Create An Outdoor Kitchen On A Budget
Having a great outdoor area where you can cook and entertain might seem like a luxury only reserved for the wealthy. But if you have a bit of creativity and ingenuity, you can make your very own outdoor cooking and dining space without having to shell out a lot of cash. Here are some ideas to get you started towards creating the ultimate outdoor kitchen so you don't break the bank.
Build A Countertop
If you've got a great grill already, you will need some extra space to prep your food outside. You can build a simple yet useful counter space around your grill by using bricks or stone. Stack the bricks or stones up and create a solid formation around the grill using masonry glue to hold it all together. Once you've created the basic outline of your kitchen space, you can add inexpensive butcher's block counters, or even craft a concrete counter top to go over the structure to create your food prep space. This is a simple and easy way to make a great work space that won't cost a fortune.
Let There Be Light
If you plan on entertaining at night, you will need to have ample lighting. While it may cost a few hundred dollars to add a new electrical line outside, the lights themselves don't have to be expensive. You can purchase simple outdoor task lighting or even a floodlight to add to the outside cooking and eating area. If the chef just needs a little extra light to prepare the food, you can purchase a clip on work light that can be taken back inside and used only as you need it. String lights can add ambiance to the outdoor eating area, and are definitely an inexpensive option that looks great for entertaining.
Provide Some Shade
In the summer, the sun can be overbearing for you and your guests. You can craft a pergola using lumber that is pre-treated to withstand the weather. Secure it directly to the house, or use freestanding posts to create an elegant look that will also give everyone a bit of extra shade. If you're not handy with woodworking, purchase some large outdoor umbrellas. Eleven foot umbrellas will definitely provide plenty of great shade, and you can get them at a discounted price from most retailers at the end of the summer season. With a few easy tweaks, you can craft the ultimate outdoor kitchen that will give you many years of great entertaining and cooking outside.
For help with your outdoor kitchen, contact a company such as All American Landscape Design Inc.