If you like to spend time outside, one great way to spend more time outside is by building an outdoor kitchen. An outdoor kitchen allows you to extend your outdoor space and gives you more space to hang outside.

Tip #1: Know What You Want

First, you need to think about what you want in your outdoor kitchen and eating area. If you want to be able to make large meals, you are going to want to have a prep zone for preparing food, a kitchen sink, and a cooking zone that includes more than a barbecue. You can add a stove, burners, and other cooking tools. Maybe you want a pizza oven, or perhaps you want a smoker. Having an idea of what you want from your kitchen area will help you design a functional space.

Tip #2: Hire the Right Contractor

Second, you are going to want to find the right contractor for the project. You will want to work with a general contractor or with a design-building firm that can help you create the design, obtain the permits, order the equipment and materials, and build everything. You want to find a contractor who has worked with outdoor kitchens before and can provide you with advice and insight on what to expect.

Tip #3: Think About Plumbing and Electrical Lines

Third, you need to think about plumbing and electrical lines for the space. You may need plumbing lines for a dishwasher, sink, and ice machine. You may need electrical lines for a wide range of appliances, such as a refrigerator, oven, wine cooler, griddle, outdoor fans, space heaters, and vent hoods. Be sure to plan for all of these items and know where you want to put them.

Tip #4: Use Durable Flooring

Fourth, you are going to want to install durable flooring. With an outdoor space, you need flooring that can handle the wear and tear of both an outdoor space and a kitchen space. A good choice is either poured concrete or sealed stones. You will also want to add a floor drain so that any water that gets into the space will safely be directed away from the space. You want flooring that is durable and easy to take care of.

With an outdoor kitchen space, you need to know what you want. You need to hire the right contractor, plan for the plumbing and electrical lines required, and choose durable flooring for the space.

Talk to a company like Made In The Shade Patio & BBQ to get started.