Outdoor living has always been a great part of the Australian Lifestyle, and as the trend for the outdoor "room" becomes more and popular, the logical advancement is the Outdoor Kitchen. More and more casual entertaining is held outdoors and an "Al Fresco" kitchen is becoming as important as the indoor counterpart.

A lot more thought and planning needs to be put into these designs as so many products are now available for integration. We are not just talking about the 3 burner gas barbeque, having a beer and cooking a couple of snags. The outdoor Kitchen is becoming an extension of the indoor kitchen. Although not as stringent with planning rules and regulations, as the indoor kitchen, it makes sense that our outdoor entertainment area has everything on hand, allowing guests and family to be involved in the cooking process.

The outdoor Kitchen can be as simple or as elaborate as you want (or can afford), from the small balcony with a wall mounted barbeque plate, to the full entertainment area with Tepanyaki Plate , Dishwasher, Bar area, Sink, Refridgerator and Pizza Oven.

The extent and complexity is of the outdoor kitchen depends on how much it is going to be used (and of course your budget) A lot of people cook three times a week or more outside. You can cook a roast or a pizza in the Wood-fired oven, Deep fry , stir fry and sear on individual components, the possibilities are endless.

Obviously , the need for weather resistant components for cabinetry and benchtops must be used and thought needs to be put into other aspects such as lighting , work areas, eating areas, heating and clean up areas.

Many Kitchen designers are experienced with this type of Design, however one should also do their research, especially on the many components of Appliances available, and seek advice from Specialists.

Leigh Hunter
Certified Kitchen & Bathroom Designer