Today’s homeowner doesn’t need a summer kitchen like the homeowners of the 18th and 19th centuries did, but the concept can still serve up plenty of design inspiration, particularly as we move into warmer months. Summer kitchens were outdoor buildings, separate from the main house, that helped conceal the smells of cooking and heat generated by wood-burning stoves from the home’s residents. Originally considered a luxury, as it meant having a home with two separate kitchens, they gained popularity and became more accessible to more people as time went on before eventually falling out of favor.
Of course, homes today are larger, have better ventilation or AC, and don’t thankfully don’t require a detached room for the preparation of meals! However, there is still an element of charm and even excitement that accompanies preparing or serving food in a room other than your day-to-day kitchen. Original summer kitchens are few and far between as tastes and needs have evolved, and it’s rare that you’ll find one preserved in its original state. But if you find yourself drawn to the idea of an outdoor space to prep meals and take advantage of the nice weather heading our way, there’s still a way to pay homage to the historic spaces.
Nowadays, we often find elements of the bygone summer kitchens in our patio kitchens or even something simple like an outdoor bar. With our region’s many rainy days, a patio kitchen might not seem like a particularly valuable asset in a home, but trust me, when those beautiful, warm PNW days roll around during summer, there’s nothing quite like grilling as you admire a beautiful sunset or dine al fresco amid a nice breeze. Consider a covered patio to extend the number of days you can utilize the patio.
Patio kitchens are ideal when entertaining during the summer, as they make it that much easier to serve guests, keep the party designated to your backyard, and handle all food and drink needs outdoors. If you want to pull even more inspiration from summer kitchens, installing a wood-fired pizza oven is a fun and functional addition to a patio. Additionally, a fireplace or firepit is always a great way to ensure your exterior space can seamlessly transition from daytime to nighttime activities, creating a cozy atmosphere to roast smores or add an extra element of ambiance.