Outdoor Living
Tips for Designing an Outdoor Kitchen
Prestige Landscape · · 5 min read
Adding an outdoor kitchen allows homeowners to utilize the yard all year long. It makes meal preparation fun because the cook enjoys the outdoors like the rest of the family and friends.
Plan for Workflow
Apply the kitchen "work triangle" outdoors too: grill, prep area, and storage should be within easy reach of one another.
Choose Weather-Resistant Materials
Stainless steel, sealed natural stone, and porcelain countertops hold up best to Tennessee's seasonal swings.
Don't Skip Shelter
A pergola, roof extension, or louvered cover keeps the kitchen usable in light rain and provides essential shade in summer.
Integrate with the Landscape
Position the kitchen so it flows naturally into dining and lounge zones rather than standing as an isolated structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an outdoor kitchen cost?
Pricing varies widely based on size, materials, and appliances. Most fully built-in outdoor kitchens in the Nashville area range from the mid five figures into six figures for high-end installations.
What's the best countertop material for outdoors?
Sealed natural stone (especially granite), porcelain, and concrete all perform well outdoors in Tennessee's climate. Avoid materials prone to staining or freeze damage.
Do outdoor kitchens need shelter?
Strongly recommended. A pergola, roof extension, or louvered cover protects appliances and dramatically increases how often the space is used in summer and during light rain.
What appliances should I include?
Most well-designed outdoor kitchens include a built-in grill, prep counters with storage, a sink, refrigeration, and often a side burner or pizza oven for entertaining.