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An outdoor kitchen is the next level up from your basic barbecue. It’s a functional addition to a serious entertaining space in your backyard and it also makes a design statement. The best way to dress your alfresco kitchen zone is to look to your home’s interiors for inspiration as a starting point.
Begin with the style of your home suggests interior architect Sally Rhys-Jones (sallyrhysjones.com). “The outside is an extension of the indoors and should flow through,” she says. “Is your style classic, coastal, Hamptons or modern and sleek? For example, if you have shaker-style joinery in your kitchen, replicate it outside, or choose a colour that is used internally.”
Also, look at the textures and colours your outdoor barbecue kitchen space will be sitting alongside. Landscape design expert Jason Hodges of Adbri Masonry recommends complementing the existing area by matching the colour of pavers to roof tiles, guttering, bricks or render.
The big issue with outdoor kitchens is finding materials that can handle the elements. “A lot of materials are not suitable to be used externally, especially if you don’t have full cover to protect from the rain and sun,” says Sally.
Opt for cabinets specifically designed for outdoor use. AlfrescoPlus outdoor kitchens, for example, are built from solid PVC panels and a patented aluminium framing system. “Our cabinets are impervious to water, as are the compact laminate doors and end panels,” says Jon Gumley of AlfrescoPlus.
While their materials may differ, colour can help to link indoor and outdoor cabinetry. “AlfrescoPlus’ contemporary colours – ‘Arctic White’, ‘Cadet Grey’ and ‘Black Onyx’ – suit the styling of most homes,” adds Jon.
Tip: Planning a renovation? Outdoor kitchens are best installed undercover to help protect equipment from the elements and UV rays.
Visually consistent benchtops between the interior and exterior are a great look, but even the hardiest benchtop materials are often not recommended for exterior spaces – check with the manufacturer if unsure. Porcelain is a great solution for your outdoor cooking space and is durable enough to carry through outside.
"AlfrescoPlus’ black acrylic quartz benchtops are highly resistant to scratching, aggressive chemicals and high temperatures," says Jon.
Tiles are another hardy bench option for outside kitchen zones. “I like to choose a colour that we have used inside and tile the whole barbecue area in that,” says Sally Rhys-Jones. “It’s durable and you can hose it clean!”
Continuing the same floor tiles from inside to out – or using pavers or tiles of a similar colour and size – instantly creates a sense of flow and helps to blur the boundary between inside and out. However, first consider practicalities such as slip rating and level of use. “The heavier the traffic, the thicker the paver should be,” advises Jason.
If you have timber flooring inside your home, match it with outside decking timbers running in the same direction and stained in the same colour for a cohesive look.
Smaller elements can bring a space together, so don’t overlook the finer details. Replicate tongue-and-groove wall panelling inside with a water-resistant panel outside, select a similar style of lighting or outdoor ceiling fans, and use your indoor dining setting as inspiration for bar stools, or an outdoor table and chairs. Even having the same colour fabric on outdoor cushions can create a feeling of continuity.
All hardwired electrical and some plumbing work must be carried out by a licensed tradesperson.
Check out our guide to host an outdoor dinner party.
Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.
Photo Credit: @provincialfarmtouch
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
