There’s nothing quite like an outdoor kitchen — not only does it help you make the most of the outdoors, but it also encourages you to fully embrace the seasons, enjoying every moment of spring and summer with hosting opportunities aplenty.
Your outdoor kitchen ideas should be aligned with the rest of your home — the space should be designed with the same care and attention as you would your interiors. When it comes to the cost of an outdoor kitchen, it also doesn’t have to be a full fit-out. It can be as simple as a small grilling station or an island with an oven.
Of course, if space allows, you can go all out with a fully-fledged kitchen that includes cooking and prep areas, seating, and even an entertainment system. So, what type of outdoor kitchen are you looking to create? These expert-approved ideas will give you the inspiration you need, whatever your space.
1. Go All Out With a Grill, Sink and Storage
Deck up your outdoors with sofas, a carpet and a built-in outdoor grill.
Want your outdoor kitchen to be usable and relevant year-round in your modern garden? Make sure it includes all the essential zones: prep, cook, serve, and clean. This will make it easier to handle everything outdoors without needing to head back inside. A kitchen of this size also allows for family-style cooking, so consider adding a garden table with chairs to complete the setup.
“Before setting up an outdoor kitchen, think practically — proximity to running water and your indoor kitchen or dining area is key,” advises Mary Patton, founder of Mary Patton Design. “I always tell clients not to overthink storage or cabinetry outdoors — focus on functionality and flow instead of overdesigning.”
If you've added a wet kitchen, remember that sink installation isn’t as simple as it might seem, especially if you want both hot and cold water. You’ll need to run both supply lines and add a drain line. Consider faucets that swivel for ease of use.
Mary Patton of Mary Patton Design specializes in residential and commercial interior design as well as home and event styling. Her joyful and accessible approach to design provides clients with a gratifying experience. Mary creates elegant, eclectic interiors by mixing modern with vintage, and high art with personal treasures to create moments of unexpected beauty.
2. Incorporate Multiple Seating, If Space Allows
Create an organic, rustic outdoor setup with dark wood and concrete.
Fully outfit your deck with the finest garden furniture and create the ultimate outdoor living room to complement your kitchen. Opt for weatherproof materials and fabrics, and bring life to the space with potted plants and greenery.
“Prioritize durability, comfort, and climate responsiveness for your outdoor space,” says Isabella Hoyos, senior interior designer at STRANG. “We always choose appliances rated for outdoor use and incorporate weather-resistant materials like stainless steel, stone, and outdoor-rated wood — such as Cumaru, which performs beautifully in humid, coastal environments.”
“In this project, the outdoor kitchen is fully covered, and we extended the roof overhang to increase shaded areas and protect the space from rain and sun exposure,” Isabella adds. “The kitchen is positioned to take advantage of natural cross-ventilation, and ceiling fans can be added for extra comfort. These strategies help ensure the kitchen remains functional and inviting throughout the year.”
Do note that in such a full-fledged setup, where you undertake large-scale cooking, you'll have to dedicate a spot for trash and recycling.
This stylish modular garden sofa would be a wonderful complement to an outdoor kitchen to fully embrace the indoor-outdoor living vibe. The set includes two 3-seater sofas, an ottoman, a small side table, and a pull-out table and is made with lightweight yet durable aluminum frames, covered with a weather-resistant poly-rattan weave. The top is finished with a wood-effect for a more traditional, though still modern, look.
Isabella Hoyos, senior interior designer and project manager at STRANG, leads high-end residential projects with a focus on thoughtful collaboration, environmental consciousness, and design excellence. Holding a Master's in Interior Architecture from Florida International University, she is recognized for her strong leadership, refined aesthetic sensibility, and ability to seamlessly bridge architecture and interiors to create cohesive, personalized spaces.
3. Give the Kitchen a Design Dose With Patterned Tiles
Add a pop of color and movement to your outdoor kitchen with the latest tile trends.
