Sunny days will return sooner rather than later, and at Novara we are sure that this season of relentless rain will in fact prove very rewarding: we will gain a great deal from it. The first benefit 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 pleasure outdoors, which demands preparation and learning, but is entirely within reach.
As far as learning is concerned, there is not much we can do, other than advise that if you keep your senses (all of them) alert, you will discover that cooking outdoors on a rainy day has a great many nuances that add spice to life, and which we will tell you about at the end.
As for preparation, we have that covered: our kitchens are designed to withstand the worst of the weather. You simply need to consider installing a water-resistant cover or pergola, if you do not already have one, as the sun also calls for protection. The most advisable are retractable ones, which adapt to the needs of each moment. The minimalist, elegant design of these coverings also adds a touch of sophistication to the whole.
Having cleared that up, we will explain what makes our kitchens so resilient and what both the materials and the design involve.
- Water-resistant materials: beauty and durability. When it comes to facing humidity, materials make all the difference. At Novara, we rely on stainless steel, natural stone and Q-XTREM® technology, developed to deliver highly resilient surfaces that stay impeccable even in extreme conditions. These materials are not only easy to maintain, but also ensure a longevity that makes every kitchen an investment.
- Drainage and layout. Intelligent design considers water from every angle. The layout of the space and a good drainage system are essential to prevent standing water and keep the work area easily dry and functional. All of this is considered from the very first sketch of each of our outdoor kitchens, to ensure comfort and safety.
- Lighting and safety on grey days. On grey days, strategically placed lighting is crucial to highlight volumes, make work easier and maintain a welcoming atmosphere.
At Novara, the lighting systems combine functionality and aesthetics to suit any weather conditions. The N3 system incorporates a cove with perimeter lighting that not only improves visibility but also adds a sophisticated touch to the whole. The PURA model, meanwhile, stands out for its carefully considered lighting on both the worktop and the lower shelf, enhancing every detail and ensuring the space keeps its elegance even in low light. These solutions not only avoid annoying glare, but also ensure comfortable and safe use.
Inspiration from nature: cooking in the rain
As we mentioned earlier, we will close this article by encouraging you to awaken your senses and by giving you some pointers on how to enjoy a day of outdoor cooking in the rain which, as we have seen, will not be an obstacle and may even be an incentive. First, there is the sound of the water and an ambient calm that is hard to find on a sunny day, allowing you to experience the act of cooking with greater presence. Then, the scents of damp, which, though subtle, have a perceptible influence on our sensory experience. And finally, there is a play of soft light and reflections that the midday sun, so monolithic, wastes entirely. And there is much more, but we are in such subjective territory that we hope you will discover it yourselves, without further intervention.
We hope we have convinced you to open yourselves to this experience whenever the opportunity arises, just as we do. After all, Novara was born from an idea of communion between kitchen and natural surroundings; and there, rain is life.
