Sunny days will be back sooner than later, and at Novara we’re sure this season of nonstop rain will actually be very rewarding: we’ll gain a great deal from it. The first is obvious and has to do with the health and lushness of gardens and plants. The second, less obvious, is the discovery of a new kind of outdoor enjoyment, one that takes preparation and learning, but is completely within reach.
As for the learning, there’s not much we can do, other than advise you that if you keep your senses sharp (all of them), you’ll find that cooking outdoors on a rainy day has plenty of nuances that spice up life, and we’ll tell you about them at the end.
As for the preparation, our part is taken care of: our kitchens are built to withstand the worst weather. You’ll only need to consider installing a water-resistant cover or pergola, if you don’t already have one, since the sun demands protection, too. The best options are retractable ones, which adapt to the needs of the moment. The minimalist, elegant design of these covers also adds a touch of sophistication to the whole.
With that settled, let’s explain what makes our kitchens so durable and what it takes, in both materials and design.
- Water-resistant materials: beauty and durability. When it comes to facing moisture, materials make the difference. At Novara, we rely on stainless steel, natural stone and Q-XTREM® technology, developed to deliver high-performance surfaces that stay flawless even in extreme conditions. These materials aren’t just easy to maintain; they also ensure a longevity that makes every kitchen an investment.
- Drainage and layout. Smart design plans for water from every angle. The layout of the space and a good drainage system are essential to prevent pooling and keep the work area dry and functional. All of this is built in from the first sketch of each of our outdoor kitchens to ensure comfort and safety.
- Lighting and safety on gray days. On gray days, strategically placed lighting is crucial to highlight volumes, make work easier and keep the mood cozy.
At Novara, our lighting systems combine function and aesthetics to suit any weather. The N3 system features a recessed channel with perimeter lighting that not only improves visibility but also adds a sophisticated touch to the whole. The PURA model, for its part, stands out for its carefully designed lighting on both the countertop and the lower shelf, highlighting every detail and keeping the space elegant even in low light. These solutions not only prevent annoying glare but also ensure comfortable, safe use.
Inspired by nature: cooking in the rain
As we mentioned, we’ll close this article by encouraging you to awaken your senses and giving you some pointers on how to enjoy a day of outdoor cooking in the rain, which, as we’ve seen, won’t be an obstacle and can even be a draw. First, there’s the sound of water and an ambient calm that’s hard to find on a sunny day, letting you experience the act of cooking with greater presence. Then, the scent of moisture, which, though subtle, has a noticeable effect on our sensory experience. And finally, a play of soft light and reflections that the midday sun, so monolithic, wastes entirely. And there’s much more, but we’re in such subjective territory that we hope you’ll discover it for yourselves, without further interference.
We hope we’ve convinced you to open yourself up to this experience whenever the chance arises, just as we do. After all, Novara was born from an idea of communion between kitchen and natural setting; and in it, rain is life.