Grills, decks, and outdoor seating often lean toward neutral, no-frills palettes, so adding bold pops of color is a great way to liven up your outdoor kitchen. Whether through the most welcoming exterior paint colors or patterned, eye-catching outdoor kitchen countertop tiles, a little color can go a long way.
“This outdoor kitchen was placed right next to the living room door to ensure easy access from the interior,” says Kristyn Harvey, founder of Kristyn Harvey Interiors. “We chose this location to encourage the young family to cook outside more and fully embrace indoor-outdoor living in San Diego."
“We used the Enchante matte porcelain tile from Bedrosians for its beautiful pattern when laid out as a set. Porcelain was also key for its durability — it resists heat, is impermeable to water, and doesn’t stain. That’s especially important in a cooking zone regularly exposed to barbecue soot and food residue.”
Kristyn Harvey Interiors is a full-service residential design firm specializing in home renovations and furnishings. The studio supports clients through every stage — from developing comprehensive design plans and curating reliable design-build teams to space planning and custom furniture design. With a strong belief in the power of personal spaces, the firm is dedicated to creating intuitive interiors that reflect each client’s unique identity and lifestyle.
4. Fit the Kitchen Inside a Pergola
Protect the outdoor kitchen with a glass and aluminium pergola
A garden structure like a pergola not only adds architectural interest to your outdoor kitchen but also ensures it can be used year-round, regardless of the weather. Plus, it offers the perfect framework for climbing plants, turning into a beautiful natural feature within the garden. When it comes to positioning the kitchen and its essentials, Elle Jackelman of The Outdoor Kitchen Collective shares:
"The placement of a built-in BBQ within an outdoor kitchen largely depends on the overall layout. For example, if a client wanted to integrate a built-in BBQ into a 3-meter straight-run layout and was right-handed, I’d recommend positioning the BBQ either on the left-hand side or in the center. This setup allows for flexibility, placing food ready to be cooked on the left and freshly cooked items on the right. A dominant right hand naturally works from left to right, creating an efficient flow from prep to serving."
She adds, "Another important factor is the configuration — whether it’s a straight-run, L-shaped, or C-shaped kitchen. The number of appliances or utilities being incorporated will also influence where the built-in BBQ should go.
"For instance, if there's a fence along the right side of the garden and the kitchen is to be positioned against it, forming an L-shape that extends into the garden and around to the left, I’d suggest placing the built-in BBQ on the far left — away from the fence. From there, we’d continue with prep space and other cooking appliances. This is because placing a gas BBQ or open flame near a fence isn’t advisable without a heat barrier like a backsplash or reflective panel. In such cases, I try to group cooking appliances on the left side to reduce the need for added protection."
5. Light it Up With Recessed Strips
Illuminate the outdoor setup with mood-enhancing lights.
There are plenty of garden lighting ideas to explore — from large-scale statement fixtures to subtle options that highlight architectural details. If you have a covered outdoor kitchen and want to create a moody, relaxing atmosphere, recessed spotlights or track lighting are excellent choices. They provide a soft, ambient glow without overwhelming the space.
If you cook often, consider supplementing recessed lighting with task-specific fixtures like a pendant or wall-mounted lamp to better illuminate your workspace and tools. For added flexibility and ambiance, install dimmer switches to easily adjust the lighting to suit any mood or occasion.
We love these Govee Outdoor LED Strip Lights on Amazon, which also happen to work with Alexa for added ease.
Add a little rustic charm to your outdoor kitchen area with this outdoor wall light which features a swan neck design and angled head. Available in distressed bronze (pictured) or distressed silver.
6. Or With Statement Pendants
Add a striking look to the outdoor seating with large light fixtures
Alternatively, if you want your kitchen to be the standout feature of your patio or deck, opt for architectural or decorative lighting. Think large-scale chandeliers, statement pendants, or a cluster of lanterns that double as design elements.
