10 Outside BBQ Kitchen Ideas You'll Want to Steal: Small spaces, big flavors – my favorite outdoor BBQ kitchen inspirationsLydia TanSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Built-in Corner BBQ2. Fold-down Prep Tables3. Modular Outdoor Kitchen Units4. Hidden Storage Benches5. Weatherproof Lighting6. Compact Pizza Oven Add-on7. Outdoor Sink with Greywater System8. Retractable Shade Covers9. Integrated Bar Counter10. Vertical Herb WallFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREELast summer, a client asked me if we could fit a BBQ kitchen, a pizza oven, and a herb garden into a 6-square-meter balcony. At first, I thought she was joking — but it turned into one of my favorite projects ever. That’s when I realized: small outdoor spaces can actually push our creativity to the next level. In this post, I’m sharing my 10 favorite outside BBQ kitchen ideas that I've learned from real projects and even some of my own backyard experiments. If you’re serious about maximizing every inch, tools like room planner can be a real game-changer for visualizing the setup before you break ground.1. Built-in Corner BBQOne of my go-to tricks for small patios is tucking the grill into a corner unit. It makes the space feel larger and keeps the main flow open for guests. The only catch? Make sure there’s proper ventilation — you don’t want smoke trapped in your entertainment zone.save pin2. Fold-down Prep TablesI love installing fold-down counter spaces. They give you a roomy prep area when you need it and disappear when you don’t. Just remember to choose weather-resistant hinges, or you’ll be replacing them every year.save pin3. Modular Outdoor Kitchen UnitsFor renters or serial decorators like me, modular units are perfect. You can reconfigure them as your needs change, or expand your layout later. I once started with a single grill module and ended up with a full L-shape setup!save pin4. Hidden Storage BenchesCombining seating with storage is a huge win outdoors. I’ve helped clients stash all their BBQ tools, firewood, and even drink coolers inside benches. Midway through a build, I’ll often mock this up in free floor plan creator to make sure the proportions feel balanced.save pin5. Weatherproof LightingBBQ parties don’t have to wrap when the sun sets. Adding string lights or LED strips under counters keeps the mood alive. The challenge is hiding the wires neatly so the design still feels sleek.save pin6. Compact Pizza Oven Add-onIf you have a bit more counter space, sliding in a compact pizza oven can turn your BBQ area into a true outdoor kitchen. I recommend portable models if you’re tight on space — they can be stored when not in use.save pin7. Outdoor Sink with Greywater SystemWashing veggies or just rinsing your hands becomes SO much easier with a sink outside. But remember, proper drainage is key — and it can eat into your budget if your patio is far from existing plumbing.save pin8. Retractable Shade CoversI’m all about comfort, and a retractable cover protects you from the midday sun and unexpected rain. The bonus? It helps protect your BBQ unit from weather damage, adding years to its life.save pin9. Integrated Bar CounterSome of the liveliest BBQs I’ve hosted had a built-in bar counter for guests to gather around. Nothing beats the vibe of cooking while chatting over drinks. I planned one setup using a kitchen layout planner to make sure all seating lined up with the serving zone perfectly.save pin10. Vertical Herb WallThis one’s both practical and beautiful — fresh herbs at arm’s reach for your marinades, plus a lush green backdrop. Just be mindful of sun direction so your basil doesn’t roast before your steaks do.save pinFAQQ1: What’s the minimum space for an outside BBQ kitchen?Even 2–3 square meters can work if planned well. Prioritize essentials and keep layouts simple.Q2: How do I weatherproof an outdoor kitchen?Use stainless steel appliances, weather-resistant countertops, and sealants. According to the National Association of Home Builders, covering units extends lifespan significantly.Q3: Is gas or charcoal better for an outdoor kitchen?It depends on flavor preference and convenience. Gas is faster, charcoal gives smokier flavor.Q4: Can I build a BBQ kitchen on a deck?Yes, but ensure weight load limits are respected and add fire-resistant padding under grills.Q5: Do I need a permit for an outdoor kitchen?Local requirements vary — always check with your municipality before building.Q6: How do I handle smoke in a small outdoor space?Strategic placement and wind direction are key. Add vent hoods if your space is semi-enclosed.Q7: What’s a budget-friendly countertop option?Concrete and sealed wood are durable yet affordable. They add a nice rustic feel, too.Q8: Can I add a fridge to my outside BBQ kitchen?Yes, but choose outdoor-rated models for safety and performance.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE