Thinking about a DIY outdoor kitchen in Australia? Whether you’re refreshing an alfresco in Perth or planning a full backyard build, this expert guide covers design, materials, layouts, costs and outdoor kitchen installation—from a local WA perspective.
Why a DIY Outdoor Kitchen in Australia
Australia’s climate begs for an alfresco kitchen—especially in WA where long summers make entertaining a breeze. A smart design blends weatherproof joinery, efficient storage and durable benchtops so you can prep, cook and serve outdoors all year. Going DIY for parts of the project can save money, while partnering with pros for gas and electrical keeps everything safe and compliant.
- Entertain better: integrate BBQ, sink, bar fridge and serving bench.
- Add value: well-built custom cabinetry WA homeowners prefer over temporary trolleys.
- Tailored style: from contemporary to coastal Hamptons or shaker kitchen influences for doors and profiles.
Plan and Approvals in WA
Before you start, confirm what’s allowed in your council area and comply with Australian Standards. Gas and electrical work must be completed by licensed trades.
- Gas compliance: follow AS/NZS 5601 and keep clearances around BBQs and cooktops.
- Electrical: GPOs, lighting and appliances require a licensed electrician and outdoor-rated fittings (check IP ratings).
- Structures: pergolas, roofs or masonry may need council approval.
Helpful Australian industry resources:
Renovation Process: Step-by-Step
- Site measure and concept design: Map services (water, drainage, gas, electrical), wind direction and rainwater ingress paths. Consider stacker doors and circulation zones to your indoor kitchen or butler’s pantry.
- Cabinetry choice: Decide between flat-pack cabinets for DIY assembly or custom outdoor cabinets designed and manufactured in Perth. Include soft-close drawers and heavy-duty hinges.
- Benchtop selection: Choose UV-stable materials (porcelain benchtops, compact laminate, stainless steel 304). An engineered stone benchtop can be used in covered areas—see comparison below.
- Appliance plan: Confirm BBQ size, ventilation, fridge ventilation cut-outs and sink configuration. Many outdoor fridges require 10A; some BBQs need 15A—plan GPOs accordingly.
- Services rough-in: Licensed plumber and electrician set up water, waste, gas and power to suit cabinet layout.
- Cabinet install: Level frames, secure to substrate, ensure weatherproof sealing and expansion gaps.
- Benchtop and splashback: Stone mason or installer templates and installs benchtops; complete splashback tiles or cladding.
- Final fit-off: BBQ connect and commission, tapware, appliance installation, lighting, and compliance certificates.
Materials and Finishes That Last Outdoors
WA’s UV and coastal air can be harsh. Prioritise materials with UV stability, corrosion resistance and low maintenance.
Cabinetry options
- Powder-coated aluminium frames: Excellent corrosion resistance; ideal near the coast.
- Compact laminate doors/panels: Highly water and UV resistant, many colours and timber looks.
- Marine-grade plywood with exterior coatings: Durable with correct sealing; suit covered alfresco areas.
- Stainless steel 304: Robust and hygienic; upgrade to 316 near ocean spray for extra corrosion resistance.
Benchtops
- Porcelain / sintered stone: Superb UV stability and heat resistance; handles thermal shock from hot pans.
- Stainless steel: Heatproof and seamless; consider sound-deadened options.
- Engineered stone: Best in covered areas; prolonged UV exposure can affect resins.
- Compact laminate: Practical and cost-effective for BBQ surrounds and serving bars.
Engineered Stone vs Laminate (Outdoor Use)
| Feature | Engineered Stone | Laminate (Compact Laminate for outdoors) |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Suitability | Best under cover; limit direct UV to protect resins. | Compact laminate is highly UV and moisture resistant. |
| Heat Resistance | Good, but avoid placing hot pans directly. | Good everyday performance; use trivets for very hot pans. |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance, non-porous. | Low maintenance; edge finishes are critical for longevity. |
| Cost (WA) | $$$ (higher; stone mason required). | $$ (cost-effective; broad colour range). |
Tip: For sun-exposed areas, porcelain benchtops or compact laminate generally outperform standard engineered stone outdoors.
Door profiles and style finishes
Even outdoors you can reference indoor aesthetics—flat profiles for modern lines, V-groove for coastal, or a shaker kitchen profile in weatherproof materials for a Hamptons feel. Coordinate with splashback tiles, matte black or stainless tapware, and robust handles.
Layouts and Styles
Pick a layout that suits traffic flow, views and BBQ safety clearances.
Popular layouts
- Straight run: Slimline build along a wall or fence—ideal for tight courtyards.
