Level Up Your Patio with an L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens are the hottest trend for today's homeowners looking to create an entertainment space perfect for grilling, dining, and hosting guests. The versatility of an L-shaped outdoor kitchen layout allows you to maximize your patio or deck real estate while efficiently separating distinct zones for messy grilling, food prep, storage, and seating. With smart design, high-quality materials, and the right amenities, an L-shaped outdoor kitchen becomes an inviting backyard oasis for years of alfresco fun.
Discover layout tips, must-have features, essential elements like cabinetry, countertops, flooring, lighting and more. Let's dive in!
Designing an L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen
An L-shaped outdoor kitchen offers more usable counter space by letting you place prep and cooking equipment on two adjoining sides of the grill. This intelligent layout keeps the potentially messy grilling station safely away from your plating and cocktail zone. When planning your L-shaped layout, think about grill placement, traffic flow, and separation from your patio seating area.
Layout Considerations
Choose a spot for your L-shaped outdoor kitchen with visibility from inside the house, easy access to/from the home, and proximity to utilities like electricity, water and gas lines. Consider existing trees and landscaping you want to preserve or remove.
Your layout should allow smooth traffic flow around the grill for the grillmaster and guests. Have at least 36-48 inches of countertop workspace on both sides of the grill. Separate the grilling/cooking zone safely away from your prep, sink and dining areas.
Size & Dimensions
Typical L-shaped outdoor kitchen designs range from 8x12 feet up to 10x14 feet. Determine the right size based on your available patio space. Allow a 4-5 foot wide section for your grill station. You'll need about three feet of counter landing space on either side of the grill at minimum.
Consider your cabinetry and storage needs. Drawers for utensils, vertical storage for cutting boards and bins for pantry items all take up room. An L-shape lets you tuck away colder storage like a beverage fridge out of main traffic areas.
Material Selection
Durable, weather-resistant materials are a must for any outdoor kitchen. Granite, tile, quartz and concrete make attractive, easy-care countertop choices. Stainless steel offers an ultra-durable, seamless look but can get hot.
For cabinetry, opt for stainless steel, high-grade weatherproof wood or thermoplastic alternatives. Include a dedicated stainless steel outdoor sink, either undermount or drop-in style. An outdoor-rated flooring like stone, tile or concrete pavers completes your culinary space.
Must-Have Elements of an L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen
Your L-shaped outdoor kitchen should incorporate all the conveniences of an indoor kitchen tailored for alfresco cooking and entertaining. Here are some must-have elements to include in your plans.
Grilling Station
The heart of any outdoor kitchen is the grilling station. Opt for a high-end built-in gas or charcoal grill with enough BTUs and cooking surface to handle a crowd. Include side burners for simmering sauces and searing veggies. Powerful ventilation hoods do a fantastic job controlling smoke.
Allow access doors near the grill if you'll use a propane tank. Or better yet, hard pipe your gas line for safety and convenience. Built-in access drawers to store grilling tools and accessories keep everything at your fingertips.
Food Prep Zone
Adjacent to the grill, allow ample landing space for chopping, seasoning, and plating tasks. An outdoor-rated food prep sink lets you rinse produce, clean up, and wash hands without running back indoors.
Consider adding a dedicated zone for staging cooked food, away from raw meat cross-contamination risks. Trash and recycling bins tucked away keep the space tidy.
Refrigeration
Outdoor kitchen refrigeration lets you cook, dine and entertain without running back and forth to the indoor fridge. Undercounter refrigerators are available in beverage center, wine cooler, refrigerator-freezer and ice maker options. Full-size built-in outdoor refrigerators work well for larger spaces.
Plentiful Storage
Include cabinets, shelves and drawers for essential cooking items like dishes, glassware, cutlery, cookware, pantry goods and kitchen tools. Look for weatherproof cabinets with durable finishes and secure latches to keep out moisture.
Pull-out shelves, vertical storage racks and containers keep items organized and within easy reach. A combination of open and enclosed storage works perfectly.
Seating Area
Spacing permitting, incorporate barstool seating right at the kitchen counter. Or situate a nearby bistro table and chairs at a safe distance from the grill for outdoor dining. Consider adding counters/storage on the seating side to allow for drink mixing and plating.
Finishing Touches
Task lighting under cabinets illuminates prep zones beautifully. Ambient lighting like string lights or lanterns adds flair. Accessorize your space with heat-tolerant surfaces, flame-resistant rugs, cozy seating and outdoor art.
Budget & Costs
Prefab outdoor kitchens cost $3,000 to $10,000 on average. Custom builds with high-end appliances, cabinetry and finishes run $15,000 to $50,000+. Prioritize investments in durable surfaces like countertops and flooring.
Save on costs by constructing the space yourself using modular cabinetry systems and reusable materials like reclaimed wood or pavers. Focus first on high-use zones like the grilling station. Expand later as budget allows.
Tips for Design Success
A few smart design moves ensure your L-shaped outdoor kitchen fulfills its maximum potential. Here are some top tips to heed:
- Have an outdoor kitchen professional review plans to prevent costly changes later.
- Create clear zones for messy grilling, clean food prep, and relaxed dining.
- Ensure adequate power supply and lighting for safety and visibility.
- Consider adding a pergola, awning or outdoor structure for weather protection.
- Allow ample room for traffic flow, storing, and multiple cooks.
- Focus on durable, easy-care materials to withstand the elements.
- Add plenty of power outlets for appliances and device charging.
- Use heat-resistant surfaces near the grill and flame-retardant materials.
- Opt for slip-resistant floors and rug pads for safety.
With smart planning centered around an ultra-functional L-shaped layout, you can create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. Choose high-quality components like cabinetry, grill and counters tailored to your cooking and entertaining needs.
Stick to durable surfaces that shrug off weather and wear-and-tear. And don't forget those vital finishing touches like lighting, storage and power supply that take your outdoor kitchen up a notch. Get ready to entertain in style with your own alfresco culinary headquarters!