Five outdoor kitchen ideas for summer 2024

An outdoor kitchen isn’t just a grill anymore. It’s an extension of your living space, a place to cook, entertain, and relax under the open sky. But where do you begin? Here are 5 essential ideas to consider when designing your outdoor kitchen oasis:

1. Shelter: A Roof Over Your Head (and Food)

The unpredictable British weather makes a good shelter crucial for any outdoor kitchen. A covered patio or pergola provides shade from the sun and protection from unexpected showers, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space year-round, not just during the fleeting summer days.

Here are some specific recommendations for two popular shelter options:

Oak Frame Gazebos

Oak frame gazebos offer a fully enclosed space, ideal for year-round use. Their solid roofs provide complete protection from rain, wind, and even snow, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere perfect for outdoor dining or relaxation. The classic appeal of oak frames complements various garden styles, adding a timeless and elegant touch. However, compared to pergolas, gazebos can feel more enclosed and restrict airflow. Additionally, solid construction materials like oak tend to be more expensive than pergolas.

Louvred Roof Pergolas

Louvred roof pergolas offer adjustable shade thanks to their tilting slats, allowing you to control the amount of sunlight and ventilation. This creates a more open and airy feel, providing shade without completely blocking the view of the sky. Louvred roofs are versatile, suitable for various purposes from dining to lounging, and their modern aesthetic complements contemporary garden designs. Some louvred roof pergolas provide full protection from rain, with really smart design in which rainwater falls to the edge and drains through a gutter system hidden in the frame. Automatic opening and closing with rain sensors is also an option.

Beyond conventional structures structures, it can be really effective to incorporate living structures, using pleached trees or frames for wisteria and climbing roses, to create dappled shade and shelter from wind. These are also adaptable in that they can be cut and shaped over time to create the desired level of shelter and shade.

2. Lighting: Illuminate the Night

Proper lighting transforms your outdoor kitchen from a daytime haven to a magical evening space. String lights, lanterns, and recessed fixtures create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Task lighting over the cooking area ensures safety and precision while prepping food.

Think about the mood you want to create. Soft, warm lighting fosters a relaxed ambiance, while brighter task lighting is essential for cooking and cleaning. Consider using dimmers to adjust the mood throughout the evening.

3. Seating: Create a Comfortable Gathering Spot

Seating is the heart of any outdoor kitchen. Choose comfortable chairs and tables that complement your design style and withstand the elements. Opt for weatherproof materials like teak or aluminum, and consider adding cushions for extra comfort.

Think about the layout and traffic flow. Ensure there’s enough space for people to move around comfortably without feeling cramped. Built-in benches are a space-saving option and can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

4. Warmth: Extend Your Season with Cozy Touches

Even in the UK, cool evenings can sometimes put a damper on outdoor fun. Firepits, patio heaters, and even outdoor fireplaces can extend your cooking season and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Choose a heating solution that fits your budget and space. Firepits offer a rustic charm, while patio heaters provide targeted warmth. For a truly luxurious experience, consider an outdoor fireplace, perfect for those crisp autumn evenings.

5. Equipment: Tools for Culinary Adventures

The equipment you choose will determine the culinary possibilities of your outdoor kitchen. A high-quality grill is essential, but consider adding other appliances like a pizza oven, smoker, or even a built-in refrigerator.

Think about your cooking style and the types of meals you want to prepare. If you love pizza nights, a pizza oven is a must-have. If you’re a smoker enthusiast, invest in a smoker for delicious slow-cooked meats.

Don’t forget the essentials like storage for utensils, dishes, and cleaning supplies. Built-in cabinets or drawers keep your outdoor kitchen organised and clutter-free.

Bonus Tip: Personalise Your Space

Make your outdoor kitchen your own by adding decorative touches. Plants, flowers, and outdoor rugs add personality and a touch of nature. Consider incorporating water features like a small fountain or pond for a soothing ambiance.

By carefully considering these 5 essential ideas, you can create an outdoor kitchen that’s not just functional but also an extension of your home, a place to gather with loved ones and create lasting memories under the open sky.

Owen Hayman

Owen joined the Bestall & Co planting and aftercare team in spring 2019. He is an RHS qualified horticulturist, holding a full Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture, and recently came in the top 3 at the Northern Regional Final of The Young Horticulturist of the Year 2019. After first doing a foundation diploma in Fine Art, he went on to gain a degree and masters in Plant and Soil Science from the University of Sheffield in 2014. Owen worked as a researcher on various field research projects in Alaska, Panama and Borneo. When not away in the field, he became obsessed with visiting gardens and nurseries across the British Isles and the Netherlands, developing his own garden, and then taking on a walled allotment garden as a personal project. He realised his true passion was in horticulture, and so moved away from academia and into the world of specialist plant nurseries and professional gardening.

Owen is now studying the Wisley Diploma, but continues to write articles for us on a monthly basis, and we're delighted to maintain contact with such a passionate and knowledgable plantsman.

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