You’ve likely spent all season enjoying the pleasures of your own backyard—beautiful landscaping, perfect gardens, just the right ambiance and a fire to gather around. But, of course, that also means you’ve had time to really consider how to make it even better.
As summer begins to wane and you start thinking ahead, it’s time plan your next big backyard upgrade. And nothing will take it to the next level like an outdoor kitchen.
At its simplest, an outdoor kitchen can be a standing grill and a table beside it. But that’s just the start. These features get more sophisticated every year, and now the sky’s the limit.
According to Daniel S. Kraftmann of Town Appliance in Lakewood: “Today’s outdoor kitchens can easily mirror the comfort of indoor spaces with refrigerators, dishwashers, sinks and more, all designed for the outdoors. They create a perfect setting for outdoor entertaining and let you spend more quality time with family and friends.”
And don’t forget about the importance of keeping drinks cool. Says John Cioletti, president and CEO of Reno’s Appliance in Paterson, “There are also options for a bar area, including built-in beverage and wine refrigeration, kegerators and ice makers.” Other thoughtful additions are “side burners and a sink with hot and cold running water” to keep prep and clean up simple.
Other bells and whistles? “Additions like pizza ovens, outdoor wine coolers and ice makers are getting even more popular, and weatherproof cabinetry can make a big impact,” Kraftmann says.
When installing your own outdoor kitchen, says Cioletti, the most important factor to consider is location. He says, “What is the elevation? Is it a flat area, or does it have levels? How far are any combustible elements? Will the kitchen be built into a deck, or on the ground level of the yard?” Also be mindful of the availability of shade to keep guests covered on sunny days, and the kitchen’s proximity to your other landscaping features such as pools and patios.
“More and more people have embraced entertaining at home,” Cioletti adds. “Extending your living space with an outdoor kitchen really enhances quality of life.”
Want even more tips, tricks and advice? Check out NJ HOME, and keep your eye out for our upcoming September issue—it’ll be here before you know it!