Check out these DIY ideas and products for an easy and affordable way to build your own outdoor kitchen station.
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10 Outdoor Cooking Station Ideas for 2024
Updated on Feb. 01, 2024
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Affordable Built-In Barbecue
This farmhouse-style station by @chelseehood includes a grill, storage and a refrigerator, along with plenty of counter space for serving and prepping.
The frame features metal studs and concrete board, with cedar strips added to create the board and batten look. The whole structure was then painted with Pure White by Sherwin-Williams. Check out the full DIY tutorial.
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DIY Grill Cart
A simple grill cart is great for organizing grilling tools and prep ingredients, as well as serving. This DIY grill cart by @angelamariemade features a storage shelf, handy hooks, a towel bar and a bottle opener.
Casters make it easy to roll out the cart when needed, then tuck it away during the off-season. Check out the step-by-step instructions.
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Wood-Burning Pizza Oven
Instead of the usual barbecue grill, consider a pizza oven. This DIY wood-burning model (with built-in wood storage) from @theoldforgecottage was made by hand from clay. Check out this countertop version for a no-installation option.
Guests will love the experience of dining on delicious wood-fired pizza made right before their eyes!
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Modern Luxury
A backyard cooking area can be as basic or extravagant as you want. This gorgeous station featured by @whistlergrillsltd_ and built by @yorkshirehousebuild offers the perfect example of modern luxury.
The wood frame structure holds a built-in grill and tons of hidden storage. The slatted wood (roof battens stained to match the fence) creates the sleek look. Here are the best built-in grill ideas for outdoor cooking.
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Serving Station
Create an instant mini outdoor kitchen with this serving station. Place it next to the barbecue grill for attractive closed-door storage. The stainless steel top and all-weather resin body hold up well against the outdoor elements.
Walmart.com verified purchaser Cthomas7167 wites, “I love this cart. It was very easy to assemble and is super sturdy. It is a great addition to my outdoor cooking area between my Blackstone griddle and my gas grill.”
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Corner Cooking Station
An awkward, unused corner in your backyard is the perfect location for a cooking station. This one by @mrs_benrich_home includes a wood-burning pizza oven, cabinet storage and a grill. Bonus points for the herb garden that provides easy access to fresh ingredients!
String lights along the fence create ambiance and allow for outdoor cooking and dining even after the sun goes down.
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Upcycled BBQ Station
Every element in this outdoor cooking station by @__make__space__ was upcycled! They converted a used potting bench found on Facebook Marketplace into the prep and storage table (enlivened by a fresh coat of paint), and fashioned the fence-mounted shelf from a floor board.
Along with a grill, just a couple of pieces are all you need to create a functional and affordable station.
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Propane Grill Island
No time to build your own station? Check out this Tytus propane grill island complete with a barbecue grill, 14,000 BTU sear burner and built-in ice bin. The entire island moves easily on mounted casters. Simply roll it out when it’s time to fire up the grill!
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Covered Grill Station
A gazebo can elevate and protect your outdoor cooking station. Check out the difference a ready-made aluminum gazebo makes to this grilling area by @blissfullythebensons.
The roof coverage, light fixture and tile patio transform the space from afterthought to beautiful, built-in backyard feature. Here’s a similar grill gazebo with vented roof and convenient shelves.
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Grill Shed
This grill shed from @woodbrew keeps the cooking area concealed and protected when not in use. Gas strut hydraulic hinges allow the doors to open easily, revealing a smoker grill, storage cabinet and drawers, prep counter and wall-mounted shelves. It’s a space-saving design with everything you need to create a delicious outdoor meal!
