A summer kitchen at the dacha is more than just a way to cook; it's an entire philosophy of outdoor living. The ability to organize a space for entertaining guests and spending time with family is becoming increasingly important for dacha owners. Over the past few years, we've conducted numerous surveys among our readers and analyzed trends in dacha design, and we've concluded that a summer kitchen is an extremely useful and popular solution. In this article, we'll take a detailed look at how to build a summer kitchen yourself, as well as share some helpful tips and tricks.
Why build a summer kitchen?
The first thing that comes to mind is planned barbecues with friends and family gatherings outdoors. But that's only one aspect we'll discuss. An outdoor kitchen allows you to reduce the number of dirty dishes in the house, especially during the hot summer months when activity at the dacha increases. Plus, you can easily prepare dishes from fresh vegetables and berries you've grown yourself.
The practical side of the matter also needs to be addressed. A cooking area at the dacha is a convenience and comfort factor. According to our survey, 78% of dacha owners noted that having a summer kitchen significantly improves the quality of their dacha experience. Creating a high-quality cooking area will help you address not only the aesthetics but also the functionality of your dacha space.
Choosing a location for a summer kitchen
Before you begin construction, you need to decide on a location. This may seem like a simple step, but it's important to consider many factors. The kitchen's location should balance comfort and practicality. Avoid proximity to water sources to prevent flooding, while still ensuring easy access to water for cooking.
It's best to choose a location that allows you to easily move between the outdoor kitchen and the house. A minimal distance will significantly simplify your cooking process and create a cozy atmosphere. It's also worth considering the views and panoramas available from your location—this will help create an atmosphere of relaxation and enjoyment.
Materials for construction
Once you've decided on a location, it's time to choose the building materials. Wood is the most popular choice. It's environmentally friendly, comes in beautiful colors, and is easy to work with. However, it's important to approach each stage with care—regularly treating the wood with preservatives and applying protective compounds to extend its lifespan.
You can also consider using brick or block, which will ensure greater durability but will require more time to lay the foundation. If resources are limited, you might consider a combination of options: for example, using block for the foundation and timber for the frame.
Basic materials for a summer kitchen:
| Material | Advantages | Flaws |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Eco-friendliness, ease of processing, aesthetics | Sensitive to moisture, requires regular treatment |
| Brick | Durability, fire protection | High cost, difficult installation |
| Blocks | Speed of construction, cost | There are stylistic restrictions. |
Designing a summer kitchen
Planning your kitchen is an important step that shouldn't be overlooked. A well-designed kitchen will make your life at home more comfortable. Ask yourself: How many people will use the kitchen? What is the volume of events? Do you need additional amenities, such as a sink, stove, or grill?
It's recommended to start with a rough sketch of the plan on paper. Determine the size, taking into account all areas: work, dining, and possibly a seating area. Consider the laws of physics—it's best if the work surfaces are at a comfortable height, and the dining table can be slightly lower.
Construction of a summer kitchen
Now that you have a design, you can begin construction. The first step is laying the foundation. Depending on whether you chose a permanent or strip foundation, you'll need to dig a hole, install formwork, and pour concrete. Be sure to allow time for the concrete to dry—this will take at least 1-2 weeks.
After this, you can begin erecting the walls. The installation technique will vary depending on the material you choose. For example, blocks require fastening with a special mixture. Wood requires adherence to all processing standards and secure fastening.
Kitchen equipment
When outfitting your outdoor kitchen, it's important to ensure you have everything you need for comfortable cooking. A gas or electric stove should be installed on the work surface, with a sink nearby. If you're planning a barbecue, don't forget a grill or barbecue.
It's also important to think through the storage system. A couple of shelves and drawers are enough to accommodate a basic set of dishes and kitchen utensils. A refrigerator is also a definite plus for storing food in hot weather.
Main equipment elements:
- Stove (gas or electric)
- Sink
- Fridge
- Barbecue area
- Shelves and storage drawers
Landscaping around the summer kitchen
Once construction is complete, it's time to give landscaping some attention. Small vegetable gardens or flower beds near the kitchen are handy, as they'll expand your culinary options. You can plant herbs, tomatoes, or other vegetables that will be readily available.
Landscaping around the outdoor kitchen will also help create the necessary cozy atmosphere. Use perennials, scarlet, or flowering shrubs to create beautiful arrangements. Various wall planters and flower pots will also add visual interest.
Arrangement of a recreation area
Additionally, if space allows, create a relaxation area. You'll need a couple of chairs, a comfortable table, and perhaps some sun loungers. Here, you can enjoy the birdsong and a cup of coffee. This will allow you to fully relax at the dacha without constantly having to commute indoors.
Conclusion
Building a summer kitchen yourself is not only a rewarding but also a fun endeavor. Every stage, from planning to landscaping, requires your attention and involvement. But the end result will be worth the effort. The kitchen will become a focal point for family and guests, allowing you to enjoy not only the cooking process but also the atmosphere of togetherness and fun.
We hope our tips and recommendations will help you in this challenging yet exciting endeavor. Go for it and create a space that will become your second home at your dacha!