22 Modern Outdoor Kitchen Design That Extend Living
You know that outdoor kitchen you’ve been saving on Pinterest for three years? The one where you’re actually hosting those sunset dinners instead of scrolling through everyone else’s.
Creating your dream cooking space outside means finally having room for all 12 friends (yes, even the one who always brings their new boyfriend).
Picture yourself mixing cocktails while dinner sizzles—feeling like the host who has it together.
These 23 modern designs show you exactly what’s possible in your backyard.
Minimalist Concrete Island: Sleek Gray Surfaces With Built-In Seating and Fire Feature
That clean concrete aesthetic you see at every trendy rooftop bar? It’s basically the outdoor kitchen equivalent of your favorite minimalist wardrobe—everything works together without trying too hard. This style makes your backyard feel like an extension of those sleek downtown restaurants where you actually want to hang out past dinner.
Shop The Look:
- Polished concrete countertops with integrated drainboard
- Charcoal gray weather-resistant cabinets (smooth slab doors)
- Gray porcelain pavers (24×24 for seamless look)
- Concrete-look tiles for backsplash area
- Linear LED strip lighting (weatherproof rating)
- Charcoal outdoor rug with subtle texture (5’x8′)
- Stainless steel drawer organizers for grilling tools
- Modern concrete planters (set of 3, varying heights)
DIY Paint Transformation
- Existing brick or stone makeover: Apply “Peppercorn” (Sherwin Williams SW-7674) masonry paint for that modern charcoal finish that reads expensive but costs under $50 per gallon
- Cabinet refresh option: Use “Iron Ore” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) on existing outdoor cabinetry with proper exterior primer—transforms builder-grade into boutique hotel vibes
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Modern patio spaces with existing hardscaping
Mediterranean Terracotta Haven: Arched Cooking Station With Clay Tile Backsplash
That Tuscan vacation feeling without the passport drama—this style brings those gorgeous sunset dinner vibes straight to your backyard. Like wearing your favorite terracotta-toned dress that goes with everything, this design makes hosting feel effortless and Instagram-worthy.
Shop The Look:
- Stucco or stone veneer arched cooking station structure
- Terracotta clay tiles for backsplash (6×6 traditional)
- Natural stone or concrete countertops with rough edges
- Saltillo or terracotta floor pavers
- Wrought iron pendant lights or lanterns
- Natural jute outdoor rug (5’x8′)
- Terracotta planters set (various sizes)
- Woven basket storage for outdoor dining essentials
DIY Paint Transformation
- Stucco walls: Apply “Muslin” (Benjamin Moore HC-12) as base with “Terra Mauve” (Benjamin Moore 105) for accent columns—creates that sun-washed Mediterranean look
- Cabinet refresh: Use “Seville Orange” (Benjamin Moore 2152-20) on lower storage doors paired with “White Dove” (Benjamin Moore OC-17) for upper shelving frames
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Covered patios or pergola spaces
Industrial Steel Framework: Black Metal Pergola With Suspended Lighting and Bar Counter
That industrial black metal frame instantly transforms your backyard into the coolest rooftop bar you’ve ever posted about. Like wearing all black with statement jewelry, this design uses sleek steel to make everything else shine brighter. Your outdoor kitchen becomes the neighborhood’s favorite happy hour spot.
Shop The Look:
- Black powder-coated steel pergola kit (12×16 minimum)
- Natural wood or concrete composite bar counter
- Stainless steel outdoor cabinetry with black frames
- Dark granite or soapstone countertops
- Charcoal porcelain pavers (24×24)
- Edison bulb string lights with black cord
- Industrial bar stools with wood seats
- Black metal wall-mounted bottle opener and towel hooks
DIY Paint Transformation
- Existing wood surfaces: Strip and stain with Minwax “Ebony” for that charred wood look, or go bold with Benjamin Moore “Wrought Iron” (2124-10) on any existing structures
- Concrete elements: Use Behr “Charcoal Blue” (N480-7) on concrete blocks or walls to complement the steel without competing
Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Modern homes with existing patios
Tropical Teak Paradise: Wood-Fired Pizza Oven Surrounded by Natural Timber Cabinetry
That beachy resort dinner you had on vacation where everything tasted better? This outdoor setup brings those flavors home permanently. The combination of warm teak and crackling pizza oven creates the same laid-back luxury as your favorite vacation rental—except now it’s yours every weekend.
