Why stay indoors when the sun is shining? With an outdoor kitchen, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Cooking under the open sky turns every meal into a real experience. With creative outdoor kitchen ideas, you can turn your outdoor space into a functional and stylish cooking area.
An outdoor kitchen transforms your garden into a place of culinary delight. It lets you prepare meals in the open air while enjoying the company of family and friends. But what do you need to consider when planning an outdoor cooking space? Which materials are suited best? What costs should you expect? And are there any legal requirements? Find all the answers here – plus plenty of inspiring outdoor kitchen ideas.
What is an outdoor kitchen?
Cooking, grilling, eating – all under the open sky. That is possible with an outdoor kitchen. Whether it's a simple barbecue station or a fully equipped setup, whatever you fancy is possible.
Of course wind, rain and sun can take their toll on a garden kitchen. Durable materials and high-quality workmanship are a must.
Outdoor kitchen ideas
Discover four outdoor kitchen ideas for your dream setup under the open sky.
Modular outdoor kitchen: flexible and versatile
A modular outdoor kitchen lets you design your cooking area exactly how you want it. Various elements such as a grill, hob, sink and fridge can be combined to suit your needs. This way, you can easily adapt the kitchen – whether for a quick barbecue or a large garden party.
Bespoke solutions: individuality without compromise
A bespoke outdoor kitchen brings your personal vision to life. Choose the materials, design and features that suit your taste. A professional kitchen planner can help you turn your ideas into reality. The result is a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Ready-made outdoor kitchens: stylish and ready to go
Not in the mood for detailed planning? Then a ready-made outdoor kitchen is the ideal choice. These models come in a range of designs and are ready to use straight away. High quality versions are easy to use and have a modern look – for hassle-free outdoor enjoyment.
Outdoor kitchen made of natural stone: elegant design meets functionality
A garden kitchen made of natural stone is not only durable but also low-maintenance and fire-resistant. It blends seamlessly into the garden landscape and creates a stylish atmosphere. With its natural look and long-lasting materials, every kitchen becomes a unique eye-catcher. Perfect for sociable evenings in the open air!
Good to know: A canopy makes your outdoor kitchen weatherproof. It offers protection from rain, provides shade and extends the usability well beyond the summer months. This way, you can enjoy your kitchen all year round.
Which materials are suitable for outdoor kitchens?
Choosing the right material is key to ensuring your outdoor kitchen is durable, low-maintenance and functional. The following materials have proven to be particularly effective:
Stainless steel: This material is especially easy to care for, corrosion-resistant and extremely durable. It's perfect for modern designs and offers a hygienic surface that's easy to clean. However, stainless steel can become very hot in direct sunlight and may need to be protected by a canopy.
Natural stone: Exceptionally resilient and sturdy, natural stone gives your outdoor kitchen a refined, high-quality look. It’s heat resistant and weatherproof, though it may require a stable substructure due to its weight. Keep in mind that it can become slippery when wet.
Concrete: Modern, durable and long-lasting – concrete is an excellent choice for outdoor kitchen ideas. It can be shaped and designed individually, but it's heavy and requires a stable base. Sealing the surface is often recommended to protect it from moisture and stains.
Weatherproof wood: For a natural and warm look, wood is a popular option. Hardwoods like teak or larch are especially resistant to the elements. However, wood does require regular care – such as treatments with stains or oils – to maintain its durability and prevent it from greying over time.
Composite materials: Materials such as HPL (High Pressure Laminate) or specialised outdoor plastics combine weather resistance, low maintenance and modern design. They come in a variety of colours and textures and require minimal upkeep.
Installations:
Don’t forget – you’ll need both electricity and water in your garden kitchen. Gira socket outlets for outdoor use and the Gira light and energy profile deliver power wherever it’s needed. The impact- and shatter-resistant Gira SCHUKO socket outlets with hinged covers are certified to protection class IP44, making them weatherproof.
The choice of material depends on your individual needs, budget and the look you’re going for. What matters most is that the materials are durable, easy to maintain and weather-resistant, ensuring your outdoor kitchen will last for years to come.
How much does an outdoor kitchen cost?
Before you start planning, it’s a good idea to get a clear picture of the costs involved. Prices for garden kitchens vary depending on the materials, equipment and size. Ready-made systems are often more affordable, while custom solutions tend to be more expensive.
Also factor in the potential need for electricity and water connections, as these can lead to additional costs.
Basic models: Mobile grill stations or modular systems start at around €1,000.
Mid-range: Ready-made modular kitchens with standard features typically range from €3,000 to €10,000.
Luxury versions: Custom-designed and permanently installed outdoor kitchens with high-end features can cost €10,000 or more.
Do you need a permit for an outdoor kitchen?
Whether an outdoor kitchen requires planning permission or not depends on several factors, such as the size of the installation, whether it's permanently fixed to the ground, and the local building regulations. In many cases, smaller, mobile kitchens without fixed connections don’t require approval.
However, if your kitchen is permanently installed and includes connections for water, gas or electricity, you may need a permit. It’s therefore a good idea to check with your local building authority before starting construction.
A garden kitchen enriches your life
Outdoor cooking, sociable evenings, unforgettable moments – a garden kitchen makes it all possible. Whether for relaxed family meals or big celebrations, it offers countless benefits. With careful planning and quality materials, it becomes the heart of your garden.
Get inspired by creative outdoor kitchen ideas and create your very own feel-good space in the great outdoors.
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