65+ Diy Outdoor Kitchen Ideas (Cheap, Simple, Modern, And Country)
The idea of al fresco dining in the comfort of one’s own home has long been a coveted concept. The allure of hosting family and friends for outdoor cookouts, accompanied by the tantalizing aromas of sizzling meats and savory spices, is undeniable. As such, it’s no surprise that many homeowners seek to create an outdoor kitchen oasis.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most creative and innovative ideas for incorporating an outdoor kitchen into your existing outdoor spaces – whether that be a shed, deck, or patio. With the aid of real estate image editing, we’ll delve into various design categories, from rustic to modern, to provide inspiration for your own outdoor kitchen project.
What are outdoor kitchens?
An outdoor kitchen, at its core, is a fully equipped cooking space located outside the home. It’s often mistakenly perceived as a makeshift or dirty kitchen, but that’s far from the truth. In reality, an outdoor kitchen is a second kitchen that can bring numerous benefits.
For starters, it’s energy-efficient since you no longer need to run the exhaust fan, air conditioning, and other appliances.
The space also allows for effortless waste disposal, as any lingering food odors are easily carried away by the wind.
Beyond its practical uses, an outdoor kitchen serves as a prime entertainment area for hosting friends and family gatherings. It can even double as an extended dining hall during larger events, reducing the need to shuttle between indoors and outdoors.
Additionally, cleaning up is made significantly easier, and the space helps minimize traffic flow in and out of the house during social gatherings.
43 outdoor kitchen ideas
Discovering the endless possibilities of an outdoor kitchen, it’s clear that creative freedom is the ultimate limit. By showcasing a curated selection of innovative designs across categories – from visual appeal to material choice, amenities, and functionality – this section aims to inspire and guide you in finding the perfect outdoor kitchen idea to suit your unique style and needs.
Covered outdoor kitchen ideas
When designing an outdoor kitchen, prioritizing shade is crucial, particularly in sunny locations. A covered space not only provides relief from the elements but also creates a stunning focal point in your property.
Wooden structures, such as pergolas, bring a unique charm to the outdoor kitchen. In this upscale setup, the slatted wood shade and warm recessed lighting combine to create a sophisticated ambiance.
The rustic touch of the outdoor kitchen is beautifully complemented by the wooden cover, creating a harmonious blend of natural and man-made elements.
For a more neutral look, consider a contemporary metal pergola with fiberglass panes. This sleek design provides a modern twist to the outdoor space, perfect for showcasing high-end appliances like a central grill, oven, marble countertop with built-in stove, stainless steel cabinetry, and refrigerator.
A concrete cover is also an excellent choice, offering protection from harsh elements while allowing you to incorporate premium features like a wine refrigerator, TV, or dining area. With a durable cover in place, you can freely design your outdoor kitchen without worrying about the weather.
Small and simple outdoor kitchen ideas
When it comes to outdoor kitchens, sometimes less is more. Compact designs can be just as stunning as elaborate ones. If you’re drawn to understated yet functional spaces, consider these ideas. For instance, this design features a stone-stacked countertop with a built-in sink and stainless steel appliances, including a warmer and oven. The adjacent island serves as a service station, but the distressed natural look makes up for its compact size.
Alternatively, you might opt for a free-standing workstation with an L-shaped limestone countertop. This multifunctional space includes a grill and shelves on one end, with stools positioned at a safe distance. Both options showcase how simplicity can be just as impressive as grandeur.
Outdoor kitchen countertop ideas
The choice of kitchen countertops not only influences the aesthetic appeal of a kitchen but also plays a crucial role in shaping its overall design scheme. The type of material used, for instance, can significantly impact the character of a space.
Consider a modern and rustic look with a simple workstation – a granite countertop paired with rugged stacked stone pillars can create a compelling visual effect even in compact spaces.
What’s more, natural stone countertops boast durability, heat resistance, and low maintenance requirements.
In the context of outdoor kitchens, maximizing space is key. A clever example is this Santa Monica home, where a sleek marble countertop seamlessly integrates with the wooden sidewall. By extending along its length and incorporating a gas grill in the middle, the area transforms into a functional service station.
Add some stools at each end, and you’ve got a compact kitchen that’s both practical and stylish.
Modern outdoor kitchen ideas
In today’s world of modern styles, we’re talking about sleek designs characterized by clean lines, perfect symmetries, and minimalism. When it comes to outdoor kitchens, a modern approach can be achieved by incorporating monochrome tones and compact cook stations. This fusion of style and functionality can elevate the entire al fresco dining experience.
