Covered Outdoor Kitchen

One of our recent projects involved the construction of an outdoor kitchen. This was something of a challenging construction project because this portion of the yard lies below street level. We would not have discovered this problem were it not for our systematic methodology we follow in developing a landscape master plan, and for the 3D imaging software we use to model our design.

The survey of the property and subsequent model we adopted showed us exactly what grade elevations we were working with, and they provided us with the data necessary to develop a workaround for the problem. Rather than building the room in a less convenient location and risking ruining the aesthetic of the landscape, we simply installed a special pump to siphon out waste water into the drain system.

One of the most unique features of this outdoor kitchen was a custom smoker that we built inside it. Our clients like to smoke meats as much as they like to cook traditional fare, so this added convenience allowed them to do either or both all from the convenience of a central location.

We also added side burners that were specially designed for foods such as heated sautés, soups, chili, and other similar foods can all be prepared off to the side. This frees up a great deal of stove space for meats and vegetables without forcing the cook to change location to check on sauces or sups.

Because many outdoor events occur after sunset, it is very important that an outdoor kitchen have plenty of light. In addition to typical room lights we also installed a task light for cooking. The luminance of this fixture is so superb that the finest textures and colors are clearly visible even on dark, cloudy nights.

A number of specialized appliances were also installed in this outdoor kitchen so as to make it so fully operational that no one ever has to run inside. A sink and instant water heater were installed and linked to the hidden pump that removed the waste water from beneath the structure. We also added a refrigerator that was rated for outdoor use. It is equivalent in operability to indoor refrigerators, but specifically built to withstand the climatic and temperature variables that come with outdoor use.

We wanted to do more than simply make this structure a place for cooking food. The Pesek’s wanted us to create for them an outdoor living experience that represented the epitome of décor and amenity. They requested that we install custom mahogany cabinets and drawers. These helped to better establish a sense of décor, and they also provided excellent compliments to the architecture of the home.

A fireplace was built in the center of one wall, and fine furnishings were added to create the feel of an outdoor living room. The view of the landscape is superb from this seating area, because the outdoor kitchen is built at a terminal view point for the whole yard. The swimming pool lies in a direct line of site from its entrance and can be conveniently accessed at will.

Finally, to top of the sense of fine Houston outdoor living, we installed a fully operational sound system and entertainment system. Now, the Pesek’s can prepare a full course dinner for special guests and enjoy a movie, CDs, or, on cooler nights of the year, a warm conversation by the fireplace.