Alderland’s decades of experience allow us to design and build custom outdoor kitchens and bars for any style. See examples and design tips below:

Decide on the functions that you want your outdoor kitchen to fulfill.
Generally, counter height is 36”, while bar height counters are 42”.
Follow the same layout concept that is applied to indoor kitchens, the “Work Triangle”: Grill - Prep Area - Sink/Refrigeration.
Keep hot zones (grill, burners, pizza oven) separated from cold zones (fridge, sink).
Ensure enough counter space on both sides of the grill (at least 18”-24”).

Pergolas, pavilions, or roof extensions protect appliances and make spaces usable year-round (venting may be necessary).
Shade structures can support TV’s and speakers.
Consider infrared heaters, lighting options, ceiling fans, or retractable shades for comfort.

Match or complement existing hardscape, pool, and landscape materials.
Create smooth indoor-outdoor flow with aligned flooring, sightlines, and proximity to the indoor kitchen.
Keep the kitchen’s scale appropriate to the yard.
Integrate seating (bar tops, islands, dining areas) to tie the space together.

Take advantage of views, sun path, and access to the indoor kitchen.
Locate the kitchen so that it’s near other entertaining spaces and try to orient it so that those seated and those using the appliances have good sightlines.
If possible, position the kitchen with prevailing winds in mind so that smoke blows away from seating areas.

Decide on your fuel source early (natural gas vs. propane tanks) and be sure to install a gas shutoff valve near the appliance.
Plan for gas line routing or propane storage, electrical outlets, lighting circuits, and plumbing.
Make sure you have proper drainage for sinks and outdoor-rated appliances.
Use dedicated electrical circuits for fridges, ice makers, heaters, etc.
You’ll need dedicated 20A circuits for items like:
- Outdoor fridge
- Ice maker
- Kegerator/beverage center
- Warming drawers

Use materials that are designed for exterior exposure:
- Masonry, concrete block, steel framing, or stone veneer for the structure.
- Granite, concrete, porcelain, etc. for countertops.
- Stainless steel appliances (304 or 316 grade)

Appliance

Grill

Side Burner

Pizza Oven

Outdoor Fridge

Ice Maker

Dishwasher

Sink

Gas

Yes

Gas or Wood

No

Layered lighting makes the kitchen functional and dramatic:
- Task lighting above the grill and prep areas
- Access lighting under counters or in stonework
- Ambient lighting - pendants, scones, or integrated LED’s

Straight-Line: Simple, space-efficient, easy utility routing.
L-Shaped: Great workflow, more counter space, easy to add more seating.
U-Shaped: Maximum storage, countertop, and appliance capacity; excellent workflow.
Galley Style/Parallel: Efficient workflow, tons of space, ideal for multiple cooks.
Unique Shapes: The best shape is one that fits the space correctly.