Use an Upper Arlington, OH Outdoor Kitchen Whenever the Mood Strikes with Landscape Lighting
An outdoor kitchen is the perfect way to embrace the gorgeous weather in Upper Arlington, OH. Cooking and dining outdoors becomes more than just a meal—it is an experience shared with others in the fresh air and a picturesque landscape. With a well-appointed outdoor kitchen, nearby dining, and landscape lighting to let you linger as long as possible in this exceptional environment, you have everything you need to entertain or relax.
The Outdoor Kitchen
Whether you prefer casual meals of burgers and hot dogs or elevated options like shrimp and steak, an outdoor kitchen makes everything you cook taste so much better. The proper kitchen setup makes cooking, serving, and cleaning up more efficient.
The Work Triangle
The outdoor kitchen work triangle is important for the same reasons as the indoor kitchen work triangle: efficiency and safety. By placing the three main work areas (the grill, the sink, and the preparation area) in close proximity to each other, you can minimize the amount of walking you have to do and reduce the risk of accidents. This is especially important if you are cooking for a large group of people.
A well-designed work triangle can also help to improve your ergonomics. When the work areas are at the right height and distance from each other, you can avoid having to bend over or reach too far, which can help to reduce muscle strain and fatigue.
Place the grill, sink, and preparation area within 4 to 9 feet of each other.
Avoid placing obstacles, such as islands or tables, between the work areas.
Make sure that the work areas are at a comfortable height for you.
Provide plenty of counter space for preparation and cleanup.
Install good lighting so that you can see what you are doing, even at night.
Expand Your Culinary Skills
Cooking outdoors can be an excellent way to expand your culinary skills with new foods and cooking methods that wow your guests. Try some options you might not have considered.
Grilled chicken or fish is a healthy and delicious option for an outdoor meal when served with your favorite sides, such as rice, grilled vegetables, or a salad. Grilled tacos are another easy and delicious option for an outdoor meal. Simply grill your favorite protein, such as chicken, beef, or shrimp. Then, set up a taco bar with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
If you didn’t opt for a pizza oven, try grilled pizza for a fun and unique way to enjoy pizza. Simply make your favorite dough and sauce, add your favorite toppings, and grill the pizza until the crust is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Outdoor Lighting
Strategic outdoor lighting for the kitchen makes cooking safer and more efficient but it also extends the evening so you can cook whenever it is convenient for you. Several types of lighting can help you prepare any meal you have your heart set on.
Task lighting can be used to illuminate specific areas of the kitchen, such as the grill, the sink, and the preparation area, making it easier to cook and clean, especially at night. Ambient lighting can be used to create a more inviting and relaxing atmosphere and accent lighting can highlight specific features of the outdoor kitchen, such as the grill, the island, or the countertops.
About the Author:
In 2001, Shawn Rine decided he would like to earn a little pocket change. With a used mower and lots of hard work, he got his neighbors' yards into shape in no time. Nearly two decades later, Rine Landscape Group has a few more mowers – not to mention a staff of certified landscape specialists and an extensive portfolio of innovative, functional landscape projects in neighborhoods all over the Greater Columbus Metro Area.