Plan the Perfect Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen allows you to enjoy cooking and entertaining outdoors. With proper planning, you can create the perfect outdoor cooking space tailored to your needs. Here are tips for designing and building your dream outdoor kitchen.

Choose the Right Location

The location of your outdoor kitchen is critical for functionality and enjoyment. Consider these factors when picking a spot:

Convenience – Place it near the indoor kitchen for easy transport of food. Close proximity to dining/entertaining areas is ideal.
Accessibility – Allow enough room for people to move around comfortably. Ensure it’s easy to bring supplies/tools outside.
Shade – Protect yourself from the sun. Incorporate natural shade from trees/plants or build a covered structure.
Views – Orient it to enjoy appealing views from your yard. Face away from unsightly areas.
Privacy – Position it away from neighbors if you want more privacy. Use screens or landscaping to help block sight lines.
Wind direction – Consider seasonal wind patterns. Place outdoor stove tops where breeze won’t disrupt the flame.
Drainage – Pick a leveled spot that won’t pool water when it rains. Allow room for drainage installations.
Ventilation – Ensure proper airflow so grill smoke doesn’t accumulate. Strategically place ceiling fans/exhaust hoods.
Utilities – Have access to electricity, gas, and water lines for essential connections.

Design the Layout

The layout should allow for safe and efficient food preparation, cooking, and entertaining. Keep these tips in mind:

Workflow – Map out work zones just like an indoor kitchen. position sink, prep space, storage, appliances, etc. in a logical order.
Traffic flow – Design wide paths so multiple people can move comfortably around the space. Avoid cramped areas.
Surface space – Incorporate ample countertops for prep work, serving, and gathering. At least 15-20 sq. ft. per person.
Storage – Include cabinets, drawers, pantries, and other storage for equipment, pantry items, and dishware.
Seating – Accommodate stools/chairs for casual dining at counters or a table and chairs for more formal seating.
Ambiance – Incorporate lighting, music speakers, heating, plants, artwork, etc. for desired atmosphere.
Safety – Ensure lighting allows safe knife work and cooking. Include handrailings where needed. Position appliances safely away from seating.

Choose Cooking Appliances

The appliances form the functional centerpiece of your outdoor kitchen. Options to consider include:

Grills

The grill is often the highlight of an outdoor kitchen. When selecting a grill, consider:

Fuel type – Gas, charcoal, electric, wood pellet each have pros and cons regarding heat control, flavor, setup, etc.
Size – Minimum 450 sq. inches of grilling space per person. Go bigger if you regularly cook for crowds.
Features – Side burners, rotisserie, smoker box, sear station, lighting, cabinet, extra counter space, etc.
Built in or freestanding – Built in grills incorporate into kitchen cabinetry for a polished look. Freestanding carts offer more flexibility.
Budget – Quality grills start around $500-$600 with high end models reaching $10,000+. Set realistic budget expectations.

Oven

Outdoor ovens provide more cooking versatility:

Pizza ovens – Reach very high temperatures (700°F+) ideal for authentic wood-fired pizza. Models run from $300 for small countertop versions up to $5,000+ for large brick ovens.
Gas ovens – More conventional oven with gas heating perfect for baking, roasting, heating side dishes. Starts around $1,000.
Smokers – Electric or charcoal models allow you to smoke meat low and slow for hours. Prices range from $200-$2000+.
Microwaves – Outdoor-safe models withstand weather. Use for reheating, defrosting, popcorn, etc. Cost $200-$500.

Cooktop

Cooktops provide additional burners similar to an indoor stove:

Open burner – Basic coil or grate over gas flame. Affordable option starting around $100.
Griddle top – Large flat cooking surface ideal for pancakes, fried eggs, sautéing in quantity. Starts around $300.
Power burner – High-output circular burner for boiling or searing. Starts around $500.
Infrared burner – Uses infrared heat for intense searing. Prices from $700+.

Other Appliances

Refrigerator – Stainless steel outdoor models keep cold drinks and perishables handy. Cost from $1,500-$3,000.
Ice maker – Convenient addition for chilling drinks. Freestanding models run $900-$1500.
Beverage center – Integrated mini-fridge, cabinets, and counter space for drink service. Starts around $1,000.
Kitchen sink – Stainless steel outdoor sink for washing up. Usually $500 – $1,000 installed.
Side burner – Small burner attachment for boiling water, sauces, etc. Starts around $100.
Warming drawer – Heated drawer to keep food at serving temp. Runs around $700-$1,200.

Select Surfaces

Outdoor kitchens demand durable, weather-resistant surfaces:

Countertops

Popular options include:

Tile – Ceramic or stone tiles hold up well outdoors. Lots of design options. Costs $40-$100 per square foot installed.
Concrete – Poured concrete counters are durable and heat tolerant. Approximately $50-$100 per square foot.
Stainless steel – Resilient and easy to clean. Costs around $60-$100 per square foot.
Granite – Holds up very well. More expensive around $100-$150 per square foot installed.
Quartz – Non-porous engineered stone resists stains. About $80-$120 per square foot installed.