To enhance functionality, pair task lighting with charming string lights that offer ambient illumination and brighten up a wider stretch of the outdoors. Looking to create a more layered lighting scheme?
Consider adding outdoor uplighters to highlight your flower beds or tropical plants, bringing both depth and drama to your garden setting.
A beautiful patio lighting idea, the Cava outdoor pendant light is both stylish and functional, with three light points to provide optimal lighting, while the IP44 rating means it will stand up to the various weather conditions.
7. Keep it Simple With a Peninsula
It's possible to fit a kitchen in a small backyard with a peninsula and seating.
If you want to design a small garden with a minimal yet effective outdoor kitchen setup, consider installing a peninsula that holds a built-in outdoor grill paired with a few comfortable chairs, perfect for enjoying casual barbecues.
Even a compact cooking nook can be highly functional and long-lasting, provided you invest in quality brands and equipment.
“In terms of outdoor kitchen brands, we usually trust Wolf, Kalamazoo, Alfresco, Lynx, Big Green Egg, Viking, Ooni, Tradewinds, and U-Line, depending on the client’s needs, layout, and performance preferences,” says Isabella. “These selections combine functionality and luxury, making them ideal for everything from relaxed family meals to entertaining guests.”
8. Consider a Statement Island for the Outdoor Kitchen
Give the outdoors an elevated appeal with design-savvy islands.
Small-scale but well-crafted outdoor kitchen islands with functional cabinetry can be a true reflection of your taste and style. Positioning the grill on a beautifully designed island makes it easy to prep ingredients, plate hot food, and enjoy seamless outdoor cooking — all while enhancing the visual appeal of your outdoor space.
The base cabinets are the backbone of your kitchen, as they hold the cabinets, drawers, refrigerators, and sinks. Bases and base cabinets have to be hardworking.
While wood, concrete, and soapstone are classic material choices, designers also recommend aluminum, stainless steel, and tile for added durability and a touch of design flair.
9. Add Flexibility With a Sleek Portable Kitchen
Versatility at its best — bring your additional workspace with you, wherever you need it.
Whether you're planning a new design, or are looking to fit an outdoor kitchen into an existing one, the idea of a freestanding, portable design isn't one to be overlooked.
"The versatility of portable, freestanding outdoor kitchens means they are an incredibly popular choice for those looking to maximize their garden space," says Ced Wells, creative director of Vlaze.
"Our ADAPT range, for example, can be kitted with wheels so when it’s not in use, the unit can be wheeled inside or to a storage area — particularly useful if you have a more compact or small backyard."
There's another major benefit, too. "In addition, as the units are all freestanding, they can be taken with you if you move house or easily moved into a new position if you re-landscape your garden."
This SFAREST Outdoor Grill Cart on Amazon has 5-star reviews and could be just the ticket for your outdoor kitchen ideas.
This stylish outdoor cart features a durable stainless steel tabletop with a black steel frame and rattan-textured panels. Its double-door design offers spacious, organized storage for easy access to essentials.
10. Or Use an Indoor Island Outdoors
Sometimes permanent outdoor kitchen structures are not practical, or even possible, depending on the size of space you're working with.
If you're designing a small garden where a permanent outdoor kitchen island isn't practical, why not steal this idea from architect Yoko Kloeden, which sees a portable kitchen island wheeled outside when the weather is fine.
"The client hosts a supper club at her family home," Yoko explains, "so the brief was to create an indoor/ outdoor dining experience. It quickly became clear that having a permanent dining table and chairs to seat 10 people is not feasible due to the limited size of the garden. The idea of the moveable island came when we realised we would need to take the indoor dining table out to the garden for outdoor dining. The moveable island also works as a serving table outside."
The key to making this idea work came in one small detail of the home's architecture. "The indoor outdoor threshold had to be flush," Yoko tells us. "The bottom door frame is recessed between the internal micro concrete flooring and the external decking. We raised the garden level by installing timber decking so there are no level changes in the ground floor."