The featured box-style outdoor kitchen is an excellent example of how you can create a space that’s perfect for everyday gatherings with friends or even some quiet time to yourself. With its marble countertop, built-in oven, and hardwood cabinets and shelves, this setup provides everything you need to host a cookout without sacrificing style.
Another modern outdoor kitchen design worth mentioning features sleek wood cabinetry, intricate shelving, and brushed steel cooking equipment.
The plush side grill, two-door refrigerator, polished marble countertop, modern design faucet, and handles all come together to create an ultimate, modern urban outdoor kitchen look that’s truly exceptional.
Outdoor kitchen bar ideas
A well-designed beverage bar near your outdoor kitchen can greatly reduce foot traffic between the house and the outdoor space. To achieve this, consider incorporating wine refrigerators, ice makers, and built-in coolers into your design. This thoughtful touch not only enhances functionality but also adds to the overall ambiance of your outdoor living area.
One great example of an open-standing workstation is a setup featuring an open gas grill, stainless steel storage on either side of a stacked stone frame, and a built-in cooler/sink combination that allows you to chill drinks in ice without having to step away from the action. You don’t need to go overboard with your outdoor kitchen bar design for it to be effective.
For a modern and industrial-inspired take on your outdoor kitchen bar, draw inspiration from urban spaces that seamlessly integrate cooking, entertaining, and living areas. While the sleek lighting can be overwhelming at first glance, breaking down the elements reveals a U-shaped countertop, a wine-stained backsplash, stacked bottles, espresso machines on one side, and a grill and stove top on the other – a harmonious blend of form and function.
Rustic outdoor kitchen ideas
Rustic design schemes often rely on striking contrasts between natural elements like wood, stones, and sometimes metal. This harmonious blend creates a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a lodge or cabin home. An outdoor kitchen constructed from natural stones can perfectly complement this setting. The exposed beams of the wooden roof add grandeur to the space, while a neat workstation, TV, fireplace, and chef-grade amenities elevate it to an upscale outdoor retreat.
Outdoor kitchen ideas with pool
Imagine transforming your outdoor space into a luxurious oasis by incorporating a poolside cabana. A water feature like a pool can soften the harshness of stone and concrete structures, instantly transporting you to a coastal vibe reminiscent of the East Coast. To create an inviting atmosphere, consider building a free-standing pergola adjacent to your pool seating. This design allows for easy access to an outdoor kitchen and bar, complete with TV entertainment options.
The open layout ensures that everyone in the area can have fun without feeling left out. Alternatively, you could opt for a more sophisticated approach by constructing a covered patio outdoor kitchen and dining area by the pool. This design features a serene and well-balanced aesthetic, perfect for creating an elegant atmosphere. The addition of a fireplace, intimate seating, built-in bar, and kitchen counter creates a sense of symmetry that’s both upscale and inviting.
The open grill outside only adds to the allure.
Outdoor BBQ kitchen ideas
The outdoor BBQ kitchen experience has evolved significantly from standalone grills to comprehensive cooking spaces rivaling indoor kitchens. This transformation is evident in modern designs that prioritize functionality, durability, and aesthetics. One such example features a harmonious blend of marble slabs, natural stone workstations, and stainless-steel finishes, creating a seamless cooking environment with ample storage and smart appliances like ovens and refrigerators.
The streamlined cook station ensures everything is within easy reach. For a more rustic and earthy appeal, free-standing outdoor BBQ kitchens constructed from wood and corrugated metal can create a charming atmosphere. This style boasts multi-sectioned open partitions, giving it an airy, laid-back look. The corrugated metal wall features hooks for storing cooking materials, adding to the design’s rugged charm.
Outdoor deck kitchen ideas
The concept of an outdoor deck is to expand the entertainment space of a home, providing an ideal setting for social gatherings with friends and family. What better way to bring people together than around good food, drinks, and lively conversation? This particular design aims to create a spacious haven within the home, featuring an outdoor kitchen and adjacent dining and seating area.
The harmonious blend of warm tones from wood and stone, wicker furniture, and built-in appliances like a stainless-steel oven, grill, and mini refrigerator, along with a TV and central fireplace, fosters a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxation and bonding. The use of polished concrete in this outdoor kitchen is noteworthy, as it offers durability and an impressive view amidst lush green surroundings.
The posh stone cook station built on granite and concrete, complete with built-in amenities, elevates the overall outdoor kitchen experience to a luxurious level.
Outdoor kitchen sink ideas
Incorporating a well-designed sink into your outdoor kitchen can be a game-changer. As a crucial element in any kitchen, it’s essential to choose one that balances accessibility and versatility to meet the demands of an active outdoor cooking space.
