An outdoor kitchen allows you to enjoy cooking and entertaining outdoors. The centerpiece of any outdoor kitchen is the cabinetry. Outdoor kitchen cabinets come in a vast array of styles, materials, colors and configurations to match any taste and budget. Understanding the options will help you create your ideal outdoor living space.
Materials for Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
Choosing the right materials is the first step in designing your outdoor kitchen. The cabinets need to withstand weather elements like rain, heat and humidity.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a popular choice for outdoor kitchens. It has a sleek, modern look and is extremely durable against the elements. Stainless steel comes in various grades – 304 and 316 are commonly used for outdoor cabinets. 316 has a higher corrosion resistance.
Stainless steel cabinets are easy to clean and require little maintenance besides an occasional wipe-down. They don’t fade or discolor over time. Brushed stainless has a less shiny look than polished stainless. There are various finishes like textured patterns that can help hide fingerprints.
Stainless steel provides a blank canvas look that works with any style from traditional to contemporary. It offers a commercial vibe that complements stone or tile countertops nicely.
The downside of stainless steel is that it can dent if hit hard and show scratches over time. It also conducts heat, so the cabinets can get hot in sunny spots. Stainless is one of the more expensive cabinet materials.
Aluminum
Aluminum is another metal option for outdoor kitchen cabinetry. It is corrosion-resistant, strong and durable. Aluminum can be treated with a baked enamel coating for color options.
Aluminum cabinets are typically made from marine-grade alloys that can stand up to salt air environments. The metal is lighter weight than stainless steel for easier handling. It resists dents and dings better than steel.
Powder coated aluminum provides good weather resistance and comes in many color choices. It may fade over time with sun exposure, but touch up paints make restoration easy. Aluminum offers a reasonably priced alternative to stainless.
Thermofoil
Thermofoil cabinet doors consist of a wood substrate covered with a durable plastic laminate coating. They provide the look of wood with more weather resistance. The laminate film is thermally fused to the doors under high pressure, creating a strong bond.
Thermofoil finishes include wood grains, solid colors, speckled granite and abstract patterns. Matte finishes help hide scratches. Over time in the sun, dark colors may fade faster than lighter thermofoil shades. Durability varies by manufacturer, so select high-quality cabinets.
Thermofoil cabinets provide a sleek and uniform custom look as the doors lack seams. They clean up easily with soap and water. The construction prevents swelling or leaks versus wood doors. This is a budget-friendly option for outdoor kitchens.
PVC
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastic offers another waterproof finish for outdoor cabinetry. It is a low-maintenance and colorfast material. Surface textures from satin to high-gloss emulate other finishes like wood or stainless steel.
PVC cabinets will not crack, peel or delaminate when exposed to moisture and sunlight. They resist mold, mildew and salt corrosion. CAB acrylic-coated PVC provides enhanced UV protection and scratch resistance.
PVC doors consist of thick, durable plastic that may provide more insulation than metal cabinets. They are a lightweight option that stands up to weather and direct sun. The material is good for coastal areas, pools and hot tubs.
Concrete
Concrete adds a modern, industrial look to outdoor kitchens. Concrete cabinet fronts deliver a seamless custom appearance. The heavy material provides excellent durability and weather resistance.
Concrete resists swelling and deterioration from moisture. It comes in various color options like gray, white or tan achieved with stains and tints. The surface can be polished, etched or stamped with textures.
Concrete cabinets should be sealed to prevent moisture absorption and staining. The sealant needs occasional reapplication. Concrete is susceptible to cracks if the substrate underneath shifts. The weight of concrete makes the cabinets heavier to install.
Tile
Tile cabinet doors provide a built-in backsplash and striking visual appeal. Outdoor-rated tiles such as porcelain or ceramic withstand weather changes. Grout should contain polymers or latex for better bonding outdoors.
Glass, metal or stone tile can make a strong design statement. Mosaics create a one-of-a-kind look. Use lighting to show off beautiful tile work at night. Coordinate the tiles with the kitchen counters and backsplash.
The grouted seams of tile cabinetry are more vulnerable to moisture damage than solid surface doors. The finished product is also heavier. Choose a professional installer familiar with outdoor tile installation.
