Creating a luxury outdoor kitchen is about more than just rolling a grill onto the patio. It’s about crafting a beautiful, fully functional cooking and entertaining space that combines the comforts of an indoor kitchen with the joy of outdoor living. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or simply love to entertain, a well-designed outdoor kitchen could be the perfect upgrade.
Factors to Consider
Here’s what to keep in mind when building the ultimate luxury outdoor kitchen in Maricopa County.
Climate & Environment
The weather where you live greatly affects your outdoor kitchen design. In Northern Arizona where the winters are mild, an expansive, open-air kitchen makes sense. For regions with extreme weather, homeowners may need partial enclosures or covered areas to protect their investment from the elements. Either way, incorporate weather-resistant stainless steel, stone, and marine-grade cabinetry to reduce upkeep.
Cooking Style
High-end outdoor kitchens often include multiple cooking appliances to accommodate various preferences. If you enjoy grilling, make a built-in grill the focal point. For pizza lovers, consider a wood-fired oven. For unbeatable smoked meats and vegetables, introduce a smoker to your setup.
Size & Layout
The size of your outdoor area dictates the kitchen layout and the number of people you can entertain at once. For larger spaces, you can afford to spread out with separate zones for cooking, dining, and lounging. In smaller areas, be strategic with your design to maximize functionality without feeling overcrowded.
Permanent vs. Portable
If you own your home and plan to stay, opt for a permanent outdoor kitchen with built-in features. This approach allows for more customization and integration with your home’s exterior design for high-end outdoor cooking. If you rent or anticipate moving soon, consider portable kitchen units and appliances you can easily take with you.
Must-Have Appliances & Features
No luxury outdoor kitchen is complete without the right appliances and features. Here are the essentials to consider.
Grills, Smokers & Ovens
The grill is often the centerpiece of the outdoor kitchen. Options include gas grills, charcoal grills, pellet grills, and hybrid models. Adding a smoker or wood-fired oven to the mix expands your cooking repertoire to include slow-cooked meats and authentic pizzas that are hard to replicate on a regular grill.
Refrigeration Options
A built-in refrigerator keeps your beverages and ingredients cool without needing to run inside. Today’s luxury outdoor refrigerators offer ample space and are designed to withstand the elements. Another unique option is a built-in kegerator. With multiple taps, you can serve different types of beer or craft cocktails on demand, making your outdoor kitchen the neighborhood party destination.
Outdoor Sink & Ice Maker
Incorporating a sink into your outdoor kitchen makes food prep and cleanup easier. Consider a sink with a high-end faucet that complements your kitchen’s design. Then, a dedicated ice maker ensures you never run out of ice. Choose between built-in models for larger gatherings or portable countertop versions for a more budget-friendly option.
Warming Drawers
Warming drawers hold food at the ideal temperature until you’re ready to serve, which is particularly useful when hosting large gatherings. These can be seamlessly integrated into your outdoor kitchen design.
Outdoor Cabinetry
Your outdoor cabinets and drawers must withstand harsh weather conditions. Opt for custom cabinetry that matches your home’s style and provides enough space for utensils, dinnerware, and other essentials. Stainless steel, teak, and marine-grade polymer are excellent materials, praised for their durability and moisture resistance.
Outdoor Kitchen Design Considerations
As you work to bring your outdoor kitchen to life, consider what other features you may want to include.
Seating & Dining Areas
Invest in high-quality outdoor furniture with plush seating made from durable, easy-to-clean fabrics. Consider a large dining table for family meals and additional seating areas for guests to relax. Prioritizing comfort makes for the most enjoyable al fresco dining and lounging experience.
Lighting & Ambiance
Proper lighting is essential for cooking after dark, so install task lighting above your grill and food prep areas. Then, consider string lights, lanterns, or built-in LEDs for soft, ambient lighting in the dining and lounge areas.
Entertainment Features
A sound system lets you enjoy music while you cook and entertain. Opt for weather-resistant speakers so you don’t have to scramble to bring everything inside if it starts raining. For the ultimate luxury, install an outdoor-rated TV to watch your favorite shows or sporting events while grilling. Position it to avoid glare, preferably under a covered area where it’s protected from the elements.
Design Your Luxury Outdoor Kitchen in the Phoenix Area
Designing a luxury outdoor kitchen requires careful planning and consideration. Re-Bath & Kitchens can make it happen with over 40 years of industry experience and a seamless start-to-finish renovation process. Serving Maricopa County since 2010, our professional team prioritizes your vision as we take your outdoor kitchen to the next level! Contact us today for a free design consultation in Peoria, Scottsdale, or Prescott Valley, AZ.