Consider creating a free-standing sink on one corner of your outdoor kitchen, providing ample space to wash hands or clean food items without encroaching on the cooking area.
This underrated convenience can greatly enhance the overall functionality of your outdoor space.
For inspiration, look no further than modular outdoor kitchen designs that prioritize ample space and flow. A raised sink style paired with an industrial faucet and a simple concrete slab wall backdrop creates an industrial-chic outdoor kitchen that’s sure to impress.
Stone outdoor kitchen ideas
Stone’s unparalleled durability and versatility as a design material make it a favorite among many. Its unique ability to evoke distinct atmospheres depending on how it’s used – whether stacked, paired with natural colors, or combined with other materials – is truly captivating.
Take this stunning outdoor kitchen in San Francisco, for instance. The entire space has been crafted from natural stone, from the flooring and enclosure to the counter and fireplace.
The result is a warm, European-inspired vibe that perfectly complements the property’s medium size.
nThe addition of wooden accents and white elements adds a cozy touch, while the timeless appeal of the space is undeniable. What’s more, the use of large stone slabs stacked together – as seen in this Highland Stone outdoor kitchen – can add significant character and visual interest to the design.
InThe case of this highland stone outdoor kitchen, the uniform stacking pattern of the stone slabs creates a charming village-like atmosphere. The pinewood ceiling adds a warm, softening effect that further enhances the space’s coziness.
Florida outdoor kitchen ideas
In the southwestern United States, particularly in states like Florida, Arizona, and parts of the Midwest, outdoor kitchens often rely on durable materials that can withstand the region’s unique climate conditions. Polished stone, slabs, and concrete are common choices, as they provide a sturdy foundation for outdoor cooking spaces. These materials excel in withstanding the intense heat, humidity, and aridness found in certain areas like Florida.
For a tropical oasis vibe in Florida during spring and late summer, a stained cobblestone outdoor kitchen is an excellent choice. The addition of brushed stainless steel accents can create a cozy ambiance, while strategic lighting placement sets the tone for a welcoming space. Temporary umbrellas and circular island counters further elevate the high-end feel of this outdoor kitchen.
For inspiration, consider this stone yard style outdoor kitchen design, which offers a wealth of ideas for enhancing your Florida home’s exterior cooking area.
Outdoor camping kitchen ideas
When venturing into glamping or camping, having a fully functional outdoor kitchen may not be necessary, as chuck boxes are always available to get the job done. However, for those who want to take their culinary experience to the next level, there are some impressive portable options available.
For instance, a cedarwood breakfast box is a simple yet effective solution that can withstand the demands of hiking while providing ample space for storing food and cooking essentials like a portable skillet and water. Its stability makes it an ideal companion for any outdoor adventure.
RV campers, on the other hand, have the luxury of customizing their expedition galley to suit their needs.
Framed with hardwood and opening into a lightweight stone countertop, this setup features a built-in burner, storage drawers on all sides, and even a makeshift sink at the edge – providing everything needed for a comfortable cooking experience.
And if there’s still ample space available in the RV, trailer, or truck, why not go all out with a custom portable outdoor kitchen?
In this case, we’re looking at a clever design that combines a simple metal sink on one side, a built-in mini grill on the other end, and an open shelf at the bottom. The pièce de résistance is a solid granite countertop that allows for effortless food preparation without even needing a chopping board.
Brick outdoor kitchen ideas
Brick kitchens have a timeless charm that transcends style, exuding an industrial, contemporary, or rustic essence. There’s something inherently warm and cozy about them that never fails to impress. This enduring appeal makes it an excellent inspiration for outdoor porch kitchens. For instance, a clever design incorporates reclaimed brick flooring, extending the material to create a unique countertop frame.
The setup features a central gas grill, an oven on the side, and a sleek black marble countertop accompanied by a sink at the end. This combination creates a warm, airy atmosphere perfect for hot summer days. In another example, a Louisiana home opted for an all-brick façade, utilizing its back porch as the location for a reclaimed brick outdoor kitchen.
The design includes a corner grill, sink, and countertop extending through the side wall, sectioned into different areas to create a functional space. A marble countertop island serves as a service station and open bar, while woven rattan seating maintains the porch’s natural ambiance.
Country outdoor kitchen ideas
What sets country design schemes apart is the freedom to deviate from traditional warm neutrals and opt for a bolder, more vibrant color palette that still exudes warmth. This flexibility allows for the creation of unique outdoor spaces that blend seamlessly with their surroundings.
Take, for instance, this charming Southern abode that transformed its patio and breezeway into a rustic farmhouse oasis.
