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When making improvements to your backyard, a few additions to the overall design can improve the functionality of an outdoor kitchen. These refinements should improve the comfort and experience of your outdoor living space. To make your outdoor kitchen feel complete, consider the appliances, layout, and design elements that tie it together. This guide will explore the important pergolas design and integration with the rest of your outdoor space. If you're ready to take your outdoor kitchen to the next level, keep reading!
Location Matters: Shade vs. Sunlight
When designing your outdoor kitchen with a pergola, location is one of the first things to note. A factor homeowners should consider is the angle the kitchen itself sits. Ultimately, the choice will come down to your preference for facing shade or sunlight is pivotal, which can significantly impact your outdoor cooking and dining experience.
Embracing the Shade
Creating a shaded outdoor kitchen is essential in improving the cooking and dining experience for guests and the homeowner. For those who experience intense heat during the summer, pergolas provide a superb solution by offering a balance of partial shade. Pergolas allow you to enjoy the outdoors while staying protected from the sun and not worrying about the added sunlight while handling flames. You can install retractable canopy systems on your pergola to adjust the shade level to keep you cool and protect your outdoor kitchen appliances and furniture from UV damage.Under the Sun
On the other hand, some homeowners prefer the warmth and natural light. The added sunlight can also benefit homes with nearby pools or specific seating areas. You can customize your pergola design to provide the right shade if you prefer additional sunlight.Why Pergolas Make a Great Addition to Outdoor Kitchens
Pergolas are an excellent choice for your outdoor kitchen for several reasons. They enhance your outdoor time during beautiful weather conditions and add to the overall completion of outdoor kitchen design.
- Attractiveness Pergolas add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor kitchen, giving off the feel of outdoor restaurant seating. They can become a focal point for your outdoor space, drawing attention to your cooking area while showcasing surrounding plants. You can choose from many materials, including wood, metal, or vinyl, to match your design preferences and the overall style of your home. Pergolas in outdoor kitchens can also vary in size; typically, smaller wooden pergolas frame the expanse of the counter space, helping not to overwhelm the area.
- Comfort Due to their versatility in design, pergolas offer shelter from the sun and rain, which can be reflected in the initial conceptualization. This overhead shelter allows you to use your outdoor kitchen year-round if necessary, expanding your living space and home.
- Defined Space Pergolas provide a sense of structure to your outdoor kitchen space, outlining it from the rest of your landscaping. The newly defined space appears as a stall, creating a cozy atmosphere to encourage relaxation and socializing.
- Increased Property Value
Size and Shape
Pergolas can be designed in various sizes and shapes, from simple rectangular structures to more intricate designs with arches and dips. The size and shape of your pergola should complement the current space and accommodate your desired outdoor kitchen layout. More creative sizes and shapes include circular pergolas and large designs to mimic an awning.Materials and Finishes
Choosing materials for your pergola can quickly define its aesthetics and indicate its longevity. Wood pergolas provide a warm, natural look, while metal or vinyl options offer durability and low maintenance. Consider staining or painting your pergola to match or contrast with your home's exterior. Décor Personalize the rest of your outdoor kitchen and pergola with décor that reflects your style. This can also be shown in the arrangement of new plants, the installation of outdoor lighting for ambiance, and the incorporation of nearby seating that matches the overall aesthetic.Matching Pergola Design to the Rest of the Space
Ensuring that your pergola design complements the rest of your outdoor space is essential to creating a harmonious outdoor oasis.- Stick to a Consistent Theme - Choose a pergola design that compliments the overall theme of your outdoor area. The pergola should not feel out of place with the existing aesthetic, whether you have a rustic or modern home.
- Cohesive Color Palette - Select colors for your pergola and outdoor kitchen materials that coordinate with your home's exterior and other outdoor features.
- Flow and Accessibility - During the layout designing process, the flow of your outdoor space will be important to consider. Ensure that your pergola's placement allows easy access to the other spaces and, if necessary, the indoor kitchen.