It is a scientific fact that all food tastes better when prepared and eaten outdoors. While no credible scientist will back that up, those who own an outdoor kitchen will probably agree. Your outdoor kitchen gives you the perfect area to entertain in and can quickly become the center for all your gatherings with friends and family. Here, we look at a few ideas that really help to make your outdoor kitchen extra special.
Add a Structure for Shade
Taking your outside kitchen to the next level is as simple as adding a stunning overhead structure. There is just something about a pergola that works perfectly to create a wonderful place for people to gather. In the outdoor living season, a pergola provides a lovely structure for flowering vines which offers a shady spot to eat and hang out. For a more ‘on-demand’ type shade solution, consider including a retractable shade fabric on your pergola.
Install an Herb Garden
Every outdoor space looks better with a little greenery. You can kill two birds with one stone by adding a lush herb garden to your kitchen space. Herbs have a wonderful smell that carries nicely on the breeze. As you cook in your outdoor kitchen, you can easily add freshly picked herbs to enhance the flavor of your dishes. Read a related article here on Foodscaping.
Outdoor Lounge Area
An outdoor kitchen is the perfect place to entertain friends and family. You can enjoy the pleasant smells of cooking food while basking in the sunshine. It creates a very social atmosphere where the chef can join in the fun. You can enhance this environment by creating a special lounge area near your kitchen. Furnish the space with lots of cushy outdoor furniture and small tables for drinks and hor d'oeuvres.
Make It a 3 Seasons Space
When you have a beautiful, welcoming space you will want to use it as much as possible. Fortunately, your Wappingers Falls, NY outdoor kitchen will be suitable for early spring and late fall use with a few simple modifications. Installing ceiling fans is perfect for summer. The circulating air will create a gentle breeze that makes the kitchen cool even if you have the grill fired up. For the fall season, you may want to consider outdoor heaters. They can be easily put away when not in use, and they make the outdoor kitchen usable in chilly weather.
Appliances Make the Outdoor Kitchen
A grill is obviously a must for an outdoor kitchen, but don’t stop there. You can maximize the usefulness of this space by accessorizing with a range of appliances. A small outdoor refrigerator allows you a place to store perishables and keep drinks cool. You will avoid constantly running back and forth from your house. If you entertain frequently, you may want to consider adding a full bar. Your guests can serve themselves or for larger events, you can hire a bartender. The newest trend in Dutchess County, NY outdoor kitchens is brick ovens. You can make anything from pizza to soup and the food comes out tasting wonderfully smoky.
Planning ahead and adding in some of these extra, luxurious touches to your Wappingers Falls, NY outdoor kitchen can make all the difference. To get far more use from your outdoor living spaces and to enjoy a design that’s perfect for your family, check out the free guide below.
—Opening image courtesy of Unilock