Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchens have become an increasingly popular addition to UK gardens, providing a perfect space for alfresco dining and entertaining. An outdoor kitchen is a designated cooking and dining area built in an open-air environment, typically in a garden or patio space. Unlike a simple BBQ station, an outdoor kitchen unit is a complete setup that may include countertops, storage, sinks, grills, and even appliances like refrigerators and pizza ovens.
At AGVerandas, we provide and install high-performance outdoor kitchen units with customisable finishes, such as compact laminate or micro cement for durability and style, with the option to upgrade to granite or marble for a premium finish. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about outdoor kitchen units, from design considerations to costs and frequently asked questions.
Designing an Outdoor Kitchen
When designing your outdoor kitchen, there are 5 main factors to consider, these include the unit location, materials, appliances, work and storage space, and shelter requirements.
Kitchen Location
Choose a spot that is convenient to access, sheltered from extreme weather, and close to utility connections if needed. Placing it in a convenient spot allows for easy access from the house, which is especially important when cooking or serving meals. In addition, positioning the kitchen near utility connections (water, electricity, gas) will make installation and maintenance simpler, and more cost-effective.
Material & Finish
Opt for weather-resistant materials like compact laminate and micro cement, or maybe upgrade to granite or marble for a luxurious touch. Materials such as compact laminate and micro cement are durable and resistant to moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. These materials are built to withstand outdoor conditions without deteriorating, which is suitable for outdoor kitchens.
Kitchen Appliances
The appliances you choose should match your cooking style, whether it’s grilling, baking, or preparing multi-course meals. Built-in BBQs, side burners, fridges, and even pizza ovens can all help elevate your cooking capabilities and make outdoor meal preparation more convenient and enjoyable.
Work & Storage Space
Ensure you have enough prep space, cabinets, and drawers to store utensils and ingredients. Having ample countertops allows you to easily prepare food without feeling cramped. Cabinets and drawers help keep your kitchen organised, allowing for convenient storage of utensils, condiments, and cookware. Without proper storage, you risk cluttering the cooking space, which can make meal prep more difficult and less enjoyable.
Outdoor Shelter
Consider a veranda or pergola to protect your kitchen from various weather conditions. These types of outdoor structures create a comfortable environment for cooking and dining, making the experience more enjoyable regardless of the weather, while shielding your kitchen from rain, sun, and snow. Moreover, shelter helps protect your appliances and cooking surfaces, reducing the need for maintenance and repairs.
Cost of Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchen pricing varies depending on size, materials, and customisation. Below is a guide of the set price models that we offer at AGVerandas. These prices include delivery and tailoring to your chosen appliances but do not cover the cost of the appliances or utility connections.
- 3m Outdoor Kitchen Unit – £6,995 + VAT
- 4m Outdoor Kitchen Unit – £7,995 + VAT
- 5m Outdoor Kitchen Unit – £8,995 + VAT
- 6m Outdoor Kitchen Unit – £9,995 + VAT
We provide a seamless supply of kitchen appliances, and integrated work and storage spaces through our authorised supplier, BeefEater Europe. Our customers can order the entire structure and kitchen unit directly from us, ensuring a streamlined and efficient installation process.
In addition, we also offer comprehensive shelter solutions for outdoor kitchen units, constructed from high-quality aluminium and glass. Clients can choose from a selection of roofing options, including glass, polycarbonate, and aluminium louvered slats.
Planning Permission for Outdoor Kitchens
In most cases, an outdoor kitchen does not require planning permission in the UK as it is considered a permitted development. However, if your outdoor kitchen includes a large enclosed shelter, extensive plumbing, or electrical/gas work that significantly modifies your property, you may need approval from your local planning authority.
Specifically, permitted development rights allow for outbuildings and garden structures that meet certain conditions which depend on size and height, type of structure, use and location, and whether the property is listed or in a conservation area.
Size & Height
The structure must not exceed 2.5m in height if located within 2m of a boundary or 4m if further away. The limit of 2.5m in height if located within 2m of a boundary helps maintain privacy for both you and your neighbours. If the structure is further from the boundary (more than 2m), a higher height limit of 4m allows for larger structures while still respecting the overall appearance and space of the surrounding area.
Structure Type
Outdoor kitchens are generally considered temporary or non-permanent structures, which means they aren’t meant to be permanent, habitable living spaces. A non-permanent structure is easier to maintain and is more flexible in terms of planning laws, as it’s understood that it is meant to be movable or dismantled if necessary. This is also why most outdoor kitchens aren’t subject to full residential building codes.
Use & Location
An outdoor kitchen should be used primarily as a cooking and entertaining space, not as a separate living area. This helps maintain the character of the property as a residential home and ensures that the outdoor kitchen doesn’t exceed the allowable boundaries of residential zoning laws. If an outdoor kitchen were to be used as an additional living space, it could fall under different planning regulations that require more oversight and approval.
Listed Building Restrictions
If your property is a listed building or located within a conservation area, stricter rules apply when adding any structure, including outdoor kitchens. Listed buildings have historic or architectural significance, and conservation areas aim to preserve the character of a specific locality. Any changes made to these properties or their surroundings could require additional permissions to ensure that the outdoor kitchen doesn’t compromise the building’s integrity or the area’s historic value.
Investing in an Outdoor Kitchen
An outdoor kitchen is an investment for your home and lifestyle. It is the ideal place for social gatherings and year-round cooking, creating a space that will provide endless enjoyment for you and your loved ones.
With high-quality materials and expert installation, an outdoor kitchen can become the centrepiece of your garden, lasting for years with minimal maintenance. Get in touch with us today for a consultation and we will do our best to assist you through every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
While not mandatory, covering your outdoor kitchen extends its lifespan by protecting it from rain, sun, frost, and debris.
Yes, as long as the deck is structurally sound and can support the weight of the kitchen units and appliances.
Yes, but ensure the surface is level and sturdy enough to support the structure.
Yes, but built-in grills are often more efficient and provide a seamless finish.
Not necessarily, but it’s convenient for food prep and cleaning.
If your kitchen is under a covered area, a vent hood helps to remove smoke and heat.
It depends on your space and cooking needs. A 3m unit is great for basic setups, while 6m+ kitchens offer a full culinary experience.