Backsplashes

Protect the wall behind counters or appliances:

Stainless steel – An affordable and water-resistant backsplash choice. About $20-$50 per square foot.
Stone tile – Granite, marble, or other stone tiles are durable classic choices. $10-$50 per square foot installed.
Glass tile – Water-resistant and easy to clean. Lots of color and pattern options. $10-$30 per square foot installed.

Flooring

Concrete pavers – Long lasting and available in lots of styles. About $8-$20 per square foot installed.
Stone – Materials like bluestone, travertine or slate have upscale appeal. $15-$50 per square foot.
Tile – Ceramic or porcelain for a finished look. $7-$20 per square foot installed.
Composite decking – Mimics wood but handles weather better. About $4-$13 per square foot.
Poured concrete – Creates solid, seamless floor. Approximately $5-$10 per square foot.

Include Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation removes smoke, steam, grease and odors:

Hood system – The gold standard is a stainless steel exhaust hood with fan and ductwork to vent everything outside. Professional installation required.
Ceiling fans – Help circulate air and move smoke around. Use fans rated for outdoor/wet locations.
Portable fan – Small fans can sit on counters to direct smoke in desired direction.
Natural airflow – An open floor plan with adequate cross breezes may suffice depending on your needs.
Smoke management system – Special downdraft system sucks in smoke and fumes to filter and recirculate cleaner air. About $1,500 installed.

Don’t Forget Lighting

Proper lighting makes the space fully usable day or night:

Task lighting – Use LED lights to brightly illuminate prep and cooking surfaces.
Ambient lighting – Softer lighting radiates overall illumination for the space.
Accent lighting – Illuminates architectural or design elements for added character.
Can lighting – Recessed lights placed strategically for focused task lighting.
Pendant lighting – Hanging lights for ambient lighting over counters or tables.
Landscape lighting – Pathway and step lighting for safety and style.
Smart controls – Dimmers, timers, motion sensors to control lighting automatically.

Include Sufficient Electrical

Electrical needs for appliances, lighting, music and more add up quickly:

Code requirements – Consult local codes for required GFCI outlets, conduit types, wire sizing, distances, etc.
Appliances – Each appliance has specific voltage and outlet requirements.
Interior hookup – If tapping into house electrical, hire an electrician to safely route new circuits and wires.
Exterior circuits – Weatherproof outlets and lighting circuits around space. Include wall switches.
Automatic standby generator (optional) – Backs up power during outages so appliances and lights still work. Expensive ($5,000 range) but very useful addition.
Conceal wires – Bury underground or hide in low voltage wiring channels for clean look.

Choose Durable Materials

The entire space should withstand the outdoor elements:

Stainless steel – Corrosion and weather resistant for counters, cabinets, and appliances. More expensive but long lasting.
Tile, stone, concrete – Excellent weather resistance for floors, counters, walls. Avoid porous grout.
Weather-resistant wood – Teak and cedar hold up better outdoors. Still requires maintenance.
Outdoor-rated fabrics – Look for solution-dyed acrylic or olefin fabrics. Avoid cotton and linen which degrade.
Weather-resistant paints/finishes – Use exterior-grade paints and finishes rated for UV exposure.
Galvanized hardware – Galvanization protects metal parts from rusting. Stainless steel also good option.
Weather-resistant adhesives/caulk – Use exterior-grade construction adhesives and silicone caulk when assembling.

Incorporate Storage Space

Ample storage is a must for equipment, pantry items, dishes, linens, etc.:

Cabinetry – Stainless steel or outdoor-rated wood cabinets store tools, appliances, pantry goods.
Drawers – Deep drawers hold utensils, flatware, grilling tools. Full extension slides for access.
Pantry – Freestanding or built-in pantry cabinets store dry goods and smaller appliances.
Refrigerator/freezer – Outdoor models keep perishable food and drinks chilled.
Sink cabinets – Enclosed space under the sink for soaps, sponges, scrub brushes.
Towel bars, hooks – Stainless steel bars and hooks hold dish towels, potholders, grilling gloves.
Shelving – Wall mounted shelving displays serving ware or plants. Stainless steel or weatherproof wood.
Storage covers – Heavy duty outdoor covers protect appliances, furniture, and grills when not in use.

Incorporate Plumbing Connections

Having water and drainage connections available is very useful:

Sink – Stainless steel sink allows washing up. Include hot/cold water hookups.
Prep sink – Secondary sink for tasks like washing produce, seafood, etc.
Refrigerator – Water line enables ice maker and chilled filtered water from fridge.
Dishwasher (optional) – Convenient for cleaning dishes and glassware. Requires hookups.
Instant hot (optional) – On-demand hot water heater for quickly filling sinks.
Drainage – Sinks need a gray water drain line. Ice makers produce waste water also.
Hot water recirculating pump (optional) – Promotes faster hot water delivery to fixtures.
Emergency shut off – Essential safety measure. Immediately cuts off gas/water in emergency.

Include Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling elements enhance comfort and encourage more use:

Heating Options

Gas heaters – Freestanding propane heat lamps or linear gas fireplaces offer ambiance and warmth.
Electric heaters – Wall-mounted electric radiators provide directed warmth. Space heaters can be moved around.
Fire pit – Contained wood burning fire pits become a natural gathering spot for cooler evenings.
Blankets – Provide decorative throw blankets for snuggling up on cooler nights.

