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.

Table of Contents

Minimalist Concrete Island: Sleek Gray Surfaces With Built-In Seating and Fire Feature

minimalist concrete outdoor kitchen

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:

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

tuscan inspired terracotta outdoor kitchen

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:

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

industrial black steel pergola

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:

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

teak wood fired pizza oasis

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:

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 oak stainless kitchen

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:

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

desert inspired modern outdoor kitchen

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:

  1. Sand-colored stucco base cabinets with integrated pulls
  2. Concrete countertops with integrated drainboard
  3. Terracotta zellige tiles for backsplash (4×4)
  4. Sealed concrete flooring with desert sand finish
  5. Corten steel pendant lights with Edison bulbs
  6. Natural jute outdoor rug (5’x8′)
  7. Acacia wood serving boards set
  8. 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

navy and white coastal outdoor cabinetry

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:

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

minimalist bamboo teppanyaki oasis

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:

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

reclaimed wood stone farmhouse

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:

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

art deco outdoor kitchen glamour

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:

  1. White shaker cabinets with brass pulls
  2. Black granite countertops with gold veining
  3. Black and white hexagonal tiles (6″ pattern)
  4. Porcelain wood-look flooring in walnut tone
  5. Brass globe pendant lights (3-light cluster)
  6. Black and gold geometric outdoor rug (5’x8′)
  7. Brass bar cart with marble shelves
  8. 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

glass walled outdoor cooking pavilion

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:

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

curved adobe patio with tiles

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:

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

mid century walnut terrazzo outdoor kitchen

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:

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

parisian wrought iron marble corner

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:

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

elevated outdoor kitchen with cable

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:

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

moroccan tiles boho outdoor

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:

  1. Weathered teak or reclaimed wood cabinets
  2. Concrete countertops with live edges
  3. Moroccan zellige or cement tiles (blues and whites)
  4. Terracotta or saltillo tile flooring
  5. Rattan pendant lights with Edison bulbs
  6. Kilim-style outdoor runner (West Elm dupes on Amazon)
  7. Woven baskets for herb storage
  8. 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

modular rooftop herb kitchen

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:

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

waterfront linear counter layout

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:

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Cabinet refresh: Transform existing cabinetry with “Hale Navy” (Benjamin Moore HC-154) on lowers and “White Dove” (Benjamin Moore OC-17) on uppers for that coastal contrast everyone’s pinning
  • Backsplash accent: Paint existing tile or concrete with “Aegean Teal” (Benjamin Moore 2136-40) using outdoor ceramic paint for that Mediterranean vacation vibe

Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Waterfront properties with linear space

Mountain Lodge Configuration: Stone Fireplace Integrated With Cooking Zone

rustic stone fireplace kitchen

That rustic lodge aesthetic from your favorite mountain resort? Now it’s happening in your backyard. This setup combines the cozy fireplace moments you love with serious grilling capabilities—like having your cabin retreat without the four-hour drive. It’s giving main character energy for those fall dinner parties everyone wants invites to.

Shop The Look:

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Cabin refresh for existing structures: Transform plain surfaces with “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore) on metal elements and “Thunder Gray” (Benjamin Moore) on wood trim for that authentic lodge contrast
  • Stone accent walls: Use “Kendall Charcoal” (Benjamin Moore) on any flat surfaces between real stone sections to create depth without the weight

Budget Range: $25,000-$40,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Covered patios with existing gas/electric hookups

Smart Tech Integration Hub: Touch Screen Controls With Automated Canopy System

outdoor smart entertainment control

Your outdoor kitchen just became the control center that runs your entire backyard like your favorite coffee shop app manages your morning order. Touch screens controlling shade canopies while monitoring grill temps? It’s basically having a smart home assistant that actually understands outdoor entertaining. This setup transforms hosting from stressful multitasking to effortless orchestration.

Shop The Look:

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Tech-ready cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Iron Mountain 2134-30” on lower cabinets creates that premium tech aesthetic, while “Cloud Cover OC-25” on uppers keeps things bright under the canopy.
  • Smart backdrop walls: Sherwin Williams “Web Gray SW 7075” on the main wall makes screens pop without glare, paired with “Urbane Bronze SW 7048” on accent columns for that modern industrial vibe.

Budget Range: $28,000-$45,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Covered patio spaces with existing electrical

Garden Greenhouse Hybrid: Glass Roof Structure With Retractable Walls

greenhouse style retractable kitchen

Picture your favorite botanical café but make it your actual cooking space—where every brunch feels like a greenhouse getaway. This design merges indoor-outdoor living with year-round flexibility, perfect for plant-loving hosts who want their kitchen to double as an Instagram-worthy conservatory.

Shop The Look:

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Frame refresh: Paint existing metal frames with “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore) for that sophisticated greenhouse vibe, or go lighter with “October Mist” for a softer, farmhouse feel
  • Wall accent: Use “Clary Sage” (Benjamin Moore) on any solid walls to complement the glass, or “Palladian Blue” (Benjamin Moore) for a vintage conservatory aesthetic

Budget Range: $35,000-$55,000 | Timeline: 6-8 weeks | Best For: Covered patios or existing sunroom spaces

Pavilion Style Entertainment Center: Four-Post Design With Vaulted Ceiling and Chandelier

resort style four post pavilion

This is your chance to create that resort-style cooking space that makes every BBQ feel like a vacation. Picture your favorite boutique hotel’s outdoor dining area—the kind with string lights and architectural details that make everyone’s Instagram stories look professionally shot. A four-post pavilion transforms basic grilling into an actual experience worth getting dressed up for.

Shop The Look:

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Post and beam treatment: Stain exposed wood with “Ebony” (Minwax) for dramatic contrast or “Early American” (Varathane) for that warm, honey-toned look that screams expensive cabin vibes.
  • Cabinet refresh: Transform builder-grade outdoor cabinets with “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore) for a sophisticated charcoal finish that hides fingerprints and pairs perfectly with stainless appliances.

Budget Range: $25,000-$40,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Large patios or pool areas