As the outside temperature gets warmer, so does our desire to prepare, cook and eat outdoors. We don’t just mean a grill on wheels – we’re talking about an area dedicated solely to quality food preparation, a simple cooking experience and space for guests to enjoy while the chef works.
If you are planning an outdoor kitchen or are looking for outdoor kitchen ideas and need some inspiration then look no further.
You never know, installing an outdoor kitchen may spark your desire to grow your own produce, so it’s worth considering creative kitchen garden ideas as well. Is there anything more idyllic than growing your own vegetables, grilling them in your own garden and serving them to friends and family? bliss.
We asked our experts for advice on what makes a perfect outdoor kitchen and what is important.
1. Her idea for an outdoor kitchen
(Image credit: Clive Christian Furniture Co)
(opens in new tab)
“An outdoor kitchen isn’t just a way to expand the spaces in your home, it also offers a space that feels like a whole different destination – transporting you to warmer climes and a different, more relaxed way of life,” says Oliver Deadman, Head of Design, Clive Christian Furniture Co (opens in new tab).
The first step is to consider the space you have available, the way you want to cook, and what you want to incorporate, from a simple outdoor grill station with prep space to a full-featured area with multiple appliances, seating, dining – and garden bar ideas for entertaining on a large scale.
2. A great layout
(Image credit: The Outdoor Kitchen Collective)
(opens in new tab)
Many outdoor kitchens are built against an outside wall of the house, typically starting at around 3m in length. “More and more people want to interact with their guests while they cook, so horseshoe and L-shaped configurations and islands are popular,” says Neil Stringer, Design Manager, The Outdoor Kitchen Collective (opens in new tab).
In addition to appliances and countertops, you may also want to include a sink, storage space, and space for trash cans. Try placing refrigerators away from the main cooking zone so diners can help themselves to drinks without getting in the way of the chef, and sloping outdoor seating, bar and dining ideas to enjoy the best garden views possible.
3. Do you choose the best devices for you?
(Image credit: Officine Gullo)
(opens in new tab)
From the best grill, plancha grill, smoker and pizza oven to a fridge and ice maker, there are many options. “They all have to be specially manufactured as outdoor equipment,” explains Manfredi Conforzi, director of Officine Gullo (opens in new tab).
Outdoor devices are designed to be safe for outdoor use and to withstand the elements. Always check with your supplier before purchasing. “Outdoor units can be fueled with electricity and gas like indoor units, or alternatively with LPG canisters that can be invisibly integrated into the design,” he adds.
External power supplies are usually extended from the house and the ground; they must be suitable for outdoor use and professionally installed by qualified installers.
4. Materials that suit your garden
(Image credit: Gaze Burvill)
(opens in new tab)
“Make sure you choose furniture of the highest quality to last outdoors,” says Frances Hatton-Brown, Gaze Burvill sales manager (opens in new tab)who prefers natural materials such as oak and other sustainable hardwoods.
“They work well because they complement the exterior aesthetic,” she adds. Steel and concrete options designed for outdoor use are also available.
5. Great lighting and storage ideas
(Image credit: Outdoor Kitchen Expert)
(opens in new tab)
If you plan to use your outdoor kitchen year-round and in the evenings, you may want to consider backyard lighting ideas including LED, solar, and mood lighting options and heating – such as patio heaters, remote controlled electric heaters, backyard fire pits, and heated canopies , but be aware that they can be energy hungry.
“Even canopies need careful thought, as they need to provide protection from rain and wind in the winter, but they also need to be suitable for the sunny summer months – and allow plenty of fresh air to flow through the space,” advises Duncan Aird, co-founder and designer, Expert in outdoor kitchens (opens in new tab).
“Pergola ideas and awnings are popular choices, while awnings and retractable canopies can also serve well,” he adds.
What should the perfect outdoor kitchen include?
These are the top 5 must-haves for the perfect outdoor kitchen:
- cooking utensilswhether grill, smoker or pizza oven should not be missing.
- A sinkimportant for hand washing and tidying up.
- A fridgebig enough to store food for the occasion and also drinks.
- An outdoor pantryto store everything from spices to cutlery and cooking utensils.
- Workspace that doubles: whether as a preparation room, home bar or dining counter.