5 Tips for Designing the Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen, Pros Share

If you’re looking to design an outdoor kitchen that’s both functional and stylish, we’ve got you covered with expert advice. From what kind of materials are worth the investment to what layout factors to consider, we asked designers to share their best tips.

Below, we’ve highlighted 5 designer-approved tips for creating a dreamy and timeless outdoor kitchen.

Plan Ahead

It’s important to have a vision for the final product you’re aiming for, even if this is adjusted over the course of the project.

“Think about how you want to utilize the space and how you will actually use the area,” Bobby Berk, interior designer and TV personality, says. “This will definitely help to inform the layout and what type of furnishings you should invest in.”

When Berk was designing his own backyard oasis, he incorporated a prep sink and under-counter refrigerator, so he could have everything he needed for easy al fresco cooking and entertaining.

Laurel Vernazza, home design expert, chief marketing officer, and director of content for The Plan Collection, emphasizes looking at objectives as well.

“What do you plan to use it for? How many guests will you host? These questions can lead you to a simple design for occasional outdoor dining to a full-sized kitchen with every amenity from the grill, cabinets, and refrigerator to a pizza oven and plenty of bar seating,” she says.

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Protect It From Elements

If your area is prone to severe weather of any kind, it’s a good idea to plan around that fact.

“Your region’s climate should have a more significant impact on creating the ideal kitchen than anything else,” Vernazza says.

You’ll need an outdoor kitchen with plenty of shade such as a pergola if you live in the American southwest, and you’ll have to consider temperature fluctuations if you’re located in the northeast or midwest. Even near a beach you need to think about the impact of salt and sea air, Vernazza says.

“The perfect outdoor kitchen combines prep, cooking, lounging, and dining within one sheltered space,” says Jessica Shaw, director of interiors at The Turett Collaborative.

In terms of battling the elements, she suggests picking a porcelain or compact surface for worry-free countertops and a luxe look without the price tag.

Make It Comfortable

Sheltering or shielding the outdoor kitchen and accompanying seating area is one matter, but adding levels of comfort is another. Think about what extras might be needed in the region where you live and for the types of guests you see yourself hosting.

This may include an outdoor ceiling fan or heat lamp, furniture enhancers in the form of seating cushions and padding, regular-height dining furniture as opposed to higher bar seating or low-slung lounge furniture, and more.

If your outdoor space is visible to any neighbors but you prefer to keep your al fresco dining private, think about adding a pergola or canopy.

Think About Layout

Vernazza emphasizes the importance of designing a layout for the space you have and not the space you want. Whether that’s choosing a linear design for tight spaces for a cleaner look, opting for an L-shaped layout for medium-sized patios, or providing additional countertop space for a bar zone or grilling area—think about what will actually fit and work well, she says.

“Double-island layouts can be the perfect approach on a large, spacious patio or grilling porch, especially if you intend to entertain on a larger scale,” Vernazza says.

Express Yourself

Finally, think about your personal style.

“Do you prefer wood or metal finishes? Modern or traditional? Narrowing down what you love will make the design progress a lot easier,” Berk says.

In the same vein, consider your home’s architectural style and all exterior and landscape elements.

“The details, materials, and plants that will surround your outdoor living space will play a part in the overall look and feel, so it’s certainly worthwhile to consider and integrate them into your design,” he says.