Bright Evenings & Bold Meals: Outdoor Kitchen & Outdoor Lighting Ideas in Ankeny, IA
Imagine stepping into your backyard on a warm summer evening. The grill is sizzling, friends are gathered around the table, and the entire space glows under the perfect mix of task and accent lighting. It’s a little slice of luxury—right at home in Ankeny, IA. Outdoor kitchens and outdoor lighting go hand in hand when it comes to creating a backyard that works as beautifully at night as it does during the day. At Earthly Possibilities, we design and build spaces that bring meals, memories, and moments to life.
Why Outdoor Kitchens & Lighting Are a Perfect Pair
An outdoor kitchen gives you the freedom to cook, dine, and relax without ever stepping foot inside. Add the right lighting, and you’ve just extended your backyard’s usability well into the evening hours.
Lighting sets the mood for everything from family dinners to neighborhood parties. Plus, the combination of cooking features and a well-lit patio adds serious value and curb appeal to your Ankeny property. It’s about style, function, and enjoying your outdoor space to the fullest.
Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas for Ankeny Homes
Your outdoor kitchen should be as unique as your home. Some homeowners prefer an L-shaped design for grilling and prep space, while others opt for U-shaped layouts with built-in seating to keep everyone close to the action.
Popular features include:
Built-in grills for convenience and a clean look.
Pizza ovens for family pizza nights under the stars.
Refrigerators and sinks for a fully functional cooking space.
Stone or brick finishes that complement your home’s architecture.
And since Iowa weather can be unpredictable, we recommend durable materials and weatherproof finishes to keep your outdoor kitchen looking great for years to come.
Outdoor Lighting That Sets the Mood
Lighting transforms a functional outdoor kitchen into a welcoming evening retreat. A few ways to light your space:
Task lighting over grills and prep areas so cooking is safe and easy.
Ambient lighting around dining and seating areas for a warm, inviting glow.Accent lighting for landscaping, water features, or pathways to add drama and depth.
Energy-efficient options like LED and solar lighting keep your backyard eco-friendly while smart lighting systems let you control brightness and timing with ease.
Creating a Cohesive Backyard Experience
The best outdoor spaces feel connected—where patios, lighting, kitchens, and landscaping all work together. Strategic lighting placement highlights architectural details, garden beds, or walkways, while your kitchen and dining areas serve as the focal point.
For many Ankeny homeowners, adding features like seating walls, pergolas, or fire pits creates an all-in-one space that feels like a natural extension of their home.
Professional Design & Installation vs. DIY
While DIY might seem tempting, professional design and installation ensure safety, longevity, and a finished look you’ll love. Proper wiring for lighting, grading for patios, and code compliance for gas and water lines require experienced hands.
At Earthly Possibilities, we manage everything from initial consultation to final construction so you can relax and enjoy the process while we bring your backyard vision to life. This is what Leslee S., one of our recent customers, had to say about working with our team:
“Excellent experience; From planning the design, to choosing materials, to the completion of the project. Pat and his crew were professional and knowledgeable, taking care to get the details right. We love our new outdoor space!”
Bring Your Ankeny Backyard to Life
An outdoor kitchen and lighting design can completely transform the way you use your backyard—giving you a space for bold meals, bright evenings, and endless memories.
Ready to create the perfect backyard retreat? Contact Earthly Possibilities today to start designing your outdoor kitchen and lighting project in Ankeny, IA.
