Outdoor Kitchens

The owners of this California kitchen opted for an "inside" look so the area can be closed off during inclement weather. Though most outdoor grills don't require a vent hood, one is needed here to keep the space from getting smoke-filled. The folding louver doors keep postmeal messes out of sight and allow the owner to button up the area during the winter months.

This Portland, Oregon, dining area grew out of a simple need to replace some rotted decking near the pool. When landscape designer John Herbst, of John Herbst Jr. and Associates, was surveying the damage, the owner brought up the idea of a built-in cooking area.

This property in Southern California gave breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Unfortunately, the family had to walk to the back property line to take in the sites. That and the fact that there was really no place for the family to cook and dine together led to a fully equipped outdoor kitchen near the rear of the yard.