Shop The Look:
- Teak outdoor cabinetry with marine-grade finish
- Soapstone or granite countertops (heat-resistant near oven)
- Terracotta or natural stone tiles for backsplash
- Stamped concrete flooring with wood grain pattern
- String lights with Edison bulbs on black wire
- Weather-resistant bamboo storage baskets
- Teak serving boards and utensil holders
- Outdoor copper planters for fresh herbs
DIY Paint Transformation
- Pizza oven exterior: Apply “Tricorn Black SW 6258” (Sherwin Williams) to metal components for that modern contrast against natural wood, or go with “Urbane Bronze SW 7048” for warmer integration with teak tones.
- Support structures and posts: Use “Natural Linen SW 9109” (Sherwin Williams) on any concrete or stucco walls behind the kitchen area—neutral enough to let the wood star while hiding smoke stains.
Budget Range: $25,000-$40,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Covered patios or pool areas
Scandinavian White Oak Design: Light Wood Finishes With Stainless Steel Appliances
Light wood and stainless steel is basically the outdoor kitchen equivalent of that effortless “no-makeup makeup” look everyone’s trying to achieve. It’s what happens when your favorite minimalist coffee shop meets high-end appliance showroom—clean, bright, and somehow makes everything you cook look more gourmet.
Shop The Look:
- White oak veneer outdoor cabinets with sealed finish
- Carrara marble or white concrete countertops
- Light gray porcelain tiles (12×24 wood-look planks)
- Blonde composite decking or sealed oak flooring
- Brushed stainless pendant lights with glass shades
- Natural jute outdoor rug (5’x8′ weather-resistant)
- Teak wood serving board set
- Stainless steel magnetic spice containers
DIY Paint Transformation
- Existing cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “White Dove” OC-17 in exterior grade for a perfect match to natural oak tones when you can’t afford real wood
- Support beam accent: Sherwin Williams “Natural Linen” SW 9109 on posts and ceiling beams to tie everything together without going too beige
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Covered patios with partial shade
Desert Modern Oasis: Sand-Colored Stucco Base With Corten Steel Accents
That terracotta-meets-rust aesthetic from your saved Southwestern boards just got a modern upgrade. Corten steel naturally weathers to this gorgeous burnt orange patina that pairs perfectly with sandy stucco—like your favorite nude lip with a bronze eye. This style turns desert sunset colors into year-round outdoor entertaining gold.
Shop The Look:
- Sand-colored stucco base cabinets with integrated pulls
- Concrete countertops with integrated drainboard
- Terracotta zellige tiles for backsplash (4×4)
- Sealed concrete flooring with desert sand finish
- Corten steel pendant lights with Edison bulbs
- Natural jute outdoor rug (5’x8′)
- Acacia wood serving boards set
- Woven seagrass storage baskets
DIY Paint Transformation
- Stucco base refresh: Apply Benjamin Moore “Soft Sand” (2106-60) as base coat, then dry brush “Adobe Dust” (2175-40) for authentic texture variation
- Accent wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Cavern Clay” (SW 7701) on the back wall creates depth, while “Accessible Beige” (SW 7036) on surrounding walls keeps things bright
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Covered patios with southwestern exposure
Coastal Hampton Style: White Shiplap Panels With Navy Blue Cabinet Doors
The same white-and-navy combo that makes every beach house Instagram account blow up works magic outdoors too. Like your favorite striped Breton shirt paired with white jeans, this palette never gets old. It’s giving “summer in the Hamptons” without the trust fund requirement.
Shop The Look:
- White shaker-style outdoor cabinets with soft-close doors
- Navy blue lower cabinet doors (weatherproof marine-grade)
- Carrara marble-look porcelain countertops
- White subway tiles with light gray grout
- Composite decking in driftwood gray
- Navy and white striped outdoor rug (5’x7′)
- Rattan storage baskets with navy trim
- Brass nautical-style lantern pendants
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet refresh: Transform existing doors with Benjamin Moore “Hale Navy” HC-154 for lowers and “White Dove” OC-17 for uppers. Sand thoroughly and use marine-grade primer first.
