How to plan an outdoor kitchen – 10 expert tips for getting started

Outdoor kitchens have soared in popularity over the last few years, with more homeowners wanting to create a social hub for alfresco dining. If you're wondering how to plan an outdoor kitchen, we've put together a guide which covers the key considerations you'll need to make.

Outdoor kitchen ideas are boundless, but knowing how to plan an outdoor kitchen takes a little background knowledge. That's why we've asked the experts for their guidance, so you can follow up on your plans.

The first question we ask clients is: 'What is the purpose of the outdoor kitchen?',' says Grant Davison, projects director at Alfresco Kitchens. 'For some people, it is about creating a secondary kitchen adjacent to the house, and for others, it's about creating a whole new entertaining area somewhere else on the property, for example next to a swimming pool.'

1. Assess your garden space

First things first – it's time to have a good look at your garden layout to see how big your outdoor kitchen can be and where to place it within your garden.

The ideal location for an outdoor kitchen will depend on several factors. 'First, consider the current layout and design of your garden,' says Steve Esdaile, founder of EO. 'Look for any natural focal points or suitable areas. For instance, you might want to choose a spot which is framed by plants or architectural features.

'Also, consider sunlight! A sunny spot in your garden is crucial for your outdoor kitchen's success. Adequate sunlight improves the ambience and ensures comfortable use of the kitchen throughout the day. Assess the sun's movement throughout the day to identify sunlit areas.'

Even if your garden only offers enough space for a small outdoor kitchen, or even a mini version, it can still have all the bells and whistles you desire to make it the ultimate alfresco space for your entertaining needs.

Steve Esdaile

A multiple award-winning designer, Steve Esdaile has run Esdaile Design for 20 years, creating original interiors for corporate multi-site retailers and luxury private spaces. Working from a practice in Surrey, Esdaile Design looks after clients and their projects at home and abroad, from the brief and initial inspiration through to final completion.

2. Decide on your budget

Once you've decided on where you'd like it, budget is the next element to consider. You can plan an outdoor kitchen with a small budget, but it all depends on what kind of look you want.

Ikea's Grillskär modular system is ideal for those who don't want to break the bank, and you can add in more units to grow your outdoor kitchen as and when. The range includes worktops, storage and a sink unit, and it's a fabulous option if you rent and might move – you can take your outdoor kitchen with you! Bespoke options can start from around £7,000.

It's important to consider the appliances you'll need, too. 'Remember that appliances are a necessary component of an outdoor kitchen and will account for approximately one-third of your budget,' advises Steve from EO. 'The remaining budget is allocated to cabinetry and worktops. Make sure to obtain all of these costs upfront to avoid any surprises later on.'

3. Storage will be key

Storage will be key when thinking about how to plan your outdoor kitchen as it will make sense to store some key essentials outside during the summer season. Cutlery and crockery can be kept on a shelf or in a crate, charcoal and BBQ tools can be kept somewhere dry too.

'How will the kitchen function when in use and who will be using it? A well-planned outdoor kitchen should have plenty of storage, functional zones for food preparation, cooking and areas to facilitate socialising with family, friends and guests. Think about what it is you want your space to offer you,' says Simon Burvill, founder of Gaze Burvill.

Outdoor kitchen storage ideas can include shelving, crates, baskets, hanging rails and units like potting benches. They make great worktops for prep, too.

Simon Burvill

Simon Burvill and Christian Gaze launched Gaze Burvill 30 years ago exactly! Creating timeless pieces for discerning garden lovers, the company has developed a unique expertise in making certified sustainable, comfortable and elegant designs for a long life outdoors, Gaze Burvill works with both garden and landscape professionals and private customers.

4. Choose a layout that works for you

Outdoor kitchens work well placed against a wall, it offers protection from the elements and means there's more floor space left for tables and chairs too. As with interiors, you can adopt an L-shape or galley-style design depending on the space you have available.

'When planning your outdoor kitchen, it’s important to consider the placement and the proximity to your indoor kitchen, as the chances are you will be back and forth between the two,' says Jamie Thomas, managing director at The Surface Collection.

'If space and layout allow, a seamless adjoining of the two works particularly well, separated by the external wall only, you will easily be able to pass over food and drinks without the worry of navigating the whole garden.

'Remember to consider form and function when designing the layout, creating zones is the perfect way to do this. Allow space around the BBQ area and seat guests a sociable yet comfortable distance away, not only for safety but to allow you space to prep and cook.'

5. Consider your utilities

Before you have your outdoor kitchen installed, if you want to have the essentials like a fridge, gas BBQ and sink you'll need to think about how to facilitate them outside. These could also impact how far away from the actual house you can build your outdoor kitchen.

