Black and white opulent design build logo.
Schedule
Call Us

by | Feb 22, 2023 | Custom Built Home

An outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill and sink.

Designing the Best Outdoor Kitchen in Orange County

How to Design the Best Outdoor Kitchen

Here in sunny Southern California, year-round outdoor living is a way of life. If you’re looking for another reason to spend more time in your backyard, building an outdoor kitchen may be the best one yet. Since the kitchen is always a gathering spot, why not bring the party outside to enjoy Orange County’s beautiful weather more often? Building an outdoor kitchen is a great way to maximize your backyard space and is the perfect addition for family gatherings and entertaining. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some tips on how you can design the best outdoor kitchen for your Orange County home.
 

Where to Start

Choose a Location

When you’re looking to design an outdoor kitchen, the most important question you’ll need to answer is: Where will we build it? You want the location of the kitchen to be conveniently located for ease of use and not competing for space with the other areas of your yard. 
 
If you already have a covered patio, this would be a nice place for an outdoor kitchen as it allows for you to enjoy cooking, entertainment and eating all in the comfort of the shade. Additionally, an advantage to placing your outdoor kitchen under your covered patio is that it’s already paved. This makes it the perfect spot to start building. 
 

Pick a Style and Layout

Once you’ve decided on a location, you’ll want to configure the best layout for your cooking area. You also want to have the space measured out to configure the size of your layout. Looking at the location you’ve chosen, think about things like if an L-shape or U-shape counter space would be ideal. 
 
You’ll also want to consider which amenities you’ll be using the most. At the very least you’ll want to incorporate a BBQ and a sink. After the necessities are covered, you can choose to make the area as simple or extravagant as you please. Consider amenities such as a bar for seating, a wine fridge, pizza oven, or even a dishwasher.
 
Not only do you want it to be easily accessible and rich in amenities, but you also want it to fit your backyard’s existing style. We recommend you carry the beautiful design of your home outside to provide a cohesive look. 


Decide on a Date

Once you’ve chosen a location, layout and style it’s now time to find a date. While this may seem like the most daunting part of the process, it’s actually one of the most exciting parts. When deciding on a date and timeline for a big project, the best place to start is at the end. Decide when you want to have the project completed and then work backwards from there. This is where it’s important to hire a professional and efficient team that can facilitate a seamless design and build out process for you to minimize stress and maximize enjoyment.
 

Hiring the Right Design-build Team in Orange County

If you’re ready to bring your outdoor kitchen dreams to life, Opulent Design Build is the right team for the job. We are committed to listening to our clients and helping them find the perfect design. Our expert design team is available to walk you through the entire process from beginning to end. 
 
Opulent Design Build has been Orange County’s most trusted design-build team for more than 20 years. At Opulent Design Build, our premier Orange County home builders have transformed the complicated process of home design, building and remodeling into an experience you’ll love! For your free consultation, message us or give us a call at Click To Call949-340-0915.
ADU

Can My HOA Block An ADU?

November 13, 2025 No Comments

For many Orange County homeowners, an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) creates room for family, a quiet office, or rental income without changing neighborhoods. The big question is simple: can your HOA stop you?

Learn More Insights »

How Much Does It Cost To Remodel A Bathroom?

July 12, 2025 No Comments

You’re thinking about remodeling your bathroom, but before you pick out tile or browse Pinterest for inspiration, one question probably comes to mind: How much is this going to cost me?
You’re not alone. For most homeowners, bathroom remodel costs feel like a giant question mark. Contractors don’t always share numbers upfront. Websites skip over pricing. What should be a straightforward answer somehow turns into hours of research and phone calls.

Learn More Insights »

What Are the Top Kitchen Renovation Trends?

July 12, 2025 No Comments

A well-designed kitchen is never just about what’s “in style.” It’s about creating a space that feels grounded, intentional, and personal, where every detail serves a purpose and every material brings something meaningful to the table. That’s exactly what we’re seeing in 2025. Kitchens are moving away from overly minimal, one-note spaces and embracing warmth, depth, and architectural detail. What’s trending now has lasting power: materials with texture, lighting that anchors the room, and color used with intention.

Learn More Insights »

Read more Custom Home Design Blogs & Ideas

Scroll to Top