including a kids’ table or two is a great idea. Or, if you’re a retiree, you might want to consider adding a tiki bar for the would-be snowbirds in your group. The choices are nearly limitless!
Always put safety first
Having an outdoor kitchen is incredibly enjoyable, but it is also crucial to remember that safety should always come first. Make certain, for example, that any hot surfaces are in an area where little ones can’t get to them. Furthermore, it’s a good idea to lock refrigerators and cabinets that contain anything kids shouldn’t have. You also need to evaluate the overall safety of your backyard, including the pool area if you have one before you begin having to get-togethers in your newly renovated space. A professional home inspector can perform an assessment if you aren’t sure where to start.
The final key component to creating the outdoor kitchen of your dreams is to find the right contractor to handle the job. There are dozens of independent residential contractors and contracting companies who serve clients throughout the Carolinas. Doing your research is key to finding the perfect person to oversee your upcoming project. Get recommendations from people you trust and read lots of online reviews. Then, spend time meeting with several professionals before you make your final decision.