An outdoor kitchen is aspirational yet easy to achieve. The global pandemic has changed how we live; outdoor spaces at home have never been more valued.

A recent nationwide survey by Trex Company reported that more than three-quarters (77%) of respondents use their main outdoor living space nearly every day. Topping the list of activities Aussies engage in most outdoors were: relaxing (74%), spending time with family (59%) and barbecuing (52%). 

The best outdoor kitchen renovation ideas will show you just how easy it is to create an inviting alfresco area that allows you to relax and catch up with loved ones while you cook over the barbeque.

In this month's B&C Journal, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about outdoor kitchen renovations, including where you should position your kitchen, storage and appliance options, and choosing your furnishings. Enjoy!

The Team at Balnei & Colina

 

Image via Cathie Hong Interiors

How To Design An Outdoor Kitchen

1. Where should I position my outdoor kitchen?

Function and practicality are a priority when undertaking an outdoor kitchen renovation. A complete outdoor kitchen requires electricity, plumbing and/or gas, so access to these facilities is vital. 

Outdoor rooms adjacent to the indoor kitchen or living area provide easy access to indoor conveniences. They extend the usable space in a home and create a seamless indoor-outdoor feel. 

An outdoor kitchen protected by a custom-built structure will also ensure the area can be used all year round. Factoring in the proximity of neighbours and everyone's privacy levels is also important.

Working with a Balnei & Colina outdoor kitchen specialist means that all the guesswork in how to design an outdoor kitchen is taken care of. All the possibilities are covered, and the outcome will work perfectly for you and your property. 

 

Image via Homes To Love

 

Image via David Campbell Building

 

Balnei & Colina | Lower North Shore Outdoor Kitchen Renovation

2. Does my outdoor kitchen need to be undercover?

Despite the Australian climate being unpredictable at the best of times, all-year-round entertaining is easy when your outdoor kitchen is protected from the elements. 

From providing shade from the harsh summer sun to keeping the area dry during a storm and guarded against winds, proper shelter can also ensure your outdoor kitchen fit-out lasts longer. 

A Balnei & Colina outdoor kitchen expert can work with you to orient your outdoor alfresco space, so comfort is assured regardless of the weather report. 

 

Image via The Spruce

 

Image via Pinterest

 

Image Credit: Mindi Cooke Photography

3. What storage and appliances do I need in my outdoor kitchen? 

The BBQ is the hero of the outdoor kitchen, but you may want to consider a pizza oven, a smoker or a charcoal grill, too. Perhaps a multitasking BBQ with wok burners, in-built smoker boxes and rotisseries will meet your outdoor frying, smoking, roasting and baking needs — it all depends on how and what you like to cook outdoors.

An outdoor drinks fridge will transform your alfresco area into a bar with refreshing, cool drinks always on hand. Be mindful that your fridge should be fully protected from direct sunshine and designed for outdoor use. 

Custom joinery will protect your appliances and provide ample storage, which is ideal if you want to avoid extra trips back into the house for essentials. We suggest wide drawers for BBQ utensils and enough space to store alfresco serving ware.

Design Tip: Balnei & Colina's Sydney kitchen renovation team also recommends an outdoor kitchen bench that is at least 3 metres in length, allowing for a standard-sized built-in BBQ, storage, a bar fridge, and a small sink. 

 

Image via The Spruce

 

Image via Style Curator

 

Balnei & Colina | Outdoor Kitchen Renovation

4. What materials should I choose for an outdoor kitchen?

Keep the look of your outdoor kitchen renovation cohesive with the rest of your home but choose surfaces and finishes that are hard-wearing and suitable for outdoor use.

A Balnei & Colina outdoor kitchen is designed and built with weather-resistant cabinetry and benches, ensuring they look great and function smoothly for years to come.

Design Tip: Granite, composite stone, and laminates manufactured specifically for alfresco spaces are excellent choices for outdoor benchtops.

 

Image via House Beautiful 

 

Image Credit: Derek Swalwell Photography

 

Image via House Beautiful 

5. What furniture should I add to my outdoor kitchen?

A well-designed cooking area is an essential ingredient in an outdoor kitchen renovation, but the furniture can also make or break the space. Comfortable, stylish seating options will draw friends and family to the area and encourage them to linger for longer. 

Add a roomy outdoor dining table and comfy weather-proof chairs if you love hosting big groups. The Balnei & Colina kitchen design team recommends leaving 80 - 90 centimetres around your table so people can move around safely and easily.

 

Image via Adore Magazine

Keen to make the most of your backyard with an outdoor kitchen renovation? Leave it to the renovation experts at Balnei & Colina. 

Book an outdoor kitchen design consultation today at 1300 450 320 or send us your project details via this contact form or book a call to discuss your bathroom project in more detail. You can also email us direct via info@balneiandcolina.com.au. 

To keep up with the latest outdoor kitchen trends, follow us on Facebook and Instagram or sign-up for our newsletter. 

 

Image via Martha Stewart

 

Image via JBL Designs

 

Image via Leonie Crownie Interiors