L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen Kits: Design Ideas, Brands, and Everything You Need to Know
Transforming your backyard into a functional, stylish outdoor kitchen is easier than ever with an L-shaped kitchen kit. This popular layout not only maximizes space but also creates a natural hub for cooking and entertaining. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or the ultimate outdoor party host, an L-shaped outdoor kitchen kit offers everything you need to make your backyard the go-to spot for family and friends. Here’s everything you need to know about design ideas, top brands, and customization options to create the perfect L-shaped kitchen for your outdoor space.
What Is an L-Shaped Kitchen Called?
The L-shaped kitchen is aptly named for its distinct shape—two connected countertops or “arms” that meet at a right angle, forming an “L.” This design is popular for outdoor kitchens because it provides ample counter space without taking up the entire yard. The layout offers a balanced setup that keeps cooking, prepping, and socializing areas close but not crowded.
In outdoor spaces, this L-shaped layout is sometimes called a corner kitchen or a two-zone kitchen because it naturally creates two functional zones: one for cooking and the other for serving or seating. This layout is flexible and can be scaled to fit various outdoor spaces, from compact patios to sprawling backyards.
How Do You Make an L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen?
If you’re looking for an easy way to achieve the perfect outdoor kitchen, L-shaped kitchen kits are a great option. These kits come with all the necessary components, and a contractor can assemble them quickly, making the process smooth and stress-free.
Choose the Right Kit: Start by selecting a kitchen kit that suits your needs. Brands like Coyote, RTA Outdoor Living, and Cal Flame offer modular outdoor kitchen kits specifically designed for L-shaped layouts. These kits can include everything from grills to refrigerators and cabinets, allowing you to customize based on your preferences.
Plan Your Space: Think about how the kitchen will fit within your backyard. Decide which arm of the “L” will be the primary cooking zone and which will serve as a prep or serving area. If you have the space, consider adding seating along the open side of the “L” to create a social dining area.
Select Your Appliances and Finishes: Once you’ve chosen a kit, decide on the appliances, materials, and finishes. Many outdoor kitchen kits offer options to include premium features like side burners, beverage coolers, and even pizza ovens. Finishes can range from stainless steel to stone, helping you create a cohesive look that complements your backyard style.
Work with a Contractor for Installation: While outdoor kitchen kits simplify the process, it’s essential to hire a professional contractor to install them. They’ll ensure proper connections for appliances, secure cabinetry, and a seamless finish, transforming your backyard into a polished, luxury space.
Popular Brands of L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen Kits
When it comes to quality and variety, certain brands stand out in the world of outdoor kitchen kits. Here are some of the top names offering versatile, high-quality L-shaped kits.
Image courtesy of Coyote Outdoor Living
Coyote Outdoor Living
Coyote is known for its premium stainless steel appliances and modular kitchen kits. Their L-shaped kits offer flexibility in design, allowing you to select from a range of grills, side burners, and refrigerators. Coyote’s kits often come with stainless steel cabinetry, which is both durable and sleek. They also offer custom options for countertops and finishes, so you can create a personalized outdoor kitchen that suits your taste and entertaining needs.
Image courtesy of RTA Outdoor Living
RTA Outdoor Living
RTA Outdoor Living specializes in ready-to-assemble RTA outdoor kitchen kits with concrete or stone finishes, making them ideal for homeowners looking for a rugged, elegant outdoor space. Their L-shaped configurations can be customized to include built-in grills, fridges, and even sinks. With RTA, you’re getting a high-end look and weather-resistant construction, perfect for outdoor durability. These kits are easy to assemble and ideal for those who want an upscale look with minimal maintenance.
Image courtesy of Cal Flame
Cal Flame
Cal Flame outdoor kitchen kits offer a lot of variety, and their L-shaped options are especially popular. Known for including advanced grilling features, Cal Flame kits are perfect for serious outdoor chefs. You’ll find high-quality grills with infrared burners, warming drawers, and smoker boxes, giving you versatility for various cooking styles. Cal Flame also allows you to customize cabinetry and countertops, so you can achieve the specific look and functionality you want.
Image courtesy of Bull Outdoor Products
Bull Outdoor Products
Bull Outdoor Products is another brand well-regarded for its high-quality kitchen components. Their L-shaped outdoor kitchen kits include everything from powerful grills to refrigeration units and storage cabinets. Bull’s designs emphasize durability and performance, making them a great choice for those who plan to use their outdoor kitchen regularly. Bull’s kits also come with a variety of countertop and cabinetry options, allowing you to create a unique, high-performing cooking area.
What Materials Work Best for an L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen Kit?
The materials you choose can make a significant difference in the appearance, durability, and maintenance of your outdoor kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best material options:
Countertops: Granite, quartzite, and concrete are all excellent choices for outdoor countertops. Granite and quartzite are both durable and heat-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor cooking areas. Concrete offers a modern, customizable look and can be tinted or textured for a unique design.
Cabinetry: Stainless steel is the most popular choice for outdoor cabinetry due to its durability and low maintenance. Brands like Coyote and Bull Outdoor Products offer stainless steel cabinetry options that can withstand weather and rust. For a more natural look, consider weatherproof wood cabinetry, such as teak or cedar, which adds warmth and blends beautifully with outdoor environments.
Flooring: Porcelain tile and natural stone work well for outdoor flooring. Porcelain tiles are highly durable, weather-resistant, and available in various styles to suit your aesthetic. Natural stone, like travertine or slate, adds an earthy, elegant feel and is slip-resistant—ideal for outdoor kitchens with high traffic.
