Outdoor Kitchen Pergola Ideas and Tips for Your Garden
An outdoor kitchen pergola is your ticket to stunning family dinners. However, before you get stuck into months of alfresco dining, you must design your ideal outdoor cooking space.
Over the past 10 years, the popularity of outdoor kitchens has nearly doubled, according to Google Trends data. Similarly, global Google searches for ‘pergola’ have increased by approximately 130% since 2013. Combining an outdoor kitchen with one of your favourite pergolas makes it far easier to experiment with outdoor cooking, no matter the weather. It also facilitates more quality time outdoors.
So, how can you set up a pergola for your outdoor kitchen? As this article will divulge, there are key considerations such as layout, material, lighting and landscaping to address before you can begin adding cooking equipment. Plus, our outdoor kitchen pergola images will give you design inspiration, such as ambient solar lighting, helping you bring the space to life.
Reasons why you should have a kitchen pergola?
An outdoor kitchen pergola brings people together over great food and fresh air. It turns mealtimes into something special, whether it’s a laid-back breakfast or a feast with friends that lasts long into the evening. Still not convinced? Carry on reading:
Cooking for friends and family
An outdoor kitchen pergola is an alfresco cooking area which brings the family together. It can also extend your indoor cooking space, which is especially handy for growing families.
Extending your living space
If you’ve been brainstorming outdoor living space ideas to extend your indoor living space, an outdoor kitchen pergola with a seating area is a great option.
Enjoying more time in your garden
Many of us are guilty of not spending enough time outdoors. With an outdoor kitchen pergola, there’s always a reason to be outdoors, whether it’s for dinner or a cocktail masterclass.
Hosting BBQs and dinner parties
A pergola for your outdoor kitchen can transform your social calendar. Why not host a regular barbecue or throw an extravagant dinner party once or twice a year?
Increased property value
A pergola can be a smart financial move. As outdoor kitchens and pergolas become more popular, you could see a potential return on investment ranging anywhere from 50% to 80%.
Considerations for designing your outdoor kitchen pergola
An outdoor kitchen pergola should feel like a natural extension of your home, blending cooking, dining and relaxation in one inviting space. Here’s what to keep in mind before getting started.
Climate and weather
The UK weather can be famously unpredictable, so choosing a pergola that works in all seasons is key. A louvred roof lets you control sunlight and airflow, while a fully covered pergola provides shelter from rain. If your area gets strong winds, a sturdy, anchored design will be more reliable than a freestanding option.
Available space
The size of your garden or patio will shape your pergola setup. A compact space might suit a wall-mounted pergola with a foldable dining area, whereas a larger garden can accommodate a full kitchen with countertops, seating and a fire pit. Leaving enough room to move around comfortably is just as important as fitting in all the essentials.
Style and aesthetics
A well-chosen pergola can transform your outdoor space, making it just as inviting as your indoor living areas. A sleek metal frame creates a contemporary aesthetic with clean lines and a polished finish. For a more organic look, a wooden pergola softens the space and blends beautifully with garden surroundings.
Don't forget about finishing touches like lighting, furniture and greenery to bring everything together and make the space an inviting place to cook, dine and unwind.
Cooking style
The way you like to cook will influence the best setup. A built-in grill or pizza oven is perfect for hosting and frequent entertainers, making it easy to prepare meals for a crowd. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, a simple barbecue and a casual dining area might be all you need. Do you hate feeling left out while cooking and your guests are mingling? Make FOMO a thing of the past with a bar to give guests a spot to gather and create a sociable atmosphere while cooking up a storm.
Materials and durability
Pergolas come in various materials, each with different benefits. Aluminium and steel are popular choices for their rust resistance and low maintenance, standing up well to the unpredictable UK elements. Wooden pergolas are traditional and timeless, known for their warm and natural aesthetic, but they need regular treatment to prevent warping or splitting over time.
Invest in weatherproof furniture and UV-resistant fabrics, like our stylish rope range, which sheds rain, dries fast and doesn't fade in the sun to keep your space looking great for years to come.
Portable vs permanent solutions
A freestanding pergola gives flexibility to rearrange your space, while a permanent structure offers long-term stability. If you're renting or want the freedom to change and relocate your setup, a modular pergola or gazebo-style option can be a smart alternative.
