New Orleans is famous for its fun parties and events; there is no better way to start the warm season than with an outdoor entertainment area in the form of a new outdoor kitchen. It's the perfect outdoor feature for barbecues in the garden or for family parties by the pool, regardless of where you are in New Orleans. With proper planning, you can create an outdoor kitchen that your family will enjoy for many years.

Get started with these key tips for an outdoor kitchen.
Make a Budget Before You Start
Kitchens can generally be expensive, so you’ll want to start with a budget in order to find out what kitchen you can afford. For example, if your budget is low, you can choose a fireplace instead of a full stove. If you have the time and knowledge, you can save a lot of money by renting the necessary equipment and building a significant part of the project yourself.
Choose the Best Location
If you have an existing patio or terrace connected to the house, you will probably want to locate the outdoor kitchen in this area. It is a good idea to set up the outdoor kitchen close to the indoor kitchen because you may have to use both kitchens at the same time. Family parties and celebrations can include a large number of guests. To feed large groups, you may need more cooking equipment than what is in your outdoor kitchen. If you keep the kitchen outside close to the interior kitchen, it will be easier and more convenient for the cook as well as the guests. If you don't have a patio or terrace yet, you might need to build one for your outdoor kitchen.

Review the design of your yard and choose a location with easy access to the house. You can also connect decorative areas with paths that create safe traffic routes.
Plan Your Layout
The layout is just as important in the kitchen outside as in the kitchen inside. However, the outdoor kitchen warrants more consideration. While the interior kitchen layout is defined by the surrounding walls, doors, and windows, the outdoor kitchen often defines space for itself. For this reason, L-shaped outdoor designs are a popular choice because they give the area a sense of space.

Another important layout decision concerns the location of the equipment. Do not place a gas grill next to the fridge, which must work hard in the summer heat. Also, don't forget to provide enough space to prepare and serve food.
Portable or Fixed
If you plan to rent or move in the next few years, it may be a good idea to equip your outdoor kitchen with appliances and features that you can take with you. If you don’t have any plans to relocate and love doing things yourself, an outdoor kitchen can be a satisfying design for you to create all on your own.

Specify a comfortable and safe place for your outdoor kitchen. You will want to use materials that match the appearance of your home and are available locally. You can search for plans and projects online or in books. If designing an outdoor kitchen is not your forte, then you should consider using New Orleans outdoor kitchen services. Not only will you get a professionally done job, but you will also save yourself the stress and hassle of handling the construction work alone.
Choose Your Materials
The outdoor kitchen must be as busy as its internal counterpart. However, it must also withstand any and all weather conditions, including strong winds, heavy rain, extreme heat, and maybe even snowstorms (depending on where you live).

When designing your kitchen outdoors, make sure to choose materials that are strong enough to withstand the elements while requiring little maintenance. Stainless steel is an excellent option for external countertops and household appliances due to its durability and strength. They look narrow, withstand elements, and are easy to clean as well. For those who want to feel warmer in the outdoor kitchen, tiles are another great alternative to countertops. The tiles are available in a variety of colours and textures, fitting almost any design and style.
Consider Kitchen Lighting
Brighten your outdoor area in the evening and at night by installing different types of lighting (depending on the area). Install workplace lighting over the grill and sink; don’t forget a ceiling fan with lighting that will illuminate the room above the seats. No matter what type of kitchen lighting you choose, use more than one circuit and make sure it is suitable for wet conditions.
Install an External Sound System
Finally, one of the main benefits of an outdoor kitchen is outdoor entertainment; for this reason, installing a sound system in the area is a great way to keep guests entertained throughout the event. It provides the right atmosphere on the terrace or deck, and your guests will be able to make the most of their evening in your outdoor entertainment area.