Lighting
Lighting is an important consideration for setting the mood and enjoying the outdoor living space in the evening. To ensure this is done properly, an expert should be hired to create a lighting plan that works with the backyard features and landscape environment. Safety is also important; therefore, illuminating the kitchen and surrounding areas should be part of the design scheme. A well-lit cooking and dining area is important to the overall atmosphere the homeowner wants to create.
Further, the dramatic appeal of an outdoor kitchen and lounge area can be greatly affected by different lighting techniques. Various options include: chandeliers, lanterns, lamps, ceiling fan with lights, mounted task lights, string lights, recessed lighting, porch lights, or wrought-iron sconces. Once the sun goes down, the ambiance can be set by the positioning and shading offered by the lights.
Heating and cooling
Heating and cooling devices are available when needed for those chilly nights and scorching summer days. Adding an outdoor fireplace or fire pit can create a cozy feel around the outdoor kitchen space, while also serving to pull the entire area together. These features add warmth and deliver a soothing glow to the décor.
Portable air coolers, misting systems, and fans can help keep the atmosphere cool and comfortable should relief from heat and humidity be required.
Add a hot tub
The next step in transforming the backyard into a home resort is adding a water feature. Including a hot tub with an outdoor kitchen is one way to create the ultimate outdoor living space.
To make this happen, a drawing of the backyard’s layout, including the hot tub and outdoor kitchen areas, should be done first. The following points should be kept in mind when preparing these plans:
- Identify how much space is available for each feature area (e.g. the hot tub and kitchen);
- Design the area to complement the outdoor kitchen and sitting area; and
- Leave space to add foliage, rocks, pathways, water features, and/or decks.
Preparing for the hot tub delivery is another critical step. The area where it is being installed should comprise a solid, flat foundation capable of supporting the weight of the water-filled hot tub. Access to the backyard is also key. There should be enough space to complete the delivery and allow installers to connect the hot tub properly. A nearby electrical connection is required to hook up the hot tub. The type of unit being installed will determine the specific electrical requirements.
Just like the many options a homeowner has when installing an outdoor kitchen, they have several choices when it comes to a hot tub or swim spa, as well. Some may prefer an entry-level plug-and-play model, while others a top-of-the-line unit that offers the ultimate in hydrotherapy and relaxation. Either way, there is a hot tub or swim spa available to fit any décor, landscape, and outdoor space.
Lauren Roberts is a recent graduate of the University of Redlands in California. Her work has been published in online, as well as in print in the most recent edition of the Redlands Review. Lauren currently works as a public relations specialist for home resort manufacturers Cal Spas and Cal Flame. She can be reached via e-mail at lroberts@calspas.com.
