Outdoor Kitchen Design & Installation in Northern Virginia
Serving Residents of Northern VA, Maryland & Washington, DC

When the temperatures start reaching above 70 degrees, there’s nothing better than spending time outdoors. The difference between having a grilling area and having a full outdoor kitchen is dramatic. While a grilling area can be pleasant, you will still have to retreat several items from your indoor kitchen. An outdoor kitchen brings all of these items directly to your back yard so you aren’t constantly running back inside.
A full outdoor kitchen can come equipped with an outdoor grilling area, an outdoor stove, an outdoor freezer and refrigerator, outdoor countertops, and an outdoor sink. Whatever features you can imagine for an inside kitchen, the professionals at Wheat’s Landscape can bring them to life in your own backyard.
Custom Outdoor Kitchen Design & Build
We understand that each backyard is different. None of our outdoor kitchens are one-size-fits-all—we create a space customized to your specifications. When planning your outdoor living space, there are numerous features to consider:
- Grill: When it comes to your grill, you need to choose whether you want an appliance that is built into your kitchen or one that can be moved throughout. Size is also something to consider—are you going to be cooking for a family of four or constantly having big BBQs where a larger size might be beneficial.
- Countertops: Is your prep going to be done indoors or outdoors? The purpose of your outdoor kitchen space it to create an outdoor area where you can prep, cook, and eat your meals. Plan your countertops accordingly with the amount of space your needs require.
- Cabinets: While you may not think cabinets are necessary, they greatly reduce your trips to and from your indoor kitchen. Instead of sharing the same cooking tools as your indoor kitchen, you will be able to store the adequate cooking tools and dishware in your outdoor kitchen.
- Lighting: Although the summer allows for more sunlight into the evening, there still comes a time when the sun will set. Whether you’re preparing food, eating a family dinner, or having a few drinks with friends, lighting can make the experience much more enjoyable!
- Sink: Food preparation and clean up require a sink with running water. Don’t carry your dirty outdoor dishware and cooking utensils inside just to have to bring them back outside to put away in the cabinets.
- Refrigerator: Depending on the needs of you and your family, you can decide whether a small or full-sized fridge is the best fit for your Maryland area outdoor kitchen. This all depends on how much you plan to store outdoors.
- Flooring: Concrete, natural stone, brick, and tile are good options for outdoor flooring. You don’t want a high-maintenance product outside, but you do want it to be stylish and weather-resistant.
Benefits of an Outdoor Kitchen

Whether you’re building a new house, or simply making better use of the space you have, creating a place to cook outdoors could be a good investment to make. Some of the benefits of an outdoor kitchen include:
- Creates an entertainment space – When the spring and summer months roll around, many Northern Virginia homeowners like throwing family gatherings and neighborhood BBQs. Instead of cramming everyone in your living room and kitchen, you will be able to spread out and enjoy each other’s company in your backyard.
- Increases the value of your home – Outdoor kitchens are a popular home improvement project that are lusted after by potential buyers. Homeowners like the idea of purchasing a home with the space already designed and installed—you can expect the outdoor kitchen to be one of the major selling points of your home.
- Saves money on utility bills – When you’re grilling outside during the summer, your air conditioner won’t have to work overtime to keep your house cool. When you bake, fry, roast, and broil foods in your indoor kitchen, the temperature in your house elevates several degrees, which kicks the AC into overdrive. When you cook outdoors, you will save on energy consumption.
- Expands your living space – Your outdoor kitchen will essentially become another “room” for you and your family to enjoy. As long as the weather permits, this is a space you will use almost every day—whether you’re cooking a family dinner or simply relaxing outside.
Northern Virginia Outdoor Kitchen Design & Installation
Adding an outdoor kitchen is an investment you will be able to enjoy for years to come. Done properly, your outdoor eating area will be a space to create meals and memories with family, friends, and neighbors. Allow our design and installation team at Wheat’s Landscape to extend your living space into your backyard with a customized outdoor kitchen. We specialize in outdoor kitchen design and installation and we’ve been helping Northern Virginia homeowners enhance the exterior of their homes since 1978.
Whether you want to add a patio, outdoor kitchen, or an outdoor fireplace, Wheat’s Landscape can help with all your outdoor design-build needs! Let us take your outdoor kitchen ideas and turn them into a reality. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Kitchens
Where is the best place to build an outdoor kitchen?
The best location balances convenience, safety, and how you plan to use the space. It should provide comfortable access from the house without placing grills or other cooking equipment too close to doors, windows, combustible materials, or areas where smoke may become a problem.
What utilities may be needed for an outdoor kitchen?
The utilities depend on the features you choose. Outdoor kitchens may need electrical service, gas lines, plumbing, or drainage for appliances, lighting, refrigeration, sinks, and cooking equipment. Planning these connections early can help avoid unnecessary changes later in the project.
How can an outdoor kitchen be protected from Northern Virginia weather?
Outdoor kitchens should be built with materials and appliances designed for exterior conditions. Proper drainage, weather-resistant finishes, appliance covers, and thoughtful placement can help protect the space from rain, freezing temperatures, humidity, and seasonal temperature changes.
How much maintenance does an outdoor kitchen require?
Maintenance varies by material and appliance, but regular cleaning and seasonal inspections are generally important. Countertops, grills, cabinets, plumbing connections, and other exposed components should be checked periodically so small issues can be addressed before they become larger repairs.
Can an outdoor kitchen be added to an existing patio?
Often, yes, but the existing patio should first be evaluated for available space, layout, structural support, drainage, and access to utilities. In some cases, the patio can be incorporated into the new design, while other projects may benefit from expanding or modifying the hardscape.