Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio kitchen remodel in Philadelphia with a pergola

Patio kitchen - mid-sized traditional backyard tile patio kitchen idea in Dallas with a pergola

Fully equipped kitchen accommodates any gathering with gas grill by Fire Magic and ceramic kamado-style charcoal grill by Big Green Egg. The custom high dining table completes the kitchenscape.

Patio kitchen - transitional backyard patio kitchen idea in DC Metro with no cover

Challenge This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use. The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica. Solution To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included: Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1). It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions. The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space. Result All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks. Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard. The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.

Ed Gohlich
Patio kitchen - mediterranean patio kitchen idea in San Diego with no cover

Patio kitchen - mid-sized mediterranean backyard patio kitchen idea in Dallas

A neutral ombre rug pairs well with the sleek teakwood dining table and chairs. Highlighting the natural tones seen in the scenery around, makes for a seamless patio design.

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional backyard concrete paver patio kitchen remodel in Los Angeles

Outdoor kitchen deck - mid-sized transitional rooftop outdoor kitchen deck idea in Los Angeles with a pergola

Elegant patio kitchen photo in Houston with a gazebo

Photography by Tommy Kile
Inspiration for a large transitional concrete paver porch remodel in Austin with a roof extension

Large elegant backyard patio kitchen photo in Portland with decking and a roof extension

Trendy backyard tile patio kitchen photo in Miami with a roof extension

Patio kitchen - large traditional backyard concrete paver patio kitchen idea in New York with an awning

Inspiration for a transitional patio kitchen remodel in Other with a roof extension

© 2012 Ben Case, Down to Earth Designs, Inc.
Patio kitchen - mid-sized traditional backyard concrete paver patio kitchen idea in Raleigh with a gazebo

Trendy tile patio kitchen photo in Miami with a roof extension

Jimmy White Photography
Outdoor kitchen deck - large transitional backyard outdoor kitchen deck idea in Seattle with a roof extension