5 Custom Outdoor Kitchen Ideas That Wow (And Work in the PNW)
Smart, stylish outdoor cooking spaces — designed for year-round living in Seattle and beyond.
Think outdoor kitchens are just for sunny, dry climates? Think again.
Here in the Pacific Northwest, more and more homeowners are creating outdoor kitchens that are built to withstand rain, fog, and year-round use — without sacrificing style. With the right layout, materials, and fire features, your backyard can become an extension of your home, not just a seasonal space.
Whether you’re designing your dream setup from scratch or adding on to an existing patio, here are 5 custom outdoor kitchen ideas to inspire your next project.
1. The Covered Patio Kitchen
Built to Cook, Rain or Shine
If you want true four-season usability, a covered patio kitchen is a no-brainer. Whether it’s under a pergola, a roof extension, or a modern awning, overhead protection keeps your cooking station dry and your guests comfortable.
Pair it with a built-in grill (we love Fire Magic for high-performance models), weatherproof storage, and counter space for prep or serving. Add Infratech electric heaters overhead to make it usable even on chilly spring nights.
Tip: Keep your layout simple and focus on functionality — the cover does the heavy lifting.
2. Fire Pit + Kitchen Combo
A Warm Welcome for Guests
Combining a fire pit with a cooking zone makes your backyard feel like a true outdoor living room.
Whether it’s a modern gas fire bowl or a custom CorTen steel fire pit, having a fire feature near your kitchen creates a natural gathering space for guests — even if you’re not feeding a crowd.
We recommend keeping the grill and fire separate but within sightlines of each other. It’s all about creating zones for cooking and relaxing that still feel connected.
👉 Explore Custom Fire Pits & Kitchens
3. The L-Shaped Layout
Efficient Use of Corners and Edges
If you're working with a smaller footprint or want to make the most of your patio edge, an L-shaped outdoor kitchen is a smart move.
This layout maximizes counter space without overwhelming your yard and easily accommodates:
A grill or cooktop
Under-counter fridge
Prep area or bar
Built-in storage or sink
L-shapes work great for corner installations or creating separation between the cooking zone and a seating area. Add a backsplash or low wall for style and function.
4. Modern Minimalist with Concrete or Steel
Sleek Design, Rugged Materials
CorTen steel and concrete aren’t just durable — they’re beautiful.
Pairing these materials with minimalist design lines gives your outdoor kitchen a modern, sculptural look that complements PNW forests, hardscaping, and natural surroundings.
These materials are:
Low-maintenance
Naturally weather-resistant
Visually striking (especially when paired with fire)
CorTen steel also ties in beautifully with RB73 fireplaces if you’re building a cohesive design with both cooking and lounging areas.
5. Add the Extras — Pizza Oven, Storage, or Bar
Level Up Your Outdoor Kitchen
Already have the basics? It’s time to go next-level.
Depending on your space and budget, consider:
A built-in pizza oven (like the one in the RB73 Quercus)
An outdoor wine fridge or bar setup
A raised bar counter for seating and serving
Custom cabinetry or floating shelves for decor + function
These touches turn your outdoor kitchen into a place where people don’t just grab a plate — they linger.
Tip: Design with your lifestyle in mind. Are you a weekend pizza host or a nightly grill master?
Your Backyard. Your Kitchen. Built for the PNW.
No two backyards — or homeowners — are the same. That’s why we believe the best outdoor kitchens are custom-built to fit your space, your style, and your needs.
Whether you’re dreaming of a modern cook station, a cozy fire pit hangout, or a full-on entertaining space with heaters and bar seating, we’re here to help you bring it to life — rain or shine.
We partner with Greysen Woods to design custom outdoor kitchens and fire pits that are built for Pacific Northwest living and crafted to last.
