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12 Outdoor kitchens bring life and functionality to gourmet projects

With proper planning, the outdoor area becomes a true invitation for moments of gathering and leisure outdoors

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at Mar 19, 2025, 1:00 PM

Mais de 10 min de leitura
Fábio Pinho and Sinthia Ferrari - Balcony & Garden. Project of CASACOR Espírito Santo 2021.

Fábio Pinho and Sinthia Ferrari - Balcony & Garden. Project of CASACOR Espírito Santo 2021. (Camila Santos)

Having an outdoor kitchen in the gourmet area is an increasingly common desire in residential projects, especially for those who value outdoor leisure moments. Whether for barbecues, gatherings with friends, or even family meals, this space needs to be planned with care to ensure durability, functionality and comfort. Thus, some precautions are essential to preserve the kitchen's structure and avoid long-term issues. From the choice of materials to the maintenance of equipment, check out the main recommendations for a well-planned and sturdy gourmet projects.
Industrial duplex of 290 m² combines a glass pool and an area for watching games. Project Morada 31.12. In the photo, gourmet area with wooden deck, colorful tile and barbecue.

Projeto Morada 31.12. (Júlia Tótoli/CASACOR)

1. Choosing durable materials


Due to being exposed to weather variations, materials used in the outdoor kitchen must be resistant to sun, rain, and humidity. Porcelain or quartzite are the most indicated options to withstand heat and moisture, as they prevent stains and premature wear, in addition to being easy to clean. For furniture, it is essential to opt for treated woods, such as cumaru and ipe, or metals like aluminum and stainless steel, which do not rust easily.
Neutral color palette creates lightness in 532 m² apartment. Project by David Bastos. In the photo, gourmet projects with wine cellar and island.

Projeto de David Bastos. (Fran Parente/Divulgação)

2. Protection against the weather


Coverings such as pergolas, retractable awnings, and roofs can increase the lifespan of furniture and appliances. If the area is not completely covered, it is important to invest in protection covers for the equipment when not in use. Another point to consider is the positioning of the kitchen. If possible, one should avoid areas with direct sun exposure or wind currents that could impair thermal comfort and safety during food preparation.
Penthouse gains a living room and gourmet area with a view of Pedra da Gávea. Project by Studio 021 Architecture. In the photo, balcony with view and pool.

Projeto de Studio 021 Arquitetura. (Fotos; Juliano Colodeti, do MCA Estúdio / Produção: Andrea Falchi e Rennan Schalabrin/Divulgação)

3. Adequate equipment


Appliances should be chosen with care, prioritizing models designed for outdoor use. Stainless steel cooktops and grills are more durable and easier to clean. Refrigerators and climate-controlled wine cellars should be placed in protected locations away from excessive heat.
Built from scratch, the house combines integrated projects and national design. Project by Paiva and Passarini Architecture. In the photo, gourmet area with island and barbecue.

Projeto de Paiva e Passarini Arquitetura. (Xavier Neto/CASACOR)

4. Maintenance and cleaning


Preventive maintenance is essential for the longevity of the gourmet kitchen. Grills and burners of the barbecue should be cleaned regularly to avoid the accumulation of grease and debris. Moreover, countertops and furniture need to be cleaned with suitable products to avoid damaging the materials.
420 m² beach house gains urban style and loft in the garage. Project Studio 021 Architecture. In the picture, gourmet balcony with barbecue and swimming pool.

Casa de praia de 420 m² ganha estilo urbano e loft na garagem. Projeto Studio 021 Arquitetura. (Juliano Colodeti. do MCA Estudio/CASACOR)

5. Lighting and ventilation


For a more comfortable and safe project, lighting should be planned with strategic light points, ensuring good visibility in the food preparation area. LED fixtures are a good option for being more economical and durable.
Estela Netto Architecture - Tribute to 20. Project of CASACOR Minas Gerais 2023. In the photo, external area with barbecue, gourmet space, stone wall, and pergola.

Estela Netto Arquitetura - Tributo aos 20. Projeto da CASACOR Minas Gerais 2023. (Daniel Mansur/CASACOR)

Essential items for your outdoor kitchen


An well-equipped outdoor kitchen can transform the outdoor area of an apartment or house into a functional and pleasant project, ideal for socializing and preparing meals.

Barbecue or gas stove
Triplex has a music studio, private street entrance, and a view of the Lagoon, Project Maurício Nóbrega. In the photo, an external gourmet area with a barbecue, pergola, and a view of the Lagoon.

Projeto Maurício Nóbrega. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

The barbecue is undoubtedly one of the most important items in an outdoor kitchen, whether it is a traditional barbecue, gas, or electric. If the goal is to prepare other types of dishes, having a gas stove or cooktop can also be essential.

Support countertop
Manarelli Guimarães - Gourmet Barn, project of CASACOR Ribeirão Preto 2021.

Manarelli Guimarães - Celeiro Gourmet, projeto da CASACOR Ribeirão Preto 2021. (Carolina Mossin/CASACOR)

A good support countertop is crucial for food preparation, be it for cutting, seasoning, or serving. It can be made of materials like granite, marble, or treated wood, which can withstand the weather.

Sink or washbasin
Pedro Coimbra and Jackson Tinoco - Wine Bar. Project of CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2024.

Pedro Coimbra e Jackson Tinoco - Wine Bar. Projeto da CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2024. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

Having a sink is essential for washing utensils and food, in addition to facilitating the cleaning process after meals. The sink can be simple or even combined with the support countertop, depending on the available space.

Refrigerator or cooler

In an outdoor kitchen, a small refrigerator or cooler is important to keep drinks and food fresh, especially during barbecues and outdoor parties.

Kitchen utensils
Oliveira over 250 years old is the center of this country house. Project by Ana Weege. In the photo, gourmet balcony with island and tables.

Projeto de Ana Weege. (Rafael Renzo/Divulgação)

Items such as pots, frying pans, cutting tools, knives, spatulas, and tongs are indispensable for preparing meals. It is important to invest in suitable utensils for outdoor use, that are resistant to heat and humidity.

Dining space
Garden apartment gains three garden areas on the balconies. Project by Mandril Architecture. In the photo, kitchen with island and dining table.

Projeto de Mandril Arquitetura. (Mariana Orsi/Divulgação)

Comfortable tables and chairs are essential to create an inviting project where people can gather and enjoy meals. If space allows, consider options that offer comfort and style.