The Art of Outdoor Entertaining
As the warm days of summer approach in North Idaho and Spokane (and they’re here earlier than ever this year!) our thoughts turn to outdoor gatherings, family celebrations and making the most of our beautiful region’s weather. With Father’s Day and the 4th of July just around the corner, there’s no better time to consider how an outdoor kitchen could transform your summer entertaining and create lasting memories for years to come. We
wrote about that in depth a few months ago and you can read all about it HERE. And, speaking of the 4th of July, we are about as American made as it comes, as we only carry American made cabinets!
The Heart of Summer Gatherings: Your Outdoor Kitchen
Modern outdoor kitchens have evolved far beyond a simple grill on the patio. Today, these thoughtfully designed spaces become the centerpiece of summer living, creating an environment where:
- Conversations flow naturally as meals are prepared in the fresh air
- Family traditions form around seasonal cooking rituals
- The chef remains part of the celebration instead of being isolated indoors
- Everyone enjoys extended time immersed in nature’s surroundings
For North Idaho families, an outdoor kitchen isn’t just a luxury—it’s a lifestyle enhancement that extends your living space and creates opportunities for connection throughout the warmer months.
Designing for the Inland Northwest Climate
Our region’s distinctive seasonal changes present both opportunities and challenges for outdoor living spaces. Unlike mild-climate areas where outdoor kitchens might serve a single purpose, thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces in North Idaho and Spokane can be enjoyed across multiple seasons with the right elements:
- Strategic overhead coverage that protects from both summer sun and occasional showers
- Thoughtful heating solutions that extend usage into spring and fall
- Proper material selection that withstands our climate’s extremes
Weather-Resistant Solutions: Naturekast Cabinetry
At 3D Cabinets by Design, we understand the unique demands of the Inland Northwest climate. That’s why we proudly offer naturekast weatherproof cabinetry—premium storage solutions crafted specifically for outdoor kitchens that combine exceptional durability with sophisticated design aesthetics.
Unlike standard cabinetry, naturekast products are engineered to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, moisture, and UV exposure while maintaining their beauty year after year. Available in contemporary, transitional and traditional styles, these cabinets provide the perfect foundation for any outdoor kitchen design while ensuring longevity in our diverse climate.
The American Craftsmanship Advantage
There’s something distinctly special about outdoor spaces created with materials crafted by skilled American artisans. The meticulous attention to detail, commitment to environmental responsibility, and emphasis on durability shine through in everything from cabinet construction to finish quality.
This dedication to craftsmanship creates outdoor living spaces that not only withstand our region’s diverse weather patterns but also develop character and warmth over time. When designing your outdoor kitchen, these quality differences become increasingly apparent with each passing season.
Inspiration from Our North Idaho Community
We continually find inspiration in how local families are reimagining outdoor living through custom kitchen designs:
- Natural Connections
The most successful outdoor kitchens in our region embrace designs that blend seamlessly with North Idaho’s beautiful landscape. Materials and color palettes that complement our mountain and lake surroundings create harmony between built environments and natural settings.
- Multi-Generational Gathering Hubs
Many of our clients design outdoor kitchens specifically to encourage family togetherness. These spaces naturally facilitate connections across generations—from grandparents sharing grilling secrets to children helping prepare simple dishes in a safe outdoor setting.
- Personal Retreats
Beyond large gatherings, thoughtfully designed outdoor kitchens often include intimate nooks where a morning coffee or evening beverage becomes a moment of peaceful connection with nature. These small details often become the most cherished aspects of an outdoor living space.
Visit Our New Design Center
Our recently expanded design center in Coeur d’Alene offers a dedicated space to explore materials, visualize possibilities, and gather ideas for your own outdoor living project. This resource center was specifically created to spark creativity and help you envision how your unique outdoor area might evolve.
From weatherproof cabinetry samples to countertop options designed for outdoor use, our showroom provides tangible examples of the quality and craftsmanship that distinguish exceptional outdoor kitchens. And yes, we have a full line of kitchen cabinets for your INside kitchen, too!
Celebrating Summer Traditions Outdoors
Whether hosting Father’s Day celebrations, Fourth of July gatherings or impromptu weekend barbecues, these summer milestones are fundamentally about connection and memory-making. The spaces where we gather for these occasions become infused with meaning and stories that families cherish for generations.
Whatever your summer plans entail, we hope they include wonderful moments with those you love, delicious seasonal food, and the simple joy of time spent outdoors.
Begin Your Outdoor Kitchen Journey
Ready to explore the possibilities for your own outdoor living space? Visit us at 3895 N Schreiber Way, Suite 300 in Coeur d’Alene, or call 208-819-7927 to schedule a consultation. Our team serves homeowners throughout Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Spokane and surrounding areas.
**NOTE** If an outdoor kitchen isn’t on your immediate horizon, perhaps an indoor kitchen upgrade is what you’re considering. Remember, sometimes the best gift you can give Dad for Father’s Day is a new, updated kitchen for Mom! Both will thank you later.
As always, we invite you to visit us on Facebook and Instagram, to continue the conversation, or simply give us a call at 208-819-7927 to learn more about our custom kitchen design services and to schedule your consultation. And our new digs offer ample room for inspiration, so come on by! Our new address is, 3895 N Schreiber Way, Ste. 300 in beautiful Coeur D Alene, ID and is designed with YOU in mind (Open Monday through Thursday, Friday by appointment).
