"The ideal outdoor kitchen" means something a little different for everyone, based on many variables including what you're cooking, where you live, how your yard is configured, and what kind of entertaining you do. But regardless, cooking outside is a joyful experience, and your setup should be a reflection of that.
Because there are so many options and possibilities out there, it's a great idea to take advantage of the pros at showrooms like Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, where a product expert can help you transform your preferences and vision into a fully fleshed-out, gorgeous design. Think of it like starting a gym membership: You establish and know your goals, but an expert can save you time and help you avoid mistakes in realizing them with a personalized plan.
To get you started, we've outlined a few of the broad strokes you'll want to decide on in the planning stages, so your consultation can really jump-start the process from there.
Layout
The first question, of course, is how much space you have to work with, as well as its composition. But even that relies to some extent on personal preference: Do you prefer to cook close to the kitchen for convenient multi-course supply runs? If so, you'll be building alongside a wall of the house or on a pre-existing patio. (Either way, be sure any cooking equipment resides at least 10 feet from the house.)
Or perhaps you would rather create some distance from the house, so you can show off your hibachi skills near your pool. That can allow for a far more secluded and intimate experience, but also may involve extra plumbing and electrical work. Whatever your preference, the knowledgeable pros at Ferguson can help you determine exactly what you need to achieve your goal and make the most of your space, via an in-person showroom consultation.
Utility
Once you've established where you're going to be cooking, you can dive into the fun part: how. Some outdoor chefs like to feel like they're at a remote campsite, while others want the full kitchen experience complete with faucet, wine cooler, ice makers, the works. There are many other decisions to make here, too: Do you need lights for outdoor cooking in the evenings? Will you need gas, or are you running your rig on coal and wood? Does an outdoor fridge strike your fancy? Ultimately, it's all about what combination brings you joy.
And while you're considering all the bells and whistles, don't forget about storage. Components that serve multiple needs are a boon in a limited space: Many patio-furniture pieces, for example, can double as storage—some even as insulated coolers. Or go all in on built-in drawers for pro-level organization that won't add a foot more to your footprint.
Aesthetics
Perhaps you're daydreaming about a tropical bar and grill where friends get together to play dominoes. Or is an ultra-modern steel workspace more your style? Maybe a cozy place to sit by the fire and watch that brisket smoke is your desired setting. It'll feel right when you see it. Lighting is an important consideration at this point as well—remember that you might need different types, from outdoor ceiling fans to sconces to task lighting by the grill.
One thing to keep in mind, wherever your imagination is taking you: A pleasing look is an important function in and of itself. After all, even when you're not actively cooking, you'll see these elements out your window, and they should always inspire joy. In addition to cooking and refrigeration elements, a complete outdoor space could include flooring, seating, area rugs, accent lighting, and anything else you can dream up. Check out Shop by Look from Build with Ferguson’s online selection for some inspiration.
Knowledgeable experts at Ferguson can also point you to decor and appliances that look fabulous while remaining functional. Small touches like decorated ceramic tiles, or a beautiful planter that keeps live herbs on hand as you cook, can have an outsize impact on making this feel like your kitchen. So take time to feel out your needs and settle upon the possibilities that truly excite you.
The expansive possibilities of cooking outdoors mean there's no one all-purpose setup you have to default to—and as long as you can avoid choice paralysis, that's a serious blessing. With the help of an expert, you can marry practicality to a look you adore, so your family's every alfresco meal will be joyful. Get started on your outdoor oasis today by booking an appointment at your local Ferguson showroom.
