As outdoor kitchens and alfresco gardens grow in popularity, the use of cabinets outside increases. There are many uses for weatherproof cabinets, particularly in those extensively used kitchens where a variety of cooking gadgets and serving dishes can be stored. Even if you use paper plates and cups most times, there are still several pots, pans, and utensils that you’ll use and want to store nearby.
Cabinets for Outdoor Kitchen Use
The extent of your kitchen outside will help determine how many cabinets you’ll need to install. If you have a full kitchen with appliances and food storage, include plenty of storage spaces. Cabinets can be built or purchased and installed on your site.
Materials for outdoor cabinets differ somewhat from those used inside, as they must withstand the elements. Brick, stucco, and block are options to consider. Rugged stainless steel and polymer hold up well. Polymer is a resilient plastic often used in boats that does not rust or fade. Both materials are easily cleaned.
Woods for Outdoor Cabinets
Coordinate the cabinets with the rest of your kitchen design. Use woods like teak, cedar, or Brazilian ipe (a hardwood from the rainforests that has come into use during the past few decades), also known as Brazilian walnut. These are long lasting and appropriate for use in building outdoor cabinets. If wood is properly maintained, it will resist fading. Use the same woods as you’d use for a deck.
Allow plenty of room for visiting in the outdoor kitchen with comfortable chairs and other seating around a dining table. Include cabinet top workspaces for prepping food and sinks for cleanup. Include multi-purpose cabinets and other additions to your outdoor rooms that double as planters. Take advantage of your sunny spots to make the appearance of your cabinets unique.
While adding cabinets in the garden area, consider the need for one near your potting bench. A cabinet for plant food, hand tools, and plant markers can help you keep the area organized.