11. Cover the Outdoor Kitchen
Place the outdoor kitchen under a roof to protect it from the elements.
Having an overhead structure helps protect both your kitchen and yourself from the elements — whether it’s harsh sun, rain, extreme weather, or even snow. But that doesn’t mean you need to cover your entire outdoor space. In fact, doing so can take away from the open, airy visuals and the sensory experience of being outside. Instead, consider covering just the kitchen area while leaving the outdoor seating zone open to the sky.
It’s also important to choose weather-resistant materials to ensure durability over time. “For a long-lasting and functional outdoor kitchen, a covered area is always the best choice, especially given the unpredictability of the weather,” says Louisa Eggleston of Humphrey Munson. “Proper coverage — whether aluminum, wood, vinyl, or slatted cedar — ensures durability, protects appliances, and enhances year-round usability.”
“When it comes to materials, we always recommend Iroko for cabinetry due to its exceptional durability and resistance to moisture, making it ideal for outdoor environments,” says Louisa. “For worktops, Dolomite is a standout choice — it’s naturally beautiful, highly resilient, and perfectly suited for withstanding the elements."
She adds, “The Wolf outdoor grill and Sub-Zero fridge drawers, both specifically designed for outdoor use, offer peak performance regardless of the weather. And for BBQ traditionalists, a Kamado Joe or Big Green Egg is a fun and flavorful addition. A functioning sink and tap are also incredibly practical and elevate the overall outdoor cooking experience.”
Louisa Eggleston is the creative director at Humphrey Munson, where she has worked for more than a decade. Holding a law degree from Durham, she began her career as a solicitor before transitioning into the creative field. Now, she leverages her impressive skills in visual communications to lead the creative team, blending modern aesthetics with the brand’s enduring heritage in every project.
12. Get Creative With Covering Your Outdoor Kitchen
This patio idea features a stunning bamboo canopy, which adds light and warmth to the outdoor kitchen.
Outdoor kitchens deserve to be all-weather ready so that even if the forecast isn't playing ball with your cook out plans, you can still host in style and comfort. Plus, the right shade idea for patios will help to keep you sheltered from blistering conditions mid-summer.
This design is an interesting take on a covered outdoor kitchen, combining a perspex roof with bamboo canes. "Functionality is central to the success of this garden with even minor modifications having significant impact," says Antony Wyer, creative director of Wyer & Co, who designed this outdoor space for his own home.
"Waterproofing the open pergola structure with a perspex canopy is an example of this, allowing use of the outdoor entertaining area when raining — in contrast, the bamboo screening on top adds warmth while filtering natural sunlight."
13. Consider a Retractable Canopy
Incorporating a flexible, retractable canopy makes this an outdoor kitchen area that is enjoyed whatever the weather brings.
With a retractable cover and the right outdoor heating ideas, you can make your outdoor kitchen and dining space work year-round.
14. Complement the Kitchen With Luxury Outdoor Dining
Embrace outdoor dining and uplift your outdoor kitchen with sculptural furniture.
Concrete and rich wood make for a modern, minimalist pairing — ideal for an urban garden setting. Design your space using these durable materials, and complete the look with sleek modern outdoor furniture ideas and top-tier appliances for a space that’s both stylish and functional.
“For this project, we curated a high-performance outdoor kitchen equipped with everything needed for seamless entertaining,” says Isabella of STRANG. “We included a built-in gas grill (Coyote C2SL42LP) as the main cooking element, undercounter refrigerator drawers (True TUR24ODPB) for easy access to cold beverages and ingredients, and an outdoor ice maker (True TUI15LOPB) with a built-in pump for a steady supply of ice.
"We also designed a custom stainless steel hood — crafted in collaboration with Bell’s Appliances — to ensure proper ventilation and long-term performance.”
15. Set Up a One-Wall Kitchen
Keep it sleek and minimal with a one-wall kitchen.
