Ideal Home (UK)

Q&A outdoor kitchens

AN Outdoor kitchen If you’re a keen cook who loves to entertain (and you have space), an alfresco kitchen will transform both your garden and your summer gatherings

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From building one yourself, to buying an off-the-peg design or paying a profession­al company to install high-end appliances, an outdoor kitchen can vary wildly in price and finish. Read on to find one to suit your needs and budget…

Q What are the essentials?

Whatever your space, start with a barbecue with a work surface/countertop beside it. Choose between a gas or charcoal barbecue, bearing in mind that gas will be easier to keep clean and gives you the option of using it year round. If your budget allows, look for a design that features a rotisserie for slow-roasting meats – great for summer barbecues or Sunday lunches. Storage cabinets are always a handy extra for stashing utensils and cookware, while other optional add-ons can include pizza ovens, outdoor sinks with taps and even fridges.

Q Where’s the best place to install one?

As a rule, outdoor kitchens are best situated fairly close to the house and always on level decking or a patio. Look to position yours against a brick wall (not wooden fencing for obvious reasons) and try to keep it away from walkways.

Q Can I do it on a budget?

If you’re a keen DIYER, here’s nothing stopping you from building your own cooking area, incorporat­ing a new barbecue (or your existing one) into the design, with cabinets, worktops and shelving made from weatherpro­of materials such as wood, stainless steel and brick. Heatproof tiles are a good addition if you want to add a decorative edge. Outdoor fridges tend to be quite pricey as they need to be watertight and weatherpro­of, so they aren’t really an option for those on a budget – plus you’ll need a electrical supply. However, if you have space, a sink or a cooler filled with ice is just as effective for parties.

Q If money is no object, what are my options?

There are now quite a few companies that will design and install a whole outdoor kitchen for you, as well as looking after any necessary wiring and plumbing. According to Bradshaw Luxury, you should expect to pay around £9,600 for an outdoor kitchen complete with gas grill, fridge and sink.

Q What about weatherpro­ofing?

Look at investing in goodqualit­y covers to protect your kit from the elements. Wooden surfaces need to be cleaned and treated once a year and, if you have the space (and money), consider a wellventil­ated gazebo to shelter your kitchen year round.

 ??  ?? Built-in outdoor barbecue, 76cm, £4,998; built-in outdoor under-counter refrigerat­or drawers, 61cm, £5,880, Sub-zero & Wolf
Built-in outdoor barbecue, 76cm, £4,998; built-in outdoor under-counter refrigerat­or drawers, 61cm, £5,880, Sub-zero & Wolf

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