Your Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen Checklist
When it comes to designing your perfect outdoor kitchen, your two main considerations are going to be your available space and budget. In order to not exceed your space or budget, you will need to be smart with your selection of appliances and accessories.
To help you achieve outdoor kitchen perfection, we have created the ultimate checklist for your outdoor kitchen, to get you started on designing your dream space.
1. Start with the BBQ
The main event of any outdoor kitchen has to be the BBQ. But with the full EO Kitchen range offering a variety of grill choices, as well as the built-in best-seller collections by Fire Magic, it can be challenging to know what to choose!
If you decide on an EO outdoor kitchen, you’ll be able to choose from Napoleon, BroilKing and Beefeater BBQs. All these grills are built-in to the outdoor kitchen ranges by EO. However, if you opt for Fire Magic, you can choose from either the Echelon or Aurora offered by Fire Magic. These are available either as built-in, freestanding or within an outdoor kitchen island.
2. Keep it tidy with essential storage
While the BBQ grill will be the star of the show, there are many other appliances you can include in your outdoor kitchen to help you achieve the ultimate outdoor dining experience.
From sinks and fridges to storage cupboards and a bar, your outdoor kitchen can really be the focal point of your outdoor space. When designing your outdoor kitchen, you’ll need to factor in preparation space to find the perfect balance to ensure you are not overcrowding your appliances, but also not exceeding your available space.
Check out our website for the huge selection of outdoor kitchen components and modular designs.
3. Transform your space with furniture
Choosing the right garden furniture can really transform your space. You will need to think about how you will utilise this furniture before investing to make sure you create the perfect outdoor space. If you are more likely to relax and read a book then we recommend opting for a lounge dining set, which gives you the versatility of a sofa to chill out on but a dining table to host your next BBQ.
But, if you are constantly hosting BBQs and alfresco meals for your extended family, then a more traditional dining table and chair set may be more practical for your home. We’re proud to stock Coco Wolf outdoor furniture and Akula outdoor furniture, both of which offer luxurious style and premium quality that’ll last a lifetime.
4. Make it cosy with a fire pit
Fire pits are a wonderful addition to your outdoor kitchen. A fire pit creates a beautiful focal point in your outdoor space and is also incredibly practical for not only keeping you warm but also keeping bugs away.
We stock Solus fire pits which are hand-cast in concrete and available in a variety of shapes, fuel types and ignition options. Solus fire pits are not only beautiful with their contemporary designs but functional and durable - they truly stand out from the crowd.
5. Add atmosphere with an outdoor TV
If your space and budget allow, an outdoor TV can add a lot of atmosphere and entertainment to your outdoor space. From watching sports with your friends, having a cosy night ‘out’ with your partner watching a movie, or entertaining the kids while getting some much-needed fresh air. However, with the unpredictable British weather, it is important to invest in a purpose-built outdoor TV.
Proofvision TVs are weatherproof with an anti-reflective screen, ideal for your outdoor kitchen. We can help you incorporate a Proofvision TV into your design so you can enjoy a summer of entertaining.
6. Low-maintenance composite decking
Resistant to moisture and weathering, composite decking is growing in popularity as the best alternative to traditional wooden decking. Luxurious and low-maintenance, it’s a no-brainer if you can add this decking type to your outdoor kitchen checklist.
We always recommend Millboard, and luckily enough we are a stockist as you cannot buy direct. Millboard composite decking will not deteriorate like natural wood and has a slip-resistant surface even when wet. While it contains no natural timber, it is hand-moulded from the finest pieces of oak to mimic natural timber grain with great realism.
7. Give yourself options with a pizza oven
Not feeling the BBQ tonight? Whatever your reasons, having a wood-fired pizza oven is a luxurious little addition that gives you different options for dinner in your outdoor space.
British brand DeliVita has created an affordable yet stylish wood-fired pizza oven that we just love. Boasting the ability to cook a pizza in 90 seconds, but also able to cook flatbreads, fish, meats and vegetables. Made of fibreglass and stainless steel with a traditional clay interior, these pizza ovens are a fantastic addition to your outdoor kitchen.
8. Add a pergola for the ultimate luxury
To elevate your garden design you can’t go wrong with a modern Renson Pergola. You can add a touch of effortless luxury to your garden as these aluminium pergolas are not only built to a high standard but are easy to maintain. We’re proud to be recommended partners of Renson Pergolas.
9. The right paving is essential
Of course, we can’t ignore the impact of paving. You can have all the luxurious appliances, storage and furniture – but the wrong choice of pavement can potentially change the feel of the space, or even make it feel incomplete.
From granite to concrete, there are countless options when it comes to garden paving. Choosing the right stone and colour can add warmth and style to your outdoor kitchen. We are an approved contractor for Marshalls and have an extensive range of garden paving and patio slabs.
Image by Mark Spencer
10. Add vibrance with plants and pots
Outdoor kitchens can look a little sparse without the greenery to bring life to your design. Whether you use them to divide your space and create sections, or to simply decorate – plants are essential to work into your garden design.
Potted plants are a versatile option for upgrading your outdoor kitchen. Adding vibrance, colour and fragrance you could also add potted herbs to your patio to use when cooking alfresco. We recommend Okells family-run garden centre outside Chester and Barcham for good quality trees.
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