We all know that one die-hard grill master - the kind of meat-lover who fires up the grill even in a snowstorm. The rest of us? We wait for warmer days. And with every sunny afternoon that creeps above 40 degrees, we get a little taste of what’s to come: grilling season, outdoor gatherings, and long summer weekends with friends and family.
That first hint of spring is the perfect time to start thinking about outdoor kitchen design, how you use your outdoor space, and how you could use it better. Whether you're building from scratch or upgrading your existing setup, a smart design can completely transform your backyard experience. From small patios to full-blown culinary spaces, the right layout balances functionality, durability, and great design.
Sure, all it really takes to cook outside is fire, food, and a paper plate. But these days, we’re dreaming bigger. While there's always a time and place for roasting hot dogs over a campfire, we're focusing on the modern conveniences that make outdoor kitchens not just practical, but luxurious.
So where do you start? With the foundation. Then, once the essentials are in place, you can layer in the extras that make the space uniquely yours.
Outdoor Kitchen Design - The Basics
The Cooking Station
No matter which cooking appliances you choose for your outdoor kitchen, durability and weather resistance are key. Outdoor equipment should stand up to the elements and heavy use—after all, you want your setup to last more than just one season.
Start by thinking about how you like to cook and what types of meals you’ll be preparing most often. Are you a weekend warrior who loves slow-smoked brisket? Or are quick weeknight burgers more your style? Your answers will help you prioritize the right equipment.
If your budget allows, consider mixing and matching multiple cooking methods to create a truly versatile outdoor kitchen. Here are some popular options to consider:
- Gas Grill (Propane): Easy to use and quick to heat—great for everyday grilling.
- Gas Grill (Natural Gas): Ideal for a permanent setup; no tank refills required.
- Pellet Grill: Offers great flavor and consistent heat control—perfect for smoking and roasting.
- Hybrid Grill: Combines gas, charcoal, and sometimes pellet capabilities in one appliance.
- Kamado Grill: A ceramic charcoal grill known for its heat retention and versatility.
- Side Burners or Cooktops: Useful for preparing sauces, side dishes, or boiling water without leaving your outdoor kitchen.
- Smoker: Essential for low-and-slow barbecue lovers who crave that deep smoky flavor.
- Griddle: Great for breakfast, stir-fries, and foods that benefit from a flat cooking surface.
- Pizza Oven: A fun and flavorful addition for homemade pizza nights or artisan bread baking.
When planning your outdoor kitchen design, think beyond just the grill. A well-rounded cooking setup can take your outdoor entertaining to the next level.
Prep Space in your Outdoor Kitchen Design
Every kitchen, whether indoor or outdoor, needs a prep space. That surface could be as simple as a portable table or cart, or as high-end and permanent as an entire outdoor kitchen adorned with quartz countertops. Outdoor work surfaces must be weatherproof; rust-proof, easy to clean and withstand UV, rain and seasonal changes. Consider plastic tables, granite, concrete or stainless-steel countertops. Avoid wood or butcher block surfaces unless they have a weather-proof protected layer. Whatever surface material you choose, it should perform well out in the elements.
Outdoor Kitchen Storage
No kitchen is complete without some kind of storage. Ideally, an outdoor kitchen should have its own set of kitchen supplies; cooking utensils, dishes, silverware, linens, paper towels, and grilling tools. Therefore, your outdoor kitchen should have places to store those items. Having everything you need within reach for cooking and entertaining alleviates the need to run around collecting tools or heading back to the indoor kitchen when you’ve forgotten something. Great outdoor storage and organization promotes a more enjoyable outdoor cooking experience. Be sure to choose weather-proof storage cabinets and containers that fit your needs.
Shelter, Shade, and Seating
When it comes to outdoor kitchens, shelter, shade and comfortable seating are essential. Not only does it protect the very important cook from the sun and the unexpected rain shower, shelter and shade also keep leaves, twigs and dirt from falling into the food. A covered patio, a lanai, a pergola, a gazebo, or a retractable awning are effective ways to protect family and friends from the hot sun. If the budget is tight, invest in some shade sails. Sail shades are a cost-effective and creative way to create large areas of shade. With shade sails, there are no umbrella poles to deal with. They’re affordable, colorful and if you purchase multiples, you can create a truly inspiring outdoor space at a fraction of the cost.
Comfortable seating and dining options are MUST-HAVE BASICS for your outdoor kitchen. Outdoor seating can include dining table chairs, bar stools, and lounge chairs. If budget is no obstacle, you can have your seat cushions customized to whatever design aesthetic you choose. If winter storage is an issue during the winter months, only invest in a few select cushioned chairs and then purchase outdoor stacking chairs for extra seating. They can be easily stacked and stored away when not in use.
Outdoor Kitchen Design - Beyond the Basics
Outdoor Heaters, Fire Pits, and Fireplaces
Outdoor heaters could be considered a luxury and not a necessity, but no outdoor kitchen and entertainment area is fully complete without a source of heat for those cool evenings when you don’t want the party to end.
Lighting and Electrical
If you want your guests to stay after the sun sets, it’s important to include task and ambient lighting in your outdoor kitchen plan. Task lighting allows the chef and the bartender to see what they’re doing. No one wants to end up with bourbon in their margarita. Ambient lighting is just as important. It sets the mood to “magical” for an evening of entertainment. A lighting plan could also include extra outlets for items like blenders, phones and speakers. If your budget doesn’t include hiring an electrician, but you still want your outdoor space to have light, head down to your local hardware store and purchase some affordable patio string lights. Make sure that your lights are rated for outdoor use. With some tools and hardware, a lot of ingenuity and a good friend, they can be hung in, and around your outdoor kitchen and patio area. While you’re at it, pick up some Tiki Torches for a gorgeous flickering-light addition to your outdoor entertainment space. They ward off mosquitoes AND light your space all at the same time!
Sink and Plumbing
If your budget allows, installing a sink with running water for prep and cleanup is a game changer. Cooking outside will be almost as easy as cooking inside. A true indulgence.
Outdoor Appliances
Nothing says luxury like an outdoor kitchen that is complete with a dishwasher and refrigeration. Both are convenient to have in your outdoor kitchen, especially if you entertain frequently. Plumbing for an outdoor dishwasher may bust your budget, but outdoor refrigeration can be affordable. Consider an outdoor-rated mini fridge or beverage cooler, wine fridge or ice maker to keep your guest’s drinks refreshingly cold on a hot summer day.
Style and Aesthetics
If you are planning your outdoor kitchen with the help of our designers, they will be sure to include all the above in addition to an expertly planned outdoor kitchen space. Our designers take into account the rest of your home’s design and what your vision is for the outdoor kitchen and entertainment space. The end-product will be a gorgeous space you’ll be able to enjoy for many years.
So, if you want to be grilling and enjoying your outdoor kitchen by summertime, start now, start with the basics, and remember to think about functionality, durability, and aesthetics as you plan. Ready to bring your outdoor kitchen vision to life? Let's design something extraordinary.