We love outdoor kitchens here at Bedrock Quartz. Though our main priority is selling and installing quartz, granite, marble, and quartzite countertops, a part of our business is also devoted to assisting customers with outdoor kitchens. Outdoor kitchens and Utah’s natural beauty seem like they were made for one another.
An outdoor kitchen certainly adds value to a home. But it is more than just monetary value. It’s the value of enjoying outdoor spaces with friends and family. It is the value of making memories in one of the most beautiful states in this great nation.
So what actually constitutes a good outdoor kitchen? Preferences vary, but we consider the following components pretty much non-negotiable:
1. Granite or Quartzite Countertops
Every kitchen starts with the countertops, right? Absolutely. Countertops double as both work space and a place to set out the food. We recommend granite or quartzite. Granite is highly durable, and it resists heat and scratches fairly well. Quartzite is another good option if you are concerned about weather resistance. Quartz is generally not recommended for outdoor use as it has a tendency to fade in direct sunlight.
We know others have recommended concrete because of its ability to withstand mother nature. Concrete isn’t in our inventory, so we won’t comment on it one way or another. We will say that nothing beats natural stone for aesthetic beauty.
2. Weather Resistant Cabinetry
Your outdoor kitchen will require at least some storage. You’ll have all that space under the countertops available to you, so make sure you install weather-resistant cabinetry. The cabinets will be where your cookware, utensils, and supplies will find a home.
3. Durable Flooring
Flooring takes a real beating outdoors. So whatever your flooring choice, the material needs to be as durable as your countertops. We have seen designers recommending everything from concrete to porcelain tile. Concrete is probably the most affordable option, and it can be stamped for aesthetic purposes. Travertine and flagstone are durable and slip-resistant choices if you prefer natural stone.
4. Comfortable Seating Options
An outdoor kitchen is as much a gathering place as it is a food preparation space. So make sure the seating is comfortable. A quality table with enough seats to accommodate your guests is the starting point. You’re probably going to want a sofa or two, along with a few chairs that promote lounging around and doing nothing.
5. A Weatherproof Sink
Installing a weatherproof sink will eliminate the need to carry dirty dishes into the house. Be sure to decide what you want in a sink before you make a final decision about countertops. You will want to choose materials and designs that will work together.
6. Lighting and Shade
Homeowners tend to prefer the ability to use their outdoor kitchens rain or shine. The best way to accomplish that is to make sure you have adequate shade. Whatever protects from the sun should also protect against the rain. As for lighting, you’ll need sufficient lighting to stay safe once the sun goes down. Track lighting seems to work well in outdoor areas.
7. Cooking Space
Last but not least is cooking space. You are probably going to start with a stainless-steel grill capable of standing up to the weather. A grill with side burners offers more cooking surface. You might even consider a smoker or outdoor pizza oven to round things out.
An honorable mention goes to refrigeration. While you’re thinking about countertops, cooking space, cabinetry, and seating, consider how much a mini-fridge or beverage center could enhance the outdoor kitchen experience.
Are you looking to start designing your own outdoor kitchen? Bedrock Quartz is ready to help where we can.
