Local Certified Kitchen Designer, April Spagnolo of Evalia Design, has crafted many outdoor kitchens and living spaces during her design career. She offers her expert advice on how to start planning your outdoor oasis!
When designing an outdoor living space, many homeowners inquire about where to focus their resources, and where they can cut back to save money. The options for outdoor kitchens can be endless much like interior kitchens, but a few great items to include no matter your project size or budget are a high-quality grill (like the DCS by Fisher & Paykel pictured here), serving/ prep area, and sink. If it’s in your budget, you can also add things like under counter refrigerators, cooktop burners, and storage.
Get creative finding ways to save money
I’m always looking for ways to cut corners or costs without compromising a project’s integrity — I want the homeowner to get the maximum value out of their investment. This statement may sound funny coming from a designer who also sells cabinetry, but when it comes to outdoor kitchens, I typically advise clients to have their contractor frame the “cabinetry” space and use stainless steel fronts set into stucco, as you see in the project pictured here. These fronts are durable and help keep the budget in check. Color and style can be added by using cabinetry on the island and stainless fronts around the perimeter.
You’ve selected the appliances and materials for your project. What’s next?
The first step in the planning phase is to make a list of your “must haves.” Then check out Houzz or Pinterest. Create an idea book with photos of your “loves” and “hates” and invite your designer to collaborate with you on the project. You can also start with an initial consultation with a designer. It’s a 1 to 2-hour on-site meeting that offers conceptual design solutions for your project. The second part of the process takes place when the design team pulls everything together. It’s a streamlined process that helps ease the anxiety clients feel when trying to tackle projects.
Should you do it yourself or hire a professional?
Homeowners often ask if they need to hire a builder, architect, or designer and what part of the process they can do themselves. You’ll need an architect or engineer if you plan to make any structural changes to the existing home. Most clients hire a kitchen designer or landscape company that specializes in outdoor spaces. The designer also works with a contractor and other subs depending on the finishes and materials to bring the project to life. If you’re handy and want to tackle this project as a DIY, then I would recommend doing your homework and reading a book or two on outdoor kitchens, I recommend Building Outdoor Kitchens for Every Budget by Steve Cory and Diane Slavik.
Another common question is in regard to the outdoor kitchen layout. In determining the layout of the grill, sink, bar, and refrigeration, it’s advised to start with the grill placement, keeping in mind the wind direction, scenic views, proximity to the home, and location to the gas line if you are running a line directly to the grill. After that, you should consider how much work space you would like. Try to keep things near each other and also think about how you will interact with guests while cooking.
April Spagnolo is a Certified Kitchen Designer with 10+ years of experience working on both remodeling and new construction residential projects, custom cabinetry, and specific commercial spaces. She can be reached at april@evaliadesign.com.