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Outdoor Kitchen Design in a Post-2020 World


Kalamazoo Artisan Fire Pizza Oven

July 5, 2020

With social distancing likely to continue for some time, outdoor kitchen design is evolving. KBB spoke with several manufacturers that specialize in outdoor kitchens to find out more about what clients are asking for now and how designers can provide for their outdoor kitchen needs in the future.

Outdoor Kitchen Design Growing in Popularity

“Even before COVID-19, outdoor living spaces were continuing to increase in demand, with 63.7 percent of all designers surveyed for the 2020 Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens State of the Industry Report confirming a rising interest in outdoor living spaces among their clients. After months spent in quarantine, outdoor spaces have become more important than ever, and we’re anticipating that outdoor entertaining spaces will be an even greater priority for homeowners in a post-COVID world.”

– Daniel Germani, designer and creative director of Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens, Danver and Trex Outdoor Kitchens

“The encouragement to go outside and reconnect with the natural world at times when we would otherwise be in office buildings has been one of the few benefits of changing our daily routines. As we continue to adjust to a ‘new normal,’ we believe the outdoor kitchen is going to start jumping to the top of many lists as consumers’ most requested renovation.”

Sarah Lograsso, director of marketing, Eldorado Outdoor

“During the initial onset of the pandemic, homeowners focused on DIY projects and upgrading their indoor kitchen appliances, as seen by increased online purchases of large appliances such as ranges and refrigerators. Similarly, there is increasing interest in dining alfresco as many turn their attention next to enhancing their outdoor kitchen. The need to get outdoors and into the fresh air combined with caution around social distancing could lead to homeowners wanting to create their own private outdoor space complete with a fully functional outdoor kitchen.”

Kyle You, managing director at THOR Kitchen

“We experienced record grill sales for the month of June this year and – like other many other outdoor products – there is no doubt that COVID-19 has impacted this number. Along with the increase in the number of people staying at home, consumers are also entertaining at home more and investing in their home and outdoor spaces during this challenging time. We have seen research that shows that more than 75 percent of consumers who regularly cook outdoors say they will likely cook outdoors more frequently this year, and for those that traditionally cook at home two or more times per week, 81 percent said they would be cooking outdoors more frequently.”

Sharla Wagy, the general manager for Memphis Wood Fire Grills

memphisThe Memphis Elite wood pellet grill from Memphis Wood Fire Grills boasts 1,275 square inches of cooking surface, a large pellet hopper, dual metal convection fans and precise temperature control up to 700 degrees. Constructed of durable stainless steel and equipped with double wall oven gasketing, the Elite can smoke a brisket, roast a turkey or sear a steak over an authentic wood fire. MSRP for Memphis Woodfire grills ranges from $1,999 for the Beale Street model, to $5,399 for the Memphis Woodfire Grill, Elite model. https://memphisgrills.com/

Features Trending with or Without COVID-19

“Color continues to become more popular in outdoor spaces. Thanks to industry and material advancements, manufacturers can create outdoor living spaces that look like what homeowners have inside, including realistic wood-grain finishes and bold or saturated colors. Though our State of the Industry Report found that neutral colors remain the most popular, nature-inspired colors – like deep blues and greens – are one of the biggest anticipated outdoor kitchen trends for 2020. We’re predicting even brighter, happier colors, like punchy oranges and yellows, will become more popular in 2020 and beyond.”

Germani, Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens, Danver and Trex Outdoor Kitchens

“One trend in outdoor kitchens is breaking them apart. Rather than a monolithic kitchen, divide it into sections that serve different activities. Each section needs enough countertop to work with and a little bit of storage, but you can create more space between stations without breaking the bank by filling the spaces in between with prepping countertops. Keeping your grill, sink and pizza oven from being crowded together makes it a more enjoyable place to cook.”

Russ Faulk, chief designer and head of product at Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet

“Outdoor spaces have evolved past the traditional barbecue and patio set and into a true focal point of the home. Many consumers investing in outdoor spaces are looking for enhanced features, such as full suites that offer multiple appliances in addition to a standard grill. Incorporation of beverage centers and storage drawers means everything from refreshments to ingredients that are within arm’s reach, while specialty appliances such as pizza ovens allow homeowners to create their entire meal completely outdoors. These innovations and upgraded enhancements offer convenience and functionality while elevating outdoor living into a true entertaining experience.”

You, THOR Kitchen

“For their grill choice, consumers are looking to make the most of their purchase with an appliance that does more than just grill. For their outdoor spaces, people are complementing their grills with pools, fire pits, bars, refrigerators and outdoor lighting, making these spaces much more than just places to eat. With this year’s trend to stay home, outdoor spaces will continue to serve as an extension of the indoors, transform into elaborate entertaining spaces and provide the opportunity for future investment.”

Wagy, Memphis Wood Fire Grills

eldorado stoneThe Bloc Fire Bowl from Eldorado Outdoor delivers warmth and style at only 20-inches by 20-inches. The system comes complete with a 65,000 BTU burner, all brass fittings, heavy-duty, stainless-steel platform and 10-year limited warranty. MSRP is $1,299. https://www.eldoradostone.com/types/outdoor-living/

Equipping Outdoor Spaces for Safe Entertaining

“Outdoor living spaces are a great option for hosting neighbors, friends and loved ones while remaining socially distanced. When designing these spaces, a kitchen area that operates independently from the indoors is key for safe and convenient entertaining, as it allows homeowners to maximize time with guests and limit guests’ trips indoors. To do so, outdoor kitchens need to be fully equipped with storage cabinetry, refrigerators, sinks, trash cabinets, countertop spaces and even dishwashers manufactured for outdoor use. And while durable, low-maintenance materials have always been critical when designing outdoor spaces, materials that are less porous and easy to clean – like stainless steel – are more important than ever for safe outdoor entertaining.”

Germani, Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens, Danver and Trex Outdoor Kitchens

“Fire bowls are an immediate attention grabber, and for those with a larger footprint, they provide an easy, engaging way to help guests keep reasonably apart from one another while conversing and sharing time. In addition to providing warmth and ambiance within an intentionally conversation-oriented space, fire bowls can be artistically clustered and staggered throughout the outdoor space to draw people together while still keeping a safe distance apart as pandemic-related concerns stay top-of-mind.”

Lograsso, Eldorado Outdoor

elements by tecnoBrown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens has launched Elements by Tecno, its latest collaboration with international architect and designer Daniel Germani. Available in a wide range of colors, the contemporary, freestanding collection offers a variety of unique stainless-steel modules and embraces a pared-back, European-inspired aesthetic. MSRP is made to order. https://brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com/

vinotemp

Vinotemp‘s Designer Series Outdoor Automatic Ice Maker produces and stores up to 25 lbs of clear ice in three different sizes – simply select the desired cube size with the push of a button. Front vented for built-in installation, the stainless-steel ice maker features auto-inlet water with a built-in pump along with the option of a gravity drain or drain pump – and the reversible door makes it simple to pair the unit with surrounding appliances. MSRP is $2195. https://www.vinotemp.com/