You have dreamed of it. You have planned it. You deserve it. Yes, we are talking about your very own, custom-designed outdoor grill island. And why not splurge a bit on this backyard amenity? There’s something special about food hot off the grill.  

When dreaming up your grill island, be sure to consider location, location, location. That seems like it is just one thing but it is everything where a backyard grill island is concerned. Even with our sometimes harsh Cincinnati climate, you can grill outside year ‘round. Consider the path of sunlight in your yard and plan accordingly. Would you like some kind of roof over the grill island to protect you from the sun or snow accumulation? How close to your house do you want your island to be? Where will you eat outside? These factors will all help determine where to place your grill island. 

Island Elements

Obviously the star of the grill island is the grill. Do you research online and at local grill dealers to ensure you are getting the grill that is right for you. The size of the grill will also help determine how large your island should be. 

Storage is another factor to consider when designing a grill island, which can be outfitted with cabinets and drawers. How much storage space should you include? Consider the items you tend to need while grilling. Just think about all the times you’ve been outside cooking and had to yell, “Honey, can you bring me the…”  

• Wire brush

• Spatula or turner 

• Tongs

• Flat pan with a lip for veggies

• Kebab skewers

• Tin foil

• Meat thermometer 

These items will need to be kept handy, but out of sight to keep your grill island from looking cluttered.  

Beyond the grill, you might opt for other appliances in your grill island. Consider adding a small refrigerator for drinks, condiments and anything else you’d like to keep chilled while you make dinner. A sink is handy for washing hands and rinsing dishes. The combination of a grill and a kegerator could be a dream come true. We can help you source these outdoor appliances.

Speaking of drinks, an outdoor bar can be a natural extension of the grill island. If you don’t plan for it, you will wish you had. And you know friends will want to gather around the bar, so think about adding seating to the area as well. 

As you design your grill island, think about the type of countertop you’d prefer. Remember you want the surface to be easy to clean, durable and good looking. Stone or concrete countertops can fit the bill. 

Grill Islands Inside and Out 

When we add grill islands to our clients’ outdoor living spaces, we start with a metal frame and, typically, a gas line. The frame provides sturdy structure and houses the grill, cabinets and other appliances. The frame can be faced with brick, pavers or engineered stone to give the island a look that complements your home’s hardscaping. Once the structure is complete and the appliances installed, you’re ready to fire up the grill.

Would you like to plan a (grill) island getaway? Talk to our expert designers and planners who can help you create an oasis of good food and great company in your backyard. Contact us today.