How to plan the perfect outdoor kitchen for your project

An outdoor kitchen is a valuable addition to any high-end home design, one that evokes relaxing weekends spent amongst the aroma of fare sizzling on the grill, a sensorial anticipation of the feast to come. 

And at the heart of any quality kitchen is a practical foundation. As Dave Burden, Commercial Outdoor Kitchen BDM for Weber Australia, remarks, when it comes to kitchen design, it’s not just about aesthetics.

"Barbecues and kitchens can look sleek and sophisticated, but if they don’t cook or clean well, they simply won’t get used,” he says. “At Weber, we focus on creating products that provide exceptional flavour and an enjoyable cooking experience."

Dave points out that Weber’s modular kitchens feature barbecues that provide the ultimate in cuisine versatility, offering roasting, baking, and grilling—alongside built-in sinks, side burners and fridges for added entertainment ease. “Whether it’s grilling the perfect steak or mastering low-and-slow barbecue ribs, our built-in barbecues can handle it all.”

One of the standout features of the Weber Outdoor Kitchens Select range is its full-service model. Unlike traditional kitchen installations, which often involve multiple contractors (cabinet makers, stonemasons, etc.), Weber’s Select range of outdoor kitchens simplifies the process by handling most aspects of the installation. “We take care of everything except for the final gas, water and electrical connections,” says Dave.

“We find homeowners and specifiers appreciate our trained technicians across Australia, who manage site assessments, delivery and installation in a matter of weeks.”

The ultimate outdoor kitchen planning guide

1. Consider your space

Pre-planning is essential when designing an outdoor kitchen. If building a new home or renovating an existing outdoor area, consider how you will utilise the space. “It’s important to consider how many guests you want to accommodate,” says Dave. “A well-planned outdoor kitchen works best when it’s close to the outdoor dining area, ensuring the host can socialise easily while cooking.”

“Don't be concerned with the size of your outdoor zone. We have outdoor kitchen designs from 2.2 metres in length that feature our top-selling Weber Family Q that can easily fit on a balcony.”

2. Flooring and ventilation

Consider the practical and safety aspects of your zone. Dave notes, “There are clear regulations about where you’re allowed to install outdoor kitchens.”

Specifically, outdoor kitchens must have sufficient ventilation, typically requiring at least 50 per cent of wall space to be open. “We certainly don't want to put a barbecue into a poorly ventilated space.”

Download Weber Outdoor Kitchens Ventilation Guide

Also, consider the flooring where the outdoor kitchen will be installed. Wondering, can I put an outdoor kitchen and BBQ on a deck? Dave remarks that Weber kitchens and barbecues simply need to be on a level surface and can be placed on timber decking, paving or concrete flooring.

3. Design for comfort and style

When planning your alfresco area, consider finishes that suit your overall house design, décor, and comfort. “Installing fans for the summer months can enhance the comfort when you are cooking and for your guests,” says Dave. “Additionally, don’t overlook the importance of lighting for evening gatherings.”

While customisation is possible with Weber’s Select range, the standard range offers the highest-grade Laminex cabinetry in various tones and timber-look finishes, specifically built for the outdoors. The granite benchtop is heat and UV-resistant, and cool to the touch.

Dave adds, “Weber uses what we call ‘internal waterfalls’—granite pieces that act as a heat shield between the barbecue and cabinetry to prevent overheating, and for increased durability.”

4. Plumbing and electrical considerations

According to Dave, plumbing and electrics are crucial to outdoor kitchen planning. “Ensure you account for hot and cold water supplies, waste disposal systems, and necessary gas and electrical connections. If you plan to have a refrigerator, rotisserie, or other electrical appliances, power points are of course essential,” he says.

5. Versatile cooking options

Dave is often asked, ‘Can I cook pizza on my BBQ?’ Weber’s barbecues are designed for ultimate versatility and are equipped with a pizza stone accessory, allowing for delicious homemade pizzas right off the grill..

Rotisserie and other attachments are available to suit other culinary aspirations. “All Weber barbecues can handle everything from roasts, pizzas, deserts and steaks; and with accessories like the stainless-steel grill basket for vegetables, you can cook a complete meal in your outdoor kitchen from Weber,” says Dave. 

Interested in an outdoor kitchen quote? View Weber’s Select range of Outdoor Kitchens on ArchiPro, in-store or online today.