Al Fresco at Home: Build the Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen
Fix up the ultimate outdoor kitchen with essential appliances and indulgent extras.
(Above image: This stunning outdoor kitchen in Sea Pines, built by Randy Jeffcoat Builders, is a blend of luxury, durability and functionality. Designed for effortless entertaining and serious cooking, the space is outfitted with high-performance Billy Wood Appliance selections, ensuring top-tier grilling and culinary precision. The sleek, Distinctive Granite & Marble countertops provide a striking yet durable workspace, complementing the sophisticated stainless-steel cabinetry and built-in appliances.)
Story by Alea Wilkins
Souped up with state-of-the-art smokers, refrigerators and pizza ovens, an outdoor kitchen goes way beyond your grandfather’s grill. Relish the fresh air as you prepare oyster roasts and Lowcountry boils, enjoying all the area’s natural wonders. Whether opting to work with a contractor or to DIY, review advice from regional professionals to fix up an al fresco kitchen that brings fine dining to your backyard.
Why cook al fresco?
An outdoor kitchen represents the best of the Lowcountry: agreeable climate year-round, picturesque views and hearty home cooking. To Brantley King, president of Billy Wood Appliance, that’s exactly what makes the addition popular with locals. “The Lowcountry weather and abundance of seafood have has always lent themselves to outdoor entertaining in a casual and unique way,” she says. An outdoor kitchen epitomizes some of the Lowcounty’s greatest luxuries when you’re gathering with friends and family.
Invest in premium outdoor appliances
Like a Lowcountry boil missing Old Bay seasoning, the perfect outdoor kitchen would be incomplete without quality appliances. Carrie Cobb, a sales manager at Billy Wood Appliance, says to prioritize premium grills, griddles and smokers to make the most of the open air. Investing in top-of-the-line outdoor appliances like Alfresco Grills, Coyote, or Wolf elevates backyard cooking to a professional level, combining durability, precision and innovation.
Smart storage & stylish surfaces
Storage and surfaces are just as important as the appliances in an outdoor kitchen. Courtney Jansen of Distinctive Granite & Marble recommends built-in cabinets and drawers to maximize space without sacrificing style. “Built-in storage for utensils, plates and tools keeps everything organized while maintaining a sleek, cohesive look,” she says.
Durability meets design in outdoor countertops. Granite remains a favorite for its natural beauty and resilience against heat, stains and the elements, while quartzite offers even greater hardness and longevity. For inspiration, visit the Distinctive Granite & Marble website to explore stunning outdoor kitchen options in Amazonite, Blue Pearl, Tobacco Brown and Poseidon.
Common mistakes
To avoid your dream outdoor space turning into a kitchen nightmare, learn from the missteps professionals notice most often: ignoring proper ventilation and the elements. Jansen emphasizes the need for a thoroughly reviewed layout that considers all ventilation demands, so backyard barbecues remain equally safe and scrumptious. Weather protection is also a high priority. Jansen says to cover the area not only to ensure maximum usage but maximum comfort, allowing homeowners to enjoy their outdoor kitchens season after season.
Quick tips
Building an outdoor kitchen requires excessive planning and preparation. To simplify the process, take a glance at these pointers from the pros.
Identify your needs and cooking style: When designing the perfect outdoor kitchen for your home, Cobb suggests taking a look at how you cook. What appliances do you use most often? Do you grill, fry or everything in between? Understanding your culinary preferences can clue you in to the perfect outdoor setup.
Use online tools: Still need help envisioning your ideal space? Cobb recommends using free digital services offered by manufacturers like Coyote Outdoor Living and Alfresco Grills. These tools allow homeowners to piece together their perfect outdoor kitchens with templates, inspiration boards and the almighty “undo” button.
Save a seat: With all the cooking prep, don’t leave the dining room on the back burner. Jansen says not to skimp on seating so the outdoor kitchen can complete its purpose. “It’s not just about cooking, but about turning your outdoor space into an all-around gathering spot,” she says.
Indulgent extras
Specialty gadgets can make outdoor kitchens extra sweet (or savory). Pizza ovens turn backyards into Sicilian villas, and powerful grills crank up the heat on any game day. Cobb picks out refrigerated drawers as her preferred splurge. Their sleek storage keeps beverages ice cold and charcuterie boards fresh without having to venture indoors. For Jansen, the ultimate indulgence is comfort. She lists an outdoor television (“so that you can keep up with your favorite shows and sports”) and a fire feature. “Incorporating an outdoor fireplace enhances the atmosphere and comfort of your outdoor kitchen,” she says. “It creates a cozy and inviting space for you and your guests to spend time.” Combined with high-end essentials, exciting embellishments can make an outdoor kitchen Michelin-worthy. All that’s left is good food and good company.
Outdoor kitchen checklist
Before you fire up the grill, make sure your space is set up for success with these must-haves:
- Cooking essentials:High-quality gas grill, smoker, griddle or pizza oven.
- Countertops: Durable, heat- and weather-resistant surfaces like granite, quartzite or Dekton.
- Storage solutions: Weatherproof cabinets, built-in drawers and shelving.
- Refrigeration: Beverage center, refrigerated drawers or ice maker.
- Seating & dining: Ample table space, bar seating or a lounge area.
- Weather protection: Overhead cover, retractable screens or a shade pergola.
- Lighting & ambiance: String lights, LED task lighting and an outdoor TV.
