Grilling it large

But don’t forget the important little details. Scott Paterson runs Sumo Outdoor, spreading live-fire love and expert advice when it comes to building and installing kitchens. JEMIMA NELSON reports.

Scott Paterson calls himself ‘an outdoor kitchen entrepreneur, burger master and open-fire cooking evangelist’.

His company Sumo Outdoor naturally conjures up images of large Japanese wrestlers with big appetites and good sporting reasons to feast on protein.

Paterson admits to the healthy appetite and the brand values of strength and heavy-duty, high-quality products. But the name of his outdoor kitchen brand also derives from his martial arts expertise, as both competitor and instructor, with Paterson holding black belts or equivalent in various disciplines including karate, kick boxing and wrestling.

You’d want Paterson, who has over 20 years’ experience in the bespoke fabrications industry and luxury home improvements, guarding the BBQ as well as cooking on it.

Paterson is at the forefront of UK outdoor kitchen product development, consulting for outdoor kitchen, barbecue and garden product manufacturers.

“The Sumo frame system and other products reflect my years developing and refining kitchens for top designers and outdoor living businesses,” says Paterson.

“I also have a huge passion for all things BBQ, street food and al fresco parties and hope that enthusiasm shines through the products and solutions we offer.”

Paterson is also the founder of the British Outdoor Kitchen Association (BOKA), with an aim to promote best practice, as well as health and safety.

“We are dedicated to helping garden designers, specifiers, architects, landscapers, builders, barbecue manufacturers and garden product retailers grow their reputation and become certified, trusted outdoor kitchen experts.”

Here are Scott Paterson’s top 10 do’s and don’ts when planning, designing and installing outdoor kitchens:

DO

1 Plan for proper drainage and ventilation to prevent water and heat damage to your kitchen.

2 Use durable and weather-resistant materials such as stainless steel, porcelain, and natural stones/granite for your countertops and cabinets. 

3 Consider the layout of your kitchen and the flow of traffic to ensure that it is functional and easy to use.

4 Try to include adequate lighting for evening use.

5 Plan for electrical and gas connections for appliances such as grills and refrigerators.

6 Make sure your kitchen design complies with any building regulations.

7 Incorporate a seating/serving area for your guests to enjoy the outdoor ambiance or party.

8 Thoroughly research your installer/builder/contractor and ask for examples of previous work. 

9 Have in mind a size in metres along with a budget. There are hugely varying prices relating to systems, materials used, appliances, size and quality. 

10 Make sure there is adequate access to get the products/outdoor kitchen components into the garden or site. Outdoor kitchens are generally large with big heavy wood-fired ovens and grills. 

DON’T

1 Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to materials and appliances. It’s an investment for the long term. Look for long warranties on appliances and components. Don’t be tempted to use materials not specifically designed for outdoor use or indoor equivalents. They will degrade fast.

2 Don’t forget to consider the location exposure to the elements and how it will affect your kitchen. Wind, sun, water/flooding, tree debris etc.

3 Don’t neglect proper drainage and ventilation. This can cause serious damage to your kitchen if poorly sited.

4 Don’t forget to plan for electrical and gas connections, including rotisserie and countertop supply to appliances not integrated.

5 Don’t ignore local or communal building regulations.

6 Don’t forget to include adequate seating for your guests and landing space for your food.

7 Don’t leave your kitchen exposed to direct sunlight and heat; this can make it uncomfortable to use. Natural stone and stainless steel can get very hot to the touch in summer.

8 Don’t store or use gas cylinders directly under gas grills or close to heat sources.

9 Don’t enclose or completely cover an area using charcoal barbecues and gas grills. This is a big carbon monoxide risk.

10 Don’t order appliances without checking access. Many deliveries are ‘kerbside only’ meaning appliances are delivered as large crates and pallets and you are responsible for moving them to the final location.