An outdoor kitchen isn’t just about slapping a BBQ on the back deck and calling it a day. It’s about creating a practical, good-looking space where cooking and entertaining can happen year-round. The right custom outdoor kitchen features not only make cooking outside easier but also boost the value of your home and transform your backyard into a proper extension of your lifestyle.
At Stonewood Outdoor Living, we know that building a great outdoor kitchen starts with the right foundations. From the best materials for outdoor kitchens to thoughtful design touches, every detail matters. Whether you’re a weekend griller or the designated party host, here are five features to consider when planning your outdoor kitchen.
BUILT TO HANDLE THE OUTDOORS: MATERIALS THAT LAST
An outdoor kitchen needs to stand up to more than just dinner prep. It has to survive wind, rain, heat and everything in between. That means picking the right materials is one of the most important choices you’ll make.
Stainless steel is a favourite for BBQs, sinks and drawers because it doesn’t rust easily and is simple to clean. Look for marine-grade options, like stainless steel, especially if you’re near the coast. For benchtops, porcelain stone is a solid pick. It handles high temperatures, doesn’t fade in the sun and isn’t fussed by spills or scratches.
For those who want a natural look, weatherproof hardwoods bring warmth and style. Woods like spotted gum or blackbutt are naturally resistant to decay and work beautifully with a modern or rustic outdoor setup.
When comparing materials, think about how much upkeep you want to do. Stainless steel and porcelain need very little maintenance, while timber might need regular oiling to keep it looking sharp.
Our modular options at Stonewood Outdoor Living are designed using the best materials for outdoor kitchens, built with the Australian climate in mind.
APPLIANCES THAT GET THE JOB DONE
It’s not a proper outdoor kitchen without serious cooking gear. Choosing the must-have outdoor kitchen appliances depends on how you like to cook, but there are a few staples worth considering.
A built-in BBQ is the heart of any outdoor cooking space. They sit neatly in our outdoor BBQ kitchen modules, giving you a dedicated grilling zone with no wobbling or gaps.
Smokers are perfect for slow-cooked meats and adding extra flavour to your weekend cook-ups. If you love pizza nights, a wood-fired or gas pizza oven can bring that crispy, authentic touch to your alfresco dinners.
Adding side burners and rotisserie features gives you more flexibility, letting you prep sauces or roast meats without heading indoors. And with weather-resistant covers and marine-grade finishes, our appliances are made to last.
When you’re planning your setup, think beyond just cooking. Think about how each appliance fits together and works with the rest of the space. With Stonewood’s outdoor kitchen installation service or our DIY kits, you can pick and choose modules that suit your cooking style.
SMART STORAGE THAT WORKS HARD
It might not be the flashiest feature, but good storage is what keeps an outdoor kitchen feeling neat and ready to go. From tools and utensils to cleaning products and spare gas bottles, there’s a lot that needs a proper spot.
Weatherproof outdoor kitchen cabinets are a great starting point. Ours are built from high-grade aluminium and finished in powder-coated colours that resist fading, flaking and corrosion. Add built-in drawers for utensils or deep storage for larger items, and you’ve got a space that works just like your indoor kitchen.
For serious food prep outdoors, built-in shelving behind closed cabinet doors gives you room to store oils, sauces, chopping boards and more. No more running back inside to grab what you forgot.
It’s also worth thinking about bin storage and where the fridge will go. Our custom designs make room for all of it. These are the essential outdoor kitchen elements that help you stay organised and ready to cook.
PLENTY OF PREP SPACE TO MAKE LIFE EASIER
No one wants to be chopping onions in a cramped corner while guests crowd around. That’s why ample counter space is one of the most overlooked yet most useful parts of an outdoor kitchen.
Whether you’re prepping ingredients or laying out platters for a gathering, you need room to spread out. At Stonewood, we offer a range of outdoor kitchen cabinet layouts that prioritise bench space without taking over your entire yard.
Our benchtops come in sleek porcelain stone finishes that not only look good but are also scratch-resistant, easy to clean and made for the Aussie outdoors. L-shapes, straight line layouts or U-shaped setups all offer different options depending on how you plan to use the space. If you love to entertain, having space for a bar top or serving counter can turn your kitchen into the centrepiece of your backyard.
LIGHTING AND POWER WHERE YOU NEED IT
It’s not just about cooking during the day. If you plan to host dinners or late-night cook-ups, then lighting is a big deal. Proper lighting keeps your kitchen usable and looking great, no matter the time.
Task lighting helps you see what you’re chopping or cooking, while ambient lighting sets the mood. Strip lighting under benchtops or inside cabinets adds a bit of atmosphere without overpowering the space.
Electrical outlets are also key for plugging in appliances like blenders, mini-fridges or even phone chargers. The trick is placing them where you need them, without making the space feel cluttered. To keep energy use down, use LED fittings. They’re long-lasting, bright and available in warm or cool tones to match your outdoor vibe.
READY TO DESIGN YOUR CUSTOM KITCHEN?
From top-quality appliances to materials that handle the Aussie climate, building an outdoor kitchen is all about getting the details right. Whether you want to install it yourself or get our help, we make it easy to bring your backyard plans to life.
FAQS
What are the key features of a custom outdoor kitchen?
Some of the most popular custom outdoor kitchen features include built-in BBQs, weatherproof cabinetry, ample bench space, functional storage, lighting and power outlets. These features help you cook, clean and entertain with ease.
What materials work best for an outdoor kitchen?
The best materials for outdoor kitchens include marine-grade stainless steel, porcelain stone benchtops and weather-resistant hardwoods. These offer durability, style and low maintenance over time.
How do I maximise storage in my outdoor kitchen?
Use a mix of drawers, deep cabinets and hidden shelving to make the most of your space. Modular designs from Stonewood Outdoor Living allow you to add storage where it suits you, so everything has a place.