The perfectly aligned stone walls and blue cabinetry infuse the area with a lively energy, while the addition of a grill, countertop, and rattan seating creates an inviting outdoor kitchen.
The exposed wood rafters add to the space’s country charm, making it the perfect blend of form and function.
If you’re looking to take your country outdoor kitchen to the next level, draw inspiration from this stunning Southwestern home featuring a sprawling dining area and adjacent fully equipped kitchen.
Here, the exposed wood beams scream ‘country’ while the textured stone flooring adds an element of sophistication. The bar and entertainment area with a built-in bar counter completes the look, making it perfect for hosting gatherings or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones.
Outdoor kitchen ideas with pizza oven
When designing an outdoor kitchen, pizza ovens and fireplaces are must-haves for creating an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for social gatherings. Imagine the charm of Tuscan vineyards or rustic Italian towns, where friends and family gather around a warm, crackling fire to share delicious meals. It’s no wonder these features are essential components in any outdoor kitchen.
This particular setup takes it up a notch with a vintage-inspired brick pizza oven as its centerpiece, complemented by sleek cooking equipment, including a warming drawer, side burner, grill, smoker, and refrigerator. A spacious island counter with built-in sink provides ample space for food preparation and entertainment. The addition of a wood-covered enclosure and TV adds to the overall ambiance.
Alternatively, for a more rugged, natural look that highlights your pizza oven as the focal point, consider an open-decked outdoor kitchen design. This setup features a stacked stone enclosure and wooden flooring, creating a cozy atmosphere around the central dining area. Bohemian-inspired cushion seating and a large, traditional stone brick pizza oven complete the look.
U shaped outdoor kitchen ideas
A U-shape layout not only provides an intimate outdoor kitchen setting but also creates an airy feel with a sophisticated ambiance. The design offers a perfect blend of modernity and warmth. The provided example of a U-shaped brick outdoor kitchen perfectly embodies the English countryside charm, complete with a sleek in-ground fireplace that adds a touch of elegance.
The wood pergola above creates a striking contrast by setting off warm lights and housing the cooking equipment in a streamlined cook station. Another exceptional U-shaped outdoor kitchen features a modern bar design that exudes chic appeal. The contrasting white and mahogany countertop gives it a plush cabana look, fitting perfectly with the woodland surroundings. The well-crafted modular shelving, central electric grill, storage, and refrigerator further enhance the upscale feel.
Tropical outdoor kitchen ideas
While often associated with coastal designs, the tropical outdoor kitchen concept deserves more recognition. Imagine transporting yourself to a vacation getaway right in your own backyard! To create this ambiance, start by considering large outdoor kitchens that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. Take for instance the impressive setup situated in a Florida property overlooking a marina – it features teakwood flooring, a shaded dining area complete with distressed picnic tables and stools.
The design is further enhanced by an open grill space and side workstation, perfect for hosting gatherings. For a more rustic and earthy approach, reclaimed cypress shutters can be repurposed to form a countertop frame topped with black, polished stone. This unique setup includes an open gas grill in the center, accompanied by a side bar tap and island counter utilizing the same shutter frame.
The finishing touches come from lush tropical plants, warm lighting, and a white wooden pergola – a trifecta that screams tropical flair. If you’re looking for inspiration to bring this vibe into your own yard, be sure to check out our related article: 25+ Best Tropical Landscape Ideas and Designs For Small Yards.
Industrial outdoor kitchen ideas
Industrial design elements are characterized by their versatility and ability to blend seamlessly into various settings. While often associated with rugged, metallic, or wooden features, industrial designs can be surprisingly flexible. Take, for instance, the fusion of polished marble, stainless steel, and oakwood in a contemporary outdoor kitchen.
The brushed stainless steel wall, complete with steel cabinetry, refrigerator, steel countertop, sink, and marble island and sitting area exude sleekness and sophistication. The warm wood tones of the oakwood ceiling subtly soften this urban aesthetic. For a more dramatic take, an open floor plan matador kitchen can be achieved by combining free-standing steel countertops with built-in industrial-style sinks and adjacent dining sets featuring granite table tops and sleek, woven stools.
Canned lights and concrete shades add a dignified touch to this industrial-inspired space. Alternatively, for a minimalist look that fits snugly into a compact, shaded outdoor kitchen, consider a modular industrial design. A beige and gray concrete backsplash, paired with sleek black tones from the cooking equipment and simple wood cabinetry, creates a standout outdoor kitchen that efficiently utilizes available space.