Wood
Wood cabinets give a traditional, warm feel to outdoor kitchens. They must be properly sealed, finished and maintained to hold up outside.
Teak is one of the best woods due to its natural weather resistance from oils that repel water. Teak ages to a silvery gray patina. Ipe and white oak also have good outdoor durability.
Apply marine-grade spar urethane on the wood for water protection. Penetrating oil finishes handle temperature swings better than film surfaces like paint or varnish that can crack. A UV-inhibiting finish prevents graying.
Wood must be frequently re-sealed to avoid damage, warping and discoloration. It can leech chemicals when wet that may stain surrounding surfaces. Regular sanding and refinishing will be needed. Wood requires the most maintenance but provides a timeless appeal.
Polymer Composites
Polymer composite cabinets contain wood fibers mixed with synthetic resins that create a durable, weather-resistant finish. The wood-plastic composites won’t rot, crack or splinter like real wood.
Materials like Trex offer the look of wood with exceptional resistance to moisture, mildew and UV rays. Bamboo polymer composites contain recycled materials for an eco-friendly choice. Polymer doors clean easily with soap and water.
Polymer composites are heavier than PVC or thermofoil. They resist fading and staining better than real wood. Polymer cabinetry provides low-maintenance outdoor durability.
Cabinet Construction and Hardware
Carefully constructed cabinets ensure your outdoor kitchen withstands the elements. Consider the frame, doors, drawers, hardware and assembly.
Frame
The case or body holding the cabinet together should have rustproof aluminum or stainless steel framing. Galvanized steel frames add strength and weather resistance. Look for thermally broken frames that resist UV rays and humidity.
Cabinets specially designed for outdoor use have vented channels that allow air circulation. Vented construction prevents moisture buildup inside the cabinet.
Marine-grade plywood contains waterproof adhesive good for humidity. Polymer sheets made from resin and cellulose fiber also make durable cabinet boxes. Avoid particleboard as it can swell and deteriorate from moisture.
Doors and Drawers
Doors with full overlay provide the most weather resistance as they fully cover the cabinet frame. Look for full-length welded stainless hinges. Self-closing hinges are useful in windy spots.
Drawers should have completely enclosed fronts without gaps or cracks that can harbour moisture. Dovetail joints on the boxes prevent sagging. Soft-close slides give a smooth open and close motion.
Gaskets around the doors seal out air, dust and water. Magnetic catches help keep doors firmly shut. Choose exterior-rated, UV-stable door gaskets that won’t become brittle.
Hardware
Hardware must resist corrosion and finish deterioration. Stainless steel handles withstand weather exposure. Brass or powder coated hardware offer outdoor durability.
Select hardware coated or made to prevent tarnishing. Look for recessed handles that don’t bake in the sun. Keyed locks keep contents secure.
Make sure hinges are stainless steel or have a weatherproof coating. Self-closing hinges prevent doors banging about in windy conditions. Durable, smooth-operating drawer glides give a quality feel.
Assembly
Precision manufacturing ensures tight seams and closures. Cabinets designed for outdoor use have interlocking corner joints to seal out moisture. Weatherproof wood glue for outdoor bonding may be used.
Check for extensive water testing such as rain simulation and humidity chamber testing. Commercial-grade quality provides long-term performance. Choose reputable brands known for outdoor cabinetry.
Styles of Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
Outdoor kitchen cabinetry comes in an array of styles from sleek contemporary designs to traditional framed cabinetry. Consider how the cabinets will complement the home’s architecture and your overall aesthetic tastes.
Contemporary
Contemporary cabinets make a bold style statement with their clean lines and minimalist detailing. Stainless steel and aluminum offer a modern industrial look. Glass inserts and LED lighting create visual interest.
Integrated handles provide a seamless contemporary style. Mixing glossy and matte finishes adds dimension. Neutral concrete-look colors exude sophistication.
Thermofoil doors can mimic exotic veneers like zebrawood in a durable finish. Contemporary polymer composite cabinets have a wood appearance without the maintenance.
