There’s a certain allure to cooking and enjoying a meal surrounded by the great outdoors. More than simply a BBQ on a deck, the ideal outdoor kitchen forms part of a larger outdoor entertaining space for residents and guests. Whether it’s a kitchen that seamlessly extends out from the indoors or an opportunity to try different cooking styles such as making pizza in a woodfire oven, the right outdoor kitchen varies depending on your lifestyle, space, and budget.
What to consider when designing an outdoor kitchen
The main purpose
Before selecting colour schemes or investing in fit-outs, assess the overall purpose of your outdoor kitchen. Will you be cooking five-course gourmet meals for your friends and family, or is it mainly a way to cook without having to continually tote dishes, cutlery, and drinks back and forth? The kind of foods you predominantly enjoy is also a key consideration; summery pastas and risottos will require a stovetop, while those planning on mainly barbequing and grilling can make do with a barbeque oven. Determining the main purpose of your outdoor kitchen will allow you to make informed decisions regarding the size of the space as well as the storage facilities and appliances required.
Catering for inclement weather
Though warm balmy days are ideal for alfresco dining, to make the most of your space, it should be equipped to withstand all types of weather. Creating shelter from the elements using panelled screening and overhead canopies is essential for both making use of your kitchen on windy or rainy days as well as protecting your space and appliances for years to come.
Location, location, location
If you already have an outdoor entertainment space or pool deck, the location for your outdoor kitchen is a no-brainer. However, if there’s no pre-existing space, ensure your outdoor kitchen is easily accessed from your indoor one, allowing you to connect to existing utilities and thereby leading to cost savings.
Two become one
If your indoor and outdoor kitchens will be sitting adjacent to each other, connecting them is a natural step. Consider using the same or complementary materials and details (such as flooring, cabinetry, and benchtops) so that they seamlessly open up to create a large entertaining space.
The best outdoor kitchens in Australia
Working to create a fulfilling outdoor experience, these are our favourite ways to cook and dine alfresco.
Tarragindi Outdoor Room & Kitchen by Jayne Air Interiors | Photography by Alain Bouvier
Tarragindi Outdoor Room & Kitchen by Jayne Air Interiors
A space that truly epitomises the concept of seamless outdoor living. With careful attention to detail paid to every element, Tarragindi Outdoor Room & Kitchen sits adjacent to the pool yet feels like a place of its own. Equipped with a sink, grill, ample storage space, bar fridge, and a dining area, it’s simple yet impactful.
Seamless Indoor, Outdoor Living by Atarchitecture | Photography by Adrian Tarrant
Seamless Indoor, Outdoor Living by Atarchitecture
Showcasing a seamless journey from inside to out, this property sees an open-plan kitchen and dining area extend into an outdoor kitchen. Sliding steel-framed doors provide an easy transition from indoors to out, while using the same flooring materials keeps the space looking cohesive.
Bradley's Head Renovation by House of Bamboo | Photography by Louise Wellington
Bradley's Head Renovation by House of Bamboo
Proving you don’t need an outdoor kitchen to enjoy alfresco cooking and dining, this renovation showcases the power of smooth transitions. While technically indoors, sliding doors open up the entire indoor space, creating a seamless connection with the revamped outdoor entertaining space. Strategically selected outdoor furniture in neutral tones creates an aesthetic link with the indoor elements.
Kyle Bay River House by Poliform | Photography by Tom Ferguson
Kyle Bay River House by Poliform
Dual kitchens by Poliform complement each other in this monochromatic home. With food and fashion important focal points for the clients, the kitchens in this home take on a refined, elegant tone. Designed for a social family that loves to entertain, this home features three kitchens; with the indoor kitchen on the lower level kept deliberately minimal. The white-and-grey flecked marble benchtop and splashback match with the tiling, opening out onto a deck that includes a basic kitchen, entertaining area, gym, and extends into the pool.
Putney Residence by Ambit Curator | Photography by David Li Photography
Putney Residence by Ambit Curator
Another example of a space that proves you don’t need a vast dedicated outdoor kitchen to create an amazing alfresco entertaining space. The flow of the kitchen inside Putney Residence extends up to a window that overlooks the pool, creating a seamless connection to the outdoors. Sliding doors perpendicular to the window lead out to a large entertaining deck that features a modest kitchen with grilling and refrigeration capabilities.
Explore outdoor kitchen renovation options and find a trusted builder through ArchiPro.
