April 30, 2008 // Franchising.com // (Richmond, VA)The kitchen is a common area where people choose to renovate, whether to change the "look" or to make it more convenient with upgraded appliances and cabinetry. More recently, however, the kitchen has actually extended into the great outdoors - also known as the backyard - as more people inquire about how to make outdoor entertaining more enjoyable and convenient, says Moe Meagher, a spokesman for Archadeck.
"Long gone are the days when people simply looked to their grill for backyard entertaining. Now, the big thing is outdoor kitchens," Meagher said. "This trend has been front and center; we have seen increased interest over the past few years. People are spending more time outside and using the kitchen as a big part of their entertaining."
Meagher added that outdoor kitchens make it easier for people to really take advantage of outdoor living. In many cases, when people have traditional backyard parties, they have to keep going in and out of the home for cooking that has to be done on stoves and in ovens, or to grab items out of the refrigerator. And, when it turns to evening, it may get a little too chilly to stay outside. But now, fire pits are being installed and outdoor kitchens are designed with numerous appliances as part of the yard scheme.
Archadeck handles everything that one would need for an outdoor kitchen - from building the deck; the installation of the actual kitchen, with all the countertops and appliances; and implementing a shade structure. Archadeck sets itself apart from others by distinguishing itself as a "custom-design and build" business, Meagher said. It acts as both the designer and the builder, designs the project for the customer and then makes it a reality by constructing it.
"The thing about the outdoor kitchen trend is that people do not just want a kitchen outdoors, they are interested in a kitchen that enhances other amenities in their backyard," Meagher said. "It is not just a stove and 'fridge that is being incorporated. It is a pizza oven, wine cooler - all next to a gazebo or outdoor room. It all depends on the individual needs, what the weather is like in their region, and how much they are willing to invest in the project. And, typically, many people who want outdoor kitchens are willing to invest a lot into it."
The sky is the limit when it comes to the many choices homeowners have, Meagher said. For example, kitchen units can be bought pre-made, but most of the time people request something that is customized so that it can match the design of their home. Whether it has a wood finish, or stone veneer, there is a range of aesthetic options they have to choose from, including kitchens made with low-maintenance materials. In addition, roofing and pergolas are usual choices for those interested in protecting their outdoor kitchen from precipitation or from the harsh rays of the sun.
"For each project we do, we try to get an idea on how the person is going to use the space, functionally. Then, we show them pictures and give them different design options, including aesthetic choices, and we discuss with them how much they are comfortable with spending," Meagher said. "After that is all done, we take care of all the plans and building - from start to finish; it's a turnkey solution."
For more information about Archadeck or outdoor kitchens, please visit www.archadeck.com.
About Archadeck
Archadeck, established in 1980, has built more than 65,000 projects across the country and is recognized as the largest deck builder in the United States. Their mission is to enhance the lives of customers by creating unique and innovative outdoor living environments. Qualified Remodeler magazine ranks Archadeck fifth on the 2007 National Remodeling Firms List. Archadeck projects have graced the covers of Gardens, Decks and Patios and Decks & Backyard Projects. The company has been featured in articles in This Old House, Backyard Solutions and Smart Money, as well as on Home & Garden TV (HGTV).
###
