Summer is here and it’s time to take advantage of your backyard, patio, or porch for outdoor entertaining. Here are the top outdoor kitchen trends you’ll be seeing everywhere this summer.
Modern & Versatile Cooking Stations
Outdoor cooking areas have come a long way from a stone and stucco BBQ island. In 2017, an innovative, modular outdoor kitchen design unlike any else on the market emerged. As the result of a collaboration between Daniel Germani Designs, Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens and Dekton® by Cosentino® the ASA-D2 was created. The ASA-D2 has completely reinvented outdoor cooking and entertaining spaces with its sleek design and high performance capabilities.
The ASA-D2 is fit to enhance any outdoor setting with versatility, function, and modern design. As a freestanding outdoor cooking station, it is able to withstand severe weather and features a painted steel frame with a powder coated stainless steel body, making it durable and ultra-sleek. The ASA-D2 was created with an eye-catching, innovative design and has the capabilities of a fully-equipped kitchen. It gives homeowners, designers and architectures a unique and stylish modern outdoor kitchen option that previously didn’t exist.
Outdoor Kitchen Amenities
While barbecues are not new to the outdoors, the popularity of top of the line grilling stations and unique cooking appliances continues to increase with each passing year. Smokers and pizza ovens have become sought-after and must have additions to outdoor kitchens, along with other outdoor-grade appliances and amenities. In addition to smokers and pizza ovens, the conveniences below are great additions to any luxury outdoor space.
Outdoor Kitchen Bar – You’ll hardly see an outdoor kitchen these days without a bartending station. These practical stations include a sink, ice machines, outdoor refrigerators, and even beer taps, and wine coolers. Outdoor bartending stations allows you to stay outside with your guests throughout the evening as you will not need to go inside each time anyone needs a refreshment.
Fire Pit – This exciting outdoor amenity is the perfect addition for any outdoor area. Whether you want to cook s’mores or just use it to keep warm on a cool evening, an outdoor fire pit is a practical accompaniment and beautiful design element to add to your outdoor kitchen and living area. If a fire pit is not feasible, think about instead adding a heater or outdoor fireplace, especially for the cool evenings.
Multiple Cooking Surfaces – While this one isn’t necessarily considered an amenity, this element is an essential when entertaining large groups. Since you will need to prepare food for many people, having multiple cooking surfaces to work with is a must. By having a prep station, grill, oven, and even a side burner, cooking a gourmet meal outdoors has all the benefits of a full indoor kitchen.
In addition to the amenities listed above, other creature comforts that can be added to your outdoor kitchen area are comfortable furniture, outdoor speakers, overhead fans, and even a canopy or pergola to cover the outdoor area on hot days. By adding these must have amenities, you’re sure to take your outdoor entertaining this summer up a notch.
Separate Seating Areas & Outdoor Living Rooms
The indoors are taking over the outdoors. Over the past few years, the number one trend in outdoor living is a seamless transition from the indoors out. As outdoor kitchens have grown in popularity, we’ve seen the increase in the separation of cooking, seating and entertaining spaces. This separation between cooking and entertaining spaces is an important component to keep in mind when designing your outdoor area. Some designers and homeowners are even creating completely separate outdoor living rooms to bring the indoor comforts outdoors.
One way to bring the indoor design aesthetic out, is using rugs, ottomans, plush sofas, layered blankets, and throw pillows. Thanks to upgraded outdoor fabrics, which are fade-resistant and waterproof, homeowners can create a permanent living room outdoors with comfortable furniture and textiles. Outdoor furniture companies are offering more options for weatherproof throw pillows that cozy up your backyard and can easily be switched out as trends come and go. Outdoor living rooms are great for casual dining around your backyard kitchen.
Outdoor Entertainment Centers & Smart Homes
One of the latest trends is incorporating digital entertainment into outdoor living spaces. Recent innovations in media technology have made it possible for homeowners to stay connected in their backyards. People are now able to stream their favorite shows from their hot tub, patio lounge, or patio lounge area.
Creating your own outdoor theater and entertainment area can provide hours of fun for your whole family during warm summer evenings. From simple projection theaters to advanced HD outdoor television options, you can curate a backyard entertainment center that will provide the best viewing experience for you, your family and your guests.
Homeowners can also take advantage of an outdoor Wi-Fi connection, allowing them to operate smart devices from their patio or backyard kitchen, sync music to their outdoor speakers, or take movie night outdoors.
LED Lighting
Lighting is an essential feature of outdoor kitchens and backyard spaces to keep the party going well after sunset. Whether it’s illuminating your outdoor cooking station, adding landscaping accents, or providing ambiance for entertaining areas, outdoor lighting is on the top of the list for backyard entertaining trends. Long-lasting LED lights are ideal for outdoor use. The bright bulbs are perfect for your grill area and can create a warm ambiance.
An outdoor kitchen is a perfect luxury feature that will provide years of enjoyment for your family and guests. It will expand your outdoor entertaining space and allow you to spend more time outdoors. With proper planning and design, an outdoor cooking and living space can be a reality for your home. Contact us to learn more about outdoor kitchen trends.