Your new is just around the corner
Sign up for insight into the latest design trends from our newsletter
You're on the list
By signing up, you agree to receive email marketing.
DESIGN 101
Design Your Outdoor Kitchen in Style
Extend your living space and enhance your backyard's functionality with an outdoor kitchen. Perhaps you're a culinary enthusiast, or maybe you love to entertain. Maybe food just tastes better when you cook it outdoors. For these reasons and many others, an outdoor kitchen can completely transform your outdoor living experience. This comprehensive guide of outdoor kitchen ideas will detail how to set up an outdoor kitchen all the way from choosing appliances to picking outdoor dining furniture and settling on a design style. Learning how to build an outdoor kitchen is going to be a breeze.
Plan Your Outdoor Kitchen Layout
You're probably itching to dive into the details of your new cooking space, but you need to take a moment to lay the groundwork and plan your outdoor kitchen layout. The location is arguably most important. Pick a spot that's easily accessible from your indoor kitchen to make food preparation and serving a little easier. When building an outdoor kitchen, check that the area you choose has enough space for cooking, dining, and socializing. Think ahead to the flow of movement and how you will transition between the different areas of your kitchen and dining space.
Dividing your kitchen into designated zones for tasks like cooking, preparation, serving, and cleanup will help keep the space organized and functional. Consider proximity to water and electricity sources and think about how different weather conditions might affect your cooking and dining experience. Your climate might require shelter from the elements, whether through a permanent structure like a pergola or a temporary, inexpensive covered outdoor kitchen idea like an outdoor umbrella.
Don't forget to consider safety, especially if you have children. Keep the cooking area separate from the dining and play areas to help prevent accidents.
Choose Appliances and Features
The appliances you choose will form the backbone of your outdoor dining and hosting experience, so you'll want to invest in high-quality, durable equipment. Think about how often you plan to use the space, the types of meals you enjoy preparing, and the number of people you typically entertain. This will help you differentiate between the must-haves and nice-to-haves. Here are some popular must-have features:
•
Sink: A sink with running water will make food prep and cleanup much easier.
•
Grill: This is the centerpiece of most outdoor kitchens. Options range from built-in gas grills to portable charcoal grills. If you're looking for simple outdoor kitchen ideas, a grill is a must-have.
•
Refrigeration: Keep drinks and perishables cool with a compact refrigerator or beverage cooler.
•
Storage: Cabinets and drawers will keep utensils, cookware, and non-perishables close at hand.
•
Counter space: Make sure you have ample counter space for preparing food and serving.
Select Outdoor Dining Furniture
Your outdoor kitchen won't be complete without a comfortable dining area. Consider the options that will keep you and your loved ones comfortable:
•
Dining sets: A sturdy table and chairs that can withstand the elements will serve you well. Look for materials like teak, aluminum, polypropylene, or resin wicker that are durable and weather-resistant.
Shop now•
Bar seating: If you have an outdoor kitchen-bar combination, add some bar stools for a casual dining option. Outdoor kitchen bar ideas could include anything from a spacious standalone area to a designated counter area.
Shop now•
Lounging area: Create a cozy corner with outdoor sofas or lounge chairs.
Shop now•
Bistro sets: This is one of the most popular small outdoor kitchen ideas. These are ideal for small spaces or intimate settings and typically include a small table and two chairs.
Shop nowIncorporate Outdoor Design Styles
Your outdoor kitchen will reflect your style and complement the exterior of your home. Some of the more popular outdoor kitchen designs include rustic, modern, coastal, and Mediterranean. Finally, you get to design your outdoor kitchen style.
Rustic
Lean into natural materials like stone and wood to create a warm, inviting look. A pergola or arbor with climbing plants will enhance the charm of this design style. Overall, your decor will emphasize a connection with nature and establish a cozy atmosphere for your gatherings.
Modern
Sleek lines, stainless steel appliances, concrete features, and minimalist furniture will dominate a modern outdoor kitchen space. This style relies on simplicity and functionality and is ideal if you want a clean and sophisticated look.
Coastal
If you're drawn to light and airy design, white and pastel colors, nautical accents, and weathered wood finishes, this design style is calling your name. It evokes the feeling of being by the sea and brings the same serene and breezy atmosphere, no matter how far from the beach you are.
Add the Finishing Touches
Once the main components are in place, make the space your own with unique outdoor kitchen design ideas. Final details like those listed below will make your outdoor kitchen a place where you love to spend time:
•
Install ambient outdoor lighting like string lights, lanterns, built-in LEDs, or solar-powered lights to make sure the party can continue after dark. Well-placed lighting adds to the ambiance and makes nighttime gatherings more doable.
Learn more•
Think about adding a shade structure like a pergola, umbrella, or retractable awning to make the hot summer months more bearable. These covered outdoor kitchen ideas will protect your guests from the sun's harsh rays.
Learn more•
Spruce the area up with outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and other decorative items. Just make sure that everything is weather-resistant and easy to clean. Outdoor decor needs to be able to stand the test of time despite being outdoors in the elements and heavily used.
•
Incorporate potted plants or a small herb garden to add greenery and a touch of nature to your outdoor kitchen. This is a functional addition that will brighten up your culinary creations, not to mention the way plants can soften the hardscapes of your kitchen. Adding greenery is one of the best cheap simple outdoor kitchen ideas.
•
Extend the usability of your outdoor kitchen into the cooler months with outdoor heaters or a firepit for extra warmth and a focal point for evening gatherings.
Shop now•
Incorporate entertainment features like an outdoor sound system, television, or projector to keep your guests entertained. Your outdoor kitchen could become the ultimate spot for watching sports and movies or hosting parties with background music.
Learn moreGet Cooking
Now you know how to build an outdoor kitchen. Best of luck as you embark on this rewarding project that will transform your backyard into a space ideal for cooking and entertaining. Happy planning!