Modern Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

We believe the heart of every home extends beyond the walls of your house—it flows right into your backyard. We help you to create outdoor spaces that inspire connection, relaxation, and memorable moments, and we believe this process should be simple. 

When it comes to curating stylish, functional, and modern outdoor kitchen ideas, having the right resources and inspiration is crucial. That's why we have chosen to highlight modern outdoor kitchen products from BBQGUYS, one of our partners and leaders in outdoor living and kitchen solutions. 

In this blog, we outline how to create a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle by setting up a modern outdoor kitchen. 

Why Invest in a Modern Outdoor Kitchen?

Think of it as your indoor kitchen, taken outside but upgraded with durability and modern elegance.

• Expands your home’s usable space: An outdoor kitchen is a natural extension of your home, perfect for hosting friends, family dinners, or casual get-togethers without being confined indoors. 
• Makes entertaining effortless: Cooking outside turns meal prep into a social experience, whether it’s grilling, pizza nights, or sipping cocktails by the fire pit. For more ideas on entertaining, check out our blog - 13 Jaw-Dropping Outdoor Entertainment Area Ideas. 

• Adds significant resale value to your property: Modern outdoor kitchens are among the top features that home buyers look for today. A modern, sleek, functional design can add significant resale value to your property.
• Blends contemporary design with outdoor enjoyment: From smart appliances to minimal, contemporary layouts, a modern outdoor kitchen can be tailored to fit your home’s architecture and your personal lifestyle outdoors.

Design Styles For a Modern Outdoor Kitchen

Minimalist: Straight lines, hidden storage, smooth finishes, and uncluttered layouts using polished concrete, stainless steel, and matte finishes. This is a look for homeowners who love a clean, streamlined aesthetic. 

Industrial Chic: Exposed metal, darker tones, and raw textures using steel, brick, reclaimed wood, and concrete counters. It's an Urban-inspired outdoor space with a bold edge.

Luxurious Contemporary: Cutting-edge appliances with an elegant finish using stainless steel, glass, and polished stone for material elegance. This is a modern outdoor kitchen design for those who want Smart grills, built-in fridges, wine coolers, and ambient LED lighting.

Lovely Modern Outdoor Kitchen Ideas (For Anyone) 

1. A Counter-top Pizza Oven: 

With its sleek and minimalist design, the HALO Versa countertop pizza oven is easy to use and offers a unique and social cooking experience, perfect for outdoor use. It is gas-powered, has a battery option for mobile use, and features a rotating pizza stone for even cooking. It's a favorite in any modern outdoor kitchen. For more details, you can check out our blog - Modular Outdoor Kitchens with a Pizza Oven.

2. A Propane Griddle: 

A flat-top grill is the new centerpiece of any modern outdoor kitchen. This propane griddle is 36" wide, made of carbon steel, and has a rust-resistant cooktop. These griddles are fantastic for breakfast foods, burgers, or street-style meals and have become the new way to grill outdoors. 

3. A Portable Beverage Station: 

Enhancing the ability to entertain your guests with easy-to-access cold beverages, a portable solution is a simple and modern addition to your outdoor kitchen. This outdoor, powder-coated metal and stainless steel mobile cart features a large, glass-door fridge, slide-out garbage/recycling bins, and an ice bucket sink for additional items. Being easily mobile is a huge advantage as you can set it up anyplace in your yard, depending on the gathering. 

4. Modern High-Top Bar Table: 

A high-top table and stools are a modern solution to dining and seating when you have minimal space. This table and 4-bar stool set is crafted from coated aluminum and features a slatted teak top, making it both functional and comfortable, while also being weatherproof. 

5. Outdoor Dining Set: 

A large outdoor seating table and chairs for dining are a must if you have the outdoor space in your modern outdoor kitchen. This collection is contemporary and durable, with comfortable seating for 6. 

6. Grilling Gazebo: 

This galvanized steel structure can be a standout feature for a modern outdoor kitchen. With a solid roof and bar counter space, there are two areas where you can set up your griddle, BBQ, or cabinet storage. This outdoor pavilion also features a built-in power strip, allowing you or your guests to charge accessories, hang string lights, and power entertainment devices. 

