What could be nicer than cooking on a sultry summer's evening and enjoying yourself outdoors? Exactly! An outdoor kitchen is the dream of every garden lover. And the good news: you can make one yourself! In this blog from Boender Outdoor Garden Furniture we'll explain step by step how to go about it.
Why an outdoor kitchen?
An outdoor kitchen is not only incredibly practical, it also looks super cosy. No more running back and forth between the kitchen and the garden. Everything you need is at hand. Perfect for barbecue parties, dinners with friends or simply a relaxing evening with your family.
What does it cost to make an outdoor kitchen?
The cost of an outdoor kitchen depends on your wishes and the materials you use. A simple DIY outdoor kitchen can be made for around €150 to €500, especially if you use recycled materials like pallets or old wood. Want to go a bit more luxurious, with a built-in BBQ, water connection and nice finishing? Then costs can run up to €1,000 or more.
Tip from Boender: start simply and expand later. That way you can keep enjoying yourself and stay within budget.
Can you make an outdoor kitchen yourself?
Absolutely! You don't need to be a DIY professional to build your own outdoor kitchen. With a bit of creativity and a few good materials you'll get a long way. And the fun part is: you can make it completely to your own taste and style.
Step 1: Choose the right spot
Find a spot in your garden where you have enough space, preferably a bit sheltered from wind and rain. Think about the sun too! Will you be standing in it all day? Then a parasol or pergola is not a luxury.
Tip from Boender: place your outdoor kitchen near your terrace or lounge set, then you'll keep it both cosy and practical.
Step 2: What do you need?
Your outdoor kitchen doesn't need to be a luxury villa set-up. Start simple and expand later. What you'll definitely need:
- Worktop or table top (e.g. made of wood or concrete)
- BBQ or gas cooker
- Storage space (cabinets, shelves)
- Sink with tap (optional, but handy)
- Good garden furniture to eat at 😉
What sheet material for an outdoor kitchen?
For building a durable outdoor kitchen, it's important to choose sheet material that can withstand moisture and weather. Think of:
- Water-resistant multiplex (WBP)
- Concrete plywood
- Hardwood panels or impregnated pine wood
- HPL plates (High Pressure Laminate) – sturdy and low maintenance
Note: always treat the wood with an exterior varnish or oil for extra protection.
Step 3: Get started
Building the base:
Use wooden beams or scaffolding wood for a sturdy frame. Attach your worktop to this and create space for a built-in barbecue if needed.
Storage space:
Mount cabinet doors or shelves under the top. That's where you can keep crockery, spices and BBQ tools.
Finishing touches:
Treat the wood with weather-resistant varnish or oil, so your kitchen can take a knock. And make it cosy with ambient lighting, herb plants or a great outdoor clock.
What mustn't be missing from an outdoor kitchen?
A good outdoor kitchen is more than a worktop and a barbecue. In our opinion, this really shouldn't be missing:
- A sturdy worktop
- Storage space for pans and crockery
- Barbecue or cooker
- Running water (optional but handy)
- Power sockets for lighting or a blender
- Comfortable garden furniture from Boender for the finishing touch!
Step 4: Furnish and enjoy
Place a nice garden table next to it, or combine it with one of our comfortable lounge sets. Also think about accessories such as a cool box, chopping boards, and of course a well-stocked spice rack!
Check out our range of garden furniture to complete your outdoor kitchen.
Ready? To the table!
A homemade outdoor kitchen is not only functional, it makes your garden truly complete. And with a bit of creativity and the right furniture from Boender Outdoor Garden Furniture outdoor cooking becomes a celebration, every single day.
Have you been inspired? Share your outdoor kitchen with us on social media with #boenderbuiten!