If you have a small patio or garden but still want to make it multifunctional, consider a one-wall kitchen equipped with all the essentials of a cooking space — no bells and whistles required.
A compact yet efficient storage unit can house all your cooking tools and supplies, minimizing the need to run back and forth between the house and outdoors.
16. Design a Wood & Stone Kitchen
For a long-lasting kitchen, build it in wood and stone.
Two of the best outdoor kitchen materials are wood and stone — time-tested, long-lasting, and relatively low-maintenance. If you're aiming for a structure that’s durable, smart, and minimalist, this combination is a clear winner.
“This outdoor kitchen was part of a full renovation and revitalization of two family homes on the outskirts of São Paulo, Brazil — a deeply personal project for our client, who spent her childhood weekends here,” shares Guta Louro, founder of Guta Louro Designs. “The goal was to create a relaxed, soulful space that honored the property’s legacy while enhancing its connection to nature.”
“The existing structure had a built-in grill, but we added custom cabinetry, extended the stone flooring to accommodate a dining area, and designed a new wood pergola to support climbing plants and filter dappled light into the space,” she adds. “Natural materials were key: we worked with local stone for the floors, Brazilian teak for the pergola, and wove earthy tones and textures throughout to root the design in its lush surroundings. It’s a space meant for long, joyful afternoons with friends and family — a true extension of the home, open to the garden and sky.”
Guta Louro is the visionary behind Guta Louro Designs, an Austin-based interior design studio celebrated for its fusion of soulful Brazilian flair and modern sophistication. Born and raised in Brazil, Guta brings a deep-rooted passion for vibrant colors, rich textures, and cultural storytelling to every project. Her signature style blends bold, bohemian elements with refined design sensibilities, creating spaces that are both visually striking and deeply personal.
17. Pair Warm Woods With Concrete for a Modern Look
The wood and concrete contrast creates a warm, contemporary feel.
In the home of Olympic skier Gus Kenworthy, the outdoor kitchen area features wooden floorboards and warm wood kitchen units against a gray backdrop of smooth concrete walls.
Opposite this outdoor kitchen is a generous lounge and al fresco dining area, while stairs lead up to an impressive roof terrace above.
18. Add Luxury With Natural Stone Worktops
A luxury outdoor kitchen material that oozes with style.
Outdoor kitchen ideas don't get much more elevated than this stunning real stone for your outdoor kitchen countertop. As well as being a talking-point piece, the ultra-practical Lundhs Blue stone is made with one of the strongest materials in the world, larvikite.
Its UV-resistance means the color won't fade over time, while thermal shock resistance guarantees it won't expand when the temperature drops — ideal for all weather conditions. Thanks to its low porosity, it's also resistant to water and heat, as well as scratches and stains, making it the perfect al fresco kitchen prep surface.
"Opt for a material that is easy to clean and is maintenance-free," says Hege Lundh, marketing director at Lundhs ."The key to this is choosing a material that is 100% natural. A completely natural stone will be used to the elements and notoriously only require very little maintenance — a simple wipe with a damp cloth will suffice! "
19. Try a Micro-Cement Finish on an Outdoor Kitchen
Why not explore with the finish for a truly custom design.
Choosing a finish for your outdoor kitchen units and countertop is part of what adds to its character. However, if you're interested in a sleek style, why not consider a material such as microcement? It can be used across cabinet fronts and countertops for a unified look.
In this example, by Toronto-based Ancerl Studio, microcement has been used to create a Mediterranean-style space. "We were initially inspired by our client's mood board, which emphasized a clean and minimal European aesthetic, with material continuity and a relaxed island vibe," the team at Ancerl Studio explains.
"Almost everything on this terrace was custom-designed; from the microcement floor slabs and built-ins, to the custom sofa, cushions, and throw pillows."
20 Set it Up on the Terrace
Convert the terrace into a lounge area with seating, an outdoor kitchen and a slatted roof.
