Outdoor living has become increasingly popular in London, extending usable space beyond the house. Outdoor kitchens, BBQ areas, and covered entertaining spaces allow alfresco dining for much of the year. Even modest North London gardens can accommodate stylish outdoor cooking and dining facilities. This guide explores creating functional, beautiful outdoor spaces.
Planning Outdoor Kitchens
Location: Position close to house for convenience but allowing separation. Near kitchen door ideal for carrying food/equipment. Consider prevailing wind direction for smoke from BBQs. Ensure level or terraced area.
Coverage: Pergolas, canopies, or covered structures extend usability. Allow cooking in light rain. Provide shade in summer. Retractable awnings offer flexibility.
Core Elements:
- BBQ or grill (gas or charcoal)
- Counter space for food prep
- Storage for utensils, plates, condiments
- Seating/dining area nearby
- Lighting for evening use
- Power and water if budget allows
Types of Outdoor Cooking
Built-In BBQs: Permanent masonry or metal BBQs integrated into outdoor kitchen. Professional appearance. Gas or charcoal options. Cost: £1,500-£5,000+.
Freestanding Grills: Portable high-quality BBQs (Weber, Big Green Egg, Kamado). Flexibility to move or store. Cost: £400-£2,000.
Pizza Ovens: Wood-fired ovens create authentic pizzas. Also great for roasting meats, baking bread. Freestanding kits: £500-£1,500. Built-in: £2,000-£6,000.
Outdoor Burners: Gas rings for wok cooking, boiling large pots. Popular for Asian-style cooking. Cost: £200-£800.
Outdoor Kitchen Design
Materials: Must withstand British weather:
- Stainless steel: Durable, weather-resistant, professional look
- Brick/stone: Traditional, permanent, suits period properties
- Rendered blockwork: Cost-effective, can match house
- Composite materials: Modern, low-maintenance
Worktops: Granite, porcelain, or stainless steel. Avoid materials that stain or absorb water. Ensure heat-resistant surfaces near cooking areas.
Storage: Waterproof cupboards essential. Marine-ply or stainless steel. Store tools, charcoal, gas bottles, tableware.
Utilities and Services
Power: Outdoor sockets for lighting, heaters, small appliances. Armoured cable from house. Must be RCD-protected. Weatherproof IP65-rated sockets. Cost: £300-£800 installed.
Water: Sink with hot/cold water highly desirable. Requires plumbing from house and drainage. Simple cold tap: £200-£500. Full sink with hot water: £800-£1,500.
Gas: Natural gas or LPG for BBQs. Gas safe engineer required for installation. Bottled gas simpler but needs regular replacement.
Lighting: Essential for evening entertaining:
- Task lighting over cooking and prep areas
- Ambient lighting for dining
- Feature lighting in planting/architecture
- LED strips under counters
- Cost: £400-£1,500 for complete scheme
Covered Structures
Pergolas: Open timber structures providing partial shade. Can train climbing plants over. Retractable fabric covers add weather protection. Cost: £1,500-£5,000.
Canopies: Fabric awnings extending from house or freestanding frames. Retractable for flexibility. Cost: £800-£3,000.
Garden Rooms: Fully enclosed structures with glazing. Usable year-round. May require planning permission. Cost: £10,000-£40,000.
Gazebos: Permanent or temporary covered structures. Open sides with roof. Traditional or contemporary designs. Cost: £500-£4,000.
Heating and Comfort
Patio Heaters: Gas or electric heaters extend season. Free-standing or wall-mounted. Cost: £100-£600 each.
Fire Pits: Create focal point and warmth. Wood-burning or gas. Many double as tables when not in use. Cost: £200-£1,500.
Outdoor Fireplaces: Built-in fireplaces add drama and warmth. Require planning and substantial structure. Cost: £3,000-£10,000+.
Dining and Seating
Built-In Seating: Benches incorporated into design. Space-efficient. Storage below possible. Add cushions for comfort.
Quality Furniture: Invest in weather-resistant pieces. Teak, aluminium, synthetic rattan. Cover or store in winter. Cost: £800-£4,000 for table and 6 chairs.
Bar Seating: Raised counter with stools creates social cooking space. Guests chat while chef cooks.
Cost Guide
Basic Setup: £2,000-£5,000
- Quality freestanding BBQ
- Simple paving
- Basic furniture
- Parasol
Mid-Range: £8,000-£15,000
- Built-in BBQ
- Counter and storage
- Power and lighting
- Pergola or canopy
- Quality furniture
Luxury: £20,000-£50,000+
- Comprehensive outdoor kitchen
- Multiple cooking options
- Full utilities
- Covered structure
- Heating and lighting
- Premium finishes
Expert Outdoor Living Spaces in North London
Hampstead Renovations creates stunning outdoor kitchens and entertaining areas across North London. From simple BBQ setups to comprehensive outdoor rooms, we design and build spaces that extend your home into the garden.
Call: 07459 345456 | Email: contact@hampsteadrenovations.co.uk