As you consider investing in a Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchen or another brand for your outdoor living space, you may be thinking “I can do this myself.”  After all, in the age of YouTube instructions – it should be a breeze.

Think again.  Even in the simplest of projects, you must consider factors such as materials, size, layout, design, color, positioning in the outdoor space, appliances, installation, local building codes, and all their associated details. Instead of taking on the task on your own, we recommend turning to an architect, designer, landscaper, or other professional who can help bring your signature outdoor kitchen design to life.

See Related: Should You Build Your Outdoor Kitchen with Wood, Concrete, or Stainless Steel?

Although it might seem simple to choose a cabinet material or color for your outdoor kitchen setup, determining the differences in materials requires experience and knowledge. Otherwise, you run the risk of choosing a material that will not hold up well for a long time outdoors, such as wood or plastic. Danver manufactures the most durable and beautiful cabinets for outdoor kitchens from 100% stainless steel that can be powder coated in many different colors, textures, and wood grain finishes. Our outdoor kitchen cabinets also have plenty of features, such as drawers with double-wall construction and full extension, self-close/soft-close technology, doors complete with rain gaskets and magnetic closures, as well as back and end panels, which gives the cabinetry a finished look. This attention to detail and engineering capability far surpasses any possibilities for a Do-It-Yourself project.

Deciding on Your Design: Size, Layout, and Positioning

It is important to determine the appropriate size, layout, and positioning for your outdoor kitchen so that it seamlessly fits your outdoor space. Architects and designers have valuable resources and experience with creating very detailed and even 3D layouts to ensure fit and function for your rooftop, patio or backyard kitchen. These tools also aid in kitchen positioning by determining the best location and position of appliances based on factors such as access points, sunrise and sunset, and location relative to other structures or amenities (like a house or a pool). This process will also help to visualize your  outdoor kitchen idea before it is built. Collectively, our sales/design team at Danver has decades of experience with the nuances of designing and installing outdoor kitchens – their experience, coupled with that of a design professional, will give you the best possible results.

Functional Appliances and Amenities

Choosing the correct appliances and sizes is crucial to a functional kitchen. You may not realize all the amenities that are available to you or you may choose appliance sizes that do not fit your backyard, patio or rooftop. Although Danver does not manufacture appliances, we distribute a wide selection of high quality appliances and amenities for one-stop shopping convenience.  Our team can also provide recommendations for an outdoor grill based on sizes and other outdoor kitchen features that will work well in your design. In addition, our appliance cabinets fit almost any manufacturer’s outdoor appliance. Unlike with a DIY project, professional consultation will provide you with all your appliance options to make your outdoor cooking space as functional as possible.

Proper Installation and Local Building Codes

Installing an outdoor kitchen can be a tricky process without expertise. Due to natural elements such as wind, certain considerations must be made to maintain structural integrity and durability while following local building codes. In high wind areas, it is often a requirement to secure the cabinets to an immovable structure. It is also vital to make sure that cabinets are level, square, and plumb so that doors and drawers can open and close properly. Even though Danver cabinets are delivered pre-assembled and with professional instructions, working through a professional will ensure that codes and regulations are being followed. In short, turning to professionals will guarantee that the bases are covered for a seamless installation process from start to finish.

Building an outdoor kitchen area on your own may seem tempting in the age of Do-It-Yourself instructions. As we discuss in this article, there are many factors to consider, and we highly recommend leaving your DIY outdoor kitchen project up to the experts. They can guide you through every step of your design, ensuring that the only thing you need to “do yourself” – or preferably with family and friends – is fully enjoying your dream outdoor living space! Let us help transform the outdoor living space today!