It’s Friday night in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The grill is going, friends are on the patio, and you keep walking inside for plates, drinks and a cutting board. Hearing a burst of laughter from the other side of the patio door, you realize it’s time to look for someone who designs and builds outdoor kitchens Sioux Falls. A good outdoor cooking space keeps everything within reach, so you don’t miss out on the conversation. And it starts with a plan. Here are six decisions to make before you build an outdoor kitchen.
1. Start with how you cook and host
Before you pick a single appliance, think about how you use your space. Do you grill for the family on weeknights? Do you host large gatherings on the weekends? Your lifestyle determines almost every aspect of the outdoor kitchen design.
- Cooking style: Do you need a grill only, or would a griddle, burner, pizza oven or smoker be on your list?
- Guests: How many people do you typically cook for, and where do they sit?
- Prep: Where do you chop, plate and clean up?
2. Choose a layout that fits your space
Next, match the layout to your patio. A straight run along the house is simple and works well on smaller patios. Whereas an L-shape adds counter space and keeps the cook closer to guests. An island with seating turns the outdoor kitchen into the spot where everyone naturally gathers.
Don’t forget to leave room to move. Just like the kitchen inside your home, you need plenty of space to move freely between the prep, cooking, and serving areas. If the space feels cramped, no one will want to spend time there.
3. Pick cabinetry and appliances built for outdoors
South Dakota weather is hard on materials. Because of that, choose cabinetry, countertops and appliances made for outdoor use. Look for finishes that handle rain, sun and freezing temperatures without fading, cracking, and wearing down. Be sure to research the maintenance requirements for each material, as this will affect the longevity.
Think about storage too. Tight-closing cabinets keep tools and supplies clean and accessible, while a small refrigerator keeps drinks and food close to the grill.
4. Add cover to use your outdoor kitchen in more seasons
Overhead cover makes the biggest difference in how often you use your outdoor kitchen. If you don’t already have a covered deck or patio, consider a pergola! A pergola over the cooking and dining space gives you shade in summer and shelter from rain. Innov8 Outdoors designs aluminum pergolas with a louvered or solid roof, so you choose the cover that fits your space.
Then you add the pieces that stretch your season:
- Motorized screens block wind, sun and bugs and add privacy.
- Heaters take the chill off cool evenings.
- Lights and fans keep the space comfortable after dark.
All together, your outdoor kitchen turns into a luxury space that works for far more of the year than an open patio.
5. Plan gas, power and water early
Utilities cost more to change later, so plan them first. Decide where gas, electric and water lines run before anyone pours concrete or sets a pergola post. Because Sioux Falls winters get cold, plan to winterize any water lines too. You will need to check the city’s permit requirements as well. Our team can help you plan the layout and talk through utilities and permitting when you book a design consulation.
6. Work with an Experienced team from design to install
Finally, think about who’s going to build it. Whether you’re doing a complete patio renovation or simply adding an outdoor kitchen to your existing space, you want a team with experience on your side. Innov8 Outdoors can help you design and build your custom outdoor kitchen. If you’d like to add a pergola or motorized screens, we can do that, too!
Stop by our Showroom at 2400 N. 4th Ave. in Sioux Falls to see our outdoor kitchen, pergola, and motorized screen displays. Learn more about the services we offer in South Dakota.
Start planning this winter
Design and installation take time. The best thing you can do is start now. Taking time to plan over the winter puts your outdoor kitchen on our schedule before spring comes around. Contact us today to get the conversation started.
TAKE LIFE OUTDOORS.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: OUTDOOR KITCHENS SIOUX FALLS
The price depends on size, layout, appliances, cabinetry and cover. A design consultation gives you a clear quote for your space.
It depends on your city and the project. Check local requirements early, and our team helps you plan around them.
Today! Design and installation take time, so planning in winter helps you enjoy your kitchen in spring.
Innov8 Outdoors designs and build outdoor kitchens Sioux Falls and the surrounding South Dakota communities.