Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

A New Look at Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

We design a lot of gardens and we’ve noticed more and more people are interested in exploring outdoor kitchen ideas for their ‘room outside.’

There was a time when an ‘outdoor kitchen’ conjured up the idea of standing around a disposable barbecue keeping one eye on charcoaled sausages and the other on ominous grey clouds hovering overhead. No longer so. Move over man with the tongs to allow space for an arsenal of top of the range kitchen gismos and gadgets all specially designed for outdoor use.

It turns out the traditional summer barbequing ritual is undergoing a dramatic transformation and many of our clients now want to cook with panache and are looking for specially designed outdoor kitchen ideas. Gone are the flimsy aluminium instants, to be replaced with outdoor dining areas, which we’re frequently being asked to incorporate into our garden landscapes these days.

 

How to Decide on the Style of Your Outdoor Kitchen

The first thing to consider when designing an outdoor kitchen is to establish the style of garden that will be created, which will depend on the type of building and wider landscape as well as your own taste. A rustic style of outdoor kitchen might suit a larger, natural, informal garden but would look totally out of place in a contemporary setting.

Rustic, cottage style gardens often draw inspiration from rural and countryside settings and feature natural materials such as wood, stone, and clay. As well as in the kitchen area, these materials can be used for pathways, fences, garden borders, and furniture, to give a unified, organic feel to the space.

Contemporary Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

A modern garden design will frequently use innovative materials such as corten steel, glass, and polished concrete, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living spaces, with areas for dining, entertaining, and relaxation seamlessly integrated into the design.In the example below, the Cotswolds stone wall is used to contrast with the sleek modern grey lines of the outdoor kitchen. The stone slabs and corten steel planter compliment the Cotswolds stone and work well with the straight lines of the kitchen area.

A Traditional and Modern Mix Outdoor Kitchen

Less is often more in contemporary garden design, with an emphasis on simplicity and uncluttered spaces. Having said that as in the example below, it is possible to mix traditional stone with a modern, outdoor kitchen style, incorporating contrast in colour, texture, and form to create visual interest, as in this case, juxtaposing smooth surfaces with rough ones.

 

There are bewildering choices of outdoor kitchen equipment, from state of the art pizza ovens to kitchen sinks but before being lured into making any decisions, consider your preferred cooking methods (grilling, smoking, baking) and the number of people typically cooked for and filter it down to ‘must haves.’

Outdoor pizza ovens

For some reason food prepared outside tastes better and this is certainly the case with specially built pizza ovens. We’re being asked to design pizza ovens into our gardens more and more frequently and for good reason! These ovens are popular for outdoor entertaining and cooking enthusiasts who enjoy the authentic taste and experience of making pizzas in a traditional manner. They can also be used to cook other foods besides pizza, such as bread, roasted vegetables, and meats, making them versatile additions to outdoor cooking setups.

The style of pizza oven, will depend on the style of the rest of the garden. Both examples below show a very different style and will appeal aesthetically to different people, but one thing is for certain…they both make delicious pizza!

Does an Outdoor Kitchen Need to be Under a Roof?

A roof can provide shelter from the elements so if you live in an area with unpredictable weather or frequent rain, a roof can make your outdoor kitchen more usable throughout the year. Having a roof can create a more comfortable environment for cooking and dining, especially during hot summer days when shade is desirable. A roof can contribute to the overall design and style of your outdoor kitchen. It can be integrated into the overall architecture of your outdoor living space and enhance its visual appeal. We love this contemporary style of roof from Kitchen Architecture, Oxford below. It enhances the feeling of intimacy and looks amazing with the overall aesthetics of the design.

We’ve answered a few commonly asked questions below, which we hope will help you make some decisions on how to design your perfect garden kitchen. Please get in touch if you have a burning question not covered here.

 

What is the Best Layout for an Outdoor Kitchen?

 

The best layout for an outdoor kitchen depends on several factors including available space, budget, personal preferences, and how you plan to use the space. However, there are several common layouts to consider:

1. A Linear Layout which features a straight line of kitchen components along one side of the outdoor space, such as a countertop with a grill, sink, and storage cabinets. It’s a simple and efficient design, suitable for smaller outdoor areas or narrow spaces.

2. An L-shaped layout which provides more counter space and storage than a linear layout. It typically includes a main cooking area with a grill and countertop along one wall, and additional counter space or a bar area along another wall, forming an “L” shape.

3. U-shaped layout which maximizes counter space and storage by surrounding the cooking area on three sides, forming a “U” shape. It’s ideal for larger outdoor kitchens or for homeowners who enjoy frequent cooking entertaining and need ample prep space.

4. An island layout which places the kitchen components in the centre of the outdoor space, similar to an indoor kitchen island. This layout allows for 360-degree access to the cooking area and provides a focal point for the outdoor space.

5. A galley layout which features two parallel countertops with the cooking appliances and sink arranged along one side, and additional counter space or storage along the opposite side. It’s a space-efficient layout, suitable for narrow outdoor areas.

