Outdoor Kitchen Layouts — Straight, L, U, or Island?

Straight (8–14 ft)

Best for small patios. Grill, prep, sink in a single run against the ramada wall. Cheapest to build (one trench for gas/water/electric).

L-shape (12–18 ft)

Our most popular. Cooking on one leg, prep and bar seating on the other. Cook stays in the action without traffic crossing the grill.

U-shape (16–22 ft)

For serious cooks who entertain. Three work zones — hot, cold, prep. Needs a 14×14 minimum footprint.

Island

Great when the structure is centered in the yard. Bar seating all around, but you'll pay for double-sided finish and longer utility runs.

Rules that apply to all

• 36" counter height standard; 42" bar.
• 24" clear on either side of the grill.
• Sink within 8 ft of cook surface.
• Refrigerator on the cool end, away from grill heat.
• Always run conduit for future ice maker / pizza oven.