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10 Creative Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas

outdoor kitchen with pizza oven and dining area

Pergola and Outdoor Kitchen

Creative And Practical Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas

7min read
by Olesia Chikunova, ADU Specialist.

If you love spending time outdoors, then you’ll definitely want to consider adding a kitchen to your backyard oasis. Outdoor kitchens can provide a great place to cook your favorite meals while enjoying the natural surroundings. Plus, they can be surprisingly affordable and practical additions to any home. If you’re looking for some creative and practical outdoor kitchen design ideas, read on!

 

If your backyard home has a small kitchen, this is a great way to enhance the dining experience for its residents.

Outdoor kitchen with stove, hood, sink and dining area under pergola

Are Outdoor Kitchens In Trend?

Outdoor kitchens are definitely in trend right now. There are a number of reasons for this. First, more and more people are spending time at home. They are entertaining at home more often and want to be able to do so in a comfortable, convenient setting. There is something luxurious in fresh air dining.

 

Additionally, many people are working from their home offices and find that being able to take a break in their outdoor kitchen instead of the indoor kitchen is a welcome change of pace.

 

More people want to spend time outdoors, and they want to be able to take advantage of that time by cooking and eating outdoors.

 

Lastly, outdoor kitchens make entertaining easier. Guests can help with the cooking, and cleanup is much simpler when everything is done outside.

 

For all these reasons, it’s no surprise that outdoor kitchens are becoming more popular every day. So what will be your first step? Of course, planning your outdoor area. What should you consider?

Wood-burning stove and sink in the Spanish style outdoor kitchen

10 Creative And Practical Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

Here are some amazing ideas just for your own outdoor kitchen:

Covered Outdoor Kitchen Setup

If you want to be able to use your outdoor kitchen year-round, then consider designing a covered space. This can be as simple as installing a retractable awning or building a permanent structure over the outdoor cooking area. This will protect your appliances and countertops from the elements and extend the life of your outdoor kitchen. Let us aim for minimal maintenance.

Kitchen and dining area by the pool house

Cook's station

Stainless Steel Grill

A built-in grill is a must-have for any outdoor kitchen. Stainless steel appliances offer a convenient, space-saving design and can be customized to suit your cooking needs. Choose from gas, charcoal, or electric models. If your space is covered, make sure to include a hood to help vent smoke and odors. Big Green Egg is another option to consider.

Pizza Ovens

Nothing says summer like fresh, homemade pizza straight from the pizza oven. If you love to entertain, then consider adding a wood-fired pizza oven to your outdoor kitchen. This will be the centerpiece of any party and is sure to impress your guests. There is a number of outdoor pizza ovens on the market to choose from.

L-shaped outdoor kitchen with stainless steel appliances

How To Organize Food Prep in Your Outdoor Kitchen?

Kitchen Prep Station

No kitchen is complete without a cooking prep area. This is where you will do all of your food preparation, so make sure to include plenty of counter space and storage for all of your utensils and ingredients.

Kitchen Sink

An outdoor sink is a must-have for any outdoor kitchen space. It offers a convenient place to wash your hands, vegetables, and dishes. Choose a model that is durable and easy to clean so that you can spend more time enjoying your outdoor kitchen.

Refrigeration

One of the most important appliances in any kitchen is a refrigerator. This will keep your food and drinks cool and make entertaining a breeze. Choose a model that is durable and easy to clean so that you can enjoy your outdoor kitchen for years to come.

Kitchen Storage Solutions

One of the most important aspects of a kitchen is storage. You will need somewhere to keep all of your pots, pans, plates, and other cooking essentials. Consider adding cabinets, shelves, or even a pantry to your design.

Spanish style outdoor kitchen with fridge, stove and sink
Spanish style outdoor kitchen under pergola

Pergola with Outdoor Kitchen for entertainment

Dining Area

If you plan on entertaining guests in your outdoor cooking space, then you will need somewhere for them to eat. Include a table and chairs in your design so that your guests can enjoy their meals in the great outdoors. Pergola protects you well from bright afternoon sun.

 

Bar Area

If you love to entertain, then consider adding a bar area to your outdoor kitchen. This is the perfect spot for serving drinks and appetizers to your guests. Include a sink and plenty of storage for glasses, plates, and other bar essentials.

 

Kitchen Lighting

Proper lighting is essential for any outdoor kitchen. It makes the outdoor space more inviting and helps to create the perfect ambiance for entertaining. Include a mix of task lighting, accent lighting, and general lighting in your design.

Now that you have some great outdoor kitchen design ideas, it’s time to start planning your own space. Use these tips to create perfect outdoor kitchens.

Is an Outdoor Kitchen Worth It?

 

Outdoor kitchens are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while cooking. They can be used for entertaining guests or simply for cooking a family dinner. Here are some things to consider when deciding if outdoor kitchens are right for you.

 

First, think about how you will use your outdoor kitchen. If you entertain often, you will want to make sure you have enough space to accommodate all of your guests. You will also want to make sure you have all of the necessary appliances and cookware. If you simply want to be able to cook outdoors, you may not need as much space or as many features. Your can opt for key components – a grill island and a small dining table that can double up as prep area.

 

Second, consider the climate in your area. If you live in an area with warm weather, you will be able to use your outdoor kitchen year-round. However, if you live in an area with colder and more humid weather, you may only be able to use your outdoor kitchen during the warmer months.

 

Third, think about the maintenance required for outdoor kitchens. You will need to clean and maintain your appliances and cookware. You will also need to regularly mow and trim your lawn. If you are not willing to commit to this level of maintenance, outdoor kitchens may not be right for you.

 

Fourth, consider the cost of outdoor kitchens. Outdoor appliances and cookware can be expensive, and the cost of construction can vary depending on the size and features of kitchens. However, the initial investment may be worth it if you plan on using your outdoor kitchen often.

 

Conclusion

With a little planning, your outdoor project may become a heart of your home.

With a little imagination and effort, you can easily create an outdoor kitchen that suits your needs and budget.

With the right design, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor dining for years to come.

 

Do you have any other creative ideas for designing an outdoor kitchen? Share them with us in the comments below!

 

Essentials for your outdoor oasis

Gas barbecue and outdoor kitchen workspace with metal pergola in the back

Outdoor kitchen appliances

  1. mini fridge (can be a drawer fridge too!)
  2. outdoor grill (go red and on wheels)
  3. sink
Modern Pergola with outdoor kitchen

Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets

Select stainless steel or powder coat finish cabinets or carts for longevity and low maintenance.

 

 

Outdoor furniture with colorful pillows

Outdoor Furniture

You will need dining table and chairs. If the budget allows, add the lounge space.

Consider adding a fire pit table or an outdoor fireplace as a focal point.

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