Outdoor Kitchens: Bringing the Indoors Out in Kitchen Remodeling

outdoor kitchen remodeling in San Jose

Outdoor cooking areas can add beautiful and functional living space to your home. We can help make your dream outdoor kitchen a reality with stylish yet rugged materials that will last. Contact us today if you’re considering an outdoor kitchen as part of your home remodel.

Enjoying the Great Outdoors

An outdoor kitchen allows you to enjoy nature’s beauty while prepping meals or relaxing with family and friends. No more heading inside when the weather is nice. It’s a great way to take advantage of pleasant temperatures. Spend time outdoors without giving up kitchen convenience.

Cooking and grilling are favorite summer activities for many. With an outdoor kitchen, every day can feel like a summer barbecue! An outdoor stove lets you boil corn, sauté veggies, or simmer sauces. And it’s all just steps away from patio seating.

Outdoor kitchens aren’t just for fair weather either.

Designing Your Outdoor Cooking Area

Think through how you want to use your outdoor kitchen. This will help guide layout and features. Consider:

  • Cooking methods – Do you mostly grill or also bake/sauté?
  • Entertaining space – Leave room for seating and serving areas.
  • Counter space – Allow for food prep and arrangements.
  • Storage – Cabinets, drawers, and shelves keep essentials handy.
  • Appliances – Stove, oven, fridge, sink, etc. Choose features that suit your needs.
  • Utilities – Electric, water, and gas lines may be needed.
  • Climate conditions – Try to block excessive sun/wind. Plan heating options if needed.

Also think about aesthetic style. Outdoor kitchens allow you to get creative. Mix and match materials like stone, tile, stainless steel, or wood. Pick finishes and colors that coordinate with your home and landscaping.

Popular Outdoor Kitchen Elements

Here are some of the most popular components for outdoor cooking spaces:

Grills

  • Gas or charcoal grills are must-haves for outdoor cooking. Select your preferred fuel and size for your needs. Many come with side burners for pots and pans.
  • Smokers allow you to infuse rich, smoky flavors into meats, vegetables, cheeses, etc. From small electric units to large wood-fired pits, there are many enticing options.
  • Pizza ovens combine the traits of an oven and grill. Achieve perfect crust and char in a super-hot oven. Great for homemade pizzas, breads, and roasts.

Stoves

  • Gas ranges provide control and convenience for boiling, simmering, sautéing, and more. Multiple burners let you cook full meals outdoors.
  • Griddles offer an extra-large cooking surface perfect for pancakes, grilled sandwiches, vegetables, and other BBQ fare. Choose flat-top or ribbed griddle plates.

Refrigeration

  • Refrigerators keep cold drinks and fresh food items right at your fingertips. Built-in or freestanding units are available.
  • Wine coolers ensure you can always serve your preferred vintage at the ideal temperature. Display your collection and keep whites and reds chilled.

Sinks

An outdoor sink provides:

  • A place to wash hands.
  • Running water for cleaning produce and cooking tools.
  • Ice and beverage service.
  • Dump area for liquids.

Choose a sink style and pick faucets and finishes that complement your design.

Countertops

Durable, weather-proof countertop materials include:

  • Stainless steel – sleek and modern looking but prone to scratches
  • Tile – endless pattern and color options, grout requires sealing
  • Concrete – visually interesting, textured but can stain
  • Natural stone – granite, marble, soapstone have upscale appeal
  • Engineered composites – withstand sun, spills, and are low maintenance

Creating an Outdoor Oasis

Beyond the core cooking components, consider what will make your outdoor kitchen a comfortable, inviting space.

  • Shade – Overhangs, pergolas, and umbrellas provide relief from the sun.
  • Lighting – Task lighting, ambient lighting, and accent lighting set the mood.
  • Seating – Arrange chairs, stools, and benches for dining and relaxing.
  • Surfaces – Paver stones, bricks, timber, gravel, and more create flooring.
  • Living accents – Gardens, potted plants, water features enhance the environment.
  • Weather protection –Wind barriers, misters, heat lamps, fireplace/fire pit extend seasons.

With smart planning and design, your outdoor kitchen can provide an invaluable expansion to your home’s livable space.