Kitchens serve as not only a place to prepare meals, but also as a main gathering space in the home. Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchens believes the same can be true when entertaining outdoors.
Particularly in urban areas, the company says, outdoor spaces are highly coveted and scarce. Danver cites a survey from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) that shows 69 percent of firms have reported an increase in requests for exterior living rooms.
Julie deLeon, designer and owner of Groundwork Design in Chicago, has over 11 years of industry experience and specializes in outdoor landscapes and roof gardens. She notes that when designing she strives for a sincere connection between the interior/exterior experiences, blending them into a singular, unified mood.
“Based in Chicago, I have many projects in the urban setting where the primary goal is to maximize the footprint of the outdoor space and enliven the living areas,” says deLeon. “A common request is for a lounging area, dining area, and outdoor kitchen.”
Danver calls the door style on this New Orleans outdoor kitchen Key West. The finish is a green powder coat.Photo: Steven Paul Whitsitt Photography
In addition to style, a main factor in exterior kitchen projects is functionality and durability, according to Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchens. The idea that building materials can withstand a harsh Chicago winter is a key factor for deLeon.
Mitch Slater, president of Danver, says outdoor living is about more than just personal style and atmosphere; it’s also about function and longevity.
“These two ideas work in conjunction with each other to create a desired look,” Slater says. “Stainless steel cabinets are especially designed and engineered for outdoor kitchens, transition rooms, rooftops and other spaces where durability is a concern.”
Kerrie Kelly, Zillow Digs home design expert and brand ambassador for Danver and Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens, notes that anything high-maintenance, intricate or over-styled will be replaced with materials that can both withstand the elements and transition beautifully between seasons.
While durability is one of the most important aspects in an outdoor living room, it’s not always the main goal.
An industry veteran and president of Dream Kitchens Inc., Rick Glickman, says that in tight urban areas people are looking for a not-so-urban getaway to relax and socialize with friends and family.
“Rooftops and patios are a conveniently located solution and an underutilized area where space is a premium,” Glickman says. “Adding an outdoor living room to entertain and relax is the perfect solution. However, in many instances, space and layout limitations come into play. It is always important to get a wish-list from clients of the most important items they are looking for, and design in a way that utilizes each inch in a meaningful way.”
Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchens also says rooftop outdoor kitchens are a fast-growing trend in urban settings.
