How to Build an Outdoor Kitchen Option 1: For a Standard Gas Grill
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An Outdoor Kitchen made with AB Courtyard Collection is an impressive application that can easily be added to any backyard. You can build it on an existing surface like a patio or pavement, as well as on soil. To build on soil, you must create a foundation padThe dimensions for this outdoor kitchen are 6.5 ft. wide and 5.5 ft. deep (2 m by 1.7 m ). This example shows the installation steps for a 7-course high bar area with a 6-course high grill area, built on an existing patio surface. The grill used in this example is 30 in. wide and 28 in. deep (760 mm by 710 mm) with height of 4 ft. (1.2 m).
Step 1: Find the Right Location
Determine the location of the kitchen. Remember to leave enough space around the kitchen area to accommodate for the chef and any additional seating. Then draw a guideline using chalk or tape where the wall panels of the kitchen will be constructed.
Step 2: Layout the First Course
Layout the first course of blocks as seen in (Pattern 1). Use a square to line up the blocks to ensure your corners are square. An AB York Block and an AB Dublin Block will need to be split for this course. Save the second half of the AB York to use on the next course. A corner block in this pattern will also need to be cut at an angle so that the blocks match up on the end (Figure 1). Learn more about splitting and cutting blocks.
Step 3: Install the Second Course
Begin laying out the second course as seen in Pattern 2. Next remove the raised rings and split two AB Dublin center-split blocks. See (Pattern 2)for placement of the blocks. Removing the raised rings will create a smooth surface for the next course to be placed on top of. If there are any additional pieces left over they can be used when this pattern repeats.
Step 4: Continue Stacking Courses
Continue stacking courses by repeating Steps 2-3 until the desired height is achieved. In this example the wall panel behind the grill is one course lower than the bar area panel to allow for movement of the grill hood (Figure 2).
Step 5: Finish With a Countertop
Once you have reached your desired height, it is now time to finish with a countertop. Choose a countertop material to fit your design. In this example we used concrete slabs that are cut to size. Set your countertops in place and check for level. Shims may be used if adjustments are necessary. Secure the countertops in place with masonry adhesive (optional), move your grill into place and you are ready to fire up the BBQ!
**NOTE: A larger opening will be needed if your grill is a larger size than the one shown in this example. To increase the width of the grill area opening, add additional AB Yorks, AB Dublins and or split blocks to your wall panel to enlarge the grill area. The minimum increment you can increase your width by is approximately 4 in. (102 mm).
Materials Needed:
- 30 in ( 760 mm) Grill
- 63 Corner Blocks
- 23 AB York Blocks
- 28 AB Dublin Blocks
- Outdoor Countertop Material (of your choice)
- 4 Tubes of Masonry Adhesive
Tools Needed:
- Square
- Measuring Tape
- Level
- Chalk or Tape
- Hammer & Chisel
- Saw with a Masonry Blade
- Safety Glasses & Work Gloves