We sat down with developer and designer extraordinaire Anthony Carrino to talk about the most common questions design professionals have when it comes to outdoor kitchens. The highlights of our conversation that follow provide great insights that will help you plan your next outdoor kitchen project with confidence. 

Modular cabinetry can simplify the work of planning outdoor kitchens. And remember: Modular doesn’t mean inflexible. In the end, your thoughtful, intentional design is what brings the kitchen to life. 

• Start early.
  This applies to literally every aspect of every kitchen design project—but the complexities of outdoor design can be unexpected. Give yourself the time to consider potential infrastructure work needed to run gas, power and water to the kitchen, along with the impact that the elements will have on the materials you use.
  
  
• Use manufacturer design services.
  These teams are the experts on these products, and they’re here to help. Send them your draft design for review. They can spot potential issues early on, or even suggest alternatives that might be a better fit. Focus on the overall dimensions and appliance list—the design team adds so much value by showing you all the options and components that work for your specific project.
  
  
• Consider preconfigured vs. custom for budget-conscious clients.
  Preconfigured cabinetry systems, like the Classics line from Urban Bonfire, are generally less expensive than custom ones. While the available options may be limited, mixing and matching these modular pieces with custom elements may be a more economical solution.
  
  
• Think about flexibility, potential changes and alternative uses.
  Modular cabinetry systems are meant to grow with you. If you decide to make changes to your outdoor kitchen, it’s easy to swap out components or relocate them as needed. There is a misconception that the set number of options available with modular systems limits your flexibility as a designer. In fact, preconfigured collections will usually have a solution that works well in terms of form and function. The key here is understanding exactly what components are on offer and how to work with them—again, asking the in-house design team makes all the difference here. A manufacturer’s preconfigured systems may be compatible with each other, allowing you to get the specific matching parts you need to install new appliances, for example, without the need for a complete cabinet replacement. And remember, outdoor kitchen cabinets can also provide helpful storage for all kinds of things—from gardening equipment to pool toys, or even a bar.
  
  
• Learn about your client’s lifestyle.
  It’s important to know what your homeowner wants to achieve with their outdoor kitchen. How often will they use it? What are they planning to use it for? What appliances will they use most often? Be sure to choose cabinetry components based on what they want to store outside and how they’re going to use the kitchen. As always, the best, most successful designs are intentional ones tailored to the people who will use them. 

It’s important to have the mindset that everything is custom. Every client has a unique situation and wants something different. It’s the job of the designer to make each space work.

• Use your entire design process.
  Even if you decide to work with some prefab elements, it’s important to go through your entire design process. Combining custom and prefab elements may require some creativity. And don’t be afraid to mix materials—this is a great way to integrate the kitchen into the existing architecture for a more cohesive look. As always, consult the manufacturer design team for their expertise. They can show you the possibilities and potential limitations of your design.
  
  
• Know the non-negotiable.
  Every client has a non-negotiable. Be sure that you know exactly what it is and try to use it in the best possible way in your design.
  
  
• Use 3D scanning technology.
  Scanning every space with Matterport or another 3D scanning technology is a huge timesaver. It’s a great way to get started—and you won’t have to revisit the site for measurements. You can share your evolving design with subcontractors and other stakeholders so they can continue working on their end. When you eventually meet on site, you’ll be able to talk specifics and be at the next level when it comes to your project.

• Use cabinetry for specific purposes and supplement with custom elements.
  SPut the cabinetry where you need it to make your kitchen both functional and beautiful, and then surround it with custom components. For budget-minded clients, you can save money by using prefab cabinetry and elevating it with beautiful additions like wood storage, stone countertops and top-notch cooking equipment. 

There are so many appliances available for outdoor kitchens, but that doesn’t mean that your project should include all of them. Knowing the capabilities and requirements of each appliance is key.

• Consider whether or not the appliance is meant to be built in.
  Not every appliance can be put inside a cabinet due to weight or ventilation issues. For example, installing a smoker requires wires, clearance and access for cleaning—and installing in a cabinet would impact the functionality of this appliance. The manufacturer will indicate whether or not the appliance can be built in and also provide the clearances required. Sometimes, countertop appliances will look built-in if there’s a cabinet below. Talk to the in-house design team about your ideas—they’ll let you know if there are any red flags.
  
  
• Understand features to see if appliances are necessary.
  Knowing your client and their goals for the outdoor kitchen is important. See how often they’ll actually use each appliance in the kitchen. All of the available options are exciting, but may not be worth the investment.
  
  
• Account for weight and clearances.
  Some appliances, especially pizza ovens, can weigh thousands of pounds. Be sure that the cabinets or countertops you choose can accommodate this load, or plan for additional support as needed. A separate cart may be more helpful for heavy appliances. Also, keep all clearances to combustible surfaces in mind. An Urban Bonfire backsplash, for example, is a really simple, modular and elegant solution that can eliminate combustibility issues. Always check any bylaws to ensure that these installations are compliant.
  
  
• Know the fuel type and add storage if needed.
  This mostly pertains to wood. Adding an open cabinet that shows off the stacked wood not only looks great, but allows for easier access.  

Starting early and planning thoroughly applies to everything we’ve discussed here—but it’s especially crucial when it comes to making sure all plumbing and electrical work is done correctly and in advance.

• Provide a full set of drawings, including Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing plans (MEPs).
  Include all of the available details. Clients and subcontractors really appreciate this as it helps keep the project moving.
  
  
• Field measure and spray cabinet layout, all MEP routes and termination points.
  Be sure to spray all of this after demolition, once the site work begins. Putting a visual reference on the ground and talking through it can eliminate confusion. Unlike indoor kitchens, where running mechanicals and making additions can be fairly easy, forgetting a gas or drain line could result in ruined landscaping.
  
  
• Consider the budget. 
  Placing the outdoor kitchen close to the home is easier and less costly than locating it further away on the property. This eliminates much of the complexity and expense of running mechanicals.
  

• Apply indoor kitchen principles to your outdoor design. 
  An outdoor kitchen is just an indoor kitchen outside. The modular systems essentially work the same, but are just made using different materials. This can be especially helpful to remember if you’re designing your first outdoor kitchen. Try to arrange your outdoor kitchen elements in line with or as close to your mechanicals, electrical and plumbing as possible. 

Ready to start work on your next outdoor kitchen project? Talk to our design experts—we’re happy to help.