Outdoor Cuisine—More Than Smoke

(Originally published in the August 2005 issues of Real Living).

Backyard fire pits and bonfires once served as the outdoor-cooking headquarters. Now, attractive and comfortable outdoor kitchens are all the rage and can be just as good looking and convenient as an indoor space. All it takes is a little thought and the proper elements. Photography by Jason Masters, Nola Studio.

Our featured outdoor kitchen is the result of an expansion. Homeowners Rebekah and Kieth Hardin decided to enlarge their upstairs living space. The area underneath the master bedroom addition was the perfect place for a kitchen. The space is out-of-doors, yet is enclosed by stained cedar pockets doors that open to the pool and the Pleasant Valley Country Club Golf Course beyond. Furnishings, décor and high-end appliances help this space feel put-together and inviting. Treating an outdoor room as if it were an indoor space is key. Don't forget the details—pillows, rugs and decorative accents are all important to creating a comfy outdoor kitchen.

“A brand new product recently featured on HGTV's ‘I Want That!’, the Hearthfalls mantel is a perfect, easy addition for any room.”

The comfortable chaise lounges situated atop natural fiber rugs are placed appropriately in front of the fireplace. The traditional outdoor furniture gets a comfy update with palm-tree embroidered cushions in stain-resistant, weatherproof fabric.

A stainless steel Viking professional-style grill is a good, basic appliance for any type of outdoor kitchen. A permanent grill, oven and range, or a combination of all three are commonly found in newly constructed outdoor kitchens.

The concrete floor is convenient to clean as well as attractive, thanks to the scored detail and custom coloring. A wonderful alternative to stone flooring, concrete flooring offers a similar look with greater ease and less hassle.

The slate tiled countertops and backsplash lend a lavish feel to this outdoor space. Just a touch of natural stone provides added texture and a luxuriousness that isn't out of place out-of-doors.


Accessories make all the difference when it comes to creating an attractive outdoor kitchen. Don't forget the details—decorative pillows, urns, candles, art and floral arrangements are all important, stylish components. Use these traditionally indoor décor elements to jazz up your outdoor space.