What Are the Benefits of Using an L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen Kit?
Using an L-shaped outdoor kitchen kit provides numerous advantages, from convenience to style. Here’s why many homeowners prefer kits over custom builds:
Ease of Installation: With a pre-packaged kit, you’ll have all the components needed to set up an outdoor kitchen without the complexity of a custom design. Professional installation is faster and more efficient, so you can enjoy your space sooner.
Customization Options: Many outdoor kitchen kits offer customization options, allowing you to select appliances, finishes, and additional features. This flexibility makes it easy to design a kitchen that aligns with your specific style and functionality needs.
Streamlined Aesthetic: Because kits are pre-designed, the components already match, creating a cohesive look that can be challenging to achieve in a fully custom build. You’ll get a balanced, harmonious kitchen space that enhances the beauty of your backyard.
Cost-Effectiveness: Kitchen kits can often be more budget-friendly than custom-built kitchens, allowing you to achieve a luxurious look without breaking the bank. Plus, the all-in-one pricing can simplify budgeting and planning.
How Do You Choose the Right Finishes and Colors for an L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen Kit?
Selecting the right finishes and colors is key to creating an inviting and stylish outdoor kitchen. Here are some color and finish ideas to consider:
Classic Stainless Steel and Black: For a sleek, modern look, pair stainless steel appliances with black cabinetry or countertops. This high-contrast color scheme creates a clean, professional look that’s always in style.
Natural Stone and Earth Tones: If you want a kitchen that blends with the natural landscape, choose earthy tones like tan, brown, and gray. Stone countertops and textured finishes can make the space feel warm and inviting.
Bright and Coastal: Light colors, such as white cabinetry and blue accents, work beautifully in coastal-themed outdoor kitchens. This fresh, airy look pairs well with greenery and water features, creating a serene backyard oasis.
L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen Kit Configurations for Entertaining
The L-shaped layout offers flexibility in how you arrange cooking and dining areas, making it perfect for customizing to your entertaining style. Here are some popular configurations to consider:
Classic Grill-and-Serve Setup
The classic grill-and-serve setup is ideal for those who want a straightforward, organized layout that keeps everything in reach. In this configuration, place the main grill or cooktop on one arm of the “L” and use the other arm as a prep or serving station. This arrangement allows you to keep food prep organized and away from the cooking area, so there’s less clutter around the grill and fewer opportunities for crowding. Guests can easily help themselves to food from the serving side, giving you the freedom to cook without interruptions. It’s a simple, effective way to keep the cooking and social zones distinct, making it a great setup for family dinners or small gatherings.
Beverage Bar Extension
For those who love entertaining with drinks and a laid-back vibe, the beverage bar extension is a fantastic option. In this configuration, dedicate one arm of the “L” to a complete beverage station. Add a mini-fridge, ice maker, and bar seating along this side, creating a space where guests can help themselves to drinks while you handle the cooking. This setup not only keeps everyone hydrated but also adds a social, interactive element to your outdoor kitchen. Guests can linger at the bar, chat, and enjoy their drinks, making your BBQ island feel like a mini outdoor lounge. It’s a configuration that’s sure to keep the space lively and interactive, perfect for cocktail parties and relaxed summer evenings.
Double-Grill Design
If you’re serious about grilling and love experimenting with different cooking styles, a double-grill design might be the setup for you. In this configuration, one side of the “L” features a gas grill while the other side has a charcoal or smoker grill. This arrangement allows you to cater to various tastes and add more variety to your menu, impressing guests with your versatility. Brands like Bull Outdoor Products and Coyote offer options that make a dual-grill setup easy to incorporate. With a double-grill design, you can slow-cook ribs on the smoker while quickly searing steaks on the gas grill, letting you multitask and offer a wider range of flavors. This configuration is ideal for seasoned grillers who want the best of both worlds and love to showcase their culinary skills.
Dedicated Prep and Dining Space
For homeowners who enjoy entertaining large groups, dedicating one arm of the L-shaped kitchen to prep and dining can be a game-changer. In this setup, keep the grill and cooking appliances on one side, while the other arm is fitted with ample counter space for food preparation and a high-top dining counter with bar stools. This layout encourages guests to gather around the dining area, letting them socialize while you prep and cook nearby. The separation also provides a clear distinction between cooking and dining areas, allowing you to keep things organized even when serving multiple dishes. It’s a spacious and social-friendly layout that creates a true dining experience outdoors.
Pizza Oven and Tap Station Combo
Add a unique twist to your L-shaped outdoor kitchen by incorporating a pizza oven and tap station combo. In this layout, one arm of the “L” features a pizza oven for whipping up artisanal pizzas, while the other includes a tap station with built-in kegs for craft beers or cocktails on tap. This configuration is a crowd-pleaser, turning your backyard into an interactive food and drink experience. Pizza ovens are a fun and delicious addition, letting guests create their own pizzas while enjoying a fresh drink from the tap. This setup is perfect for casual gatherings and family events, offering an engaging alternative to traditional BBQ menus.
An L-shaped outdoor kitchen kit is the perfect way to bring your dream outdoor cooking and entertaining space to life. With the right brand, materials, and setup, you can create a backyard paradise that’s functional, stylish, and tailored to your unique tastes. Now, it’s time to select your ideal kit, hire a contractor, and turn your backyard into the ultimate destination for family and friends.