Designing the best outdoor kitchens is about balancing style, heat and UV resilience, and everyday practicality. Here’s how Joyce Kitchens helps WA homeowners create alfresco spaces that look superb and perform year-round.
Why an outdoor kitchen (and what “best” really means)
When Australians search for the best outdoor kitchens, they’re usually after a space that grills brilliantly, cleans easily and stands up to sun, salt and showers. In Perth, the “best” alfresco kitchen usually includes a built-in BBQ, a weatherproof benchtop, custom cabinetry, and smart ventilation—all integrated with your patio or pool area.
Whether you’re chasing the best outdoor kitchen BBQ Australia options, or shortlisting the best outdoor kitchens Australia wide for a coastal property, our Perth designers focus on function first, then finish.
An alfresco kitchen is a weather-exposed or semi-enclosed outdoor cooking area with fixed appliances, benchtops and storage. It must use outdoor-rated materials and comply with gas and electrical rules.
Compliance note: Always check current WA rules for gas (AS/NZS 5601 clearances and ventilation) and electrical safety outdoors. We coordinate with licensed trades and can advise on council requirements for your patio or structure.
Our outdoor kitchen design and renovation process
1) Discovery and site review
- Measure your alfresco area and note wind/sun exposure, power, gas, and drainage.
- Align with how you cook: long slow roasts, pizza nights, seafood on a hotplate, or wok burners.
- Set your investment level early to guide materials and appliance selection.
2) Concept and 3D design
- Floor plan, elevations and appliance integration (e.g., 900mm built-in BBQs, outdoor rangehoods).
- Selection of weatherproof joinery, benchtops (porcelain/sintered stone, granite), splashbacks, and hardware (soft-close drawers, pull-out pantry, concealed bin).
3) Documentation, approvals and scheduling
- We coordinate with licensed gasfitters and electricians for compliance.
- We can assist with any council or strata queries for structures and services.
4) Manufacture and installation
- Custom cabinetry WA-made for local conditions and appliance sizing.
- Professional installation, commissioning and final quality checks.
Ultra‑compact porcelain benchtops (sometimes branded as sintered stone or Dekton-style materials) are heat, UV and stain resistant—ideal for outdoor use in Australia.
Materials and finishes that work in WA
Perth’s UV, summer heat and coastal air demand durable, low‑maintenance finishes. Here are our go‑to choices for the best outdoor kitchens:
Weatherproof cabinetry
- Stainless steel cabinetry for coastal zones; choose marine-grade 316 stainless for severe exposure.
- Powder‑coated aluminium frames and doors for light, corrosion‑resistant builds.
- Compact laminate (exterior‑grade) options for doors and accents where shaded.
Benchtops built for outdoors
- Porcelain/sintered stone for exceptional UV/heat resistance.
- Granite benchtop in darker tones for natural durability; seal periodically.
- Concrete for a contemporary look; specify UV‑stable sealers.
Appliances and hardware
- Built‑in BBQ (commonly 900mm) with correct clearances and ventilation.
- Outdoor rangehood with high extraction to handle smoke and wind drift.
- Pizza oven (gas or wood) and secondary side burner for versatility.
- Outdoor‑rated fridges tested for higher ambient temperatures.
- Tapware and sinks in 316 stainless; consider an undermount sink for easy wipe‑downs.
- Lighting with IP‑rated fittings and LED strip lighting under overheads.
The Ingress Protection (IP) rating indicates resistance to dust and water. Outdoor power/lighting near splashes typically needs a higher IP rating—your electrician will advise.
Comparison: Engineered Stone vs Laminate (for covered/indoor areas)
Important: Due to national safety changes, installation and supply of traditional silica‑based engineered stone has been restricted/ceased in Australia. Existing benchtops can remain; discuss compliant alternatives with our team. For outdoors, porcelain/sintered stone or granite are generally preferred.
| Feature | Engineered Stone (indoor/covered) | Laminate (indoor/covered) |
|---|---|---|
| Look & feel | Stone‑like patterns, seamless undermounts | Wide colour range, profile edges available |
| Heat/UV resistance | Heat‑sensitive; not advised for direct sun | Heat‑sensitive; not suitable outdoors |
| Outdoor suitability | Generally no; choose porcelain/granite outdoors | No |
| Maintenance | Low; non‑porous | Low; avoid hot pots directly |
| Typical cost | Higher (now limited by regulations) | Lower budget‑friendly option |
| Compliance note | Subject to national prohibition changes—seek advice | Common for indoor use |
Guidance: See Safe Work Australia for the latest on engineered stone regulations, and consult your builder or designer for compliant alternatives.
