Reasons To Add an Island to Your Outdoor Kitchen

You love your outdoor kitchen—it’s great for family BBQs, hanging out with friends, or even just whipping up an al fresco meal for yourself. But you can’t help but feel like it could benefit from a little something extra. What about an island?

An outdoor kitchen island is a freestanding structure that typically includes countertop space for food prep, storage areas for utensils and supplies, and sometimes even built-in grills or sinks. Why should you add an island to your already existing outdoor kitchen? Here are some reasons that might convince you.

Customizable Design

Whether you want a modern island or a traditional one, you can get it. There are countless pre-made islands available online and in stores, and you can even contact a manufacturer or supplier about a custom-designed option for your kitchen.

Islands come in a variety of materials, colors, and finishes to match your existing kitchen decor. You can also pick from different features, such as built-in grills, drawers, and storage space, depending on what you usually use your outdoor kitchen for.

Placement Flexibility

Islands offer a lot of flexibility in terms of placement. You can place your island anywhere you want in your outdoor space, whether it’s near the pool for easy access to refreshments or closer to the house for convenience during meal prep. This flexibility also makes it easier to rearrange your outdoor kitchen layout if desired.

Durability

Just like the rest of your outdoor kitchen, an outdoor island can withstand the elements. They typically contain high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, stone, or concrete, so they can withstand extreme weather conditions and last for many years with proper maintenance. This durability makes them a long-term investment in your outdoor space.

Extra Space for Meal Prepping

Your outdoor kitchen probably has a bit less space than your indoor one—fewer and thinner countertops are often the norm. You may find yourself heading back and forth between the indoor and outdoor kitchen to grab supplies or chop food as a result.

With an island, you can have all the extra space you need right in your backyard. You won’t have to worry about carrying items back and forth or making multiple trips inside during meal prep. This makes it easier and more efficient to cook outside.

Additional Storage

Similarly, you may find yourself heading between your indoor and outdoor kitchen to grab plates, utensils, and other cooking essentials. An outdoor kitchen with an island can provide ample storage space for these items.

You can add drawers, cabinets, or even shelves to your outdoor kitchen island to keep all of your cooking supplies in one convenient location and protect them from the elements. This eliminates the need for multiple trips inside and keeps your outdoor cooking area organized and clutter-free.

Entertaining Space

Another benefit of adding an island to your outdoor kitchen is that it can provide additional space for entertaining. You can use the island as a serving station by setting up drinks, appetizers, or desserts for guests to enjoy. It also provides extra seating for guests to gather around while you cook and socialize. With the addition of bar stools or chairs, your outdoor kitchen island can become a central hub for hosting gatherings and enjoying meals with friends and family.

Expand Your Dining Area

Outdoor kitchen islands are also a great way to expand your dining area. Instead of trying to cram all your guests around a small patio table, you can use the island’s counter space as a buffet area or additional seating. Just add chairs or bar stools, and you have a practical and stylish way to accommodate more people.

Chat With Guests As You Cook

When you’re cooking, you likely don’t get much of a chance to chat with your guests, or you end up shouting to them from the kitchen while they relax nearby. You may feel disconnected from your own party.

But with an island, you can chat with your guests as you cook. They can sit at the counter while you prepare meals on the grill or in the oven. This can keep you in the conversation and allow you to interact with your guests while still being productive in the kitchen. It creates a more social atmosphere, making entertaining even more enjoyable for both you and your guests.

Room for a Bar

You can even use your island as a bar. Install a wine or beer fridge, add shelves for glasses and mixers, and incorporate a small sink for easy cleanup. Add barstools on the island’s side, and your outdoor kitchen becomes the ideal spot for entertaining and enjoying a cold drink on a warm summer day.

Space for More Appliances

Want an extra sink? What about a pizza oven or a built-in grill? With an outdoor kitchen island, you have the space to add all these appliances and more. With more appliances comes the potential for bigger and better parties! No need to limit yourself to just burgers and hot dogs—you can now whip up wood-fired pizzas or grill some fresh seafood skewers for your guests.

Increase Property Value

Outdoor kitchen islands can even increase the value of your property. Many home buyers look for outdoor living spaces when house hunting, and having a fully equipped outdoor kitchen will make your home stand out on the market.

Why should you add an island to your outdoor kitchen? The biggest reason is versatility! Whatever your outdoor kitchen might be lacking, an island can complete the space. Need extra storage? Looking for more room to host guests? Hoping to expand your outdoor cooking options? An island can provide all these features and more.

At Stono Outdoor, we have several pre-made outdoor kitchen islands to choose from, and we can even work with you to create a custom option for your space. All our islands are American-made and built for convenience, aesthetics, and durability. You won’t be disappointed by your decision to add one to your outdoor living area! Shop our available options or call us to discuss a custom design today.