Anyone who has an overly large backyard should make the best of it and create a haven for them and their friends and family to enjoy. Dozens of people from all over the world are investing their time and money to building an outdoor kitchen that overlooks their pool, playground, or the beautiful scenic view in the back of their home.
When designing an outdoor kitchen there is one feature that you cannot leave out – the island. Even though it is outside you want the kitchen to be open and spacious. The biggest advantage to having an outdoor kitchen is the ability you have to enjoy the fresh air and weather while cooking and eating your meals.
In the end you will find that an island is not only advantageous but necessary. However, it is up to you to decide the type of outdoor kitchen island design you wish to use. During this process there are several things you need to consider; how long and wide it should be, what features it should have, and what materials you want to use when building it.
How Large
The size of your island will vary depending on how far back your kitchen will go. The island will always be set to the side of the kitchen allowing you to look out into the yard and people to sit on the other side when eating. If the kitchen is big enough you can add another island in the center that will provide more room for people to eat and prepare food.
Features
When choosing what features you want the possibilities are endless. An outdoor island gives you the chance to add appliances that you cannot use in your normal kitchen. Many people will install a pizza oven, stove top, and grill. This will give you many options to cook a variety of meals.
A sink is a necessary feature even if you already have on in another area of the kitchen. Below the island you can store a refrigerator where you can keep food and beverages on hand at all times.
As with any type of kitchen island cabinets are necessary – but you will not need as many for the outdoor island. You only need to keep a select amount of dishes and utensils outside. You will still want to store most of them indoors because dirt can still creep into the cabinets and drawers during bad weather.
Materials
It is important that you choose the proper materials for your kitchen island. Because it will be connected to the rest of the kitchen we suggest that you use the same design and materials for the entire area. You will only have the option to use all weather materials that can withstand any weather condition and can be cleaned off by simply hosing it down.
- Granite
- Slate
- Brick
- Stucco
- Tile
- Stone
- Rot resistant wood (only in dry climates)
- Poured concrete
- Stainless steel