The outdoor kitchen

What was once something we dreamed about while flipping through the home-design magazines from southern California has finally become a reality in Canada—and homeowners are embracing it like never before! Outdoor kitchens and appliances are no longer just for those living in warmer climates. We now have all of the ingredients for making our own outdoor kitchens that will withstand our winter climates. Anything you can imagine in a gourmet kitchen inside your home is now available outside. When it comes to recouping money spent, outdoor kitchens are almost the same as indoor with an expected ROI of 60 per cent according to MoneySense Magazine.

Today’s outdoor kitchens average around $10,000 as an initial investment, but can easily balloon with all of the gadgets available. People are installing granite counters, sinks, wine fridges, warming stations, and let’s not for get about the grills! With laser technology and searing stations, the new lines of grills that are available for homeowners takes the hibachi into whole new territory.

Here are the basics for your own outdoor kitchen

• The Grill. Like the stove inside, the barbeque is the centre of outdoor cooking. Stainless-steel covers with at least four burners and possibly a side burner for pots are still the most popular choice. Add a rotisserie and a 1200-degree steak searing station and your outdoor grill can turn any homeowner into a chef.
• Counters. Having space for prep near the grill is imperative when creating an outdoor galley. While materials are very based on budgets, stone or wood makes the best choice. When planning the layout of your countertops, try to have the chef face into the party instead of the wall of the house. Now guests are part of the event instead of looking at the chef’s back. You may even decide to add a raised counter with bar stools.
• Refrigerators. The best definition of an outdoor kitchen is ‘never having to go inside for anything’. The fridge full of condiments makes this a reality. Although more homeowners seem to be filling their fridge with refreshments, having access right where you need it is a must!
• Shelter. Being able to grill in the rain is an absolute must. There is nothing worse than standing outside under an umbrella trying to cook. Make sure that your shelter is either heat-resistant or up high enough to prevent scorching or fires.

If you want to customize your own space, try adding a few ‘extras’. My personal favourites include my pellet smoker, a beer tap—and don’t forget that pizza oven. Why not have all of the things that my indoor kitchen doesn’t? When it gets cold, I’ll go back inside. Until then, I’m going to be a five-star chef in my own backyard.

carson@carsonarthur.com