- Shiplap magic: Paint existing siding or add wood panels, then coat with Sherwin Williams “Pure White” SW-7005. Create fake shiplap lines with painter’s tape and “Accessible Beige” SW-7036 for subtle definition.
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Covered patios and poolside spaces
Japanese Zen Garden Kitchen: Bamboo Screening With Teppanyaki Grill Station
That minimalist Japanese aesthetic everyone’s pinning meets actual entertaining functionality. Like your favorite sushi spot’s clean lines but in your backyard, where you can actually grill yakitori while friends sip sake. The bamboo screening creates Instagram-worthy privacy without feeling closed in.
Shop The Look:
- Natural bamboo fencing panels (6-8 feet tall)
- Built-in teppanyaki grill station with stainless steel surface
- Concrete countertops with wood grain finish
- Dark slate tiles (12×24) for flooring
- Cedar wood decking for surrounding areas
- Weatherproof rope lighting with warm white bulbs
- Bamboo serving trays and utensil holders
- Japanese-style outdoor cushions in neutral linen
DIY Paint Transformation
- Pergola and wood elements: Benjamin Moore “Dragon’s Breath” (CC-166) for that perfect charcoal-brown that reads sophisticated but not heavy. Creates depth without competing with bamboo’s natural texture.
- Accent walls or storage: Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige” (SW 7036) on any existing structures—it’s the neutral that plays perfectly with natural materials while adding warmth to concrete elements.
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Private patios with existing fence lines
Rustic Farmhouse Blend: Reclaimed Wood Beams Over Stone Countertops
That perfect blend of Joanna Gaines meets Italian countryside you’ve been saving on Pinterest. Mixing weathered wood beams with sleek stone creates the outdoor kitchen equivalent of wearing vintage denim with designer heels—unexpectedly sophisticated yet totally approachable. It’s where your Sunday farmers market haul looks like a lifestyle magazine spread.
Shop The Look:
- Reclaimed barn wood beams (8×8 minimum)
- Honed granite or soapstone countertops
- Tumbled travertine backsplash tiles
- Stamped concrete flooring (wood plank pattern)
- Black iron lantern-style pendant lights
- Jute outdoor rug with charcoal border (5’x8′)
- Galvanized metal herb planters set
- Woven basket storage bins with leather handles
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet refresh: Transform existing cabinetry with Benjamin Moore “Kendall Charcoal” HC-166 on lowers and “White Dove” OC-17 on uppers for that modern farmhouse contrast
- Support posts and trim: Apply Sherwin Williams “Urbane Bronze” SW 7048 to metal elements for an aged copper look that complements natural wood
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Covered patios and pergola spaces
Art Deco Glamour Space: Geometric Tile Patterns With Brass Hardware Details
That Great Gatsby meets rooftop bar aesthetic is having a moment in outdoor spaces. Like wearing vintage jewelry with modern outfits, mixing geometric patterns with brass accents creates instant sophistication. Your outdoor kitchen becomes the space where champagne tastes better.
Shop The Look:
- White shaker cabinets with brass pulls
- Black granite countertops with gold veining
- Black and white hexagonal tiles (6″ pattern)
- Porcelain wood-look flooring in walnut tone
- Brass globe pendant lights (3-light cluster)
- Black and gold geometric outdoor rug (5’x8′)
- Brass bar cart with marble shelves
- Gold-framed mirrors for wall decor
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet refresh: Transform existing cabinets with Benjamin Moore “Hale Navy” HC-154 on lowers and “White Dove” OC-17 on uppers for that classic Art Deco contrast
- Wall drama: Paint walls in Sherwin Williams “Tricorn Black” SW 6258 with one accent wall in “Brass” metallic paint for authentic 1920s glamour
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Covered patios and pergola spaces
Contemporary Glass Pavilion: Floor-to-Ceiling Windows Enclosing Cooking Area
That glass-walled cooking space you keep saving on Instagram? It’s basically bringing Aera store vibes to your backyard—minimal frames, maximum drama. Like wearing all-neutral outfits but making them interesting with texture, this design lets natural light do all the heavy lifting while you’re meal-prepping for the week.
