Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens or living areas are quickly becoming the new "must have" in today's real estate market. Having grown up in this valley, I know how important the outdoors is to Routt County residents. I know that on a gorgeous summer evening, I would much rather be outside than inside cooking dinner.

Why not be able to cook a full meal outside? This option is available to homeowners now. This new trend is just barely being explored. Emerald City Kitchen & Bath plans on having an indoor display, of an outdoor kitchen. We will hopefully have it installed this fall, and ready for viewing before the end of the year.

How much should you spend on an outdoor area? The suggested percentage you should spend on an outdoor living area is 5-7% of your home's value. I'd say in our area, if your home is a custom home that has wonderful views, you can spend 10%, and you'd definitely get your investment back.

Here is what Emerald City Kitchen & Bath can do for you:

• Design a well thought out outdoor kitchen and living area
• Have the focal point be a grill or a gas fireplace with comfortable seating surrounding it, for those chilly summer nights
• We only use weather resistant cabinetry such as stainless steel or marine grade polymer
• We incorporate as many natural elements in as possible, such as rough stone walls, stone c-tops, landscaping, stamped or colored cement walks
• Bring electricity outdoors, to run your appliances, light your outdoor kitchen and walkways
• Bring plumbing outdoors, so you have an operable sink or ice maker
• Bring your appliances outdoors (refrigerators, warming drawers, ice makers, beer taps and/or extra burners)
• Design in some shaded areas or overhangs to protect from sun or snow
• Incorporate in your hot tub area