You've made the decision to add an outdoor kitchen to your home. Now it's time to decide which layout will work best for your space. According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, most outdoor kitchens (66%) are between 100 and 400 square feet and include a sitting area in the meal preparation space. You'll need to have this plan in place before you can make many of the other decisions about your outdoor kitchen. Let's look at a few different layout options to help you decide which might be best for your space.

L-Shaped Kitchens

L-shaped outdoor kitchens are a popular choice because they work well if there are walls or fences in the space. An L-shape option also gives you the advantage of adding more counter space. The L-shaped kitchen is often installed against an existing wall. This works well for smaller spaces and budget-friendly plans. A variation of the L-shape is the straight run kitchen. This is a much smaller option but can still accommodate a grill and a sink.

U-Shaped Kitchens

If you have more space and money to work with, you might want to consider a U-shaped kitchen for your outdoor cooking space. The U-shaped kitchen accommodates a larger, freestanding design that can incorporate a grill, refrigerator, dishwasher, sink, and bar area. This design is much like an indoor kitchen but with your backyard. as the focal point. Most U-shaped kitchens are built under a covering so that you can also include fans and lighting. You'll have the advantage of more countertops and cabinets as well.

Island Kitchens

If you're sure you want an outdoor kitchen, but you're working with very limited space and budget, you'll want to opt for the island kitchen. The island kitchen is similar to the traditional stone BBQ islands. The island kitchen centers the grill and all appliances in one unit. This gives easy access to all sides of the space so that you can maximize the flow of food and guests.

To figure out if a straight run kitchen is best for you, you should talk with an outdoor kitchen expert. These professionals can evaluate the space you have to work with and advise you on which layout to choose. If you're planning an outdoor kitchen installation, please contact us today at The Outdoor Kitchen Outlet. We are here to help your outdoor renovations become a reality.