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The Summit Appliance 24" wide outdoor all-refrigerator is for built-in or freestand- ing use. The interior and exterior are fully made from stainless steel, with a GFCI cord for outdoor safety. It also features a digital thermostat, interior fan, pro-style handles, LED lighting and a deluxe interi- or with a sliding chrome storage basket. CIRCLE NO. 179 ON PRODUCT CARD "We are seeing fnishes and styles that blend and fow with the land- scape, not a big stucco mausoleum stuck in the middle of the backyard," adds Ruloph. One current trend, he says, is to have elements that match the wood deck. While the cooking area is stainless, he notes that the under- counter cabinets in the work area are made from matching deck material, giving the whole deck a seamless feel. Franklin adds, "Stainless steel is the classic outdoor fnish that we've consistently seen through the years, and I don't think that will ever go away. However, we are now seeing more weather-resistant panels that resemble wood fnishes in a variety of colors, bringing the look and feel of custom interior cabinetry to the outdoor kitchen." Slater says that people are opting for color via powder coat fnishes rather than bare stainless steel. "This provides more of a designer look to the space, and provides a fnish requiring minimal maintenance," he notes, adding that the frm is seeing more color and door styles for outdoor cabine- try, and less interest in stone or stucco surrounds. SHADE AND SHELTER When entertaining outdoors, weather is an important factor. These open-air spaces need to be comfortable, rain or shine, making it important to include some type of overhead cover, manufacturers agree. Faulk sees a move toward making these outside entertaining areas more cozy and sheltered. "They are getting defned more and more as a room and less and less as part of the garden," he says. Overhead structures attract peo- ple, even on the nicest day, he adds. "Creating that overarching structure is becoming a solid trend." This covering is likely to change based on climate, he adds, with those in the Northeast far likelier to have a full roof, allowing for more frequent use of the space and better heat retention. Having places to get out of direct sunlight is important, too. "Shade is incredibly important to outdoor kitchen and dining spaces because it creates a cool, comfortable environment where homeowners can relax and enjoy their outdoor space," says Voohrhis. He notes that designers are incorporating shade in a number of ways, including the use of retractable or fxed pergolas, roller shades and umbrellas. Slater agrees that it's important to provide shade in these spaces. "Having shade available can bring the temperature down 10-15 degrees and make a space more usable," he concludes. atmosphere where guests can roast marshmallows to create gourmet s'mores," says Holle. Outdoor televisions are also important, she adds. "Many gatherings revolve around sporting events, and being able to have the game on while preparing a meal and entertaining guests is a must!" "With the full culinary experience transformed for the outdoors, home- owners are creating conversation areas that incorporate seating and encour- age togetherness," says Hawfeld. "Permanent fxtures in the design of the outdoor area – such as fre tables or bowls – are used cross-functionally with accessories," he adds. BLENDED AESTHETIC As an extension of the home, the outdoor entertaining hubs shouldn't have a vastly diferent feel than the rest of the house, nor should they stand out too much against the natural landscape. There isn't one style that takes pre- cedence over the rest, as homeowners work to express their own personal vision outside as they do throughout their homes. Faulk says, "We see a much wider range of aesthetics being embraced." Just a few years ago, he adds, the classical rustic look dominated outdoor kitchen design. But a more modern aesthetic has been coming on strong lately. "People are fnding more freedom in expression when they are doing these outdoor designs," he says. A common theme for MS International is that clients have a focus on incorporating a certain level of hospitality into their spaces, says Holle. "Whether they prefer a sleek kitchen with LED lighting accents or a more rustic space, they all want to make sure the space is inviting and comfort- able for friends and family," she states. The Marvel Outdoor Refrigerator and Freezer with ice maker is certifed for the outdoor kitchen. The undercounter appli- ance is capable of producing up to 7 lbs. of ice with the add-on Crescent Ice Maker ac- cessory. It also features precise tempera- ture management of the compartments independently, MaxStore roller-glide utility bin to store loose items and cantilevered, adjustable shelving system. CIRCLE NO. 175 ON PRODUCT CARD The Texan Electric Grill from Kenyon International provides fame-free, no-smoke grilling. Temperatures for the two large grilling surfaces are controlled independently through a waterproof touch-control system. Non-stick grates impart grill markings and seal in juice, and provide ease of cleaning. The grill features an automatic shut-of. CIRCLE NO. 180 ON PRODUCT CARD The SmartGrill by Lynx Grills features the MyChef operating system, which allows the user to choose a recipe via speech recognition or app. Once programmed, the grill ignites and heats itself to grilling temperature, and then guides the user through the cooking process. CIRCLE NO. 176 ON PRODUCT CARD With a standard commercial compressor, the Perlick Signature Series 24" Outdoor Freezer can drop the interior temperature to as low as 10 degrees F. The freezer is also equipped with a special heater on the front face of the door to reduce conden- sation from forming on the outside of the cabinet on hot, humid days. The company ofers a variety of full-extension shelving, such as a martini rack. CIRCLE NO. 178 ON PRODUCT CARD Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens' frame- less European-style, modular cabinets add storage, organization and luxury to the outdoor kitchen space. The mobile units can be confgured in any com- bination as outdoor cooking stations, bars and prep areas. They are available in a variety of exclusive door styles and powder coat fnishes. CIRCLE NO. 177 ON PRODUCT CARD Outdoor cabinetry from All Element Cabinetry/Nowood Polymer Group al- lows for full easy access and 100 percent usable space. All cabinets are made of 3/4" solid All Element Board with UV protection throughout, with stainless steel hinges and fasteners. The cabinetry does not dent, fade, rust or rot, and needs no polishing or painting, the frm notes. CIRCLE NO. 181 ON PRODUCT CARD 84 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January 2016 PRODUCT TREND REPORT