Layout tips, placement strategies, and common mistakes to avoid
Designing your dream outdoor kitchen can be one of the most exciting upgrades you’ll make to your backyard. But before you start shopping for grills or sketching out layouts, it’s important to get the planning right. A well-designed outdoor kitchen should feel like a natural extension of your home—functional, comfortable, and built to last.
Here’s a practical guide to help you plan the perfect outdoor kitchen for your backyard.
1. Evaluate Your Outdoor Space
Every great kitchen starts with a clear understanding of the space you’re working with. Take measurements of your patio or yard and note any existing features like walls, fences, trees, or utility hookups.
Ask yourself:
● Is the area flat and level?
● What’s the distance from the house or indoor kitchen?
● How will people move around the space?
A tight space doesn’t mean you can’t have an outdoor kitchen—it just means you need a smarter layout.
2. Choose the Right Location
Proximity matters.
If you are closer to your indoor kitchen, you may be able to survive without some appliances or cabinetry. If you are further away from your indoor kitchen, you will want to make sure you have everything you need so you don’t have to keep running in and out for ingredients or utensils.
Ideal placement considerations:
● Out of direct wind to keep the grill smoke from blowing into seating areas
● Near existing gas/electric lines to save on utility installation
● In the shade or with room for a pergola or awning
● Near your seating area so you aren’t separate from the party.
Also, consider the view. Facing your seating area or a scenic backyard can make cooking more enjoyable.
3. Plan for Utilities Early
Adding an outdoor kitchen often involves running gas, and electrical lines—and that’s not something you want to figure out halfway through your project.
Plan ahead by:
● Talking to a licensed contractor or utility expert
● Getting required permits if needed
● Placing your kitchen where utility access is easiest
If you’re using a modular prefab system like ours, installation is often much faster and simpler, but it’s still important to know where your hookups are.
4. Don’t Skimp on Counter Space
Many outdoor kitchens lack one critical thing: usable prep space. I’ve never had a customer come back to me and say they had too much countertop space. If anything they wish they had more.
Leave room on either side of your grill and sink—at least 18–24 inches if possible. You’ll want space to plate food, set down utensils, and serve guests without juggling hot trays.
5. Avoid These Common Mistakes
Even well-intentioned DIYers or contractors make these slip-ups:
● Using indoor-rated refrigeration (smaller compressors, less insulation, thinner gaskets, etc)
● Building with wood framing (they absorb moisture, warp, and fail over time)
● Overbuilding without a budget (don’t get stuck mid-project)
● Ignoring wind or sun exposure
● Forgetting lighting (evenings get dark fast!)
6. Choose the Right Materials
Your outdoor kitchen has to stand up to heat, rain, and time. Look for materials like:
● Concrete panels for a solid, durable base, without the need for framing
● Steel Framing if you are building from scratch
● Concrete or granite countertops for weather resistance
● 304 stainless steel appliances for long-term performance
Materials to avoid
● Wood Framing – prone to warping, rotting, and failing
● Marble or Quartz Countertops – great for indoors, but not UV resistant
● Tile – grout and outdoor elements aren’t a lasting combination
Be careful with:
● Painted or Powder Coated Appliances – prone to fading, flaking and rusting over time
● Stucco over Cement Board – while cheaper, this system is vulnerable to water intrusion and cracking
● Stone Veneer – without perfect flashing and sealing, moisture can get between layers and cause failures.
7. Consider Installation Time and Skill
Custom outdoor kitchens often require framing, stonework, and tile setting—plus multiple contractors. With a prefab system, your kitchen arrives ready to assemble, usually in just a few hours.
Bonus: Our prefab kits are easy enough for contractors or even skilled homeowners to install themselves.
Final Thoughts: Plan Well, Enjoy More
Your outdoor kitchen is an investment in memories—weekend barbecues, late-night s’mores, or just relaxing with a cold drink on the patio. A little thoughtful planning now will pay off for years to come.
Ready to Get Started?
If you want a customizable, durable outdoor kitchen that installs in hours—not weeks—check out our prefab kitchen kits. Designed and built in Utah. Shipped anywhere. Start Your Free Design