Outdoor cooking

Minimal or super-accessorized, traditional or hi-tech, outdoor kitchens are the desire of all those who own a garden or a terrace.

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Outdoor kitchens are often the desire of those who have outdoor spaces available. Garden, terrace but also a balcony of the right size, are sometimes perfect for creating an outdoor kitchen.
Completely open-air atmosphere e full optional, le outdoor cooking Today they are well designed to be as good as indoor models.
The traditional corner intended for the classic garden barbecue, today is revolutionized, by design, with advanced technologies that make the garden or terrace livable at any time of the year.

Benefits of the Outdoors

The garden, terrace and/or balcony are precious aids for our physical and mental health. A research conducted by the University of Ferrara, highlights the benefits that sunlight has on the human organism.
Sun rays stimulate certain brain regions, producing serotonin and endorphins, the hormones of happiness.
In addition to the sun's rays, plants also contribute to our well-being. Whether it's a vegetable garden in the garden, or simple plants on the balcony, being in contact with nature allows us to feel better not only physically, but also emotionally.
The Japanese practice forest bathing (which literally translates to “forest bathing”) states that immersion in nature reduces blood pressure, stress and promotes creativity.
It is no coincidence, in fact, that many public buildings (hospitals, churches, universities) include green spaces.
Furthermore, an open space adjacent to the house allows you to share everything listed so far with friends, thus also promoting moments of outdoor community.

Space and functionality

Carefully evaluate the space available to create a outdoor cooking is, clearly, fundamental. Large spaces are not necessary, for a basic solution with cooking area and sink, about 120 cm are needed.
But, if the space available allows it, it is a good idea to think about the fundamental and well-connected elements for a respectable outdoor kitchen.
The components of a perfect outdoor kitchen are:

1. Cooking area
2. Water point
3. Work plan
4. Dining area
5. Accessories

The outdoor cooking area

The barbecue has been a symbol of outdoor kitchens for years. Today, the latter is no longer an isolated element but is often integrated into more complex structures. The modular units are often equipped with various containers designed to store wood, gas cylinders or a wine cellar.
The cooking area must be made of weather-resistant materials, and models with lids are preferable (also useful for keeping things tidy).
It can be equipped with different types of burners or plates, electric or induction, grills and charcoal barbecues.
Remember that, even outdoors, cooking produces smoke. It is therefore necessary to place the kitchenette in a position that prevents the fumes from going towards the convivial area.
For lovers of leavened products, often placing a wood oven on the terrace or in the garden is the ideal solution. Classic or modern and design, it increases the desire to spend time outside.

The outdoor water point

The water point should obviously be thought of as being close to the kitchenette.
Here too, the design of sinks and taps today offers a very varied market specifically designed for the outdoors.
Large sinks are preferred for washing large dishes. Often, sinks are chosen that can be covered with a sliding top when necessary to protect the sink when not in use.
Recommended materials are definitely stainless steel, stone and ceramic.

The outdoor work plan

Anyone who cooks knows how important a work surface is when preparing various dishes.
Preferably minimal as well as resistant, to facilitate cleaning activities. The materials chosen to make it obviously make the difference not only in terms of durability but also in terms of aesthetics.
Stainless steel is clearly much more practical, and is often chosen when inspired by a more contemporary style.
Quartz and resins, on the other hand, are good if you want to create a warmer atmosphere. If you choose these materials, it is advisable to use them in semi-open environments protected by verandas or pergolas.
Stone and masonry, as well as wood appropriately treated for the outdoors, will instead be chosen to create more rustic spaces.

The outdoor dining area

Whether you eat alone or in company, ensuring a space where you can enjoy what you have cooked, in total relaxation, is the true purpose of an outdoor kitchen.
By choosing materials that can be well matched with the kitchenette and the worktop, it is possible to create an environment with the right harmony.
Textiles, as well as tableware chosen in the right color palette, are the details that will complete the outdoor scene.
Considering the surrounding situation of the building, and therefore evaluating not only the exposure to the sun but also privacy, it is advisable to also provide curtains and/or shades to ensure the right comfort.

Auxiliary Equipment

Even though the concept of outdoor generally brings to mind situations where you have to “make do”, outdoor kitchens today are increasingly complete. If the necessary connections are provided (electricity, water, gas, sewerage) it is possible to have all the accessories you need. Refrigerator (or mini fridge), dishwasher, and much more to offer comfort and equipment equivalent to those indoors.
If space allows, creating a living area will certainly encourage the individual to spend quality time outdoors, without leaving home.
Sofas, coffee tables, soft cushions and everything you need to ensure relaxation.
Often, especially in Nordic countries, you can also find fire pits in these outdoor living areas.
Braziers are highly versatile appliances. In winter, in fact, they are used for heating but not only. Braziers become a hearth around which to gather and enjoy the outdoors despite the low temperatures.
In summer, however, they are used for cooking or as decorative elements.
Even this element today has undergone many evolutions becoming not only a functional element, but also an important piece of furniture and design.
In fact, it enriches the outdoor scene with its minimal yet elegant styles.
Often, the brazier is also used as a light point, when you want to create a more private and welcoming atmosphere.

Lighting for outdoor spaces

Lighting should not be left to chance. Just like in indoor kitchens, even for outdoor kitchens, it is good to design it according to the various areas.
Mixing different types of light sources is the ideal solution. Combining wall lights, pendant lights, lanterns, string lights and candles certainly creates a welcoming and harmonious atmosphere. Warm or neutral white lights, between 2700K and 4000K are the most popular.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether it is small and practical on the balcony or extends across the entire terrace on the top floor of a condominium or, again, whether it is luxurious and designer immersed in a large garden, the outdoor kitchen becomes an extension of the home and allows you to revolutionize the concept of outdoor living.

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The cover photo is by Image Supply on Depositphotos.com