A small backyard doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the dream of cooking outside. With a little planning and the right products, even the most compact outdoor space can become a great place to cook, entertain and unwind. The key is knowing how to make the space work hard for you — from layout and appliances to colour choice and storage.
At Stonewood Outdoor Living, we help homeowners design practical, good-looking space-saving outdoor kitchens that fit into tight spaces without feeling crowded. Whether you’re working with a city courtyard or a narrow side yard, the right approach can make your outdoor kitchen functional, stylish and enjoyable year-round.
COMPACT AND MULTI-PURPOSE APPLIANCES
Appliances are often the first thing people think of when planning an outdoor kitchen. In a smaller space, it’s about choosing pieces that do more than one job — and don’t take up more room than they need to.
BUILT-IN GRILL
One of the must-haves in any outdoor BBQ kitchen. Compact units still pack in plenty of power and functionality, so you won’t miss out just because the space is tight. Look for models with side shelves that fold away when not in use or units that combine multiple functions, like BBQs that also work as smokers.
PREP SINK
Might seem like a luxury in a smaller space, but there are models that double as an ice chest for drinks. This sort of multi-tasking is perfect for compact outdoor kitchen designs, giving you more features without adding clutter.
FOLD-DOWN BENCHTOPS OR SLIDE-OUT EXTENSIONS
Another way to give yourself a bit more prep space without needing to expand the footprint. Every centimetre matters, so the goal is to pick appliances that are built to work efficiently in smaller zones
LAYOUTS THAT MAKE THE MOST OF A TIGHT BACKYARD
The layout of your kitchen is just as important as what you put into it. When space is limited, you want a setup that flows naturally and doesn’t block off parts of your yard.
L-SHAPED LAYOUTS
Great for corners and can create a natural split between cooking and prep space. If you’ve got a narrow area, a galley-style kitchen works well with parallel counters on either side. Or, if you’re working with a single wall, a linear layout keeps everything in one clean, efficient line — perfect for outdoor kitchens for small yards.
VERTICAL LAYOUTS
Wall-mounted shelves, racks or rails above your outdoor kitchen cabinet units keep your tools organised without taking up precious bench space. Hanging storage is not just practical, it also creates a tidy, considered look that suits modern and minimalist backyards.
Choosing the right layout helps avoid clutter, improves functionality and makes even small kitchens feel more open. Whether you’re going the DIY route or opting for professional outdoor kitchen installation, planning your layout is a key step to making the space work.
FLEXIBLE FEATURES THAT ADAPT TO YOUR SPACE
Modular and foldable kitchen elements are a smart way to get more out of your space. With a modular setup, you can build a kitchen that fits your yard’s exact shape and size, and easily make changes later if needed.
At Stonewood, we offer modular outdoor kitchen units that fit together in a variety of ways. Whether you need a short run of cabinetry or a full corner setup, these units allow for maximum flexibility — a big win for space-saving outdoor kitchens.
Foldable benchtops, collapsible tables and stackable stools are great additions for small spaces. You can set them up when needed and pack them away after, keeping your area feeling clean and spacious when not in use. Our modules are designed to work around these needs, and our design support team can recommend options that suit your backyard and lifestyle.
Whether it’s adding a retractable counter next to your BBQ or including a table that folds down from a wall, these kinds of compact outdoor kitchen designs help you make the most of what you’ve got.
CREATING A SPACE THAT LOOKS OPEN AND FEELS INVITING
Functionality matters, but looks still count. A small outdoor kitchen can still feel open, welcoming and stylish with the right finishes and layout choices.
COLOUR
Lighter tones make the area feel more spacious, especially when used on cabinetry and benchtops. Soft greys, off-whites or light natural finishes are ideal for brightening up compact spaces. Keep patterns and finishes simple; this avoids visual clutter and gives your kitchen a cleaner, more refined look.
LIGHTING
It also makes a difference. Strip lighting under benchtops or inside cabinets adds soft illumination without overwhelming the space. If your kitchen is covered or built near a wall, install task lights overhead so you can cook comfortably at night.
GREENERY
Adds a finishing touch. Even a few wall-mounted pots or a small vertical garden can add warmth and texture to the space. Paired with minimalist décor and tidy bench styling, your outdoor kitchen can become a backyard feature — not just a functional zone.
The beauty of designing outdoor kitchens for small yards is that every detail counts. With a bit of planning and help from Stonewood Outdoor Living, your compact kitchen can be every bit as impressive as a larger build.
READY TO CREATE YOUR SPACE-SAVING KITCHEN?
Don’t let a smaller backyard limit your vision. With the right mix of modular design, multi-purpose appliances and clever layouts, you can build an outdoor kitchen that’s both functional and stylish. Create a functional outdoor kitchen even in a small space these smart design solutions.
FAQS
How can I build an outdoor kitchen in a small backyard?
Start by focusing on a layout that suits the shape of your yard and picking appliances that combine multiple functions. Modular units from Stonewood Outdoor Living allow for a flexible design that works with limited space.
What are the best compact appliances for an outdoor kitchen?
Look for space-saving options like a built-in grill, combo BBQ/smoker units, or sinks that double as ice chests. These are ideal for space-saving outdoor kitchens where every appliance needs to be functional and efficient.
What is the best layout for a small outdoor kitchen?
L-shaped, galley or single-wall layouts are popular in compact outdoor kitchen designs. You can also add vertical storage to maximise bench space and keep everything tidy and within reach.
