How to design an Outdoor Kitchen

Written by

Stonewood Outdoor Living

07 August 2024

•

4 min read

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to upgrade your existing outdoor area, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to create the perfect outdoor kitchen, tailored for Australian conditions and featuring insights from Stonewood Outdoor Kitchens.

Surfmist & Kreta Stonewood Outdoor Kitchen

1. Location for Your Outdoor Kitchen Design

When designing an outdoor kitchen, it’s essential to consider the location. Some homeowners have the budget and room to build a dedicated area with a pergola, while others need a design that fits seamlessly into their current space. Think about what purpose you want your outdoor kitchen to serve, and whether you need power and water in the location. Do you want it close to your house for easy access to the indoor kitchen, or would you prefer it as a more isolated retreat at the back of your property? Safety is also a key consideration; keep grills away from flammable materials. Consult with the kitchen manufacturer to determine if your kitchen needs to be covered or if it can handle direct exposure to weather. At Stonewood Outdoor Kitchens, our kitchens are designed to withstand Australian weather, meaning you can place them anywhere without needing a pergola.

2. Budget for Your Outdoor Kitchen

Setting a realistic budget is crucial for completing your outdoor kitchen design, at the end of the day you want your budget to cover the cost of the complete job. Consider the full scope of work, including materials, appliances, utilities, labor, and additional features like seating or a pergola. Prioritize essential features like a grill, sink, and countertop space first. Stonewood Outdoor Kitchens caters to various budgets with our free-standing kitchens that can be exposed to the elements, eliminating the need for a pergola. Our modular design also allows you to start with the basics and add more modules as your budget allows. Plus, adjustable feet ensure your kitchen is level, regardless of the flooring making them the perfect versatile outdoor kitchen.

3. Layout and Functionality in Outdoor Kitchen Design

The layout and functionality of your outdoor kitchen are essential to consider. Are you looking for an L-shaped, U-shaped, or straight layout, or something simpler? Think about the storage and bench space you need to make the best use of your outdoor area. With Stonewood’s 3D configurator, you can easily visualize and design these layouts to fit your backyard perfectly. This tool allows you to drag and drop elements, making the design process seamless and customizable. Start with a basic setup and add modules over time as your needs evolve, and even view in your space using AR technology with the ‘View in my Space‘ Feature.

4. Appliances and Utilities for an Outdoor Kitchen

Consider what appliances you need in your outdoor kitchen. Are you planning on having a BBQ, fridge, and kamado, or just a basic BBQ? This choice will impact the functionality and budget of your kitchen. Make sure you have the correct utilities, such as power, water, and waste disposal, to accommodate the appliances you choose. Stonewood Outdoor Kitchens offers a range of high-quality appliances that integrate seamlessly into your design. Use the 3D configurator to select and place these appliances, ensuring they fit perfectly within your layout.

5. Seating in Your Outdoor Kitchen

Seating is a crucial part of any outdoor kitchen design, creating a relaxing space for family and friends. Consider bar stools around a counter, a dining table with chairs, or lounge seating for a more casual atmosphere. Choose seating that fits the available space without overcrowding it. Stonewood offers bar seating to complement our bar modules, and there are plenty of outdoor furniture options available to suit your setup. Our modular and built-in seating options save space and provide ample room for guests.

6. Cover for Your Outdoor Kitchen

Cover is an important consideration when designing your outdoor kitchen. Do you live in an area with frequent rain, or does it get very hot in the summer? This will influence whether you need a cover for your kitchen. At Stonewood, we build our kitchens to be both tough and stylish. They can be directly exposed to the weather without needing a cover but adding one can provide extra protection and comfort depending on your budget and climate.

Backyard kitchen with a Kamado smoker, BBQ, sink and bar

Conclusion

Designing an outdoor kitchen involves careful planning and consideration of various factors, from location and budget to layout, appliances, seating, and cover. By following these steps and utilizing Stonewood’s 3D configurator, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor kitchen that enhances your backyard and provides a fantastic space for cooking and entertaining. For more inspiration and to explore customizable outdoor kitchen options, visit Stonewood Outdoor Kitchens. Our expert team is ready to help you bring your dream outdoor kitchen to life!

At ArchiPro we recognise and acknowledge the existing, original and ancient connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the lands and waterways across the Australian continent. We pay our respects to the elders past and present. We commit to working together to build a prosperous and inclusive Australia.