Three Thoughts on Outdoor Appliances

Outdoor appliances can be a tricky business and with so many to choose from, it can often be quite difficult to know which one is right for you.  So I’ve put together three major points to keep in mind as you begin your search.

Stainless steel is not created equal.  When searching for outdoor appliances, be sure to seek out grade 304 (also called 18/8) stainless steel.  This grade of stainless steel boasts the highest resistance to corrosion and will maximize the longevity of your appliance.

Check the label.  It is recommended to search for an outdoor refrigerator that is Underwriters Laboratories or “UL” certified.  This distinction means the appliance has been properly weatherproofed and is safe to operate in wet conditions. 

Don’t forget to ventilate.  If your outdoor kitchen is located beneath the eaves or awning of your house, be sure to properly ventilate your grill/cooktop.  Providing ventilation can also help keep down energy costs of refrigerator/ice makers. 

            Here are two outdoor appliances that really caught my eye.

Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire Grilling

This grill offers the solution to the dilemma of many outdoor cooking enthusiasts.  Gas or charcoal? Well, the Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire Grill provides a solution for just that problem.  This grill operates primarily on gas with the option of charcoal and wood logs for smoking.  This gives the grill master in the family the flexibility and convenience to select the best cooking method.

Sub-Zero UC-24RO Outdoor Refrigerator

This compact refrigerator offers Energy Star efficiency and is able to maintain its temperature in exterior conditions of 50-110 degrees.  This refrigerator boasts spill-proof shelves to eliminate messy spills.  It also features a family friendly exterior lock to secure your refrigerator, in case of small children. 

Hurthouse Landscape Architects

These three points are an excellent place to begin thinking about your ideal outdoor kitchen.  Today, there are so many amenities on the market, the possibilities are endless but this is where I can help.  There is an appliance to suit your needs that will maintain the highest quality and durability to help maximize your investment, and that never goes out of style!  I look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Have a great day,

Couture Knots Visit

            Today I visited Couture Knots in Southend and had the pleasure to meet with Ali, the owner of this fantastic new showroom.  Couture Knots carries high-end, European style rugs to suit everyone’s taste!  There is a wide selection of contemporary and traditional rugs in a vast array of exciting colors, textures, and materials.  All rugs carried at Couture Knots are handmade, and many of the Tibetan and Berber rug offerings boast contemporary designs while maintaining the integrity of traditional craftsmanship.

      Many of the contemporary Jan Kath rug designs struck me.  Ali informed me that Kath is known for sprinkling metal into the fibers of his creations to add a unique texture and quality to his pieces.  In many of his designs, you can find the varied pile height, which creates fantastic texture and are in high demand.  Also, viewing the classic “Japanese Floral” print of Florence Broadhurst in coral was brilliant. 

            It was a pleasure to explore Couture Knots and meet Ali.  It is exciting to have this new addition to Charlotte’s design community and I will look forward to my next visit.  What are your thoughts on some of these selections? I look forward to hearing from you!

Have a great day, 

Outdoor Kitchen: An Orientation

            Outdoors kitchens have been gaining in popularity and are a great way to take entertaining to the next level.  As summer swings into high gear, I’m sure we all like the sound of taking a dip while the burgers sizzle on the grill nearby.  Outdoor kitchens offer an exciting space where cooking, dining, socializing, and swimming go hand in hand.  But, creating your own oasis of course doesn’t happen overnight and takes lots of careful consideration. By asking yourself a few preliminary questions, you can begin to build your dream outdoor entertaining destination!

Photo Credit: Viadabelo Interior Design

How do you use your indoor kitchen? How would you like to use an outdoor kitchen?

Consider how you use your existing kitchen and how you would like to use an outdoor kitchen.

How often do you entertain?  How many people do you usually entertain?

Determine the best scope and size for your needs to create the best fit.

Do you cook at parties or hire a chef?

Photo Credit: Harold Liedner Landscape

            After considering those key points, an idea in your head is starting to form about your needs.  Then, you’re ready for a few helpful guidelines to further create that image in your head.

Photo Credit: The Collins Group/JDP Design

Architectural and Landscaping Harmony

To ensure that your outdoor kitchen enhances the overall appearance of your property, consider the existing house and landscaping for stylistic inspiration.  Selections for the outdoor kitchen can complement pre-existing elements of your home and bring the backyard the splash of fun you’re looking for.

Photo Credit: AMS Landscape Design Studios

Plan Outdoor Space As One Location

Consider the pool, dining area, and outdoor kitchen area all as one interdependent space, where cooking, socializing, and swimming are all simultaneously occurring.  This allows you to consider issues like how you and your guests will use the space, if it is sufficient in size, and where people will walk.  And don’t forget to include the cook in the heart of the social areas!

Extend The Use of Your Outdoor Kitchen

Are you absolutely thrilled by the idea of an outdoor kitchen and want to use it everyday?  Consider incorporating a few things to maximize the amount of time you can enjoy in your kitchen.  By simply installing a heating and cooling option and proper lighting, you will extend the hours and seasons for outdoor entertaining. 

Photo Credit: Ann Johnson Design

Plan Ahead

By creating a full vision of the functions you would like your outdoor kitchen to provide, you can eliminate adding things in the future.  Specifically, music and other entertainment options are worth considering, as installation after construction has finished is not the most cost effective.

Stay tuned for more exciting topics in creating you dream outdoor kitchen.  In my coming posts, I’ll be exploring the best materials and finishes to weather the elements, the latest and greatest in outdoor appliances, beautiful and durable outdoor furniture, and everything you’ll ever want to know about outdoor rugs. I'm interested to hear what image you envisioned for your perfect outdoor kitchen! 

Have a great day,

Banish #mondayblues and get #inspired. Salisbury Pediatric Dentistry, Salisbury NC. #interiordesign #color #bestoftheday