Before the days of air-conditioning many farmhouses had separate buildings for preparing meals to avoid heating the main house with the heat of meal preparation. This building was called the “summer kitchen”. Today, air-conditioning has eliminated the need for a separate kitchen, but it is still a very desirable part of many homes, although nowadays it is usually placed outside on a covered porch or screened-in lanai so families can enjoy the outdoors while sharing summertime meals.

Photo by Counteredge LLC at Houzz

The addition of a summer kitchen is becoming very popular, but there are considerations to take into account when installing one. Since the summer kitchen will be outdoors the individual components should be selected with this in mind.

Lighting fixtures and electrical equipment will be exposed to more moisture and humidity than those indoors. Plumbing may be exposed to freezing temperatures in winter months. Countertops will be exposed to the elements unlike anything ever seen in an indoor kitchen.

Granite countertops are the natural choice for summer kitchens. They are more durable and will stand up to the added wear and tear found outside. Granite will not be adversely affected by weather. The heat, cold and water will not damage it at all. Granite’s surface is easy to clean, germ resistant and will not encourage the growth of mold or mildew.

If you are planning a summer kitchen, visit our website or browse on of our showrooms and see for yourself how beautiful a granite countertop can be. Our selection of top-quality granite products will offer a countertop to fit your design and your budget.