7. Outdoor Fireplace: 

There are many options to choose from, but this electric fireplace stands out in that it features a built-in, slim design with a 4-inch depth, providing versatility. It also includes all the Smart features to allow display with or without the heat function. An aesthetically pleasing and functional addition to any modern outdoor kitchen area!

8. Ceiling Fan: 

A must-have addition in warmer weather, this modern, slim, and delicate ceiling fan comes in multiple finishes and features long, 52-inch blades. Cool down or circulate warmer air in your outdoor kitchen. 

9. Outdoor Ice Maker: 

Perfect for on-hand convenience, this robust ice maker is outdoor-rated and features a drain pump, allowing for an on/off function when not in use. This quiet unit produces 85 pounds of chewable pearl-shaped ice in 24 hours. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How Much Does an Outdoor Modern Kitchen Typically Cost? 

A typical outdoor kitchen costs anywhere from $6,348 to $26,903, with an average spend of $17,000. Costs depend on the size of the build. Here are the primary costs, in order: 

• Labor: This can account for roughly 20%–40% of total costs.
• Countertops: Concrete, granite, or other surfaces can cost anywhere from $20 to $150 per square foot.
• Cabinetry: Stainless steel, aluminum, or wood varies in costs. 
• Flooring: The cost of flooring depends on the material, ranging from $8 to $20 per square foot. 
• Outdoor Kitchen Features: Grills, Refrigeration, Sinks, Fireplaces, and Fans will vary in cost based on brand and size. 
• Utilities: Costs to consider are plumbing, electric, and gas hookups. 
• Permits: Depending on local requirements, permits can cost anywhere from $250 to $2,000. 

You can also see estimates and cost tops from BBQGuys here - How Much Outdoor Kitchens Cost | Estimates & Tips : BBQGuys

2. Can I Build a Modern Outdoor Kitchen in a Small Backyard? 

Absolutely—you can build a modern outdoor kitchen in a small backyard, and in fact, Outdoor Space Design specializes in creating compact, highly functional layouts. The key is to focus on smart planning, scaled-down appliances, and efficient use of space. Here’s how:

1. Prioritize the essentials
2. Choose a compact layout
3. Opt for scaled-down appliances
4. Create an open and airy feel using lightweight materials   
5. Create specific "zone" areas using Privacy Screens, and check out our blog - 8 Best Outdoor Privacy Screens. 

It’s all about thoughtful space planning and choosing the right scale of features. Even a modest setup can feel stylish, luxurious, and practical. Get your consultation with Outdoor Space Design today - https://outdoorspacedesigns.com!

3. What Are the Best Materials for Outdoor Kitchen Countertops? 

Choosing the right countertop material is one of the most important decisions for your outdoor kitchen. It needs to balance durability, style, and maintenance depending on your climate and how you’ll use the space.

Here are the best materials for outdoor kitchen countertops:

1. Granite

• Why it’s excellent: Extremely durable, heat-resistant, and stylish. Stands up to sun, rain, and heavy use.

• Best for: All climates—especially sunny or humid areas.

• Maintenance: Needs sealing once or twice a year to prevent staining.

2. Concrete

• Why it’s great: Sleek, modern look that can be customized with color, texture, or inlays. Strong and weather-resistant.

• Best for: Contemporary or minimalist designs.

• Maintenance: Requires sealing to prevent cracking and staining; can develop hairline cracks over time (often adds to its rustic charm).

3. Quartzite 

• Why it’s a minimalist's choice: Natural stone that’s harder and more UV-resistant than granite. Won’t fade outdoors.

• Best for: Homes wanting a high-end, luxury finish.

• Maintenance: Periodic sealing recommended.

4. Stainless Steel  

• Why it’s the best choice: Sleek, hygienic, and very modern. Perfect match for stainless appliances.

• Best for: Covered outdoor kitchens or shaded spaces (can get hot in direct sun).

• Maintenance: Shows fingerprints and scratches, but is very durable.

5. Tile (Porcelain or Ceramic)

• Why it’s a common choice: Budget-friendly, comes in endless designs, and is easy to replace if damaged. Porcelain is especially durable outdoors.

• Best for: DIY enthusiasts or those seeking numerous style options at a lower cost.

• Maintenance: Watch grout lines—use outdoor-rated grout to resist stains and mold.