Contemporary designs work nicely in new construction. They have a sleekness that fits with poolside locales and urban settings.
Rustic
Rustic outdoor kitchens focus on natural materials and a cozy feel. Distressed wood cabinets with metal accents provide a timeworn look. Use concrete, reclaimed wood beams or stone for organic texture.
Play up the wood grain with wire brushing. Unfinished teak develops a silvery weathered patina. Add character with hammered copper handles or rusted metal banding.
Create visual warmth with barn red or forest green colors. A stacked stone facade on the grill area enhances the rustic charm. Antique-inspired hardware suits the vintage style.
Rustic cabinetry blends seamlessly into wooded surroundings. The materials beautifully complement lakeside cabins and country cottages.
Coastal
Coastal style uses materials suited for oceanfront and waterfront locations. Aluminum cabinets withstand salt air without corroding. Stainless steel gives a nautical vibe. Concrete adds textural interest.
Shades of blue and white evoke the sky and sea. Navy cabinets pop against white quartz counters. Add accents in coral, chrome yellow or sea glass green. Use acrylic or polycarbonate glass inserts to safeguard against wind.
Weathered driftwood, seashells and reclaimed boat wood enhance the coastal theme. Brass hardware and rope trim provide nautical detailing. The relaxed style works great with beach homes.
Farmhouse
Elements of American farmhouse style include wood cabinets, galvanized metal, and vintage appeal. Distressed paint finishes in chippy white, barn red or robin’s egg blue suit the homey character.
Glass-front upper cabinets showcase cherished dishware. Open shelving has a welcoming feel while still hiding clutter. Add character with glass knobs or ceramic tile backsplashes.
Polished nickel hardware stands up to weather better than rustic iron. Unlacquered brass develops an aged patina. The charm of farmhouse makes it a classic choice.
Transitional
Transitional design combines traditional elements like framed cabinet doors with contemporary linear handles and clean lines. Mixing finishes such as wood lower cabinets and sleek uppers creates stylish contrast.
Glass door accents break up all-wood cabinetry while maintaining the traditional vibe. Neutral colors like gray and tan keep the look understated. Mirrored cabinets add glamour.
Simple hardware and minimal ornamentation provide an updated feel. The versatility of transitional cabinets blends well with many home architectures.
Modern Traditional
Modern traditional cabinetry provides a fresh take on classic designs. Craftsman-style doors get updated with bold colors like navy or emerald green. Matte black hardware and fixtures provide modern edge.
Crisp white thermofoil cabintes have wide-plank embossing for texture. Two-tone combinations like light gray bases with creamy uppers keep the look light. Glass doors on wall cabinets inject contemporary flair.
Straightforward slab drawer fronts exude modern simplicity. Tapered legs have a slim profile compared to bulky traditional styles. The streamlined take on tradition suits contemporary homes.
Configurations and Layouts
Outdoor kitchens benefit from thoughtful planning of the cabinet footprint. Consider traffic flow, appliance placements and how cabinets can maximize work space.
U-Shaped
The U-shaped layout offers excellent efficiency since cabinets surround a central surface area. It allows convenient access to storage while cooking and prepping. U-configurations contain the mess within the footprint.
Place the grill or cooktop at the open side of the U for the chef to interact with guests. Position the refrigerator nearby for easy access. Use the surrounding cabinets for food prep, storage and clean-up.
The U-shape provides a spacious feel that encourages multiple cooks. It works well for entertaining since the host can easily mingle. Island extensions increase the workspace and storage.
L-Shaped
The L-shaped plan opens up two sides for traffic flow. It allows you to have open exterior access from a patio or deck while retaining ample cabinet space.
L-configurations work nicely against a wall or structural element like a pergola or trellis. Position appliances on one leg of the L and prep/storage cabinets on the other.
One side of the L can house a bar area for drinking, dining and serving. The layout facilitates movement from indoor to outdoor areas.
I-Shaped
The I-shaped plan elongates the central surface into a working island that separates the two legs. The island creates an interactive social space.
Place the grill, sink or other appliances on the island. Use the surrounding cabinet legs for refrigeration, storage, clean-up and prep.
