Introduction
As outdoor living continues to trend in Central Texas, one feature is rapidly becoming the crown jewel of high-end backyards: the outdoor kitchen. No longer just a grill and a cooler, today’s outdoor kitchens are full-service culinary stations—complete with stone countertops, built-in appliances, sinks, bar seating, and even pizza ovens.
At Trend Kitchen + Bath, we specialize in indoor and outdoor cabinetry, custom countertops, and complete kitchen design. And if you’re in Austin, Cedar Park, Leander, or nearby areas, we’re your go-to team for building outdoor spaces that blend luxury with function.
In this blog, we’ll break down what it takes to build the perfect outdoor kitchen—from weather-resistant materials to layout options and must-have features in 2025. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading an existing space, you’ll get a complete guide to designing a stylish, durable, and inviting outdoor kitchen.
Why Outdoor Kitchens Are on the Rise in Texas
Central Texans love the outdoors. With warm weather nearly year-round and a culture rooted in entertaining, it’s no surprise that homeowners are investing in outdoor kitchens now more than ever.
Key Reasons:
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Expanded living space
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Great for hosting & entertaining
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Adds value to your home
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Makes cooking and dining al fresco easy
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Combines indoor luxury with outdoor charm
It’s not just a trend—it’s a lifestyle.
Step 1: Design Planning & Layout
Every successful outdoor kitchen starts with good planning. Think about how you’ll use the space.
Common Layout Styles:
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L-Shaped: Great for maximizing counter space and adding bar seating
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Linear (One Wall): Best for narrow patios or minimalist designs
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U-Shaped: Ideal for serious chefs with multiple cooking zones
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Island Style: Social and modern, with room for friends to gather around
Things to Consider:
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Proximity to the indoor kitchen: Reduces trips back and forth
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Wind direction: Avoid smoke blowing into seating areas
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Shade and shelter: Pergolas, awnings, or covered patios extend usability
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Access to gas, water, and electricity: Crucial for appliances and lighting
At Trend Kitchen + Bath, we work with homeowners and contractors to develop layouts that balance cooking, lounging, and style—custom-fit to your property.
Step 2: Cabinetry Built for the Outdoors
Standard indoor cabinets won’t cut it in Texas heat. You need outdoor-rated cabinetry that can withstand sun, rain, and temperature swings.
Our Top Recommendations:
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Powder-Coated Aluminum Cabinets: Rustproof, fade-resistant, and sleek.
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Marine-Grade Polymer Cabinets: UV-stable, waterproof, and incredibly durable.
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Stainless Steel: Popular for a modern look but may need more cleaning.
We offer custom outdoor cabinetry with built-in drawers, trash pullouts, sinks, and hidden propane storage—all designed to endure Central Texas conditions.
Pro Tip: Choose light or reflective colors to avoid heat absorption during summer months.
Step 3: Countertops That Last
You’ll need a surface that’s just as durable as it is beautiful. Not all stone is suitable for outdoor use.
Best Outdoor Countertop Materials:
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Granite: Extremely tough, UV-resistant, and available in many finishes
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Concrete: Customizable and modern, but needs sealing
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Quartzite: Not to be confused with engineered quartz—quartzite is natural and more heat-resistant
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Dekton & Neolith: Ultra-compact surfaces made for UV, heat, and scratch resistance
At Trend Kitchen + Bath, we fabricate and install countertops that are built for the outdoors, ensuring your surfaces stay gorgeous year after year.
Step 4: Appliances & Must-Have Features
Modern outdoor kitchens go far beyond just a grill.
Core Appliances:
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Built-In Gas or Charcoal Grill
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Side Burner for Sautéing or Sauces
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Refrigerator or Beverage Center
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Ice Maker or Outdoor Cooler Drawer
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Sink with Running Water
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Warming Drawer or Pizza Oven
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Vent Hood (for covered spaces)
Bonus Features for 2025:
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Smoker station
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Flat-top griddle for tacos & breakfast
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Bluetooth-connected cooking controls
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Wine fridge or kegerator
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Pull-out trash & recycling drawers
If you love entertaining, we also recommend a bar island with seating and lighting. Trend Kitchen + Bath can help you plan cabinetry to accommodate all your outdoor appliances seamlessly.
Step 5: Flooring and Surroundings
The space around your outdoor kitchen matters just as much as what’s inside it.
Ideal Flooring Options:
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Textured Concrete: Slip-resistant and easy to clean
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Natural Stone Pavers: Great for upscale look and heat resistance
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Porcelain Tile: Durable and fade-resistant (look for exterior-rated options)
Pair your kitchen with features like:
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Pergolas or wood slat shading
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Outdoor fireplaces or fire pits
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Mounted TVs and weather-resistant speakers
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Planters or vertical gardens for greenery
Real-Life Project: Cedar Park Outdoor Oasis
Client: Young couple in Cedar Park
Goal: Create an outdoor kitchen and entertaining area with low maintenance
Features Installed:
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U-shaped layout with grill, fridge, and sink
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Powder-coated aluminum cabinetry in graphite gray
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Dekton countertops with waterfall edge
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Stone pavers and built-in fire pit
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Bluetooth sound system and LED accent lighting
Result: The couple hosts weekly game nights and barbecues, and the backyard is now the focal point of the home.
Maintenance & Longevity
Outdoor kitchens, while durable, still need care.
Maintenance Checklist:
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Wipe countertops weekly to avoid staining
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Keep appliance covers on when not in use
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Re-seal granite or concrete annually
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Clean out drainage and wipe cabinet interiors seasonally
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Inspect gas lines and outlets regularly
When built right, an outdoor kitchen can last 15–20+ years with minimal upkeep—especially with the weather-hardened materials we provide.
How Much Does an Outdoor Kitchen Cost in Central Texas?
Here’s a rough breakdown to help you budget:
| Feature | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Basic Outdoor Kitchen | $8,000–$15,000 |
| Mid-Range Kitchen (with appliances) | $15,000–$30,000 |
| High-End Outdoor Kitchen | $30,000–$60,000+ |
| Custom Outdoor Cabinets | $5,000–$20,000+ |
| Outdoor Countertops | $2,500–$10,000 |
Note: Prices vary depending on materials, size, utilities, and site conditions.
Why Choose Trend Kitchen + Bath for Outdoor Kitchens?
We’re more than just a cabinetry supplier—we’re design experts. Here’s why clients in Austin, Cedar Park, and Leander trust us:
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✅ Local knowledge of Texas climate & material demands
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✅ Custom outdoor cabinetry and stonework
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✅ Full-service design and installation support
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✅ Seamless integration with indoor kitchens and homes
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✅ Partnerships with top appliance brands and contractors
Our outdoor kitchen solutions are built to impress and made to last.
Final Thoughts: Make This the Year You Cook Outside in Style
If you’re tired of dragging your grill around the patio or dealing with poor lighting and clutter, an outdoor kitchen might be the upgrade your home needs.
With the right materials, smart planning, and design expertise from Trend Kitchen + Bath, you can create an outdoor kitchen that feels like a five-star resort—right in your backyard.
Ready to Start Designing?
Let’s turn your backyard into a culinary oasis. Contact Trend Kitchen + Bath today to schedule a consultation or visit our showroom in Leander to explore outdoor cabinetry and countertop samples in person.
