The best way to celebrate Independence Day is with family and friends, so if you’re planning to do some entertaining this holiday, an outdoor kitchen is the great choice. Complete with a cooktop, cold storage, and perhaps even wet bar all decked out in gorgeous masonry, an outdoor kitchen is more than just functional – it’s beautiful and comfortable, too. Here are five unique reasons to consider an outdoor kitchen for your summer project.
#1 – It’s Perfect for Entertaining
The biggest benefit associated with an outdoor kitchen is the fact that it is perfect for entertaining. Whether you choose to utilize comfy cushioned patio furniture or simply convert masonry walls into extra seating, there’s plenty of room for everyone. You can utilize fireplaces and firepits for cozy nighttime lighting, and you can even install a projector to watch movies after dark.
#2 – It Can Help You Save Energy
An outdoor kitchen can save a tremendous amount of energy, and this is especially true if you will use it frequently. Each time you cook inside your home, even when you use the range hood, it generates additional heat. In the middle of summer, things can get downright uncomfortable and cause your air conditioner to work overtime. By moving the cooking space outdoors, you can keep the heat outdoors as well, whether you prefer a traditional cooktop or something more rustic, such as a wood-burning oven.
#3 – The Aesthetic Choices are Limitless
Designing an outdoor kitchen is an incredibly fun project, especially when you consider the features and materials from which you can choose. The masonry textures and colors are limitless, which means it is possible to match the exterior masonry of your home or simply add some masonry for a touch of luxury and style. You can have it all – a stove, refrigerator, and sink – or you can stick to the basics with a grill, a fireplace or fire pit, and some seating.
#4 – It Can Increase Your Home’s Value
Outdoor kitchens are phenomenal investments when compared to other home improvement projects. Per CNN Money, you can get a 100% to 200% return on this project, and that is especially true if you choose high-quality materials and workmanship. In fact, when done correctly, the elements of your outdoor kitchen can last for generations. Should you choose to sell your home down the line, potential buyers will view it as an extension of their living space, which can also boost your asking price.
#5 – Cooking is Easier Outside
Finally, when you choose to do your cooking and entertaining outdoors, you will find the entire process easier – especially if you’re serving a crowd. All too often, the person doing the cooking is alienated from the festivities. With the right outdoor kitchen space complete with prep areas and storage, this is a thing of the past. Many homeowners love the idea of keeping food smells and messes outside, too.
With Independence Day right around the corner, now is the time to move ahead with your outdoor kitchen project. You can create the perfect, beautiful space for entertaining family and friends, cooking, eating, and simply enjoying each other’s company during the warmer months.
