Looking for tips on how to build an outdoor kitchen? Here’s some ideas and tips from the professionals at Kibo Constructions.
Living in Australia offers many benefits, including our weather. If you had the chance to choose where you would spend your evenings in the summertime, would it be cooped up inside – or perhaps having a BBQ in the great outdoors with your nearest and dearest? If it’s the latter, it might be time to invest in an open air living space. If you’re wondering where to start with how to build an outdoor kitchen, we’ve got some great pointers outlined below.
Location, Location, Location
Before you begin the planning exercise, consider where you are going to put your outdoor cooking space. Will it be in close proximity to your existing kitchen, how big is it going to be, and have full sun exposure (or not). All these finer details are key to the planning process, especially in relation to what facilities you’ll need to include and the relevant running costs (additional power connections, gas etc).
Consider Your Needs
Are you going to be channeling Masterchef vibes in a full outdoor kitchen, or are you happy with a BBQ and a beer fridge? You’ll need to carefully consider the purpose of your outdoor kitchen, and what facilities, appliances and equipment you’ll need – it won’t be an easy tweak if you change your mind halfway through construction. Consider all the seasons too, as a fire pit that gets used for a quarter of the year may take up precious space that could be better utilized.
Look, Feel And Functionality
Let’s not forget that this is still an outdoor space. You’ll need to consider what lighting you prefer (nothing too stark), heating measures if your climate requires it, which materials for the bench tops and surfaces, shelter and shade, plus how you’re going to avoid attracting bugs. Storage is also an often forgotten feature, so ensure you factor in cupboard space for your utensils and appliances if they are going to live outside full time.
Safety First
You have certain measures in place in your home to prevent little hands getting into the wrong things, so make sure you take the same precautions outside. Consider access to the space, non-slip floors (marble and tiles are more prone to this), keeping sharp objects and chemicals out of arm’s reach, and fire safety equipment like an extinguisher on hand.
Make A Budget – And Stick To It
Sorry to be a buzzkill, but this is a big one. When planning or envisioning a new space for your home, it’s very easy to get carried away. Do you really need a marble “Venus De Milo” water fountain? Make a list with your fellow residents to separate “want vs need” – what is the space primarily going to be used for? Dot your i’s, and cross your t’s, especially when it comes to planning and materials.
Need Some Inspo?
At Kibo Constructions, we’re a full service commercial and residential construction company. We operate anywhere (and everywhere) between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and pride ourselves on our reputation of providing quality and reliable workmanship.
If you’re looking for some inspiration or ideas on how to build an outdoor kitchen, here’s some visuals on our recent residential outdoor kitchen built in Brisbane’s Norman Park. We constructed a space that complimented the outdoor features that were already in place, including the resident’s pool.
If you’re anticipating another great Australian summer in the outdoors, don’t wait another year to make the most of it. It might be time to consider contacting us at Kibo Constructions for a free quote request.