Trend to Outdoor Kitchens in Hawaii Kai Homes
The outdoor kitchen is rapidly becoming the social hub of the home, and is a trend especially popular in areas where the climate favors outdoor living almost year-round - what better place than Hawaii Kai! The outdoor kitchen is now more than a grill and a sink in the corner; it is an entertainment center, complete with storage, TV, seating, fire pits and water features .
Outdoor kitchens are popular because they are fun to live with, said Russ Faulk, vice-president of product development at Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet in Kalamazoo, Mich. “They add to the quality of life for the homeowner. Preparing a meal outdoors is not a chore, it’s an occasion, a reason to have friends over and enjoy the process.” In addition, an outdoor kitchen expands a home’s living space and adds to its value, he said. “The return on your investment is comparable to an indoor kitchen redo.”
Pizza ovens are becoming a trend within a trend, and offer an alternative to a grill, be it gas or wood or charcoal. Oven designs range from large, wood-fired brick and clay ovens that take several hours to heat up, to compact countertop models fired by gas that are ready for baking pizzas in 20. Other additions gaining in popularity as the outdoor kitchen becomes a "room" are keg-tappers, wine chillers, ice makers, and warming cabinets.
Faulk offers some cost-cutting tips:
1. Look for low-maintenance equipment
2. Make sure the cabinets will keep the contents clean and dry - this is especially important in Hawaii's climate
3. Install good lighting (tiki lamps?)
4. Install stain- and grease-resistant counter tops
5. Design the kitchen against the house so you reduce the length of wires, saving costs in bringing utilities outside
6. Do your planning. How will the space be used? For most of your meals or the weekend BBQ?
Outdoor kitchens are a great addition to Hawaii Kai homes and will add to your resale value due to their increasing popularity. Call or email me with your questions on the comparative market value of your Hawaii Kai home.
Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
www.movetohawaiikai.com
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