A plumber will be needed to extend your water and waste pipe unless you're placing the sink right next to your existing sink – but on the outside wall, and an electrician to run the electrics out to your fridge/wine cooler.

In terms of a gas BBQ, you can make sure there's a cabinet to hide a gas bottle underneath so you can hide that away. Or you might even consider opting for an electric BBQ like the Weber Lumin.

6. How to you want to cook?

This leads us to the question of working out how you want to cook, as that will impact the facilities you need. There are a few options for cooking up a storm – you can start with a pizza oven – they're great for roasting and baking too, either portable or fixed or opt for an integrated BBQ.

Other ideas include a Big Green Egg, which gives you versatility. You can use it as a rotisserie, grill or slow oven and for pan cooking, as well as the usual BBQ-style methods.

A teppanyaki grill is becoming a popular choice for outdoor kitchens with its table-top style of cooking – you just need an electric source. However, if you're on a budget, one of the best BBQs we tested was the Kamado Joe II, available at Amazon, which makes a statement and cooks like a dream.

Outdoor kitchen must-haves

7. Under cover or out in the elements?

Due to the UK climate, it can be wise to have some kind of weather protection! If you're therefore considering a quite sensible covered outdoor kitchen, then we love the idea of having an outdoor kitchen under a pergola idea – it ensures you can still use cook and dine outside without getting wet if the heavens fall.

'With a covered roof on your pergola, you will have lots of options when it comes to choosing IP65 waterproof lighting, as it will be more protected than an open structure. The lighting will play an important part in enhancing the overall look and feel of your pergola, helping to create the perfect outdoor oasis,' says Mara Rypacek Miller, managing director, Industville.

8. Surfaces matter, so choose well

The material you choose for your worktops is really important, whilst you can use wood inside for example, it's not an option outside as you need a non-porous surface that can cope with the seasons.

'When designing an outdoor kitchen, the use of durable materials that will not be damaged by the elements is imperative. Surfaces that last whilst maintaining their integrity and beauty is essential,' says Andres Alonso, architectural and design expert, Cosentino UK.

'Dekton by Cosentino is the ideal outdoor kitchen foundation thanks to its resilience and design credentials. Dekton has a high resistance to sudden temperature changes due to its low coefficient of thermal expansion – including high UV protection.

'Its non-porous qualities will prevent rainwater and other liquids from being absorbed, ensuring easy maintenance – an essential for outdoor entertaining and spontaneous al fresco dining. Lastly, Dekton surfaces boast high resistance to abrasion and scratches – making it the ideal choice for exterior kitchen worksurfaces and it's carbon neutral. Opt for design cohesion by also including Dekton as a patio alternative.'

9. Don't forget to pop up some lighting

Pairing your garden lighting ideas when building an outdoor kitchen is key. You can prettify your alfresco space with festoon lighting, fairy lights and wall lights.

Make sure you have key areas lit up with task lighting like cooking and prep spaces in the same way as you would plan your kitchen lighting. Candles either wax or LED will help to create an ambience later in the evening and pop a few lanterns about too.

10. The finishing touches

Once you've got your beautiful outdoor kitchen installed, it's time to add those touches to the space that will help it to blend in to your garden.

Plant up containers in a variety of sizes with a mixture of flowers and plants – these will help to soften the often harsh lines of cabinetry. Add herb garden ideas around your outdoor kitchen is also a clever touch for a living herb rack.

Consider your furniture choices too as Duncan Bull, design director, Case Furniture explains: 'When designing your outdoor kitchen, think about how your space flows from interior to exterior to create a streamlined look from one room to the next. For example, choose similar tones in your outdoor furniture and worktops to those inside your home, and include as much integrated storage as possible to keep it feeling spacious, allowing enough room for entertaining friends and family throughout the warmer months.'

FAQs

How far from the house should an outdoor kitchen be?

Where you decide to build your outdoor kitchen is ultimately down to you and your space, but situating it near your house can make alfresco dining easier.

'An outdoor kitchen close to the house simplifies transferring food, utensils, and other essentials, which is beneficial if you often entertain or dine outdoors,' says Steve Esdaile from EO. 'However, some people prefer their outdoor kitchen at the far end of the garden, creating a separate, peaceful zone.'

How do I build an outdoor kitchen on a budget?

The cheapest option is to DIY your outdoor kitchen, and to look at alternatives like a small BBQ area with some worktop space – potting benches are ideal for this, or pop up a trestle table and put a portable BBQ on it. The next option is to look at modular systems and mobile BBQ units that have a small worktop space as part of the design.

These ideas are a great way to test whether you really want an outdoor kitchen and if you'll use it often. If you do, then it might be worth investing in a more permanent outdoor kitchen for the following summer.