KBB - April 2014 - 25

"We have seen the trend for outdoor kitchens steadily increasing,"
said Brian Wellnitz, marketing manager, kitchen ventilation, for Broan. His
company recently introduced two new professional-style outdoor range
hoods aimed at upscale builders and designers. Wellnitz noted that it's
part of the company's continuous effort to meet consumers' demands
and that "an outdoor range hood is a must for any homeowner looking
to create a fully functioning outdoor kitchen."

The Inside Influence
In general, homeowners constantly search for lifestyle products to
make their homes more comfortable and aesthetically appealing. And
today, it's as true outdoors as it is in.
"It's all a reflection of what we're doing on the inside," said Christopher
Grubb, president and founder of Beverly Hills-based Arch-Interiors, who
has noticed that interior design has had a direct impact on his exterior
design projects. "I observe how my clients entertain, converse, escape,
play, cook and dine inside, and from these observations I extrapolate
outdoor project ideas and create outdoor spaces that are elegant, yet
multi-functional and practical," he added.
Designers and homeowners alike can thank technology for the vast
array of products that let them take cooking outdoors. For example, the
evolution of propane into a naturally safe and easy-to-use energy source
has made it possible to take indoor items such as cooktops and lighting
outside in a way that makes them easy to use and maintain.
"Propane appliances are great ways to help maximize the enjoyment of your outdoor living areas while providing a safe environment for
warmth and ambiance," said Jessie W. Johnson, vice president of sales
and marketing for Blossman Propane Gas, Appliance & Service."Because
many of these items are portable, you can customize your outdoor space
to fit your style, needs and budget."

Top: Enjoy the roar of a real blazing fire without a chimney, electricity
or gas line. The floating three-sided Peninsula Ventless Fireplace from
HearthCabinet uses eco-friendly gel fuel cartridges to create a brilliant,
crackling flame. This dramatic focal point displays a warm glow from
three sides and can be enjoyed almost anywhere desired. Circle No.
203 or visit kbbonline.com/freeinfo
Bottom: Cook like the top chefs with Viking's Professional Outdoor 5
Series Grills. A 24-in. depth makes it easier for consumers to upgrade
and replace their old built-in grills, and features like 25,000 high-intensity
BTU stainless steel grill burners and 15,000 BTU Gourmet-Glo Infrared
Rotisserie Burners lock in flavors for culinary perfection. Circle No. 204
or visit kbbonline.com/freeinfo

A Worthy Investment
Besides being beautiful areas where one can cook and entertain, outdoor living spaces also offer a real return on investment.
"Homeowners know that designed landscapes add value to their lives
as well as their property values," said American Society of Landscape
Architects (ASLA) executive vice president and CEO, Nancy Somerville,
Hon. ASLA, noting that livability, style and earth friendly are all important
attributes consumers seek for their outdoor kitchen areas.
In fact, according to market research firm IBISWorld, the outdoor living
and landscape sector has expanded to a $60-billion-per-year industry.
"People want to put money in their home improvement projects where
it's going to pay off, and outdoor living is a logical choice," explained Bob
Dallas, CEO at UltraOutdoors.com."Not only is it good for the value of your
home, but it's a solid investment for creating great recreation spaces and
giving your family a relaxing area where they can recharge their batteries."
There's actual value to an outdoor living space in that it's a notable
selling point. And having an outdoor entertainment oasis at your disposal
also helps save money. Instead of going out and about, families with outdoor spaces are more inclined to stay home and utilize these spaces,
saving on both gas money and recreation expenses.

www.kbbonline.com / April 2014

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K BB

http://www.kbbonline.com/freeinfo http://www.kbbonline.com/freeinfo http://www.UltraOutdoors.com http://www.kbbonline.com

KBB - April 2014

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