5 Design Ideas for Those Planning Outdoor Kitchens in the Madison and Monona, WI Area

As you plan your dream outdoor living space, you are probably thinking about including an outdoor kitchen, whether it’s to be a simple grill station or a cooking space worthy of a world-class chef. You can bring many amenities you would find in indoor kitchens outside, and have the cooking experience you expect. Outdoor kitchens are endlessly customizable and can quickly become the hub of your summer activities. Here are five design ideas for those planning outdoor kitchens in the Madison and Monona, WI area.

Related: The Benefits of Adding a Pavilion to Your Outdoor Kitchen Design in Cottage Grove, WI

Housing and Shelter

The possibility of inclement weather shouldn’t daunt you as you design your perfect outdoor kitchen. A great solution is to include the outdoor kitchen within a larger shelter such as a pavilion - preferably a structure that houses both the kitchen and the outdoor dining space. When a freak rainstorm happens, you don’t want to have to scramble to put everything away to avoid rain damage and a ruined meal. Even more so, you don’t want your friends and family struggling to bring their food and drink inside to avoid the melee. Make sure to always include an option for shelter and you’ll be able to keep the party going no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

Bar Countertop

As you think about the seating area for outdoor dining, consider including a bar countertop. This will not only provide a space for preparing and cooking meals, but also a place for friends and family to gather and be part of the action while their delicious meal is prepared. Best of all, the inclusion of the word “bar” is no mistake and you can keep everyone refreshed while you mix up some incredible libations. A bar countertop is a place of gathering as well as a useful tool in your kitchen and overall outdoor living space; whether it’s a peninsula addition to a grill station or one complete side of a full outdoor kitchen will depend on the space available and your needs. Either way, a bar can reduce the amount of outdoor furniture you have on your patio. This double-duty approach is especially useful in small spaces.

Proper Lighting

Your outdoor kitchen will be the hub of activity in your home well into the night and proper lighting ensures that it’s a safe and well-lit environment. Kitchens have dangerous tools and appliances. The backsplash of an outdoor kitchen can house task lighting to illuminate prep and cooking spaces; and, lighting built into the walls will provide ambient lighting that will give just enough illumination while maintaining the romance of al fresco dining.

Wood-Fired Pizza Oven

The temptation of a hot and bubbly pizza right from your outdoor kitchen will send friends and family running to your backyard. A gorgeous masonry pizza oven can be used for much more than pizza: you can bake bread, slow-cook meats, make breakfast skillets or create luscious casseroles in this versatile space - and it’s always a conversation piece. You can add dazzling features like ornate and colorful tiles and make this oven a beautiful focal point. Best of all, the wood-fired pizza oven also provides a substantial amount of heat that can make almost any chilly evening far more comforting.

Proper Storage Space

Including storage space in your outdoor kitchen design will make the space more convenient - and therefore user-friendly. You don’t want to be stuck in a constant loop of running back inside because you forgot something. Ample storage space will ensure that everything you need is at your fingertips. Under-counter storage can include virtually the same elements as an indoor kitchen: cookware, dishes, cleaning supplies. An under-counter fridge is perfect for storing condiments and cold beverages.

Related: 5 Modern Landscape Design Ideas for a New Patio in Madison WI