Shop The Look:
- Aluminum frame system with tempered glass panels
- Weatherproof stainless steel cabinetry
- Polished concrete countertops
- Natural stone tiles (travertine or limestone)
- Sealed concrete or porcelain tile flooring
- Weather-resistant jute area rug (5’x7′)
- Teak wood serving cart on wheels
- Battery-operated LED string lights with remote
DIY Paint Transformation
- Frame refresh: Transform existing structures with “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) for that sleek industrial frame look that mirrors high-end restaurant patios
- Support beam accent: Paint any exposed wood beams in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin Williams SW 7048) to complement the glass while adding warmth
Budget Range: $35,000-$55,000 | Timeline: 6-8 weeks |
Best For: Covered patios or poolside areas
Southwestern Adobe Retreat: Curved Plaster Walls With Colorful Tile Inlays
Those Santa Fe vacation vibes but make it backyard functional—like your favorite boutique hotel patio crossed with that terracotta-everything aesthetic flooding your Instagram saves. This style turns grilling into an experience worth documenting, where every sunset dinner feels like you’re dining at that dreamy desert resort. The curved walls soften everything while those jewel-toned tiles give you built-in color therapy.
Shop The Look:
- Stucco-finished outdoor kitchen island base
- Concrete countertops with integral color (warm gray)
- Talavera tile sheets for backsplash (6×6 mixed patterns)
- Saltillo tile flooring (12×12 unsealed)
- Wrought iron pendant lights with amber glass
- Woven jute outdoor rug (5×7 natural/rust pattern)
- Terracotta planter set (various sizes for herbs)
- Copper-finished utensil holder and accessories
DIY Paint Transformation
- Existing wall refresh: Apply “Adobe Dust” (Benjamin Moore HC-175) as your base coat, then add “Sedona Clay” (Benjamin Moore 2174-30) for accent walls around the cooking zone
- Cabinet door update: Transform builder-grade doors with “Rustic Taupe” (Benjamin Moore 999) and hand-applied plaster texture using joint compound for that authentic adobe feel
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Covered patios and protected outdoor areas
Mid-Century Modern Setup: Walnut Cabinets With Terrazzo Counter Surface
That Palm Springs aesthetic where Don Draper meets your favorite brunch spot. This combo reads like wearing vintage Levi’s with designer loafers—effortlessly cool without trying too hard. Walnut’s warmth against terrazzo’s playful specks creates the outdoor kitchen that actually makes hosting feel less stressful.
Shop The Look:
- Walnut veneer flat-panel cabinets with integrated handles
- Terrazzo countertops in neutral base with colorful aggregate
- White zellige-style backsplash tiles (3×6)
- Polished concrete flooring with sealant
- Globe string lights on black poles
- Natural jute outdoor rug (5’x7′)
- Teak wood serving board set
- Brass bar cart with removable tray
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet refresh: Strip existing cabinets and stain with Minwax “Special Walnut” for authentic mid-century depth. Follow with matte polyurethane to protect against outdoor elements.
- Support structure colors: Benjamin Moore “Wrought Iron” for posts and beams paired with “White Dove” on ceiling for that classic contrast. Creates the perfect backdrop without competing with natural wood.
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Covered patio areas
European Bistro Corner: Wrought Iron Details With Marble Prep Station
That Parisian café corner you keep pinning? It’s happening in your backyard. This style brings those “studying abroad” vibes home with wrought iron details that feel vintage but work with modern life. It’s basically the outdoor kitchen equivalent of wearing a striped shirt with red lipstick—effortlessly chic and never trying too hard.
Shop The Look:
- Black wrought iron cabinet frames with glass panels
- Carrara marble countertops (honed finish)
- White subway tiles with charcoal grout
- Stamped concrete flooring (European cobblestone pattern)
- Black iron lantern-style pendant lights
- Striped outdoor rug in navy and cream (5’x7′)
- Woven market baskets for produce storage
- Vintage-style metal bistro clock
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet refresh: Transform existing frames with “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore) for authentic bistro vibes. Apply with foam roller for that powder-coated metal look.
- Wall accent magic: Paint surrounding walls in “Paris Rain” (Benjamin Moore) with trim in “Simply White” for that classic European contrast.
