Don’t let the limited space constrict your creativity! Here are some incredible ideas to make the most of your small outdoor kitchens!
1. Open Air Dining
Since you’re already dealing with a small space, the last thing you want is to make it feel even tighter by putting up walls. Instead, keep your outdoor dining area open and airy. This way, it’ll feel much more expansive!
2. Pull-Out Sink & Prep Area
The key to maximizing a small kitchen is to seize every opportunity to conceal space-consuming features.
For example, fixtures like garden walls, raised timber decks, and outbuildings can double as clever storage solutions.
3. Modular Design
Modular systems are a must-have in any small outdoor kitchen. They have a flexible nature that basically makes them fit in almost every room.
L-shapes work well in a limited garden. They take up less of a footprint and they’re perfect for corner slots. Just make sure that you measure your area first to see which configurations work best.
4. Essential Appliances
As tempting as it might be to install every outdoor appliance you can find — like a brick oven, a smoker, a grill, a burner, or a vent hood — you might want to step back and reconsider.
Remember, you’re working with a small kitchen, so be strategic about it. If you’re not sure what to include in the design, strip it down to basics and start with only a multi-purpose grill.
5. White Color Palette
Want your kitchen to look bigger than it actually is? One simple solution is to use a white color palette. This reflects light, which then creates the illusion of space.
But, here’s a little pro tip: don’t just use one shade of white. Play around with eggshell and satin finishes, off-whites, and other varying hues to add depth and dimension.
6. Vertical Space
When designing a backyard kitchen, a lot of folks focus on maximizing the horizontal layout. And in doing so, they completely miss out on another essential aspect: the vertical space.
By utilizing the area above your countertop, you can create extra storage while keeping your workstation tidy.
Besides that, you can also add a visually appealing backsplash to your cooking area as a fun way to enhance your vertical space.
7. Multifunctional Elements
Multifunctional elements are the hallmarks of a modern small outdoor kitchen. So, consider incorporating appliances that serve dual purposes, like a grill with an integrated smoker or a sink with a built-in cutting board.
These brilliant innovations not only save so much space but more importantly, enhance the versatility of your outdoor area.
8. Clever Layout
When it comes to finalizing your layout, always consider the flow. Make sure everything is within reach. With that in mind, try the L-shaped or straight-line configuration.
9. Creative Storage Solutions
If your limited outdoor floor plan doesn’t allow you to install built-in cabinets for storage, you have to think outside the box.
How about giving a free-standing or portable storage unit a shot? A serving trolley is another great option for holding plates, cutlery, and cocktails. You can easily keep it indoors and wheel it out whenever you need it.
10. Pre-Fab Options
Redecorating an outdoor kitchen can be pricey, but if you want to refresh your space without breaking the bank, check out prefabricated options.
These include modular kitchens made of standardized units that fit together seamlessly and outdoor kits that provide grills, appliances, countertops, and islands —all in one convenient purchase and shipment.
11. DIY Pergola
Just because you don’t have a large outdoor space doesn’t mean you can’t have a pergola. And the best part is, it’s easy to DIY. You can buy ready-made kits and build them using basic tools.
12. Bar Seating
A small space means you have to sacrifice certain elements, and oftentimes, the lounge and a full dining set are the first to go.
If that’s the case, consider setting up a bar with high stools instead. This way, you can create a dining and entertainment area for your guests without needing a large table.
Big Ideas for Compact Kitchens
Don’t let the small size discourage your creativity. With these ideas, you’re sure to transform your outdoor kitchen and make every inch count!
Featured image credit to @vincent_the_house.