6. A modular Layout which consist of individual units or modules that can be arranged and combined in various configurations to suit your needs. This flexible layout allows you to customize the design based on your available space and preferences.

 

Is it Worth it to Build an Outdoor Kitchen?

Ultimately, whether it’s worth it to build an outdoor kitchen is a personal decision only you can make based on your lifestyle, preferences, and budget. If you enjoy outdoor living and entertaining, and you have the means to invest in a well-designed outdoor kitchen, it can be a valuable addition to your home. But it is not a cheap investment! An outdoor kitchen creates a great focal point for gatherings and socialising and of course showing off your beautifully designed garden! It’s generally a much more casual way of entertaining friends and family so if that’s you then it could be worth the investment to build an outdoor kitchen. If you like the idea of experimenting with outdoor cooking techniques such as wood-fired pizza making, an outdoor kitchen can significantly enhance your culinary experience and wake up that hidden chef within!

 

What is the Cheapest Way to Build an Outdoor Kitchen?

It doesn’t have to cost a fortune to build an outdoor kitchen, you can even just make a start with a simple fire pit and marshmallows! It’s best to keep it simple and opt for cost -effective materials such as concrete blocks for the base, treated lumber for framing, and concrete countertops. Repurpose materials from other projects or salvage items like bricks, stones, or wood for countertops and flooring. If you have the skills and time, consider installing an outdoor kitchen yourself. Hiring professionals for tasks like electrical or plumbing can add to the expenses. Look for used or discounted outdoor appliances such as grills, refrigerators, or sinks and Prioritise essential elements such as a durable cooking surface, adequate storage, and a functional layout. You can always add more features later as your budget allows.

 

How Much Does a Full Outdoor Kitchen Cost?

A basic outdoor kitchen setup, with a grill or barbecue, countertop, and storage could start at around £4,000. This would typically include modest materials and appliances.

For a more comprehensive outdoor kitchen with additional features such as a sink, refrigerator, and more durable materials like granite countertops, expect to spend between £8,000 to £12,000.

A high-end outdoor kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, custom-built cabinets, high-quality stone countertops, lighting, and other luxury features could cost upwards of £20,000.

In addition, unless you are going to install the outdoor kitchen yourself, you will need to allow for labour costs which can vary depending on the complexity of the project. We find that most people need to budget for additional expenses such as landscaping, lighting, seating, and outdoor dining furniture.

Do Outdoor Kitchens Add Value?

According to Better Homes and Gardens a well landscaped garden can add value to a property and an outdoor kitchen, as part of a landscaping project, so may well be a good investment. Essentially it extends the usable living space of a property, providing an additional area for cooking, dining, and entertaining, which can be attractive to potential buyers by setting the property apart from others in the neighbourhood. We find that outdoor kitchens are increasingly popular among homeowners who are seeking a modern and luxurious outdoor living experience.

 

Do I Need Footings for an Outdoor Kitchen?

Whether you need footings for an outdoor kitchen depends on the size and weight of the structure. We find that in many cases, especially for smaller and lighter outdoor kitchens, footings are not  necessary. However, for larger or more substantial structures, we would recommend footings to provide stability and support. The stability and load-bearing capacity of the soil in your area also influence the need for footings. If the soil is prone to erosion, is expansive clay, or poorly drained, footings may be necessary to prevent settling or movement of the structure over time. If you’re not sure, we can give advice to determine the appropriate footing design for your outdoor kitchen project.

 

What do I Need to Know Before Building an Outdoor Kitchen?

As with any building project, before embarking on creating your outdoor kitchen, it’s crucial to consider several key factors:

 

1. Research local building codes in your area and obtain necessary permits before starting construction to avoid legal issues.
2. Determine your budget and establish a realistic plan for your outdoor kitchen project. Consider factors such as the size, design, materials, appliances, and labour costs. Create a detailed budget and timeline to guide the construction process.
3. Choose an appropriate location for your outdoor kitchen that complements your home’s layout and outdoor living space. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, proximity to utilities (water, gas, electricity), accessibility, and privacy. Design a functional layout that includes cooking, preparation, serving, and dining areas.
4. Select durable and weather-resistant materials suitable for outdoor use, such as stainless steel, concrete, brick, stone, and composite materials. Choose materials that complement your home’s architecture and outdoor aesthetics.
5. Choose high-quality outdoor appliances and fixtures designed specifically for outdoor use, such as grills, smokers, pizza ovens, refrigerators, sinks, and storage cabinets. Consider factors such as size, fuel type (gas, charcoal, electric), cooking features, maintenance requirements, and energy efficiency.
6. Ensure access to essential utilities such as water, gas, and electricity for your outdoor kitchen. Plan the layout and installation of plumbing, gas lines, electrical wiring, and lighting fixtures carefully to meet safety standards and functional requirements.
7. Consider hiring a company, such as us, who have years of experience in installing outdoor kitchens and all the in-house expertise you need. Get in touch if you need some advice.

 

Do Outdoor Kitchens Need to Plumbed in?