I-shaped kitchens make it easy for multiple cooks to collaborate. Guests can sit at the island and engage with the chef. The layout maximizes open and closed storage areas.
Linear
The linear layout aligns cabinets in a single straight run. This streamlined look can maximize smaller outdoor spaces. Linear kitchens work well against a wall or fence.
Position appliances strategically in the line with supporting storage and prep cabinets on either side. For example, bookend the grill with the fridge and sink cabinets.
Use an island or peninsula at one end of the line to create an L-shaped flow. The linear look provides a clean-lined contemporary style.
Freestanding
Freestanding cabinets function as standalone pieces rather than a fixed layout. They allow flexibility to move and rearrange elements as needed.
Individual carts, hutches or pantry cabinets let you create customized workstations. Some freestanding cabinets come with wheels for portability.
Look for weatherproof cabinets suited for outdoor use. Use locks to secure freestanding storage from wind or theft. The versatility enables reconfiguration for different events.
Specialty Cabinets
Beyond standard cabinets, consider specialty pieces to enhance convenience. Customized storage and functionality reduce outdoor cooking hassles.
Trash and Recycling
Hide garbage and recycling bins in discreet pull-out cabinetry. Roll-out trays allow easy access to sort waste then stow bins out of sight. Features like self-closing slides contain odors.
Choose durable stainless or rust-proof polymer materials that stand up to messes and moisture. Look for full-extension tracks and soft-close mechanisms for smooth operation.
Having dedicated outdoor waste storage keeps items out of sight until collection day. It also deters pests from smelling food remnants.
Spice Racks
Dedicated spice storage near food prep areas allows easy seasoning access while cooking. Mounted racks keep spices organized rather than scattering containers across counters.
Seek cabinets with pull-out racks that bring the spices to you. Interior lighting illuminates the contents. Racks with plastic jars protect spices from humidity.
Look for tiered racks to see all spice labels. In-drawer racks offer another ergonomic option. Good lighting and smooth glides improve access.
Appliance Garages
Appliance garages fully integrate appliances like blenders, mixers or food processors into cabinetry. They conceal appliances when not in use for a streamlined look.
Lift-up doors with gas shocks allow easy up-and-down access. Interior outlets power appliances inside the garage. Look for ventilation to prevent overheating.
Choose appliance garages sized to fit your specific appliances. They protect costly equipment from weather and UV rays when stored. The hidden design increases counter space.
Sinks and Fridges
Integrated cabinets for sinks and refrigerators install appliances seamlessly into surrounding cabinetry for a cohesive look. Choosing cabinets made by the appliance brand ensures an exact fit.
Refrigerator cabinets come sized for specific models with correct interior ventilation. The cabinets offer a built-in home for the appliance.
Sink base cabinets support drop-in sinks at the ideal height. Look for doors or drawers to utilize the cabinet space below. An integrated approach delivers a custom finish.
Bars
Bar cabinets create convenient beverage stations for outdoor entertaining. Complete bartending centers include storage for glassware, bottles and accessories.
Look for bar units sized to fit your space. Models with vitrines securely showcase liquor selections. Integrated sinks, cutting boards, ice buckets and chillers boost function.
Cocktail cabinets with pull-out work trays provide portable mixing stations. Locks keep bar contents safe. The social elements enhance outdoor gatherings.
Cabinet Lighting
Task lighting improves visibility for food prep and cooking. Under-cabinet lighting illuminates work areas without glare.
Choose fixtures made for damp outdoor use. LED strip lighting offers brilliant illumination with low energy use. Waterproof switches allow easy on/off access.
Look for interior lighting inside wall cabinets or glass-front displays. Lighted cabinets provide ambience for evening gatherings. The right lighting makes the kitchen more usable after dark.
Budget Considerations
Outdoor kitchen cabinets come in a wide range of price points. Setting realistic expectations will help narrow choices to suit your budget.
Good – $2,000 to $4,000
The good budget range provides quality thermofoil cabinets from top brands like NatureKast. With various color and finish options, it’s possible to get an upgraded look without the premium price.
You can expect to outfit a basic L-
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