Bruno Pugh
Transforming your backyard into a culinary paradise? The grill is often the star of the show, but where you place it will make or break your outdoor kitchen experience. Explore 15 inventive ways to position your grill that not only enhance functionality but also add style and flair to your outdoor dining area.
Make the Grill Shine with an Island Setup
Designing a custom island around your grill can give your outdoor kitchen a sleek, functional layout. The island provides extra counter space for prepping, serving, and gathering around with friends. Incorporate storage for utensils and grilling tools right underneath. It’s all about keeping things organized while adding a dash of style.
Add a Side Burner for Extra Cooking Power
Take your outdoor meals up a notch by adding a side burner to your setup. It’s a game-changer from heating sauces to cooking veggies while your steaks sizzle. This extra feature turns your grill station into a full-function kitchen without the need to run inside for last-minute prep. Plus, it expands your menu options!
Incorporate Built-In Cabinets
Say goodbye to running back and forth to the house for supplies. Built-in cabinets around your grill create easy storage for all your tools, spices, and grilling essentials. The feature helps keep everything within arm’s reach, letting you focus on the fun part—cooking! Meanwhile, practical and stylish cabinets give your outdoor space a polished look.
Install a Prep Sink
Rinsing veggies or cleaning up has never been easier with a prep sink beside your grill. No more trips to the kitchen to wash ingredients or clean your hands mid-cook. It’s perfect for streamlining your workflow and keeping everything sanitary. Also, it adds a professional touch to your outdoor cooking space.
Incorporate a Wood-Fired Grill Option
Install a wood-fired grill next to your traditional setup to bring an extra layer of flavor to your outdoor kitchen. Wood-fired grills allow for diverse cooking techniques, such as smoking meats or giving your food that delicious woodsy aroma. This will give your space a rustic vibe and your dish an unbeatable flavor.
Create a Grill Pavilion for Year-Round Cooking
Weather won’t stop you with a dedicated grill pavilion overhead. A stylish cover keeps your grilling zone shaded in the summer and dry during rainy months. It also adds a visual focal point, blending function with a great aesthetic. You’ll be the ultimate grill master, come rain or shine!
Install a Warming Drawer
With a built-in warming drawer, your food will stay hot while waiting for everyone to sit down. This feature is especially handy when grilling for large groups, as it keeps side dishes and buns perfectly warm until you’re ready to serve. Your guests will always enjoy hot-off-the-grill meals, no matter the timing.
Opt for a Stone Surround
Give your grill a bold, rustic feel by surrounding it with natural stone. The texture and depth of stone add a sophisticated touch to your outdoor kitchen. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and brings an earthy elegance that stands out. The result? A setup that feels both grounded and high-end.
Integrate Ambient Lighting
Don’t let sunset stop the party—incorporate ambient lighting around your grill to set the mood for evening gatherings. With some options to choose from, such as soft string lights or chic lanterns, the right lighting can transform your space. By creating a cozy atmosphere for late-night dining, it makes cooking easier after dark.
Include a Built-In Smoker
Adding a smoker to your grill station opens up a whole new world of flavor possibilities. This feature lets you experiment with rich, smoky tastes, from slow-cooked brisket to smoked veggies. It’s the perfect companion to a traditional grill, giving you flexibility in your outdoor cooking adventures.
Create a Lounge Space Nearby
Grill and chill, literally! Set up a comfortable seating area with cushioned chairs or a fire pit nearby so guests can relax while the food’s on the way. It keeps everyone close to the action and makes the outdoor kitchen feel like an extension of your home’s living space. In addition, this is ideal for post-dinner lounging.
Install a Beverage Station
Keep the drinks flowing with a dedicated beverage station next to your grill. A built-in mini fridge or ice chest ensures everyone stays refreshed without needing to go inside. Include a shelf for cocktail mixing or a rack for chilled glasses, and you have an instant party zone beside your grill.
Go for a Retractable Awning
A retractable awning lets you adjust for sun or shade while grilling, giving you flexibility as the day changes. It adds a stylish element while providing protection from the elements, so you can grill comfortably no matter the weather. And it’s easy to roll back when you want a more open sky.
Install a Teppanyaki Grill for a Fun Twist
Give your outdoor kitchen an international flair with a teppanyaki grill station. Perfect for cooking stir-fries, veggies, or even breakfast, this feature adds versatility to your space. For entertaining guests, it is interactive and fun, which lets you cook up meals with a unique, show-stopping touch.
Create a Built-In Cutting Board Station
A built-in cutting board station near your grill simplifies meal prep and serving. It keeps your workspace tidy while making it easy to slice meats and prep veggies right on the spot. Having this feature integrated means fewer trips indoors and more time enjoying the outdoors with your guests.