Buyer’s guide

Take your outdoor cooking up a level with an outdoor kitchen that’s perfect for cooking up a storm on a hot summer’s day

Create your perfect outdoor kitchen

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What are the essentials?

Whatever your space, start with a barbecue with a work surface/countertop beside it. Choose between a gas or charcoal barbecue, bearing in mind that gas will be easier to keep clean and gives you the option of using it year round. If your budget allows, look for a design that features a rotisserie for slow-roasting meats – great for summer barbecues or Sunday lunches. Storage cabinets are always a handy extra for stashing utensils and cookware, while other optional add-ons can include pizza ovens, outdoor sinks with taps and even fridges.

Where’s the best place to install one?

As a rule, outdoor kitchens are best situated fairly close to the house and always on level decking or a patio. Look to position yours against a brick wall (not wooden fencing, for obvious reasons) and try to keep it away from walkways.

Can I do it on a budget?

If you’re a keen DIYER, there’s nothing stopping you from building your own cooking area, incorporating a new barbecue (or your existing one) into the design, with cabinets, worktops and shelving made from weatherproof materials such as wood, stainless steel and brick. Heatproof tiles are a good addition if you want to add a decorative edge. Outdoor fridges tend to be pricey as they need to be watertight and weatherproof, so aren’t really an option for those on a budget – plus you’ll need an electrical supply. However, a sink or a cooler filled with ice is just as effective for parties.

If money is no object, what are my options?

There are now quite a few companies that will design and install a whole outdoor kitchen for you, as well as looking after any wiring and plumbing. According to Bradshaw Luxury, you should expect to pay around £9,600 for an outdoor kitchen complete with gas grill, fridge and sink.

What about weatherproofing?

Look at investing in goodquality covers to protect your kit from the elements. Wooden surfaces need to be cleaned and treated once a year and, if you have the space (and money), consider a wellventilated gazebo to shelter your kitchen year round.