Outdoor kitchen-diner: 10 amazing ideas to inspire yours
Posted on 13th July 2020
Having an outdoor kitchen in which to cook delicious recipes, socialise with your friends and family, and enjoy the warm weather is something we have all probably scribbled down on our wishlists, right? What’s a better way to spend these balmy British summer days than in your garden with your loved ones, preparing a fiery BBQ and enjoying some ice-cold drinks?
Having optimistically checked the weather forecast and done a little sun dance, I’ve put together ten ideas to help you create the perfect outdoor kitchen, which include a seamless indoor-outdoor transition, all of your cooking essentials, such as a barbecue and a pizza oven, plus comfortable seating areas for you and your guests.
A seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor areas can be created using bi-fold doors, which can be completely opened. The Origin bi-folding door system, from £1000 to £1200 per door leaf, is available with a guarantee of up to 20 years.
2. Fake it (’til you make it)
Artificial grass is much easier to maintain than the real deal – this is a great option if you have young children playing outside and you still want a beautiful landscape. Carpetright’s artificial grass starts from £12.99 per sq m.
3. Create outdoor prep space
Give yourself adequate preparation space for all the cooking and entertaining this summer, that will withstand the elements, such as Lapitec’s sintered stone. As a solid surface, each is order is made bespoke as this impressive 10m island was, complete with sink and tap, price on application.
4. Boost your kitchen kit
If you have a well-equipped kitchen indoors, it’s a good idea to think about alternative methods of cooking in your outdoor space. Pizzas can be ready in moments when made in a wood-fired appliance and are a sociable meal to make with family and friends, plus you will save space. Ooni’s Pro outdoor oven is priced £499.
5. Get the perfect BBQ for you
What is an outdoor kitchen without a barbecue? Food tends to taste better when prepared on a BBQ, so consider adding one in your cooking equipment. We have some great expert tips on how to barbecue like a pro, plus some great BBQ buying tips. Officine Gullo BBQs from £10,680.
6. Create a full-on outdoor kitchen area
Full schemes are growing rapidly in popularity. Although they are an investment, they can withstand the changing weather far more than your average barbecue and table top. Plus, going for a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, you will ensure you have everything you may need. WWOO‘s Four Segments Collection outdoor kitchens start from £10,677, excluding installation.
7. And a dining area too…
In open-plan homes, zoning to help anchor the space is imporant. In this scheme, a dining set-up has been created on decking stained with Sadolin’s Classic all-purpose woodstain in natural. Also shown is furniture painted in Sandtex Rapid Dry Gloss in Oxford Blue.
8. Get ready for cocktail hour
Installing new plumbing in your garden is an extensive project – so a pop-up bar may be a more practical option. Store all your favourite drinks and serving glasses on a trolley like the Palm Garden Drinks Trolley, £369, from Danetti. This is also a great set-up for a smaller space.
9. Make it comfy
A comfortable and spacious dining area is a must for outdoor living. Ensure you have enough seating spots for your guests with this Arundel rectangular design and dining chairs from Neptune, perfect for al fresco dining, right?
10. Set the scene (so you can enjoy your garden long into the evening)
We all enjoy a summer barbecue – but come evening you can often feel a chill in the air. Chesney’s Heat & Grill, £1499, can help keep the temperature up with its dual functionality as both a charcoal grill and a wood-burning stove. Plus, it will create a cosy atmosphere – up for some S’mores?