References:
Safe Work Australia,
HIA,
Master Builders WA.
Layouts, styles and appliance choices
Popular outdoor kitchen layouts
- Straight run for narrow patios; compact fridge, sink and 900mm BBQ.
- L‑shape maximises corner prep; great for a pass‑through window to your indoor kitchen.
- U‑shape or island for entertaining with extra seating and a drinks zone.
Styles that complement your home
- Hamptons cues with V‑groove doors and a shaker kitchen look—use exterior‑grade finishes and stainless handles.
- Modern minimalist with slab doors, porcelain benchtops and integrated pulls.
- Industrial textures: concrete-look tops, black powder‑coated aluminium, and open shelves.
Perth‑wise appliance selection
- Outdoor BBQ width: 700–1200mm; 900mm cooktop zones are most common.
- Consider a flat lid or hood that fits under your patio and an appropriately ducted outdoor rangehood.
- Choose outdoor‑rated fridges and specify adequate ventilation grills around built‑ins.
- Add a side burner, pizza oven or teppanyaki plate for flexible cooking.
Cabinet construction and finishes designed to handle moisture, UV and temperature changes—using aluminium, stainless, exterior‑grade boards and water‑resistant adhesives.
Two quick WA case examples
Subiaco courtyard alfresco: A compact L‑shape with porcelain benchtop, 900mm built‑in BBQ, outdoor fridge, and LED strip lighting under overheads. Soft‑close drawers keep utensils dry; a tiled splashback ties to the interior palette.
Hillarys coastal home: Marine‑grade stainless cabinetry, granite benchtop, powerful outdoor rangehood and a gas pizza oven. Corrosion‑resistant fixtures specified due to salt exposure.
What does an outdoor kitchen cost in Perth?
Indicative ranges (supply and install), assuming compliant services and a typical patio structure:
- Starter alfresco (straight run, compact fridge, built‑in BBQ, sink): $7,500–$15,000+
- Entertainer (L‑shape, porcelain/sintered stone top, outdoor rangehood, side burner): $15,000–$28,000+
- Premium coastal (stainless/aluminium cabinetry, granite/porcelain, pizza oven, feature lighting): $28,000–$45,000+
Allow for services: gasfitting, electrical (IP‑rated), drainage and any building works. Prices vary by appliance brand, stone selection and site access.
Outdoor kitchen planning checklist
- Measure space, note prevailing winds and sun angles
- Confirm gas, power and water locations (and clearances)
- Pick a layout (straight, L, U, island) and seating needs
- Choose outdoor‑rated appliances (BBQ width, fridge capacity)
- Select weatherproof cabinetry and benchtops (porcelain/granite)
- Plan ventilation (outdoor rangehood, BBQ clearance to roof)
- Lock in splashback finish (tile, stainless, porcelain)
- Decide lighting layers (task, ambient, LED strips)
- Consider storage (pull‑out pantry, soft‑close drawers)
- Budget allowances for trades, permits and timelines
Ready to get started? Book a consultation with Joyce Kitchens—leaders in kitchen renovations Perth wide, including bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes. We’ll tailor custom cabinetry WA solutions for your home.
FAQ
What is the best material for an outdoor kitchen benchtop in Australia?
For most alfresco spaces, porcelain/sintered stone and granite are the best options thanks to their UV, heat and stain resistance. Concrete can also work with a good UV-stable sealer. We avoid laminate and traditional engineered stone outdoors due to heat and sun exposure.
Do I need council approval for an alfresco kitchen in WA?
The kitchen itself usually doesn’t need approval, but the patio/roof structure and services might. Gas and electrical must comply with AS/NZS standards and be installed by licensed trades. We’ll advise on your specific site and coordinate with your builder where needed.
How much does an outdoor kitchen cost in Perth?
Allow from $7,500–$15,000+ for a compact straight run, $15,000–$28,000+ for an entertainer L‑shape, and $28,000–$45,000+ for premium coastal builds with stainless/aluminium cabinetry and high‑end appliances.
Can I put a built-in BBQ under a patio roof?
Yes, provided you meet the manufacturer’s clearance requirements and install suitable ventilation. An outdoor-rated rangehood and correct ducting are critical. We design for safe clearances to walls, ceilings and combustible materials.
What appliances work best in a coastal Perth environment?
Choose marine-grade (316) stainless where possible, outdoor-rated fridges, and BBQs with robust corrosion protection. Specify corrosion-resistant hardware and schedule regular cleaning to remove salt deposits.
To turn inspiration into a buildable plan, see custom barbecues for bespoke sizing and features.
Protect your investment year‑round with custom bbq covers tailored to your layout and appliances.
