Looking to keep up with the latest trends this year? We’ve got you covered as we dig into the ways people are sprucing up their living spaces. We’re closing the old creaky door on 2020 and welcoming some fresh, new ideas to help make our house a quarantine friendly home!

The style we would like to highlight today revolves around what we would assume to be a fan favorite; food.  That’s right, we’re diving into the latest kitchen concept and for those of you that enjoy fresh air, this one’s for you. 

Being stuck inside can be cumbersome for many which is likely the reason that Realtor.com has appointed outdoor kitchens as one of 2021’s greatest trends. Creating a space like this, especially if you are currently living or planning to live here in San Antonio, is going to revive and refresh you. Whether you’re just adding an outdoor refrigerator and dining area, or going all out with stovetops, counters and appliances, you’re adapting and giving yourself a reason to step out for a breath of fresh air (and a bite to eat!). We find that many people already have outdoor fireplaces and pits and patio/deck areas that are being used throughout the year so why not add a kitchen to make it complete.

Where outdoor kitchens are certainly becoming all the rage as of late, there are a few things we want to bring to your attention should it be something you are considering.  Realtor.com lists off a number of outdoor kitchen mistakes to avoid at all costs and we’re here to shine some light on a few of them.

1. Weather: This isn’t as much a factor in San Antonio as it would be somewhere like the Northeast, but cooler climates will certainly make this a tricky addition. Depending on where you are, you may need to consider storing and winterizing electrical components such as refrigerators.

2. Sunlight: Direct sunlight is never good for outdoor kitchens considering outdoor refrigeration appliances should be limited to sunlight exposure.  To help alleviate this problem, it is suggested that you create a roof structure to help protect it from the sun if natural shade is not an option.

3. Flammable Materials: It is highly recommended to use materials such as metal, brick or stone when building out your kitchen.  Where a wood grill island would be visually appealing, it’s not entirely the safest option.  If wood is an absolute must, installing an insulated jacket around it to prevent fires is highly suggested.

4. Cramped Space: Only consider the things you really need versus having too much outside and negating the feeling of coziness that should come with having an outdoor kitchen.

5. Maintenance: Stainless-Steel appliances should be coated with a protectant to prevent rust and that fancy new grill you got certainly won’t clean itself.

If an outdoor kitchen is something you are considering, take a look at the rest of the mistakes Realtor.com highlights to ensure your new space is going to leave you smiling from ear to ear once it is complete!

Image source: https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/outdoor-kitchen-design-mistakes-to-avoid/