A backyard kitchen is an awesome way to entertain, cook and enjoy the outdoors, but if you only use it a few of the months out of the year, you’re really losing out. Between Texas heat, freezing winter nights and surprise rainstorms, the weather can be a headache. But with the right configurations, your outdoor kitchen can perform beautifully and cozily all year round.
So, how do you ensure your backyard kitchen will work all year round? So let’s dig into it and figure out how to maximize your space regardless of season.
Key Features Your Backyard Kitchen Needs
However, if you plan to use your backyard kitchen year-round, it must be designed with all seasons in mind. That means the proper materials, layout and features to ensure things stay comfortable and functional regardless of what the Texas weather has to offer.
- Weather-Resistant Materials: Your countertops, your cabinets, and your flooring should be made of materials that won’t warp or deteriorate when exposed to heat, water or sunlight. Also, stainless steel, stone, and sealed concrete work well.
- Adequate Shelter: A pergola, extended roof, or retractable awning can shield your kitchen from rain and high sun but still allow fresh air to circulate the space.
- Strategic Layout: Arrange your cooking, prep, and seating areas to ensure that they work together effectively. An intelligent design minimizes the impact of wind on flames while keeping guests cozy.
Weatherproof cabinets and storage areas protect cookware, utensils, and ingredients from the elements.
Backyard Kitchen Tips for the Seasons
A. Summer
Texas summers, especially in locations like Lewisville, Flower Mound, and Denton County, get hot. But that does not mean you must give up your backyard kitchen. Below are some ways to keep it cool:
- Add a Shade Structure: A patio cover, pergola, or large umbrella can offer vital respite from the sun.
- Use Cooling Fans: Whether they’re mounted or standing, fans promote airflow and help reduce temperatures.
- Opt for Lighter Tones: Light-colored countertops and flooring will reflect the sun, as dark surfaces absorb more heat.
- Outdoor Refrigeration: A mini fridge or ice drawer keeps drinks and ingredients cool and fresh.
- Misting Systems: By creating a fine mist in your cooking and dining area, you can greatly reduce the temperature.
B. Winter
As temperatures dip, you do not need to call it quits on your outdoor cooking. Once you add the correct components, you can actually use the kitchen in your yard in the winter, too.
- Add a Heat Source: Patio heaters, fire pits, or even an outdoor fireplace can help make a huge difference in comfort.
- Install Wind Barriers: Use clear vinyl screens, outdoor curtains, or permanent walls to block cold winds while allowing you to enjoy the view.
- Heated Flooring: During a full remodel, you may want to put radiant heating under stone or concrete floors.
- Warm Lighting: The warm colors of lighting help the space to look inviting and also create a cozy ambiance.
- Insulated Covers for Appliances: You can protect your grill, sink, and other outdoor kitchen components from the cold with insulated covers when they’re not in use.
C. Rain Showers
Don’t let a rain shower ruin your outdoor cooking plans. With some planning, your backyard kitchen will still be in action when the skies open.
- Weatherproof overhead cover: A solid roof or good retractable awning will keep the rain off your cooking area.
- Good Drainage: Proper kitchen construction will ensure that there is adequate drainage in the area and that surfaces are sloped in such a way as to avoid puddles and water damage.
- Slip-Resistant Flooring: A wet surface can easily become a safety hazard, hence, choose rough textured pavers or non-slip tiles.
- Sealed Cabinets & Drawer: Keep moisture out of every item inside your outdoor kitchen.
- Smart Lighting: Rainy days can be gloomy, so we must have adequate lighting so we can see no matter what the weather is like.
The Best Appliances & Accessories for Year-Round Use
The right appliances will have a huge impact on how functional your outdoor kitchen is year-round. Here are some must-haves:
- Bistro Grill: In addition to a built-in gas grill, which is an essential component, consider adding a smoker, pizza oven or flat-top griddle for added versatility.
- Outdoor Sink & Dishwasher: You will find clean up to be far easier with a water source right outside and no need to run in.
- Weatherproof Storage: Store all your tools, spices, and serving ware in sealed, durable storage cabinets.
- Ice Maker & Beverage Cooler: These are a must in the summer, keeping drinks cooled or even at room temperature, but having one on hand year-round means you’ll always have easy access to cold libations, especially once party season starts.
- Smart Controls: Wi-Fi-enabled appliances, such as grills and smokers, allow you to manage cooking temperatures from a distance.
Ready to Upgrade Your Backyard Kitchen?
Designing an outdoor kitchen that is usable year-round is more than just choosing the right grill. It’s a matter of creating a space that meets your lifestyle and can withstand the Texas elements.
Landscape Express specializes in designing and building beautiful, durable, functional backyard kitchens for year-round use. If you live in Lewisville, Corinth, Double Oak, Roanoke, Argyle, Bartonville, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Lantana, Copper Canyon, or anywhere in Denton County, we can help you build a backyard kitchen that you’ll want to use year-round!
Don’t let the weather rule when you can use your outdoor space. Let Landscape Express help create the backyard kitchen of your dreams that works in every season. From full remodels to simple updates, we have the team to make your dream a reality.
Learn more at Landscape Express, or contact us today to design your dream outdoor kitchen!
