It's time to upgrade your outdoor entertainment spaces with the latest outdoor kitchen trends. As experts point out, these spaces are no longer just places to grill but have been transformed into fully functional outdoor living spaces that extend the comfort and beauty of the indoors to the outdoors.
As homeowners look for innovative ways to enhance the look of their homes, outdoor kitchen trends for 2024 will spark a new wave of design ideas and features. Take a look and lay the foundation for your most welcoming outdoor getaway.
1. Secondary kitchen
(Image courtesy of Amarra Drive. Design: Meredith Owen Interiors)
Backyard kitchens are no longer just fancy spaces that add a splash of glamour to the outdoors. They are now considered modern, functional equivalents of indoor kitchens, places to entertain and socialize with family and friends. Quality countertops, lighting and outdoor seating arrangements make backyard kitchens just as important and special as indoor cooking areas.
“Outdoor kitchens are increasingly being seen as functional kitchens,” says Linda Hayslett, founder of LH.Designs. “Barbecue areas are becoming spaces that people will see as another room, a second focal point of the home. Families are designing the area like an indoor kitchen, considering storage, the right appliances, materials, and adding options to make outdoor cooking more convenient. It's no longer just for summer and pool parties. It's becoming a part of the home that people see as a great place to incorporate into their lives.”
“The architecture of this special space was by Hatch + Ulland Owen Architects,” says Meredith Owen, founder of Meredith Owen Interiors. “We also added counter seating and a quick access door to the main kitchen. Premium materials were used, including dark board and batten and brick.”
2. Indoor and outdoor design
(Image courtesy of Meghan Beierle-O'brien. Design by Mark Langos)
A great way to plan the perfect outdoor kitchen is to have one that can withstand all weather conditions and provide shelter and outdoor views whenever you need them. Indoor-outdoor kitchens that can be opened or closed as needed are all the rage right now.
This type of design is especially effective in locations with harsh weather conditions. In good weather, this type of kitchen offers the opportunity to relax, entertain or cook while in contact with nature, and also serves as a lovely observation deck while staying safe indoors. An outdoor kitchen can also have a positive impact on the value of your home.
“This is a special place where our clients love to gather with friends and family,” says interior designer Mark Rangos.
“In this kitchen, custom accordion windows accentuate the space, marrying the kitchen to the outdoors in a Southern California dream,” says Mark. “When fully retracted, the kitchen is transformed into an open-air space that takes advantage of the property's advantageous location overlooking the pool and the San Gabriel Mountains beyond, offering breathtaking views. This thoughtful design reflects the homeowners' connection to the region's iconic beauty while maximizing the space for entertaining.”
3. Outdoor pantry
(Image courtesy of David Wakely. Design: Andrew Mann Architecture)
If you have enough space in your backyard, consider an outdoor walk-in pantry in addition to your kitchen. Yes, that's right! Having an outdoor dry storage space makes outdoor dining and your kitchen much more convenient. This is where you can store dry fuel (like charcoal for your Kamado cooker or pellets for your pellet grill), as well as cutlery, dry snacks, and other grilling accessories.
“In this outdoor oasis, a walk-in pantry and sliding doors protect pots, pans, outdoor lighting, and various cooking essentials from the elements,” says Andrew Mann, founder of Andrew Mann Architecture. “Carrying glasses and plates from the indoor kitchen to the outdoor space can be a tedious task, but this solution created important and much-needed outdoor storage space.”
4. Integrated multi-functional space
(Image courtesy of Stacey Zarin Goldberg; Design: Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture)
An outdoor kitchen doesn't have to be a separate area. Experts point out a healthy trend of outdoor living spaces with outdoor living rooms, kitchens, lounges, and more. Just like indoor kitchens, people will gather around the outdoor kitchen, so comfortable chairs near the cooking area are a must. Seating should be anchored with outdoor rugs, pillows, and outdoor throws. Overall, this is the new multifunctional space in the home.
“The land around the house didn't suit the owners' needs or wants, but they lived in it for 10 years and then remodeled the entire landscape instead of buying a vacation home,” says Joseph Richardson of Washington, D.C.-based Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture. “The project begins with the backyard, which features a large pool terrace set against a forested meadow backdrop. The pool house, painted a deep charcoal gray, is the perfect focal point of the garden while also featuring a fireplace with seating, an open bar, a kitchen and an outdoor shower. In addition to these amenities, the pool, terrace and spa can accommodate a lively crowd. The spa comfortably seats 10 to 12 people, and the stainless steel drains create a constantly soaring water feature. In exposed areas like these, concrete pavers and treads are cooler underfoot than stone and establish a modern feel.”
5. Granite countertops
(Image courtesy of Cullifords)
Finally, when it comes to outdoor kitchen countertops, experts say granite remains the go-to. “Basically, this material can withstand fire and water,” says Jane Lockhart, founder of Jane Lockhart Designs.
This material is reliable, durable and dependable, as strong as concrete and quartz. It looks especially good in kitchens equipped with more modern fixtures and elements. Stone does not discolour in the sun, and the surface is not easily scratched. Regular sealing is all that is needed.
3 Products to Upgrade Your Outdoor Kitchen
Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill
Capria Mesh Saddle Leather Bar Stool
material: Solid wood
price: $195
Miumaeov Shade Pendant Light
material: Rattan
price: $43
