20 ERA DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES LUXE CORNER 21 SPRING/SUMMER 2024 Work with Your Surroundings A successful outdoor kitchen should function as an extension of your home, complementing your existing design and blending seamlessly with its surroundings. One way to do this is to connect your indoor and outdoor areas with large windows or folding doors, thus encouraging more visual continuity. If possible, consider mimicking architectural elements from your home (columns or alcoves, for example) within your outdoor kitchen to enhance the flow between the spaces. Does your yard have great views? Orient your kitchen to capitalize on this by placing your seating area in the best vantage point. Of course, there are other practical reasons for designing an intelligent layout. For example, if you plan to get a lot of use out of your grill, make sure your seating area is far enough away from the grill that you and your guests aren’t bothered by the heat and smoke that it emits. Likewise, if you’re installing a sink but not a dishwasher, place the sink closer to the interior of your home to minimize the distance you have to walk with your hands full of dishes. Personalize Your Space Functionality and efficiency aside, your kitchen should also reflect your personality; think about the things that bring you joy and incorporate those things into your space. Are you a wine connoisseur or a cocktail maven? Design a separate counter or island with barstool-style seating, a mini-sink and a built-in cooler for wine and mixers. (Or combine your kitchen with your pool to create a swim-up bar!) Sports fans can watch the big game al fresco on a wall-mounted outdoor TV screen; avid gardeners can set aside a section of the kitchen for growing herbs and vegetables. Keep it Properly Maintained Maintenance is especially important for outdoor kitchens because they’re constantly exposed to the elements. In addition to standard chores such as cleaning surfaces and checking for signs of wear, you should schedule seasonal maintenance tasks, including sealing countertops, inspecting gas and water lines and protecting your furniture. Versatile and stylish, bespoke outdoor kitchens enhance the quality of your life while also adding curb appeal and increasing the value of your property. With careful planning and smart design, you can create a personal oasis right in your backyard. Your kitchen should also reflect your personality; think about the things that bring you joy and incorporate those things. " "
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