- L-shape: Adds prep surface and handy corner appliance zones.
- U-shape or island: Great for larger patios with separate cooking and serving areas.
Australian appliance sizing notes
- Built-in BBQs commonly range 700–1200 mm; confirm cut-out sizes and ventilation grills.
- Outdoor fridges need ventilation gaps per manufacturer specs; standard widths 550–900 mm.
- Sinks: consider deep bowls for BBQ trays; select exterior-grade mixers.
Costs and Budgeting (Perth/WA)
Budgets vary with size, materials and appliances. The ranges below reflect typical WA pricing in 2025.
- DIY outdoor kitchen cabinets (flat-pack): $2,500–$6,500 for a straight run, excluding benchtop.
- Custom cabinetry WA (weatherproof): $6,000–$15,000+ depending on materials and length.
- Benchtops: Compact laminate $700–$1,200 per linear metre; porcelain $1,200–$2,200 per lm; stainless $900–$1,800 per lm.
- BBQ and appliances: $1,500–$7,000+ (built-in models, rangehoods, outdoor fridges).
- Outdoor kitchen installation and trades: Electrical $600–$2,000; plumbing $700–$2,200; gas fitter $500–$1,800 (scope dependent).
Indicative totals: compact DIY from ~$6k–$12k; mid-range custom from ~$12k–$25k; premium porcelain/stainless and high-spec appliances $25k+.
Quick WA Case Examples
Fremantle Coastal Alfresco
Challenge: salt air and afternoon sun. Solution: powder-coated aluminium frames, compact laminate doors, stainless steel 316 sink and porcelain benchtop. Result: low-maintenance build with excellent UV stability.
Joondalup Family Entertainer
Challenge: sheltered patio with limited depth. Solution: slim straight run with soft-close drawers, 900 mm BBQ, vented outdoor fridge, engineered stone benchtop under full cover, splashback tiles for easy cleaning. Result: seamless connection to indoor kitchen renovations Perth homeowners love.
Practical Pre‑Build Checklist
- Measure space, note prevailing winds and rain exposure.
- Confirm services: water, drainage, gas, power and required GPOs.
- Select cabinet construction: flat-pack vs custom outdoor cabinetry.
- Choose benchtop: porcelain, compact laminate, stainless or engineered stone (under cover).
- Lock appliance specs: BBQ cut-outs, fridge ventilation, sink and tapware.
- Plan storage: drawers for tools, pull-out gas bottle or bin, condiment niches.
- Ventilation and heat shields near BBQ to protect doors and panels.
- Lighting plan: task, ambient and BBQ light; exterior-rated fittings.
- Book licensed electrician, plumber and gas fitter; schedule inspections if required.
- Order lead-times: cabinetry, benchtops (stone mason templating), splashback tiles.
- Weatherproofing: seal edges, consider covers or blinds for storms and UV.
How Joyce Kitchens Can Help
From concept to completion, Joyce Kitchens designs and builds outdoor kitchens that suit WA conditions. We can support your DIY approach with design, custom cabinets, appliance selections and site measure, then coordinate professional outdoor kitchen installation for gas and electrical to Australian Standards. Talk to our Perth team about custom cabinetry WA solutions, porcelain benchtops, compact laminate, weatherproof joinery and more.
FAQ
Can I build a DIY outdoor kitchen in Australia without a licensed tradie?
You can assemble cabinets and benchtops yourself, but gas and electrical work must be carried out by licensed trades in Australia. Always follow AS/NZS 5601 for gas and use outdoor-rated electrical fittings.
What materials are best for outdoor kitchen cabinets in Australia?
Powder-coated aluminium, compact laminate, stainless steel and well-sealed marine-grade plywood perform well. For benchtops, porcelain or compact laminate excel in sun-exposed areas.
How much does an outdoor kitchen cost in WA?
DIY straight runs often start around $6k–$12k, while custom builds with premium finishes range from $12k–$25k+. High-spec appliances and porcelain or stainless tops can push totals to $25k+.
Do engineered stone benchtops suit outdoor kitchens?
Engineered stone is best used under full cover to reduce UV exposure. For open sun, consider porcelain or compact laminate which offer superior UV stability.
How long does outdoor kitchen installation take?
Allow 2–6 weeks from order to install depending on materials and lead-times. On-site install is typically 1–3 days, with benchtop templating and fit-off adding extra visits.
Many DIYers start with flat pack components—see costs, pros and cons before you order.
Working in a rental or studio? A freestanding kitchenette gives flexibility without major building works.