Safety precautions
While we firmly believe that you no longer have to pick between safety and style, when it comes to outdoor cooking, safety always comes first. Proper ventilation prevents smoke and heat from building up, especially if you're using a built-in grill or pizza oven. Always place fire pits on heat-resistant surfaces and only use waterproof electric lighting and professionally fitted appliances.
Upkeep and care
A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your pergola looking its best. Regularly wiping down the frame, clearing debris from drainage areas and checking for rust or wood damage will prevent weather-related wear and tear. If your pergola has a retractable canopy or fabric panels, storing them during bad weather and the off-season will extend its lifespan.
Fully enclosed vs partially enclosed vs open
The level of coverage affects how and when you can use your outdoor kitchen. A fully enclosed pergola creates a sheltered, all-season space, while a partially enclosed design provides airflow and light. An open pergola is best for sun-soaked summer days but might need added shade solutions like retractable screens.
Costs
An outdoor kitchen pergola can be tailored to fit different budgets. A basic setup with a small grill and seating might cost around £2,000, while a high-end build with a fire pit, countertops and a louvred roof can go beyond £10,000. Factoring in furniture, appliances and lighting from the start will help keep your spending on track.
Do you need permission for an outdoor kitchen?
Most outdoor kitchens don't require planning permission in the UK, as they aren't considered permanent structures. However, rules can vary depending on local regulations, listed buildings or conservation areas. Checking with your local authority before starting major work can help avoid any surprises later.
17 popular outdoor kitchen pergola ideas
Cooking outside feels even better when the space is designed for both style and comfort. Helping you make the most of your outdoor kitchen pergola, the following ideas create the perfect spot for everything from casual family meals to lively dinner parties you don't want to end.
1. Go for a modern outdoor kitchen pergola
A modern outdoor kitchen pergola is easily achievable with sleek metallic garden furniture or a rattan suite. Other popular modern pergola ideas include adding a high-end pizza oven or a bar with an integrated fire pit. All-black and all-white pergolas also look the part.
You can also buy outdoor kitchen pergola kits, making installation a breeze.
2. Get a corner sofa for a relaxed and cosy eating space
A corner sofa is a cosy, casual eating space without the formalities of a traditional dining set. Curling up with a good book and a freshly-made sandwich is easier than ever.
3. Get a grill to host BBQs
When it comes to pergola over outdoor kitchen ideas, barbecues are universally popular. Luckily, they’re also inexpensive and incredibly versatile. With a grill, you can cook meat, veggies, corn and potatoes and other familiar comfort foods with very little hassle.
4. Take a seat and relax around your dining set
A dining set can hold more dishes than a bar or coffee table. It’s also more comfortable if your family is accustomed to eating at a proper dinner table.
5. Bask in the shade of an outdoor kitchen with a covered pergola
A covered pergola helps you get the most use out of your outdoor kitchen. It creates a barrier between UV rays, rain, hail and snow.
6. Enjoy the fresh air while cooking with a ventilated pergola
A well-ventilated pergola boosts airflow. Not only does this help the appointed family chef keep cool, but it also disperses steam and smells so others can relax in the same space and still enjoy the fresh air.
7. Illuminate your outdoor kitchen in a pergola with ambient lighting
With an ambient LED floor lamp or fairy lights, you can keep using your pergola over an outdoor kitchen well after sunset. Some modern outdoor pergola designs already feature colour-changing LED lighting.
8. Keep cosy while you eat around a fire pit
A fire pit is a cosy addition to a pergola over an outdoor kitchen. Tabletop fire pits can be packed away when they’re not in use. It’s also possible to get a bar with an integrated fire pit for less hassle.
9. Integrate a full kitchen space to bring the full cooking experience outside
A pergola over an outdoor kitchen can be as simple or elaborate as you like. A sophisticated set-up with sturdy countertops and a sink means you don’t need to run between indoors and outdoors to chop vegetables or wash your hands.
10. Host a pizza party with your outdoor pizza oven
A modern gas-fired or wood-fired pizza oven looks particularly show-stopping in a pergola over an outdoor kitchen. And for cost-effective pizza parties, a basic pizza oven can cost as little as £500.
