How to Plan Your Outdoor Kitchen: Tips From a Brookhaven, GA, Hardscape Company
Outdoor kitchens are one of the most sought-after upgrades for Brookhaven, GA, homes, turning backyards into destinations for dining, entertaining, and relaxation. With the right design and materials, an outdoor kitchen seamlessly integrates with patios, fire features, and landscaping for a complete outdoor living experience.
As a leading outdoor kitchen & hardscape company in Brookhaven, GA, Southern Classic Landscape helps homeowners create spaces that look beautiful, function effortlessly, and stand the test of time. Here are the key considerations our team addresses during the planning process.
Defining the Space and Purpose
Every outdoor kitchen begins with a clear understanding of how it will be used. Some homeowners prioritize entertaining with seating areas and serving counters, while others prefer a more private retreat for family gatherings. The intended use informs the layout, appliances, and surrounding hardscape so the entire space works together.
Selecting the Right Location & Layout
Placement is critical for both function and comfort. The kitchen should be conveniently located while allowing for proper airflow, lighting, and guest seating.
Our design team often recommends layouts such as:
L-Shaped for balancing cooking, prep, and dining zones
U-Shaped for maximum counter space and integrated seating
Galley Style for narrower spaces with streamlined efficiency
The layout is tailored to the property and the way the client envisions using the space.
Choosing Durable, High-Quality Materials
Georgia’s climate calls for materials that handle heat, humidity, and seasonal changes. For outdoor kitchens, we typically recommend:
Granite or concrete countertops for beauty and durability
Pavers or natural stone for flooring with traction and longevity
Stainless steel or weather-resistant cabinetry to protect against rust and wear
By sourcing premium materials, our outdoor kitchens maintain their appearance and performance year after year.
Planning Utilities and Lighting from the Start
Proper planning for gas, water, and electrical systems ensures a smooth installation and a fully functional outdoor kitchen. Equally important, lighting design combines task lighting for cooking, ambient lighting for dining, and accent lighting to highlight architectural and hardscape features.
Integrating the Entire Outdoor Living Space
An outdoor kitchen becomes even more impactful when it is part of a thoughtfully designed backyard. At Southern Classic Landscape, we approach each project with a master plan mindset. Instead of treating the kitchen as a standalone feature, we look at how it interacts with patios, walkways, fire features, seating walls, and surrounding landscaping.
This integrated approach creates a backyard with flow and purpose. Guests can move easily from the dining area to the lounge, children have open spaces to play, and homeowners enjoy a setting designed for both everyday living and special occasions. By managing the entire design-build process, we ensure every element—from hardscapes to plantings—feels like it belongs together, delivering a backyard that’s cohesive, elegant, and built to last.
Partner With a Trusted Outdoor Kitchen & Hardscape Company in Brookhaven, GA
The success of an outdoor kitchen project depends on the expertise behind it. When you work with Southern Classic Landscape, you gain a partner who handles every step—from design consultations and material selections to final installation and finishing details. Our team brings years of experience in hardscape design and construction, a deep understanding of local conditions, and a commitment to precision craftsmanship.
Clients choose us because they want a project completed on time, on budget, and built to a higher standard. Whether it’s a compact outdoor kitchen or a full backyard transformation, we deliver a space that reflects each homeowner’s style while providing maximum durability and function.