Have a home with a terrace? Turn it into the ultimate hangout by adding outdoor lounge chairs, a dining setup, and a fully equipped kitchen.
“The outdoor space features a pergola with wooden beams and a metal frame, along with a concrete bar,” say José Sánchez and Moisés Ison, founders and directors of Central de Arquitectura. “The outdoor kitchen includes a granite countertop with wood-look cabinet doors, and is finished with durable vinyl flooring.
"The bar area is outfitted with a built-in grill and electrical outlets for lighting and power. There’s also a sink with a cold water connection. The kitchen is fully equipped with a range hood, stove, refrigerator, washer-dryer combo, microwave, and dishwasher — everything needed for seamless outdoor living.”
Architects José Sánchez and Moisés Ison lead a creative team known for delivering undeniably striking projects. The firm’s core philosophy is to integrate financial planning, design, construction, and real estate sales into a cohesive strategy that maximizes resources. Their approach is rooted in a commitment to construction and design excellence, paired with outstanding client service at every stage of the process.
21. Have Enough Space? Fit an Outdoor Pantry Too
Boost your outdoor kitchen setup with an added storage room.
Double the practicality and functionality of your outdoor kitchen by adding an outdoor pantry where you can store dry goods, utensils, appliances, and equipment. These outdoor storage spaces also serve as handy sheds during off-seasons, providing a place to stow away chairs, tables, and other essentials when the weather isn’t ideal.
To ensure your pantry remains protected year-round, use weatherproof materials and install glazed windows for insulation and durability. For added protection, consider installing a dehumidifier to prevent moisture build-up and keep your food and tools in optimal condition.
22. Set Up a Mediterranean-Style Kitchen
Inject a whimsical feel to the outdoors with a Mediterranean-style kitchen
An outdoor structure is a great way to showcase your landscape’s design style — and can also serve as an extension of your home’s interior decor. Instead of a traditional setup, consider creating a relaxed, vacation-inspired space with a classic brick structure that nods to a Mediterranean outdoor kitchen.
Think stucco finishes, a granite countertop, and a wood-fired pizza oven; you could even add a playful tiki bar for extra flair.
The key is that all the spaces should feel synchronized, just like the interior of your home.
23. Think Beyond the Grill
Choose appliances that suit your space and how you intend to use it.
The ultimate outdoor kitchens include a variety of options for cooking if that's what you envisage for the space, and the latest outdoor kitchen appliance trends cover all bases.
"We work intimately with the client to understand the type of cooking they envision happening outside," Chris Kurrle, a partner at Feldman Architecture. "Will they be grilling, smoking, cooking, using a clay oven, or simply hosting and entertaining? This allows us to craft a customized floor plan, as well as source the most appropriate and highest quality appliances."
Think about how you use the space too, and choose the appliances of an appropriate size. "Often, these spaces act as outdoor catering kitchens and hosting spaces, focused heavily on larger events," Chris says.
24. Pack in Plenty of Features
Bring in as many elements as possible from your indoor kitchen to your outdoor kitchen.
Talking of features, if you're heavily invested in outdoor cooking, there are plenty of helpful additions you can make to an outdoor kitchen that will make this space more practical. Take this space by Linda Hayslett of LH.Designs as an example.
"This outdoor kitchen is fully loaded," Linda explains. "I made sure to incorporate as much as possible to make it feel like an indoor kitchen. I wanted people to want to come outside to cook in the Texas weather, so I put in a 35" Drop-In Gas Grill, Drop-In Cooler, 15" Refrigerator, Trash Drawer, Wine Cooler, Kegerator, 32" sink, an Elkay Semi-professional Single Hole Kitchen Faucet, and upper cabinet to house plates, drinkware, and kitchen accessories.'
"Then I added custom open shelving to grab cooking items quickly," she adds."This kitchen was designed for any occasion, intimate entertaining, and for large events and parties," Linda says.
