Are you looking to transform your outdoor BBQ island into a functional and visually appealing space? While functionality and safety are paramount, there’s no reason why your BBQ island can’t also be a showstopper. In this article, we’ll explore some unique and creative ideas to spruce up your outdoor cooking area and make it the envy of your neighborhood. Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- 1. Embrace a Unique Countertop
- 2. Add an Attractive Backsplash
- 3. Opt for a Splurge-Worthy Hood
- 4. Embrace the Pizza Oven Trend
- 5. Create a Separate Structure
- 6. Clever Storage Solutions
- 7. Illuminate with Skylights
- 8. Roll-Up or Swing Door for Versatility
- 9. Patio Television for Entertainment
- 10. Illuminate with Rope Lighting
- 11. Create a Festive Atmosphere with String Lights
- 12. Consider a Retro Refrigerator
- 13. Create a Rustic Backsplash
- 14. Incorporate Small Appliances
- 15. Expand Your Cooking Options with a Cooktop
- 16. Stay Warm with a Warming Drawer
- 17. Embrace the Griddle Trend
- 18. Add a Beer Tap or Wine Refrigerator
- 19. Enjoy Your Morning Coffee with a Coffeemaker or Espresso Maker
- 20. Stay Cool with an Icemaker
1. Embrace a Unique Countertop
Just like in your indoor kitchen, the choice of countertop material can greatly enhance the visual appeal of your BBQ island. From the timeless elegance of granite to the modern look of stainless steel, there are numerous options to choose from. Consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, and your budget when selecting the perfect countertop for your outdoor kitchen.
2. Add an Attractive Backsplash
If your BBQ island is positioned against a wall or has a raised area behind it, an attractive backsplash can add a pop of color and personality to your cooking space. Instead of relying on stucco, which can be difficult to clean, opt for colorful tiles that are both visually appealing and easy to maintain.
3. Opt for a Splurge-Worthy Hood
Hoods not only serve an important function by providing proper ventilation but can also be stylish additions to your patio. Rather than settling for the most affordable option available, consider investing in a unique or custom hood that will elevate the overall look of your outdoor kitchen.
4. Embrace the Pizza Oven Trend
If space allows, a pizza oven is a fantastic addition to your BBQ island. These wood-fired ovens not only make delicious pizzas but also open up a world of culinary possibilities. From roasting potatoes to baking bread and pies, a pizza oven is sure to impress your guests and elevate your outdoor cooking experience.
5. Create a Separate Structure
If you have enough space in your backyard, why not consider designing a separate structure for your BBQ island? This not only keeps your main outdoor living area uncluttered but also provides a dedicated space for your family and guests to hang out while you work your grilling magic. You can even use this structure for storage or as an outdoor bathroom or changing area.
6. Clever Storage Solutions
Storage is key to a well-functioning outdoor kitchen. Consider incorporating ample storage space into your BBQ island design to keep your cooking utensils, pots, and pans organized and easily accessible. Open shelving can add style and allow you to showcase attractive pieces or keep small appliances handy.
7. Illuminate with Skylights
If your BBQ island is on a covered patio, adding skylights can provide natural light during the day and a glimpse of the stars at night. Not only do skylights brighten the space and add visual interest, but they also create a unique and enchanting ambiance for your outdoor cooking and dining experiences.
8. Roll-Up or Swing Door for Versatility
While you may want to showcase your BBQ island, there are instances when you may prefer to hide it away. A garage-style, roll-up or swing door can provide the perfect solution. This allows you to protect your grill from the elements or create a less cluttered outdoor living area. Ensure proper ventilation and allow the grill to cool before closing the door.
9. Patio Television for Entertainment
For sports fans or movie enthusiasts, a patio television is a must-have addition to your outdoor cooking area. Whether mounted on a post or wall, or using a ceiling mount for limited vertical space, a patio television ensures you don’t miss out on your favorite shows or games while enjoying the great outdoors.
10. Illuminate with Rope Lighting
Rope lighting not only adds visual interest to your BBQ island but also enhances safety by illuminating pathways and potential hazards. Use it to highlight food prep areas or install it under cabinets to avoid stubbed toes. Some rope lights even allow you to customize the color, creating the perfect ambiance for any occasion.
11. Create a Festive Atmosphere with String Lights
String lights are a simple and inexpensive way to instantly transform your outdoor living area. They provide a soft, intimate glow that sets the mood for social gatherings. With a wide variety of styles and shapes available, you can easily find string lights that complement your existing décor. Best of all, outdoor string lights can stay up all year round, saving you the hassle of taking them down and putting them back up.
12. Consider a Retro Refrigerator
For those with a penchant for vintage design or eclectic styles, a retro refrigerator can add a touch of nostalgia and charm to your BBQ island. With a range of vibrant colors and modern energy-efficient options available, you can find the perfect retro fridge to complement your backyard aesthetic.
13. Create a Rustic Backsplash
Transform your BBQ island by tucking it into a cozy alcove created by a rock wall or stack of railroad ties. This rustic backsplash adds a unique and visually appealing element to your outdoor cooking area that is sure to impress your guests.
14. Incorporate Small Appliances
Tailor your BBQ island to your specific culinary needs by including small appliances that enhance your cooking experience. Whether it’s a food processor for homemade hummus or a stick blender for homemade salad dressing, having these appliances readily available in your outdoor kitchen ensures you have everything you need at your fingertips.
15. Expand Your Cooking Options with a Cooktop
Enhance your outdoor cooking capabilities by adding a cooktop to your BBQ island. By incorporating burners, you can prepare a wider range of dishes alongside your grill. From sauces and soups to curries and stir-fries, a cooktop allows for versatility and creativity in your outdoor cooking endeavors.
16. Stay Warm with a Warming Drawer
A warming drawer is a game-changer for those who love to cook and entertain outdoors. Keep your food warm while you finish grilling or preparing other parts of the meal. Additionally, a warming drawer can be used to slow roast meats, warm sides, or even heat up potluck dishes brought by your guests.
17. Embrace the Griddle Trend
A griddle is a versatile addition to your BBQ island that opens up a world of possibilities. From breakfast favorites like pancakes and scrambled eggs to lunchtime bacon and hashbrowns, a griddle allows you to expand your outdoor cooking repertoire and create restaurant-quality meals.
18. Add a Beer Tap or Wine Refrigerator
For those who enjoy a nice cold beer or a glass of wine, adding a beer tap or a wine refrigerator to your BBQ island can elevate your entertaining game. Not only does this save you from frequent trips to the kitchen or wine cellar, but it also allows your guests to easily serve themselves, allowing you to spend more time enjoying their company.
19. Enjoy Your Morning Coffee with a Coffeemaker or Espresso Maker
Start your day right by incorporating a coffeemaker or espresso maker into your BBQ island. Imagine sipping your morning coffee while enjoying the tranquility of your patio. This feature also adds a touch of luxury to dinner parties and evening gatherings, where guests can serve themselves and mingle around the fire pit.
20. Stay Cool with an Icemaker
Never run out of ice again with the convenience of an icemaker in your BBQ island. Perfect for iced drinks or keeping cold dishes chilled, an icemaker keeps your outdoor entertaining hassle-free and allows you to spend more time with your guests.
Transforming your BBQ island into an attractive and functional outdoor cooking space is within reach. Whether you choose to incorporate unique countertops, add creative lighting, or invest in specialty appliances, these ideas will elevate your outdoor cooking experience and make your BBQ island the standout feature of your patio. Indulge your creativity, bring your vision to life, and enjoy the ultimate outdoor cooking oasis.
For more inspiration and expert guidance on designing and installing a customized BBQ island, visit Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ.
(Original Publication Date: February 9, 2016 | Refresh Date: December 1, 2021)
