The weather outside might be frightful but inside Markraft Cabinets’ showroom, there are now some delightful signs of warmer seasons soon to come.

Recognizing the ever-growing trend of outdoor living in our area, Markraft recently created a display to let customers see firsthand the possibilities available for their backyard or patio.

In addition to thinking through the little details – like a pergola and placement near a large window to let in natural light – the display was designed with choice in mind, said Rachel Jindra, a designer at Markraft.

“It shows how versatile the products can be,” she noted. “It showcases so many options.”

Those options include a stainless-steel DCS Grill and a ceramic egg grill, both incorporated within the weather-proofed cabinetry and counter space. There’s even a cabinet to hide your grill’s propane tank.

Markraft carries NatureKast, a line of 100-percent weather-proof cabinetry made of PVC and a heavy resin, a combination that withstands the elements, and offers four very nice door styles to choose from, which is different from other outdoor products. And countertops come in Dekton – a kind of ultra-compact quartz that is more durable than the traditional indoor variety.

What that means for the homeowner is a chic and cozy space that looks clean and crisp, is weather-resistant, and stands up to saltwater, rain or even snow. A bonus of that durability is that cleaning your outdoor cabinetry is a breeze.

So is entertaining.

Markraft offers a pull-out cabinet that is actually a lined cooler with built-in drainage, so once you’re done serving up cold beverages to your friends, family and neighbors, you can simply drain the ice and water. There are even cabinets to house and protect your outdoor TV.

While the outdoor living trend is not new, Rachel said Markraft’s display is a fresh way to discover what implements – and in what finishes – work best for each homeowner.

“It really feels like the outdoors,” Rachel said. “And it allows customers to not just see but also touch everything.”
Flip on HGTV and you’ll see that outdoor living is a national trend. But, coming to Wilmington from Minnesota, Rachel can understand why it’s especially sought-after in the southeast, where residents are fortunate enough to be able to spend more than half the year outside.

The climate allows for barbecues in early spring and pool parties into early October… sometimes, even later. Outdoor kitchens and living areas allow for more time to enjoy our moderate temperatures without sacrificing any of the indoor amenities.

Interested in creating your own outdoor set-up but not sure how to get started? Make your first step a visit to
Markraft’s showroom to see just how easy – and beautiful – outdoor living can be.

Learn more about outdoor kitchens – and all Markraft has to offer. The designers consult by appointment, but drop-in visitors are always welcome to stop by and browse the showroom. The Markraft Design Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 2705 Castle Creek Lane just off Castle Hayne Road. Call (910) 793-0202 or visit www.markraft.com for more information.