25. Go for a U-Shaped Design Where Space Isn't an Issue
A U-shape outdoor kitchen is highly functional, if space is not a concern.
This enviable outdoor kitchen was designed by Blakes London, with a super functional U-shaped design, which packs in an integrated barbecue, a Green Egg, handy storage for plates and glasses, and houses a drinks fridge, too.
"We like to make our outdoor kitchen units from sustainably sourced Iroko timber," says Annie Ebenston, lead designer at Blakes London. "This African hardwood is a fantastic alternative to teak, particularly for outdoor furniture, as its naturally high oil content makes it incredibly stable and unlikely to crack as temperatures change. And unlike teak and oak, which tend to bleach and turn silver over time, Iroko starts as the soft yellows you see in these images and darkens to a deep, rich, coppery tone."
"For countertops, large-format Xtone porcelain tiles work well," she adds. 'Xtone is a fabulous low-maintenance and highly functional alternative to concrete or renders. This large-format porcelain tile will maintain its color over time and is both frost and heat-resistant. An added benefit is that it is incredibly hygienic, so it can be used as a food prep surface."
26. Or Opt for a Simple Food Prep Shelf
A simple shelving setup can give you everything you need.
In reality, an outdoor kitchen doesn't need to be a huge production to be useful. In this compact garden, a simple shelving set-up creates space for food prep and for a countertop grill and pizza oven.
"If your space or budget is limited, you can opt for a simple shelf food prep area, which can be built out of a few basic materials," explains this backyard's designer, Catherine Clancy of Catherine Clancy Garden Design.
"This outside kitchen was built in a tiny garden, with a mini charcoal barbecue and herb planter."
27. Add a Living Wall as a Backdrop
Create a beautiful, natural backdrop to your outdoor kitchen with a living wall to inject color and interest.
As for the wall itself, floor your guests with a lively backdrop like this example in San Francisco. Created by local firm Heather Hilliard Design, the vertical garden pops color and life into an otherwise blank space with plenty of room for growth and fully integrates the kitchen with its surroundings.
The all-natural feature balances out more contemporary splashes, like the kitchen’s royal blue cabinetry, and blurs the line between inside and outside.
28. Design in Privacy Around Your Kitchen
Incorporate living privacy fences around your outdoor kitchen area for a secluded retreat.
If you're planning an outdoor kitchen, make sure you incorporate garden screening with beautiful planting to help frame the new zone and help it blend in better with the garden.
"This outdoor kitchen is enclosed by pleached Hornbeam trees," explains designer Charlotte Rowe, "as well as Taxus Baccata hedging and lots of perennial planting to give interest throughout the year and a sense of privacy."
Height: 12m+, Spread: 8m+
Although Hornbeam is deciduous, it retains its coppery dead leaves throughout the winter, ensuring it remains an effective screen. Hornbeam is also suitable for full sun or partial shade.
29. Let Interior Finishes Set the Tone for Warmer Climes
In warmer climates, where you're guaranteed to spend a lot of time outdoors, approach your outdoor kitchen design as you would your main kitchen.
Tucked away from Texas’s scorching heat, Marie Flanigan Interiors brought indoor vibes to this exterior kitchen by using the same limestone walls as the home’s interior kitchen — it creates an uninterrupted experience.
"When possible, I love using the same materials inside and outside the home," says Marie.
She added a statement, tiled backsplash and a plaster range hood (both with a weatherproof finish), to complement the luxurious appearance of the home’s indoor aesthetic.
30. Get Creative With Wall Hooks
Use any wall that works for creative hook placement.
Keep your barbecue tools, tea towels, pots and pans, and pizza peel close by with a little creative hook placements for easy access.
You can buy a steel hook to attach to the side of your BBQ — like this Galvog® BBQ Hook on Amazon — a hook shelf to attach to the wall, or why not pop single hooks on your fence to make a statement yet practical feature?
