Creating Luxurious Spaces for Cooking and Socializing

Transforming a blank outdoor space into a captivating area for cooking and socializing is a dream for many homeowners. We recently took on a project in Essex that perfectly embodies this aspiration. In this blog post, we will explore the meticulous process of creating an exquisite outdoor kitchen and shelter that seamlessly integrates with the existing home.

To ensure a cohesive aesthetic, the kitchen was constructed using brickwork that mirrors the house's design, giving the impression of a natural extension rather than a separate entity. While an L-shaped layout was initially considered, a U-shaped design with a bar area was ultimately chosen for its functionality and visual appeal.

The centrepiece of the kitchen is the stunning dark granite worktop, meticulously crafted from Absolute Nero, a 30mm-thick granite renowned for its elegance and durability. To add to the aesthetics, upstands were cleverly integrated along the granite and brickwork, creating a seamless and sophisticated look.

The shelter, designed to provide comfort and protection from the elements, was constructed using a sturdy timber frame and topped with a rubber membrane to prevent water leakage. The roof, sloping downward to a gutter, effectively channels water towards an existing drain pipe. For an added touch of visual appeal, the client plans to install cedar cladding beneath the shelter and on the surrounding fence, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.

Functionality and convenience were key considerations in the design of this outdoor kitchen. Equipped with heaters strategically placed above the bar and cooking areas, homeowners can enjoy their outdoor oasis all year round. The kitchen also features sockets with USB chargers, perfect for keeping devices powered up while entertaining guests. Stainless steel shelving provides ample storage for plates, cups, and utensils, ensuring everything is within reach.

When it comes to cooking, the kitchen leaves no stone unturned. It boasts a Beefeater 1600 series stainless steel four-burner grill, perfect for barbecuing mouth-watering delicacies. Additionally, a DeliVita wood-fired pizza oven takes outdoor cooking to a whole new level, allowing homeowners to create an array of delicious dishes with a distinct smoky flavour.

Storage is an essential component of any well-designed kitchen, and this outdoor space is no exception. The kitchen offers a stainless steel triple drawer unit, a sink with a stainless steel cupboard underneath for easy access to pipes, and an open space under the grill and oven area. Waste disposal is made effortless with a pull-out drawer unit, while a Beefeater stainless steel double fridge provides ample storage for food and beverages, ensuring that homeowners can entertain with ease.

The bar area, approximately 900mm wide, features an overhang at the back to accommodate bar stools, creating the perfect spot for guests to sip a refreshing drink while enjoying the outdoor ambiance. Adding a charming final touch, a sign reading 'Peacock's Barbecue and Pizza' serves as the kitchen's focal point, welcoming guests to indulge in mouth-watering delights.

We are really pleased for this transformation of the underutilized space into functional recreational zone. If you're looking to elevate your outdoor living experience, don't forget to follow us on social media to discover more of our remarkable projects.

Experience the joy of outdoor cooking and entertaining like never before with a bespoke AOS outdoor kitchen  – where luxury, durability, and unparalleled craftsmanship meet.