VistaScapes builds the outdoor kitchen — the permanent, structural part of your outdoor living space. But the styling and furnishing choices you make around the kitchen are what transform it from a functional outdoor cooking area into a genuinely beautiful space you’re proud to show off. Here are our styling recommendations for Oklahoma outdoor kitchens.
Outdoor Furniture Selection for Oklahoma’s Climate
Oklahoma’s climate demands furniture that can handle UV, humidity, and temperature extremes. The best choices for Broken Arrow and Tulsa area outdoor spaces:
- Powder-coated aluminum frames: The best combination of durability and appearance. Aluminum doesn’t rust, holds paint well, and is lightweight. Brands like Tropitone, Brown Jordan, and Woodard use this material for good reason
- All-weather wicker: Synthetic resin wicker over a powder-coated aluminum frame looks beautiful and holds up in Oklahoma’s climate. Avoid natural wicker, which deteriorates quickly outdoors
- Teak: The premium choice for wood outdoor furniture — teak contains natural oils that resist moisture, insects, and UV. Untreated teak weathers to a silvery gray; teak oil maintains the original golden color. Expect to pay a premium
- Avoid wrought iron: Heavy, prone to rust, and uncomfortable to move around for reconfiguration
Outdoor Cushion and Fabric Selection
Oklahoma’s sun bleaches and degrades fabrics quickly. Choose outdoor cushions and throw pillows made with Sunbrella or equivalent solution-dyed acrylic fabric — these materials are specifically engineered for UV resistance, moisture resistance, and mold resistance. They’re more expensive than polyester outdoor fabrics but last dramatically longer in Oklahoma’s outdoor environment.
Store cushions inside or in a deck box during extended periods of non-use or when severe weather is expected.
Planters and Greenery Around Outdoor Kitchens
Plants soften the hardscape of an outdoor kitchen and dining area and add color and life to the space. For Oklahoma outdoor kitchens:
- Large planters flanking the kitchen: Oversized planters (18–24 inches in diameter) with heat-tolerant plants create defined borders and visual anchors. Consider ornamental grasses, agave, or large tropical-looking plants that handle Oklahoma’s heat
- Herb planters: Small planters of culinary herbs (rosemary, thyme, basil) positioned near the prep area add both visual interest and functional value for cooking
- Heat-tolerant plant choices: Oklahoma summers are brutal on plants. Stick with heat-tolerant options: lantana, vinca, portulaca, ornamental grasses, Russian sage, and native Oklahoma plants that thrive in our climate
Outdoor Rugs for Oklahoma Patios
An outdoor rug under the dining table or seating area adds warmth and definition to the outdoor living zone. Choose rugs made from polypropylene — the most weather-resistant outdoor rug material, resistant to UV, moisture, and mold. Avoid natural fiber rugs (jute, sisal, bamboo) in Oklahoma’s outdoor environment.
Outdoor rugs in Oklahoma should be brought inside or stored during extended rain events or when temperatures drop below freezing to prevent mold and freeze damage.
Finishing Touches That Make a Difference
Small details elevate an outdoor kitchen from functional to exceptional:
- Grill cover: A fitted grill cover in a neutral color that complements your outdoor kitchen’s palette looks intentional and professional
- Bar accessories: Mounted bottle openers, under-counter stemware racks, and a small mounted towel bar add functionality and visual interest
- Outdoor-rated wall art: Metal wall art or outdoor-rated canvas art mounted on the outdoor kitchen’s stone veneer face adds personality
- String lights: Weatherproof string lights overhead create warm ambiance for evening entertaining
VistaScapes Builds the Foundation — You Create the Style
VistaScapes builds the permanent outdoor kitchen and structure that serves as the foundation for your outdoor space. The styling choices are yours — but we’re happy to offer recommendations during the design consultation for finishes, colors, and materials that will coordinate well with whatever furniture and décor you have in mind. Call 918-779-1317 to get started on your Broken Arrow outdoor kitchen project.