11. Install solar lighting for a sustainable ambience
Solar lanterns are an ambient and eco-friendly way to enhance your outdoor kitchen in a pergola. They recharge in the sun, making them best for sunnier climates or summertime.
12. Set up a bar for summertime cocktails and sangria
There is no need to visit the local beer garden when you can drink homemade espresso martinis at your outdoor bar. A bar doubles up as a breakfast bar, and if it’s large enough, it can save you money on a dining set.
13. Add a pergola with retractable sides for year-round use
A pergola with retractable sides lets you enjoy your outdoor kitchen in any weather. Open them up for a fresh summer breeze, or close them when the wind picks up. Some designs even come with UV-resistant and waterproof fabric to keep the elements at bay while you cook.
14. Cook with herbs from your own herb garden
Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 Built-in Gas Grill - Propane - £2,819
Fresh herbs make all the difference when cooking, so why not add a built-in herb garden? Planters along the pergola frame or a vertical herb wall make it easy to grab basil, mint, or rosemary while you're at the grill.
15. Set up a lounge area for post-dinner relaxation
Bay Corner Group Set with 4 Waist Pillows Teak Table in Latte - £3,849
Once the food is finished, having a comfortable place to unwind makes all the difference. A pergola lounge area with cushioned seating, soft throws and a coffee table creates the perfect spot to relax with a drink or dessert. It’s ideal for extending the evening without heading back inside.
16. Add comfort with a stylish outdoor rug
Hades 220cm x 160cm Weatherproof Indoor and Outdoor Rug in Cobble Grey - £69.00
An outdoor rug helps define the space and adds plenty of comfort, making your outdoor kitchen feel even more inviting. A weather-resistant rug enhances the design and protects decking or patio surfaces from those accidental spills and stains while cooking. Pair it with an outdoor dining set to create a complete alfresco dining experience.
17. Stay cosy with outdoor heating for cooler evenings
PergoSTET Wifi & Bluetooth Heater in White - £449.00
A little warmth goes a long way in making your outdoor kitchen comfortable, even when the temperature drops. A firepit, patio heater or heated dining table extends the use of your space well beyond summer, keeping your pergola cosy even in the winter months so you can enjoy alfresco meals all year round.
Design your dream outdoor kitchen pergola with Harbour Lifestyle
With just a few practical considerations, it is easy to design an outdoor kitchen pergola that looks and feels good. Once it’s finished, it is somewhere that you can host family dinners and garden parties for years to come. Hopefully, our outdoor kitchen pergola images and ideas will have given you some good inspiration to get started.
If you’re ready to take the next step, Harbour Lifestyle’s modern pergolas feature tilted louvred roofs, making your outdoor kitchen pergola an all-weather destination. Meanwhile, our outdoor cooking appliances are robust, high-quality products designed to bring the whole family together.
Browse the full Harbour Lifestyle range and start elevating your outdoor space.
FAQs
Can you put an outdoor kitchen under a pergola?
Yes, you can put an outdoor kitchen under a pergola. In fact, it’s very beneficial to do so.
An outdoor kitchen placed under a pergola blocks rain and sun. Grills should be placed towards the outside of a covered kitchen pergola so that smoke can disperse more easily.
Do I need a roof over my outdoor kitchen?
Adding a roof to your outdoor kitchen creates a barrier between the cooking equipment and sun, rain and snow. However, it can take longer for cooking fumes and smells to disperse.
Is it cheaper to build your own outdoor kitchen?
Building your own outdoor kitchen can be cheaper than hiring professionals, but costs depend on materials, appliances and the complexity of the design. DIY kits offer a budget-friendly option, while custom-built kitchens usually require a more significant investment.
What is the best base for an outdoor kitchen?
A solid, level surface works best for an outdoor kitchen. Poured concrete, brick pavers or natural stone like travertine or flagstone create a durable foundation that can handle heavy appliances and furniture. For the best lifespan, a masonry base offers the strongest and most weather-resistant option.
Should an outdoor kitchen be covered?
Adding a cover to an outdoor kitchen is highly recommended for protection and longevity. A pergola, louvred roof or canopy shields the space from rain, wind and intense sun, preventing weather damage and extending the lifespan of appliances and furniture. A covered setup also makes outdoor cooking and entertaining more enjoyable year-round, no matter the forecast.
