Exploring Your Outdoor Kitchen Options

One of the perks to living in Tucson is the fantastic weather year-round. In other climates, homeowners only have a few short months (or even just a few weeks!) of warm weather to enjoy outdoor activities like grilling and dining. But here in Southern Arizona, you can treat your landscaped outdoor space like another room. One of the best ways to take advantage of the climate is to install an outdoor kitchen. Read on to learn more about the custom options available.

Selecting a Grill

The centerpiece of any outdoor kitchen is the grill. Much like the stove in your indoor kitchen, the grill will be the focal point and main appliance in your outdoor kitchen. You can choose between a gas, propane and charcoal grill, depending on your preferences. Gas grills offer convenience and easy clean up, but some barbeque and grilling enthusiasts prefer the unique flavor that charcoal imparts.

Choosing a Countertop

When you choose a countertop material for your outdoor kitchen, there are three factors you need to consider: durability, clean-up and aesthetics. Your countertop material should be able to withstand the bright, hot Tucson sun and also match the landscaping and décor of the rest of your home’s outdoor space. Some options are granite, flagstone, tite, travertine and concrete. Working with a custom landscaping professional can make the selection process much easier.

Adding on Extras

If you want your grill to truly become an outdoor kitchen and family gathering spot, you need more than just a few feet of space on either side to set your plates. A bar with stools will allow your friends and family to come together outside while you are cooking, and a sink with running water can make clean-up and preparations much simpler, since you can avoid running back and forth between the indoor kitchen and the grill. An outdoor fridge will keep drinks cold and easy accessible, and don’t forget the convenient sideburner. With all these features there is no reason to go inside, keeping all the heat outside.

At Santa Rita Landscaping, we can create a custom outdoor kitchen to fit with your home’s exterior landscaping. If you would like to schedule an in-home consultation today, call us at 520-623-0421.