If you plan to include a sink in your outdoor kitchen for food preparation, dishwashing, or cleaning, you will need plumbing connections for hot and cold water supply as well as a drainage system. This typically involves running water lines from your home’s plumbing system to the outdoor kitchen and installing a drain pipe that connects to the sewer or septic system. Plumbing work for outdoor kitchens should be done by licensed professionals to ensure proper installation, compliance with building codes, and safety standards. If you get in touch with us, we can advise on this.

 

How Thick Should a Slab be for an Outdoor Kitchen?

For a basic outdoor kitchen setup with lightweight appliances and countertops, a concrete slab with a minimum thickness 10 centimetres  may be sufficient. If your outdoor kitchen includes heavier appliances, such as built-in grills, pizza ovens, or countertops made of dense materials like granite or concrete, you may need a thicker slab to support the additional weight. A slab thickness of 15 centimetres or more is recommended for heavier structures.

 

Can You Build an Outdoor Kitchen Yourself?

It is possible to build an outdoor kitchen yourself, especially if you have some basic construction skills and are willing to put in the time and effort to plan and execute the project. Start by determining the layout, size, and features of your outdoor kitchen. Consider factors such as available space, budget, cooking appliances, storage, and seating areas. Create a detailed plan or design to guide the construction process. If you’re unsure about certain aspects of the construction process or lack experience with certain tasks, we can help. Get in touch for advice before making what could be costly mistakes!

 

What Should be Included in an Outdoor Kitchen?

An outdoor kitchen can be customised to fit your specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle. However, several essential elements are commonly included in outdoor kitchen designs to ensure functionality, convenience, and enjoyment.

Choose a gas, charcoal, or pellet grill based on your cooking preferences and budget. Options include built-in, freestanding, or portable models. Add versatility with a gas or electric burner for boiling, sautéing, and simmering for further gastronomic delights!

We install durable and weather-resistant countertops made of materials such as granite, concrete, tile, or stainless steel for food preparation and serving. Sometimes people choose to Incorporate a built-in cutting board or portable cutting surface for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients. To save doing the washing up indoors, a sink could be included or for real luxury, a compact or drawer-style dishwasher.

Storage space for kitchen utensils, cookware, grilling accessories, and outdoor dining essentials, is usually required and to keep beverages, perishable foods, and ingredients chilled in a weatherproof refrigerator designed for outdoor use can be useful.

A comfortable seating area for outdoor is a must. Choose weather-resistant furniture made of materials such as aluminium, teak, or resin wicker.

Other options include a patio cover or pergola to provide shade and protection from the elements, adding curtains, shades, or screens gives additional privacy and comfort.

Most of our clients elect to install overhead lighting or under-cabinet lights to illuminate cooking and food preparation areas for safety and convenience in addition to decorative lighting fixtures, string lights, or lanterns to create ambiance and enhance the overall atmosphere of the outdoor kitchen.

Fire pits or fireplaces are perfect focal points and provide warmth during cooler evenings. Gas, wood-burning, or propane options are all available.

 

How do you Plan an Outdoor Kitchen?

When designing and planning outdoor kitchens as part of landscaping projects these are the key steps that we go through with our clients :

 

1. First we determine how the outdoor kitchen will be used. Will it primarily be for cooking, entertaining, or both? We consider cooking habits, preferred cooking methods (grilling, smoking, baking), and the number of people typically cooked for. Must-have features and amenities, such as a grill, sink, refrigerator, storage cabinets, seating areas, and lighting are all considered as part of the planning.
2. We evaluate the available space where and best position for the outdoor kitchen. Size, layout, terrain, sunlight exposure, and proximity to utilities (water, gas, electricity) are all explored.
3. We take measurements and create a scaled drawing or diagram of the proposed outdoor space to help visualise the layout and placement of various elements.
4. It is important to set a budget for the outdoor kitchen project, including materials, appliances and any additional features or amenities. We encourage clients to prioritise essential elements based on their budget and allocate funds accordingly.
5. A preliminary layout or floor plan for the outdoor kitchen, taking into account the available space, desired features, and traffic flow is then drawn up. Various design styles, materials, colours, and finishes that complement the home’s architecture and outdoor aesthetics are all taken into consideration.
6. We choose durable and weather-resistant materials suitable for outdoor use, such as stainless steel, concrete, brick, stone, tile, and composite materials.
7. The need for utilities such as water, gas, and electricity are all determined as part of the planning process.
8. Elements such as outdoor lighting, landscaping, decorative accents, and seating arrangements to enhance the ambiance and functionality of the space are all designed into the drawings. Other amenities such as outdoor speakers, TVs, fire pits, pergolas, and outdoor heaters to extend the usability of the outdoor kitchen throughout the year are discussed.
9. We check with local building regulations are followed.

Most of our clients elect to install lighting to illuminate cooking and food preparation areas for safety and convenience in addition to decorative lighting fixtures, string lights, or lanterns to create ambiance and enhance the overall atmosphere. It is even possible to add music or audio entertainment to the area with weatherproof speakers connected to a sound system or a weatherproof TV for watching sports, movies, or maybe even a cooking programme for inspiration!