There is few simple pleasures as satisfying as creating the ideal outdoor dining space, and an outdoor kitchen can add another level of enjoyment throughout the year.
Lighting around grills and cooking zones is critical to safety, precision and easy clean-up. Make sure sufficient illumination exists in food prep areas; consider installing swivel-mounted spotlights that can be directed toward specific tasks as required.
1. Create an Outdoor Kitchen
No outdoor entertaining space would be complete without a fully stocked kitchen, from simple grilling stations on patios to elaborate cabana-style structures with everything from food prep stations and bars to dining tables and seating areas.
No need to copy-paste your indoor kitchen when designing an outdoor one; rather, take inspiration from it when crafting one. Features like Caesarstone countertops, Farrow & Ball paint colors, and upper cabinetry will help create an efficient galley space – or if you’re feeling daring try including bold choices such as bubblegum pink appliances (as seen here by Living With Lolo in their backyard space!) for an approachable entertaining-friendly design!
Locate your outdoor kitchen near the main house if possible for seamless transition between indoor and outdoor cooking and dining areas. Otherwise, consider setting up one with an opening window so you can access both spaces easily.
2. Add a Fireplace
An outdoor fireplace provides an inviting ambiance for relaxing and dining alfresco, providing warmth on cool evenings while extending outdoor dining seasons. If your kitchen isn’t conveniently close by, consider creating a seat wall between it and the hearth to give an additional living room feel and better access to seating.
Make the most of your natural setting by choosing colors inspired by its surroundings when decorating an alfresco space. On this Provencal terrace, soft olive green linens and rustic rattan furniture were used to highlight its stunning backdrop; for added shade during sweltering summer days a classic parasol was also added for guests’ comfort.
Make your outdoor entertaining space even more versatile by having your landscaper install a pergola with operable slats that can be closed to shield diners from afternoon sun or light summer rain – this feature makes your home an ideal spot for hosting dinner parties regardless of weather conditions!