Two Main Types of
Outdoor Kitchens
Two main types of outdoor kitchens (also known as grilling islands) consistently stand out even though there are infinite ways to design an outdoor kitchen.
To be upfront, virtually all outdoor kitchens have a BBQ/grill embedded in stone with a countertop (or the BBQ/grill is kept separate from the island), so we won’t be discussing this as it’s pretty much a non-starter feature for anyone getting an outdoor kitchen. Further, we won’t be discussing styles (traditional/modern/rustic, etc.) nor layouts (U-style, L-style, etc.) as there are countless ways to design them.
What it really comes down to are two main types that you’ll need to seriously consider.
First, are you going to install an outdoor kitchen that has: Cabana/Pergola Covering.
Second, are you going to install the outdoor kitchen into the walls of your home: Connected-to-Home.
These two types strongly distinguish outdoor kitchens and their role in determining the landscape of your backyard.
Cabana/Pergola Covering
Outdoor Kitchens
When you build an outdoor kitchen, a question you’ll have to ask yourself is whether you want a cabana or a pergola to be installed over it, or you leave it open.
Although it costs more to build a cabana or pergola over your outdoor kitchen than leave it open, you may ask, what are the benefits of it?
- Aesthetics. It beautifully complements your landscaping features.
- Pleasing. Impress your family, friends and guests.
- Asset. It’s a great home investment.
- Protection. If it’s a cabana covering, it shields you and your outdoor kitchen from the negative effects of weather: sun, rain, hail, and snow.
- Privacy. The covering can add extra privacy to your backyard.
Cabana Outdoor Kitchen
Open Outdoor Kitchen
Connected-to-Home
Outdoor Kitchens
Although most outdoor kitchens are built separate from your home, you may be asking yourself, what are the benefits of connecting your outdoor kitchen to your home?
- Convenience. It’s easier to walk back and forth when cooking to get additional ingredients and produce.
- Budget. The shorter distance to your property means you’ll save more on installing utilities such as plumbing and electricity. You can also save money by building it on an existing deck or patio.
- Practicality. You may not have the room on your property to build a separated outdoor kitchen, and your home might provide additional shelter to protect your outdoor kitchen.
- Aesthetics. It’s really up to you, many appreciate an outdoor kitchen built adjacent to their home.
Connected-to-Home
Outdoor Kitchen
Separated
Outdoor Kitchen
Which Type of Outdoor Kitchen Should You Get?
At the end of the day, it really does depend on your preferences and how you wish to customize your home and backyard. You should also consider:
- Is your outdoor kitchen meant for entertaining or relaxation or a combination of it all?
- What’s your budget?
- How would you like your outdoor kitchen to complement your home and other landscaping features such as patios, retaining walls, waterfalls, fireplaces, pools and spa, and gardens?
Numerous options and technical pieces come with outdoor kitchens, get in touch with experts like ourselves to help you on your landscaping project – we’ve done it all!