04 — Articles

Outdoor Kitchens: Smart Planning for Countless Festive Gatherings!

How do you choose the perfect outdoor kitchen for your space?

An outdoor kitchen transforms your backyard into a refined, functional living space—perfect for hosting guests or simply enjoying life outdoors. But before you dive into designing your dream setup, several key factors should be considered to ensure a durable, tailored investment. Here are the most important elements to analyze before purchasing your outdoor kitchen.

Define Your Needs and Lifestyle: Start by asking yourself the right questions to design a kitchen that truly reflects how you live:

How often will you use your outdoor kitchen?

Do you prefer simple cooking or enjoy preparing elaborate meals?

Will you entertain guests often, or is the space mainly for family use?

If you’re passionate about grilling and cooking over open flame, a high-quality BBQ and outdoor fire feature are essential.

If complex meals are more your style, you might want to include spacious countertops, a sink, and even an outdoor refrigerator for a more complete culinary experience.

Choose the Right Materials for Long-Term Durability: Durability is key when it comes to outdoor kitchens. Your setup will be exposed to sun, rain, and even harsh winter freezes, especially in climates like Quebec. That’s why you need weather-resistant, low-maintenance materials, such as:

• Marine-grade PVC: Heavier and sturdier than aluminum, PVC won’t fade over time and offers exceptional longevity.
• Powder-coated aluminum: Aluminum won’t rust, and when coated with a quality baked-on finish, it can last 25 years or more. This finish also offers excellent scratch resistance.

Select the Right Equipment: A well-equipped outdoor kitchen helps you make the most of your space. Consider these must-have appliances and accessories:

• Built-in BBQ or grill: The centerpiece of any outdoor kitchen—choose gas, charcoal, wood, or hybrid options depending on your cooking style.
• Fireplace and patio heaters: Extend your evenings outside with warmth and ambiance.
• Sink and prep area: Eliminate the back-and-forth between indoors and outdoors.
• Outdoor refrigerator and storage: For convenience, organization, and easy access to ingredients.
• Additional cooking modules: Think plancha, side burner, or smoker to match your culinary preferences.

Think About Layout and Ergonomics
A thoughtful layout will maximize your outdoor kitchen’s efficiency while improving flow and safety. Take inspiration from the classic indoor kitchen “work triangle” (fridge – sink – cooktop) to make your space intuitive. Key tips include:

• Ensure ample counter space for meal prep.
• Leave enough clearance around cooking zones for safety and comfort.
• Include seating areas to encourage togetherness and conversation.
• Consider Climate and Maintenance
  Your outdoor kitchen needs to suit your local climate. In Quebec, that means harsh winters and hot, humid summers. Here’s what to keep in mind:
• Install a pergola or roof structure to protect your kitchen from sun and precipitation. [Check out our article on pergolas here.]
• Use protective covers for appliances during the off-season.
• Make sure there's proper drainage to prevent water buildup.
• In full-sun areas, choose lighter colors to avoid excessive heat.
• If you plan to include a sink, ensure proper drainage for wastewater.
• Your kitchen must be installed on a stable foundation to avoid movement that could crack countertops. A concrete slab or helical pile-supported terrace are ideal bases.

Define Your Budget
The cost of an outdoor kitchen varies widely based on the complexity of the project, the materials, and the appliances you choose. Define a realistic budget and prioritize the elements that will have the most impact on your cooking experience—and your happiness.

Work with Experts
Finally, for a turnkey project, we recommend working with outdoor kitchen specialists. At Mughet, we guide you through every step of the design and installation process. We help you select the best products for a kitchen that’s elegant, functional, and built to last.

We also provide 2D and 3D renderings of your layout to help you visualize the finished space. From consultation to installation, we’ve got your outdoor living needs covered.

Explore Our Partner Brands: Visit the websites of our three trusted outdoor kitchen suppliers:

• Urban Bonfire
• Station Grill
• Cuisine Julien