Exploring the Modern Outdoor Kitchens for Canadian Homes

Many would agree that food tastes better when cooked and shared outside. Pair this with Canada’s stunning landscapes, and it’s easy to see why outdoor kitchens have become such a popular trend in the country.

Sleek and convenient outdoor kitchen designs are transforming backyard living in Canada, becoming the envy of those who don’t have one yet. Suppose you want to jump on the bandwagon and want to know your options. From local designs to modular layouts, the options available for Canadian homes never fail to impress.

Local Designs

It’s safe to say that no one understands the needs of modern Canadian backyards better than local designers. Local designs are created by people who understand Canadian weather, backyard layouts, and how we actually cook and entertain. With this in mind, practical outdoor kitchens crafted right here in Canada ensure the design and materials are suited to local conditions. 

Brands like Napoleon are a household name, known for durable, stylish, and practical designs that Canadians trust. Their sleek and streamlined appliances and modular kitchen setups deliver style and functionality to outdoor spaces. Broil King barbecues are another Canadian favourite, renowned for their durable construction and reliable heat performance. So, when exploring your options, it makes perfect sense to consider these first, before the imported alternatives.

Weather-Resistant Materials

Canadian seasons can be harsh. Therefore, outdoor kitchens must stand up to extremes of cold, snow, rain, UV exposure, and thaw cycles. That’s why they’re made using stainless steel, concrete and stone. Frost-proof cabinetry is also a common sight.

For instance, a stainless-steel grill and weather-rated fridge give you reliable performance, while a sealed stone or concrete surface resists cracking and weather damage. Choosing kitchen appliances and cabinetry rated for Canadian outdoor use means less worry about winter corrosion or summer heat warping. Even if you plan to use a cover for your outdoor kitchen, it still needs materials that can handle the elements on their own.

High-End Outdoor Appliances

It should go without saying that it’s the appliances that give function to outdoor kitchens. With continuous advancements, it was inevitable that technology would find its way into the kitchen. In this context, high-performance grills with precise temperature control for perfectly cooked meats are becoming more common.

Many grills also include a built-in screen and ports for temperature probes so you can track what’s happening inside without lifting the lid. You’ll see options like dedicated infrared side burners (for searing), rear rotisserie burners, and large total cooking areas.

Built-in refrigerators, ice makers, and smart storage keep everything you need close at hand, while LED-illuminated control knobs and automatic ignition make cooking safe and convenient. Smartphone-connected outdoor kitchen appliances are also growing in popularity. 

You can remotely set and monitor temperatures, start or stop cooking, and adjust timers without even being in the kitchen. All of this makes it easy to start a meal from a distance and control the process without having to be close to the outdoor appliances at all times.

All-in-One Setups 

As already mentioned, there’s no shortage of high-end outdoor kitchens appliances for sale, but it’s important to consider which ones you actually need and how to arrange them, like placing hot and cold zones wisely. Luckily, many manufacturers make this easy by offering kitchen sets with everything you might need. 

These sets, like the ones from Napoleon, usually include a variety of modules and appliances to give you a well-functioning, all-in-one setup. Outdoor kitchen setups usually include a built-in grill module, storage cabinets, a dedicated space for a fridge, and bases for countertops so you can add the surface you like. 

Modular Layouts

Modular outdoor kitchens are also rising in popularity. Many brands across the country offer modular setups with grill units, fridge cabinets, and storage modules. Made from individual pieces you can mix and match, modular kitchens let you design a backyard setup that’s totally your own. 

This is especially handy if you renovate your backyard, move homes, or simply want to update your setup over time. Instead of ending up with a fixed structure that no longer fits your space, you can take the modules with you and rebuild your outdoor kitchen in a way that suits your new layout perfectly.

Customization Available

Lastly, customizing your outdoor kitchen has become a common practice for Canadian homeowners looking to get exactly what they want. Many manufacturers can help bring your vision to life by giving you the chance to create a custom design. This said, you can select among many features.

You can, for instance, choose between whether you would like your custom outdoor kitchen to have a sink or fridge module (or maybe both), choose the colour of the cabinets or the gas type you want to use for cooking, like propane or natural gas. That way, you won’t have to leave anything to chance.