Cooling Options

Ceiling fans – Help circulate air and feel cooler without AC. Use corrosion resistant models.
Misting system – Water misters mounted overhead or on trellises help lower air temperature.
Portable fans – Use portable fans to direct cooling breezes where desired.
Shade – Shade from trees, shade sails or umbrellas offers significant cooling power.
Curtains/screens – Help block sun while allowing breeze to filter through. Retractable screens best.

Add Finishing Touches

Final touches complete the experience:

Sound system – Install waterproof speakers for music. Hide wiring for clean look.
Television – Consider a weatherproof TV for outdoor viewing. Mount with articulating arm for directional viewing.
Gardens – Incorporate planters, potted plants and gardens for fresh herbs and ambience.
Privacy screens – Strategically placed screens, lattice, plants or fencing increase privacy.
Pathway lighting – Low voltage lighting to illuminate walking paths for safe nighttime navigation.
Decor – Weatherproof accent pieces like throw pillows, area rugs, sculptures, etc. Show your style.
Special effects – Consider water features, fire features, misters, and string lights for added magic.

Hire Professional Assistance

Constructing an outdoor kitchen is complex. Consult design and building experts as needed through the process:

Landscape architect – Design qualified landscape professionals help create the overall vision and integrate the kitchen into the yard aesthetically.
General contractor – Oversee the entire construction process from start to finish. Arrange for all necessary subcontractors.
Kitchen designer – Design experts help create kitchen layout, select materials and products. Ensure functionality and style.
Electrician – Safely routes power and installs compliant electrical. Provides proper fixtures and outlets.
Plumber – Installs water lines, drainage, sinks according to code. Ensures correct hookups.
Mason – Lays materials like stone, tile, concrete for attractive hardscapes.
Carpenter – Constructs cabinetry, trimwork and erects any structural framework.

Maintain Your Investment

Don’t neglect annual maintenance to maximize lifespan and enjoyment:

Cover appliances/furniture when not in use. Remove coverings before first freeze.
Disconnect gas lines and water lines leading outdoors before first freeze.
Deep clean cooking surfaces thoroughly at end of season.
Inspect appliances and correct any issues over the off season. Schedule repairs.
Weatherproof surfaces with appropriate sealers and treatments annually.
Check that drainage areas are clear of debris before wet season arrives.
Monitor caulk and sealants. Reapply as needed to prevent water intrusion.
Wipe down surfaces and apply protectants to maintain appearance.
Cover, store or secure cushions, textiles and decor pieces when not in use.
Check for pests or insects hiding over the off-season. Address any issues.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How much does an outdoor kitchen cost?

An outdoor kitchen can range dramatically in price from $2,000 on the very low end for a simple setup to $50,000+ for a high-end customized space. The national average is around $10,000-$15,000. The main factors affecting total cost are the size, layout, appliances, materials and complexity of the space. Professional installation also bumps up the price tag significantly but is highly recommended for proper construction.

2. What is the most popular fuel type for outdoor kitchen grills?

Gas is the most popular fuel type for outdoor kitchen grills, followed by charcoal. Gas offers convenient instant starts, good heat control and minimal cleanup. Many people also prefer the smoky flavor achieved from charcoal grilling. Upscale outdoor kitchens often incorporate both a main gas grill plus a charcoal grill for flexibility. Electric and wood pellet grills make up a smaller share of the market currently.

3. How much space do you need for an outdoor kitchen?

The amount of space needed depends on the size of appliances, how many cooks you want working at once, and the complexity of the layout. Typical guidelines recommend planning for 15-25 square feet of countertop space per person you plan to accommodate. This allows adequate landing space for prep work, serving and gathering. You’ll also need room for appliances, storage, circulation, and ideally some seating. anywhere from 50-150+ square feet works for most average-sized outdoor kitchens.

4. What can you put in an outdoor kitchen?

Today’s outdoor kitchens can accommodate nearly anything you have indoors. Common components include a grill, side burner, refrigerator, sink, storage cabinets, countertop appliances like a pizza oven or beverage cooler, under counter ice maker, weather resistant TV, stereo system, ample lighting, heating and fans for comfort, design accents, and comfortable seating areas. The sky is the limit when planning your ideal outdoor cooking space. Just be sure to use rugged, weather-resistant materials suitable for life outdoors.

5. How do you design an outdoor kitchen?

Effective outdoor kitchen design follows similar principles to interior kitchens. Gather inspiration from magazines, websites, showrooms and examples to identify your preferred look and layout. Consider how you cook, entertain and socialize outdoors to determine ideal work zones. Map out traffic flow and allow ample room for multiple cooks. Choose professional-grade stainless steel appliances suited for weather exposure. Incorporate durable surfaces like stone, tile and stainless steel. Connect to gas, electricity and water. Ensure proper ventilation. Include ample lighting, storage, seating and aesthetic details to complete your personalized vision.

6. What are the most important things to consider when building an outdoor kitchen?

The three most important considerations are:

Location – Pick a