Text by: Sébastien Lacroix and Olivier Soucy
After sitting at the bar counter of your friend's outdoor kitchen, spending hours leafing through outdoor design magazines or, quite simply, cooking on your BBQ in your backyard and telling yourself that something was missing to surround it, the idea of having your own outdoor kitchen at home has probably germinated in your head.
An outdoor kitchen is a wonderful project that will generate many delicious moments (in every sense of the word) with your loved ones.
When you have an idea of what you want (however defined it may be), discussing it with one of our experts in the field at BBQ Québec will allow you to make your desires come true.
To prepare for your discussion with us, it is good to already have the answers to a few questions in mind (of course, if you don't have them all, that's okay, we will discuss the options that are possible for you, with you). You can also download and fill out our online questionnaire , if you prefer. Here are some important questions to think about:
1. How much space do you have?
By knowing the dimensions of the space available for your future outdoor kitchen, you will have a better idea of the number of modules you can install there and how you will arrange them (do you want an “L” shaped kitchen, a “U” shaped kitchen, etc.?).
2. Is the chosen environment ready for the installation of your outdoor kitchen?
To ensure you can safely enjoy your outdoor kitchen, there are a few things to think about. For example, is the surface level? Is your home's siding flammable? Is your yard easily accessible? Does a roof need to be added over the kitchen counters?
In any case, there are solutions so that, yes, you can have the joy of having an outdoor kitchen at home. Even the excavation is not an obstacle! 😉
3. How many people will be using your outdoor kitchen space? / Do you frequently entertain your loved ones?
In addition to the size of the space available, it is important to ask yourself "how many people will be enjoying the outdoor kitchen, at the same time?". Obviously, the larger the dimensions, the more people will be able to spend time together in the space in question.
If you have a large family, or are someone who often likes to entertain, it is essential to consider these factors in the equation. Indeed, regardless of the size of your property, if many people are spending time, at the same time, in your outdoor kitchen, this can also influence your choice of modules to install (a dishwasher, a draft beer system, etc.). Also, the more often your guests visit, the happier you will be to have everything in one place (no more endless trips back and forth from the BBQ to the house!) and to be well equipped.
4. What types and how many BBQs do you want?
The joy of an outdoor kitchen is being able to cook and grill delicious food on the grill. If you already have a BBQ/s at home, it is possible to add/build it into your outdoor kitchen space. Of course, you can also incorporate a new one/s. 😉
In the second case, you will then need to think about the types and models of BBQs you want to have. If more than one BBQ is to be included in your kitchen setup, keep in mind that this will also affect the space available for the rest of your modules.
5. What attributes are essential in your kitchen?
As you've thought about your outdoor kitchen and answered the previous questions, you may have realized that there are certain elements that, for you, are essential to have in your kitchen. An infrared burner, a sink, a refrigerator, an ice maker, a wine cellar, or a trash area, for example.
In order for you to be comfortable and happy in your work environment, it is essential to know what you want to find there.
When you think about attributes, you may also consider the materials of your modules in this question. Do you have a preference between granite, dekton, stone, stainless steel…?
Take action!
By having the answers to, or at least having these five questions in mind, you will already have a good basis for starting your outdoor kitchen project. Your advisor will also be able to present the different options available to you and guide you through the process during your meeting.
We think it’s important to mention, however, that there is no “thinking time” of a certain length that is required before booking an appointment with us. In fact, the sooner we can discuss your ideas together, the better, because an outdoor kitchen is done in several stages. So the sooner you start, the sooner you can enjoy your new favorite space.
No matter when you contact us, what is certain is that in the end, you will have a space thought out and "designed" for you and to your taste.
So, don't wait any longer, meet us to talk about your dream paradise space right here .
Happy BBQ!