Mediterranean outdoor kitchen ideas
Imagine an outdoor kitchen that seamlessly blends rugged coastal charm with modern amenities. The Mediterranean design aesthetic relies on natural textures like limestone countertops, granite slabs for the flooring, and stacked stone structures to evoke a sense of ancient ruins. This whimsical look is enhanced by stainless steel finishes on chef-grade appliances, including a farmhouse sink that adds to the space’s magical ambiance.
This outdoor kitchen offers everything you need for an intimate dining experience, from bar counters to a grill, oven, central TV, and even a bar tap. The stone columns, cobblestone flooring, dark wood pergola, and climbing plants used as ornaments transport you straight to the Italian coast, making this space perfect for al fresco gatherings with friends and family.
More Outdoor kitchen ideas
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Summer Kitchen with a Barbecue
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Italian Country Kitchen style
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Stone Kitchen With Black Countertop
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A summer kitchen built entirely of stone
Rustic Outdoor Kitchen
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FAQs
When building an outdoor kitchen, it’s crucial to consider not only creative design concepts but also the practical aspects. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is vital for creating a functional and enjoyable space that seamlessly integrates with your home.
How much does it cost to build an outdoor kitchen?
Outdoor kitchens, boasting a range of cooking gear, seating, storage, and basic amenities, typically carry an average price tag of $1500-$3000. However, for those seeking a more luxurious experience, featuring decking or patio furnishing alongside advanced cooking equipment and bespoke design elements, the average cost can surge to $10,000 or more.
Do I need a vent hood for an outdoor kitchen?
When designing an outdoor kitchen, many homeowners overlook the importance of proper ventilation. However, it’s crucial to consider that cooking equipment still produces heat, smoke, grease, and food chemicals that can accumulate in the air and react with each other, potentially producing toxic waste. This waste can circulate through the air and cause discoloration on your cooking tools, cabinets, furniture, or even outdoor kitchen ceiling.
To avoid these issues, it’s essential to install an outdoor kitchen vent to remove heat, smoke, and grease from the air, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for you and your family.
What does every outdoor kitchen need?
When it comes to outfitting an outdoor kitchen, there are certain essentials that are expected to be present. These include a range of features that cater to functionality, comfort, and practicality. For instance, one can’t go wrong with ample lighting to illuminate the space during evening gatherings or nighttime cooking sessions. Additionally, having a wine refrigerator, outdoor refrigerator, cooler, and ice maker on hand is a must for those who enjoy hosting dinner parties or BBQs.
Other crucial elements include a warming drawer for keeping dishes warm and a grill, griddle, countertop stove, or oven for preparing meals. A bar area with a cart, tap, coffee, or tea station provides the perfect spot to relax and socialize while enjoying a drink or snack. Don’t forget about trash cans or compost bins for maintaining cleanliness, as well as a dishwasher for making cleanup easy.
When it comes to seating, having a dining set that includes tables, chairs, and benches can provide ample space for guests. Finally, storage racks, counters, shelves, and even vents and shades are important features that should not be overlooked in the design of an outdoor kitchen.
Do I need a permit to build an outdoor kitchen?
While a building permit might not be necessary for constructing an outdoor kitchen, it’s crucial to consider other important factors before getting started. Since an outdoor kitchen isn’t considered a permanent structure, you won’t need approval from local authorities for the build itself. Nevertheless, it’s vital to develop an electrical and plumbing plan to ensure your installation is safe and functional.
Additionally, you’ll want to think about how your outdoor cooking activities might impact those around you, particularly in terms of smoke and aromas wafting into neighboring properties.
What is the best outdoor kitchen countertop material?
When selecting heat-resistant materials, it’s crucial to prioritize durability. Concrete, tile, and natural stone encasements excel in this regard, as they can withstand the intense temperatures without compromising their structure. On the other hand, quartz and glass may not be the most reliable options, as they are prone to shattering or experiencing discoloration when exposed to high heat or prolonged UV radiation.
Does an outdoor kitchen add value to a home?
According to research, contractors and real estate brokers have observed significant returns on investment when it comes to building an outdoor kitchen. While exact figures may vary, a notable study by Absolute Outdoor Kitchen Buyer’s Guide suggests that having one can generate a substantial return of 100-200% once the property is sold. This compelling statistic underscores the value of investing in an outdoor kitchen, making it a worthwhile consideration for homeowners.
Conclusion
An outdoor kitchen is not just a visually appealing addition to your home, but it also serves as a functional space that brings people together. It’s a haven where you can gather with family and friends, share meals, and create memories. While the initial investment may seem daunting, the benefits far outweigh the costs. With the creative freedom to design your outdoor kitchen, the possibilities are endless.
Just ensure that you include all the necessary elements to make it functional and enjoyable once complete.
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