Thanks to the Pandemic, Outdoor Kitchens Are More Popular Than Ever
Ross Davies' outdoor kitchen design and installation business is booming as outdoor living spaces become more of a staple amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Image: courtesy photo
Thanks to Covid-19, the outdoors is more "in" than ever. Ross Davies of Ross Davies Inc. says his business has doubled, at least, since the pandemic began last year.
“People are avoiding public places and are willing to spend money on making being at home more enjoyable,” he says.
But Davies isn't just hopping on a trend. He's been helping people cook and dine al fresco for seven years. Originally fr
His outdoor kitchens range in cost from $8,000 to more than $100,000—the latter being the price tag of one he recently built in North Tampa, where custom concrete counters fetched $150 per square foot.
“With concrete, you’re paying for the knowledge and the labor,” he says, since it requires extensive polishing, specific know-how and repeated application of layers of food-grade sealant. Add Brazilian walnut cupboards and a full range of equipment, like a $4,000, 15-inch ice maker, and costs add up fast.
One of Davies' outdoor kitchen designs, featuring stainless steel equipment. Concrete countertops add an updated, trendy look.
Image: courtesy photo
Currently, Davies is busiest with new subdivision construction, like his first Lakewood Ranch project, where homes are already mapped out with gas and electric sources in the backyard, waiting to be hooked up to outdoor fridges and grills.
Here are the trends he's seeing for 2021.
Griddles
Prepare bacon, eggs and pancakes any time of the day, as well as meats and fish. Cleanup is a snap thanks to the nonstick surface that scrapes clean in minutes.
Pizza Ovens
From gas-burning to fire-powered pizza ovens, you can put your personal touch on a family favorite food staple and experiment with new recipes.
The Big Green Egg
This versatile, all-in-one outdoor ceramic grill and charcoal smoker delivers grilled steaks and vegetables, smoked salmon and even baked goods. It's been popular for several years and Davies says it's not going anywhere.
Granite and Brick
These finishes remain classic, more moderately priced favorites.
