The AGA outdoor grill is trending right now here at Garton King – and for good reason. This spring, we’ve seen more sunshine than the whole of summer 2024! And when the weather is this good, what’s better than alfresco dining?
Creating an alfresco kitchen is one of the best ways to enjoy outdoor living and make the most of your garden. Whether you love entertaining or just want to cook outside on warm evenings, a well-designed outdoor kitchen makes it all the more enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll provide some tips on how to plan your space, choose the right equipment, and create a stylish outdoor kitchen that’s practical too.
Designing the Right Layout
Start by choosing a suitable area for your outdoor kitchen. You’ll want to think about:
- Shelter: Keep the grill and prep areas protected from the wind.
- Access: Make sure it’s near your indoor kitchen for convenience.
- Utilities: Plan for power, water, and gas connections.
Popular garden-kitchen layouts include L-shaped counters, U-shaped setups with an island, or simple linear designs along a garden wall. AGA outdoor grills are popular as they fit perfectly into any layout thanks to their compact, freestanding design. But if you’re working with a larger or built-in cooker you’ll need to consider how it will integrate.
Choosing the Right Equipment
Your choice of equipment can make or break your alfresco kitchen, and your cooker tends to be the centrepiece. There are plenty of grills on the market, but few match the quality and design of an AGA outdoor grill. Here’s why it stands out:
- It heats quickly and cooks evenly
- It’s easy to clean and built to last
- It looks fantastic in any setting
- It’s perfect for everything from casual BBQs to formal outdoor dinners
When thinking about equipment, don’t forget about your outdoor cookware too.
- Go for pieces that can do more than one job—like a grill tray that doubles as a serving platter or a cast iron griddle for breakfast and burgers alike.
- Use outdoor-safe utensils – long-handled tongs, spatulas, and brushes designed for grilling. Heat-resistant gloves and a good meat thermometer are also worth having to make outdoor cooking easier and safer.
- Think about how to store your cookware. Add weatherproof units so you don’t have to bring all your equipment indoors each time after use.
You could also add a built-in fridge, sink, or pizza oven to enhance your alfresco setup.
A Space for Entertaining
An alfresco kitchen should be as inviting as your living room. Think about:
- Seating: Consider mixing fixed benches with moveable chairs.
- Dining: Select a sturdy table for meals or a bar counter for casual drinks.
- Lighting: Use wall lights, lanterns, or string lights for mood and visibility.
- Flooring: Choose slip-resistant materials like stone or porcelain tiles.
Weatherproofing for Year-Round Use
British weather can be unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t cook outdoors all year.
- Use weatherproof materials like stainless steel and treated timber
- Add a pergola or canopy to protect your space
- Use patio heaters or fire pits to stay warm on chilly evenings
- Invest in covers to protect your outdoor grill when not in use
Planning for the seasons means you’ll get more use out of your space—and more alfresco meals!
Finishing Touches
Make your space your own with accessories and styling:
- Planters and herbs: Add greenery and fresh cooking ingredients.
- Storage solutions: Keep utensils and fuel neatly tucked away.
- Soft furnishings: Use waterproof cushions and rugs for comfort. Choose complementary colours and materials that match the rest of your garden décor.
- Outdoor speakers: Add music to your gatherings.
An alfresco kitchen lets you enjoy cooking, entertaining, and relaxing in your garden like never before. But it can be more than just a BBQ area. A great kitchen garden will feel like an extension of your home. Cooking outdoors encourages social gatherings, adds value to your property, and creates a relaxed, inviting space for entertaining.
Whether you’re planning a full outdoor setup or starting with a simple grill station, an AGA outdoor grill is the perfect centrepiece. It’s the premium choice that will deliver on performance and style.
Visit our showroom today or explore the full AGA range online.
FAQs: Outdoor Kitchens and the AGA Outdoor Grill
What makes an AGA outdoor grill different from other grills?
It offers fast, even cooking, energy efficiency, and sleek design—perfect for outdoor kitchens.
Can I use the AGA outdoor grill in winter?
Yes, it’s built to withstand UK weather and performs well year-round with the right cover.
Do I need planning permission for an outdoor kitchen?
Usually not, unless you’re adding permanent structures like a canopy or built-in utilities. Always check local regulations.
How much space do I need for an alfresco kitchen?
You can start with as little as 2–3 square metres. Layouts can be customised to fit your garden.
What should I consider when choosing outdoor cooking equipment?
Look for durability, ease of use, size, and style. AGA outdoor grills tick all these boxes.