Outdoor Kitchen Ideas to Inspire You

If you like to cook, grill, or entertain outdoors, adding an outdoor kitchen seems to be a no-brainer. Designed with the conveniences of your indoor kitchen as well as the ubiquitous grill (or grills), today’s outdoor kitchen is an extension of your home and your culinary style.

Google “outdoor kitchen ideas” and you’ll see a lot of beautiful pictures. But stay focused on the ones that appeal to you and have the components you’re looking for. Next, consider these ideas for inspiration.

1. An L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen

Many outdoor kitchens are laid out in a straight line, with the gas grill, sink, cabinets, refrigerator, and trash compartment side by side. This is fine if you have a large yard, and you want the entire kitchen facing the pool, for instance.

But an L-shaped kitchen gives you more flexibility. You can fit an L-shaped kitchen into a smaller space, although it can be quite extensive with all of the options if you want. The setup is more like your inside kitchen, where the grill, sink, and refrigerator form a triangle.

2. A Variety of Ways to Cook

You are not just limited to grilling in your outdoor kitchen. Think about adding a versatile smoker/roaster like the Big Green Egg. You might also want to add a flat top grill or a pizza oven. With our Maryland weather, you can cook outdoors the majority of the year – so mix things up a little!

3. The Finishes and Flooring

Once you’ve decided what components you want in your outdoor kitchen, it’s time to think about the finishes, and “flooring”. Do you want smooth, sleek, and modern? Or do you want the look of natural stone and stained wood? 

Most outdoor kitchens we install are equipped with stainless steel components, so either type of finishing touches to this outdoor room will work. Choose finishes that will complement your home’s exterior and will also suit your aesthetics. 

4. Shelter from the Storm

According to the NKBA, nearly half of all homeowners building an outdoor kitchen choose to build a fixed overhead structure (pavilion). We think pavilions are one of the best outdoor kitchen ideas out there. That’s because a fixed roof provides you with many advantages, including:

• Provides shelter from rain and harsh sunshine
• Gives you a ceiling to install overhead lighting and a ceiling fan
• Allows you to put in a wired sound system and TV

We have a few more tips to help you get the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. Keep reading to find out what they are. 

Pro Tip #1: Plan to Get It Right the First Time

According to a recent research report from the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), of the thousands of homeowners who get an outdoor kitchen installed each year, some of them have regrets. Not about adding the kitchen, but not thinking it through to add useful and functional features.

For example, homeowners wish they had spent more money on

• Shelter, such as a pavilion (12%)
• A bigger kitchen (10%)
• Countertop space (9%)
• Atmosphere/lighting/ceiling fans (7%)
• Cabinet storage (5%)

When you put your outdoor kitchen ideas down on paper, or your contractor makes a 3-D rendering, take everything into account. Unlike your interior kitchen, an outdoor kitchen isn’t a good candidate for remodeling.

Pro Tip #2: Don’t DIY It

Adding an outdoor kitchen to your home not only adds to your enjoyment but also adds value to your home. At least if you hire a professional. A shoddy DIY job or one that was built without the proper permits could detract from the value of your home. 

If you have a high-end home in one of the nicer Maryland communities, your outdoor living spaces should reflect the same quality. The main way to get the quality finished project you deserve is by hiring experienced outdoor kitchen contractors. From the design process to the permitting process to the construction, a professional team is your best bet.

Make It Exceptional. Make It Woodfield.

At Woodfield Outdoors, we have the design-build experience you need to get an outdoor kitchen worthy of Top Chef. You deserve the best outdoor cooking experience, and we can deliver. We take your ideas and turn them into reality.

If you’re looking to install a high-end outdoor kitchen at your home, we would love to work with you. To set up a consultation, fill out the contact form, or call 443-229-6500. We help homeowners in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Cecil County, Harford County, and Howard County.