Homeowners are spending more and more time in their back yards, so it is no wonder they are looking for ways to make it easier to entertain outdoors. Rather than a simple grill, homeowners are incorporating full outdoor kitchens to their backyard retreats. Jim Ginocchi, president and founder of Coyote Outdoor Living, shares some of this year’s top trends in outdoor kitchens.
- Options and flexibility
People are looking to have appliances in their outdoor kitchen that are similar to the appliances in their indoor kitchen. Consumers are adding small outdoor refrigerators to reduce trips back into the kitchen. Additionally, many grills now offer capabilities similar to that of an indoor kitchen, allowing consumers to smoke, roast and slow cook items such as chicken or pork.
- Importance of add-on features
Outdoor kitchens are becoming full-fledged entertainment spaces, complete with furniture and accessories such as TV’s, outdoor seating areas, under the counter refrigeration and refreshment centers. Consumers are choosing little upgrades that fit their entertaining style. - Focus on entertaining
People are looking to embrace and welcome their guests into an outdoor oasis. This includes ample cooking and prep space, seating and bar areas. Outdoor kitchen enthusiasts are starting to utilize design elements in their outdoor kitchen that match their home, whether that be stone or brick with durable countertops such as tile, granite or concrete.