To see the published article online, click here.

When warmer weather comes along, it can be hard to justify spending hours inside preparing for social gatherings. Make the most of the summer season by bringing friends and family together in a space that is functional and welcoming with an outdoor kitchen near the patio or pool.

A Tuscan-styled loggia equipped with a side kitchen makes for a swoon-worthy entertaining space. Wooden ceiling panels offer a warm contrast against limestone walls. Overhead, lanterns set the scene for good wine and conversation with friends.

 

 

 

 

This California home covers all its entertaining bases. A fully-functional outdoor kitchen, sitting area, dining table, and an enchanting garden that all seamlessly blends into the home’s interior spaces. Click the next two slides to see the outdoor kitchen up close.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The lovely scene of wine-country isn’t the only view that’s catching our eye. The large kitchen island is a natural spot for gathering friends and family. Oversized light fixtures are displayed above the island and lead guests from the kitchen to the comfortable sitting area.

 

 

 

A pizza oven is the grand finish on this incredible kitchen. Not only a beautiful addition to the home, but the wood-fired oven is also a fun bonding activity that churns out mouthwatering aromas. View more of this California home here.

 

 

 

 

This sweet patio covered in greenery is best enjoyed with friends and cocktails while relaxing in wicker chairs. A built-in grill and counter space is convenient for preparing appetizers or grilled favorites.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grab a cool drink on a hot summer day at this chic black, white, and turquoise outdoor kitchen. The ample counter space makes for a fun bar where guests can relax and chat while culinary preparations are underway. Curtains tied in the corner provide an option for privacy or sun protection on those especially sunny days. Click here to see more entertaining spaces designed by Tobi Fairley.

 

Relish in the beautiful weather and dine alfresco in this charming outdoor kitchen and dining room. With aged cedar cabinets, an antique stone farm-style sink, and vintage metal chairs, this space embraces the best of Mediterranean living. To see more loggias with country French flair, click here.

 

 

This space makes family barbecues a breeze with a built-in grill and other kitchen amenities. Wooden beams overhead create an open ceiling that easily transitions the gathering area from sunny days to star-gazing nights.

 

 

 

 

Spend a lazy afternoon swinging from the suspended chairs in this tranquil covered patio. On the back wall a kitchen area with a window connection to the indoors is perfect for preparing appetizers and treats throughout the day. See more of this lovely Alabama home here.

 

 

 

 

Hungry or thirsty during a midday swim? No worries, just hop on over to the pool house and rummage through the kitchen to satisfy your cravings. This Hamptons pool house includes a vinyl wallcovering and concrete faux-bois table—furnishings able to withstand high temperatures and humidity. Tour more of the 2015 Hampton Designer Showhouse here.