This sort of storage may be seasonal, but it can make using your outdoor kitchen much easier, keeping essential tools close at hand.
31. Add a Wood-Fired Pizza Oven
There's nothing quite like a homemade wood-fired pizza.
Picture homemade wood-fired pizzas with friends and family in your own garden, under the stars. Independent British brand DeliVita makes stylish, hand-made wood-fired ovens - and they're perfect not just for cooking pizza but for everything from toad in the hole to tandoori chicken.
Light and portable, the DeliVita oven can sit on any sturdy table, meaning the chef can be right at the heart of the fun. Plus the oven will warm the area too, helping your patio last from spring into summer and right through into the late autumn months.
Ooni reigns supreme when it comes to pizza ovens — and this upgraded model is their latest feat in tech and design. The Karu 2 Pro can be powered by wood, charcoal, or gas for a completely adaptable cooking process. Plus, thanks to the Ooni connect digital temperature hub, you won't have to do any guesswork — the clever screen accurately monitors the temperature of your oven, and you can even connect it to the Ooni app.
32. Add a Playful Touch With a Blackboard Wall Menu
What's on the menu today?
This outdoor kitchen is uplifting, inviting, and fun — we love the slatted garden fencing, patio flooring, and the Green Egg barbecue with shelves cocooning it, but we're also drawn to the tongue-in-cheek menu board, for writing down the day's 'specials'.
This interactive element can make a BBQ much more of an event, and doubles up as something to keep the kids entertained.
33. Keep it Classic With a Gray Scheme
We're getting coastal vibes from this outdoor kitchen area.
Poured concrete countertops pair with white wood-slat cabinetry in this sun-drenched kitchen by California’s Salthouse Collective. Bringing a crisp and coastal aesthetic, it may be a simple kitchen — nothing more than a stainless steel grill and a small refrigerator — but it goes big with a large countertop for serving food and crowds alike.
Adding even more texture and warmth to the area, an outdoor rug complements the natural finishes and brings a living room vibe to the outdoor space.
Opt for cool grays or earthy tones for a timeless look that's also on-trend. You can always add pops of color with your glassware and accessories.
34. Add an Outdoor Bar
Keep friends and family entertained while you cook.
Set up a garden bar idea and bar stools close to your outdoor kitchen to create a relaxed, informal socialising space for family and friends. This means you can also easily entertain while you cook, too.
From an outdoor bar cart that you wheel out on occasion to a full-on built-in bar designed by the experts, a bar for your outdoor space will add a bit of fun and keep friends and family well watered.
35. Create a Nearby Herb Station
A herb station can also easily be achieved through container gardening to make outdoor cooking seamless.
Set up a nearby herb station so you can get fresh flavorings with a quick snip of the secateurs, without having to run back into the house.
Herb gardens are easy to incorporate, whether they're countertop pots, raised beds, or even a nearby window box.
FAQs
Is an Outdoor Kitchen Worth It?
Absolutely — an outdoor kitchen can be a smart and stylish addition to your home. It creates a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living, making it easier to entertain guests or enjoy casual meals al fresco.
With the right layout and durable, weatherproof materials, it’s a space that’s built to last and easy to maintain.
Also, it keeps cooking heat and mess outside during warmer months. All in all, it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Does an Outdoor Kitchen Add Value to a Home?
Definitely — an outdoor kitchen can increase your home’s value by adding both functionality and curb appeal. With features like built-in outdoor grills, weather-resistant countertops, and integrated storage, your outdoor kitchen can stand out to potential buyers. In regions with mild or warm climates, the ability to cook, dine, and entertain outside year-round is a major plus. It also expands your usable living space without requiring an interior renovation.
An outdoor kitchen can transform your garden into a functional, stylish space. With thoughtful design, durable materials, and the right features, it becomes the perfect space for cooking, entertaining, and enjoying the outdoors year-round. Just be sure not to make one of these outdoor kitchen mistakes...