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Covered patios and courtyard spaces
Floating Deck Kitchen: Elevated Platform With Cable Railing Systems
Like that trendy rooftop bar everyone’s posting about, floating deck kitchens bring serious vacation energy to your backyard. The elevated platform creates natural zones while cable railings keep sight lines clean—basically the outdoor equivalent of those glass shower doors everyone’s obsessing over.
Shop The Look:
- Composite decking boards (gray or weathered wood tone)
- Stainless steel outdoor cabinetry with soft-close doors
- Granite or dekton countertops (weather-resistant finish)
- Porcelain wood-look tiles for cooking zone
- Marine-grade stainless cable railing system
- Weather-resistant bar stools with quick-dry cushions
- Outdoor string lights with Edison bulbs
- Teak wood serving cart on wheels
DIY Paint Transformation
- Deck stain refresh: Apply “Cape Cod Gray” (Benjamin Moore) semi-transparent stain to existing wood decking for that weathered beach house look without waiting years for natural aging.
- Cabinet color pop: Paint outdoor cabinet frames with “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore) for contrast against stainless doors, or go full color with “Aegean Teal” on all surfaces.
Budget Range: $25,000-$40,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Sloped yards or second-story access
Bohemian Eclectic Mix: Moroccan Tiles With Macrame Shade Structures
That free-spirited friend who layers vintage rugs and grows herbs on every surface? Her style translates perfectly outdoors. Mixing Moroccan patterns with natural textures creates the grown-up boho look that dominates your saved Instagram posts—less music festival, more boutique hotel rooftop.
Shop The Look:
- Weathered teak or reclaimed wood cabinets
- Concrete countertops with live edges
- Moroccan zellige or cement tiles (blues and whites)
- Terracotta or saltillo tile flooring
- Rattan pendant lights with Edison bulbs
- Kilim-style outdoor runner (West Elm dupes on Amazon)
- Woven baskets for herb storage
- Copper planters and serving pieces
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet refresh: Apply “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin Williams SW 7048) to lower cabinets only, leaving upper shelving natural wood for that collected-over-time feel
- Backdrop magic: Paint surrounding walls in “Accessible Beige” (Sherwin Williams SW 7036) with “Thunderous” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) on one accent wall for depth
Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Covered patios and pergola spaces
Urban Rooftop Installation: Modular Units With Vertical Herb Gardens
Your rooftop setup becomes that coveted city oasis everyone screenshots but rarely creates. Like curating the perfect capsule wardrobe, modular outdoor kitchens let you mix, match, and rearrange until it feels just right. Fresh herbs at fingertips while grilling transforms Tuesday dinners into something worth posting.
Shop The Look:
- Stainless steel modular cabinet units (weatherproof with soft-close drawers)
- Granite or porcelain countertop slabs (heat-resistant, 2cm thick)
- Porcelain wood-look tiles (slip-resistant for outdoor use)
- Composite decking boards (gray or teak finish)
- String lights with Edison bulbs (commercial grade, weatherproof)
- Outdoor jute rug with geometric pattern (5’x7′)
- Vertical cedar planter boxes for herbs (wall-mounted)
- Acacia wood serving boards and utensil set
DIY Paint Transformation
- Metal cabinet refresh: Prime existing units with Rust-Oleum Universal Metallic primer, then apply Benjamin Moore “Wrought Iron” (2124-10) for that industrial-chic finish that ages beautifully outdoors.
- Accent wall magic: Create a focal point behind your herb garden with Sherwin Williams “Urbane Bronze” (SW 7048) or go bold with Benjamin Moore “Hale Navy” (HC-154) for that moody sunset backdrop.
Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Rooftop terraces and urban balconies
Lakeside Linear Layout: Extended Counter Running Parallel to Water Views
That perfect waterfront setup where your counter becomes the horizon line—just you, your wine, and endless water views. It’s like those rooftop bars everyone posts about, except it’s your actual backyard. This layout treats cooking like performance art, with everything arranged gallery-style along one stunning stretch.
Shop The Look:
- Weatherproof linear cabinets in teak or marine-grade polymer
- Granite or dekton countertops in charcoal gray
- Natural stone tiles in slate or bluestone
- Composite decking in driftwood gray
- String lights with Edison bulbs on black wire
- Striped outdoor runner rug (3’x8′) in navy and white
- Stainless steel magnetic