Outdoor cooking in your concrete patio layout

Where to Put a Built-In BBQ or Outdoor Kitchen

Adding a built-in BBQ, pizza oven, or full outdoor kitchen can transform a patio, but only if you get the placement right. Choose poorly and it becomes inconvenient, awkward, or even a fire risk.

In this guide, we look at smart placement ideas that maximise function, airflow, safety and flow. Whether you’re building a basic brick BBQ or a fully plumbed-in outdoor kitchen, good layout matters.

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Where to Position Your Outdoor Cooking Area

These six strategic tips will help you choose the right place for your BBQ or kitchen, both practically and visually.

Keep It Close, But Not Too Close

Ideally, your BBQ or outdoor kitchen should be near the house to make food prep easier. Being 2–4 metres from the back door allows quick access to fridges, utensils, and condiments. But don’t place it right against the wall, smoke, grease, and heat can damage cladding or cause ventilation issues. A few paces out on the patio works best.

Work With the Wind

In the UK, prevailing winds usually come from the south-west. If your BBQ faces this direction, smoke might blow toward your guests or the house. Ideally, position the BBQ with the wind at its back or angled away from key seating areas. In exposed gardens, consider adding a low windbreak or trellis to help divert gusts without enclosing the space.

Make Sure There’s Room to Work

Built-in BBQs and outdoor kitchens need clear space to move safely. Allow at least 1–1.2 metres in front for a cook to stand and work, plus room for others to pass behind. If you’re adding a worktop or sink, factor in space for doors to open, storage to be accessed, and seating to stay clear of heat and grease splatter zones.

Don’t Block the View

Avoid putting large BBQ setups in the central or best-facing part of your patio. These structures are often permanent and tall, which can ruin a lovely garden outlook. Tuck cooking zones to the side or corner of your layout, allowing the rest of the patio to feel open, usable, and connected to the rest of the garden.

Allow for Storage and Utilities

If you’re running power, gas, or water to the BBQ area, place it close to existing lines to reduce installation cost and disruption. Make sure you’ve also included built-in storage for fuel, tools, and cookware. These items need dry, easy-to-access housing or they’ll end up cluttering up other parts of the patio.

Match the Patio Design

A concrete or brick BBQ area should visually integrate with the rest of the patio. Use matching finishes, step heights, or even contrasting textures in a border to set the space apart without making it look bolted on. Planning this at the same time as the patio helps everything feel cohesive and thought through.

Built-In BBQ Design Tips

Allow for Ventilation

Position away from fences or walls to reduce smoke trapping.
Use open sides or gaps in structures for airflow if built-in.

Protect the Surface

Use a splash-resistant zone beneath grills or hotplates.
Consider textured concrete or a steel-topped prep area.

Lighting the Space

Install low-level or wall lights to keep the cooking area safe.
Solar post lights work well if power access is limited.

Seating Distance

Keep dining zones at least 2 metres away from cooking smoke.
Consider a bar ledge nearby for casual mingling without crowding.

Choose Weather-Resistant Materials

Use stainless steel, treated brick, or concrete to avoid rust or rot.
Seal timber elements or keep them under cover year-round.

Plan Drainage Carefully

Water runoff from sinks or worktops needs a soakaway or pipe.
Use slightly sloped surfaces to avoid puddling around the BBQ.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ideally, place your BBQ 2–4 metres away from the house to allow easy access while avoiding smoke or grease damage to walls, windows or doors. This space also helps reduce fire risk and improves airflow.

Yes, concrete patios make a great base for built-in BBQs or outdoor kitchens. Ensure the area is heat-resistant and designed with drainage, storage and working space in mind. Using concrete blockwork or steel frames is common in UK installations.

Not usually. A standard built-in BBQ or outdoor kitchen doesn’t need planning if it’s under 2.5m in height and not near a boundary. If you’re adding a roof or major utility lines, check with your local planning authority just in case.

Textured concrete is ideal for BBQ areas, it’s strong, low-maintenance, and easy to clean. Avoid glossy or porous finishes that can stain easily from oil, soot or water. A sealed brushed surface offers both durability and grip.