Home » The Basics to Create a Reclaimed Wood Rustic Outdoor Kitchen

The Basics to Create a Reclaimed Wood Rustic Outdoor Kitchen

Last Updated on October 7, 2024 by John Coleman

Rustic outdoor kitchens can be built from reclaimed wood and then accented with modern accessories and lights.
Simple but sleek reclaimed rustic outdoor kitchen.

Planning Your Rustic Outdoor Kitchen

Before we start putting boards together, take a step back and get a game plan together. I have found that taking the time to plan out your vision and gather all the necessary resources is a vital step. A little forethought goes a long way in making your reclaimed wood outdoor kitchen become a reality. Consider the layout, materials, and must-have features you want to include. This will ensure everything comes together seamlessly to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. Planning will help you save time and potentially more money.

Assessing Your Space

First things first – take a good look at your backyard. Where’s the best spot for your kitchen? Consider factors like:

Proximity to your indoor kitchen – you may need to run to the indoor kitchen to get some items that you don’t store outside. The shorter the distance to your indoor kitchen, the more convenient things will be.

Wind direction – you don’t want smoke blowing into your house or directly into your sitting or cooking space.

A pleasant view – situate your kitchen so you can look out over the best features of your backyard while you are flipping burgers.

Sun exposure – shade is your friend during those hot summer cookouts. Think about how much sun your cooking area will receive during peak use times and position things accordingly.

Essential Features

Sourcing Reclaimed Wood

Here is where things get interesting and you get to find the character of your project! Reclaimed wood is the star of the show, so let’s find some gorgeous pieces. Check out:

Large pieces of reclaimed wood can be used in an outdoor kitchen build to give a more bulky and large look. The larger pieces are also great for sturdiness.
Large reclaimed lumber can give more of a massive feel to an outdoor kitchen.

Local salvage yards – large and small pieces of lumber can be found at salvage yards. Be sure to think of both large and small areas of your build.

Demolition sites (with permission, of course!) – you may find a house that is being removed that might have larger lumber such as floor joists, etc. that can be used to build the structure of your kitchen.

Online marketplaces – you can find just about anything on social media!!

Antique shops – a great place to look for old dressers and other pieces that can be incorporated into your design. Remember, it’s not just boards you are looking for.

Old wood structures – Look for old structures on farm sites. This can be an invaluable source of quality reclaimed wood. The first step is to contact the property owner. Explain that you are looking for sources of old lumber and see if they would be willing to work out a fair deal for you to purchase the lumber. In some cases, the property owner might even let you have the wood in order to get it off their property and out of their way.

Gathering Materials and Tools

Alright, now that we’ve got our plan, let’s talk about what you’ll need to bring this DIY backyard kitchen to life.

Essential Tools

Here’s your tool list:

  • Circular saw
  • Drill and drill bits
  • Sander
  • Hammer and nails
  • Power screwdriver or Impact Driver and screws
  • Level
  • Measuring tape
  • Safety gear (goggles, gloves, dust mask)

Additional Materials

Besides your beautiful reclaimed wood, you’ll need:

  • Weather-resistant screws and nails
  • Wood sealant or outdoor paint
  • Countertop material (consider concrete for a rustic look)
  • Hardware for cabinets and drawers

Preparing the Foundation

Before we start building, we need to create a solid foundation for your rustic outdoor entertaining space.

Installing Utilities

Now’s the time to think about what type and where your utilities will come into your kitchen. You want to mark where these items are going to be placed before you pour the foundation or start building on your existing foundation. If you are pouring a foundation, it’s important to position your piping, conduit, etc. before you pour concrete.

If you are not comfortable working with plumbing or electricity, it would be beneficial to consult with a plumber or electrician. You should always put safety first. A professional will also be able to install utilities according to your local code.

Creating a Level Surface

Building the Kitchen Structure

This is where your reclaimed wood outdoor kitchen starts to take shape. How exciting as it all starts coming together right in front of you!

Designing the Frame

Start by building a frame for your kitchen using sturdy reclaimed timbers. Think of it as a skeleton that you’ll flesh out later. Make sure everything is square and level – it’ll make your life much easier down the line.

Creating Storage

Adding Character

This is where you can let your creativity shine. Use smaller pieces of reclaimed wood to create interesting patterns or textures on your cabinet fronts. Maybe add a repurposed kitchen island for extra prep space and storage.

Installing Countertops and Appliances

Reclaimed wood outdoor kitchen with concrete countertops
Concrete countertops go well with reclaimed wood outdoor kitchens.

We’re in the home stretch now! Let’s make this kitchen functional.

Countertop Installation

Appliance Integration

Carefully measure and cut openings for your grill, refrigerator, and any other appliances. Make sure everything fits snugly and is properly secured. Safety is key when we’re dealing with outdoor kitchens!

Finishing Touches and Decor

Now for the fun part – making your rustic outdoor kitchen truly yours!

Protective Finishes

Apply a good quality outdoor sealant to all your wood surfaces. This will help protect your hard work from the elements and keep it looking gorgeous for years to come.

Lighting and Ambiance

Decor and Personal Touches

Add some personality with rustic outdoor kitchen accessories. Think vintage signs, potted herbs, or even an old-school chalkboard for your menu. You might even decide to add some weatherproofed conversational pieces. I always enjoy seeing a unique accent that has a story behind it. No matter what you do, make it a space you love spending time in!

Large reclaimed wood bar in a rustic outdoor kitchen.
Large rustic reclaimed wood bar.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just created a reclaimed wood rustic outdoor kitchen that’s not only beautiful and functional but also kind to the planet. From those first planning stages to the final decorative touches, you’ve poured your creativity and hard work into a space that’s uniquely yours. Now, it’s time to fire up that grill, invite some friends over, and take a step back to admire a job well done!

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much does it cost to build a reclaimed wood outdoor kitchen?

The cost can vary widely depending on size, materials, and appliances. A basic DIY setup might cost $2,000-$5,000, while more elaborate kitchens can range from $10,000-$30,000 or more.

Is reclaimed wood durable enough for outdoor use?

Yes, when properly treated and maintained. Many types of reclaimed wood, like old-growth timber, are actually more durable than new wood.

Do I need a permit to build an outdoor kitchen?

It depends on your local regulations. Always check with your local building department before starting construction.

How do I protect my reclaimed wood outdoor kitchen from the weather?

Can I build an outdoor kitchen on an existing deck?

Yes, as long as the deck is structurally sound and can support the additional weight. You may need to reinforce the deck in some areas.

How do I maintain my reclaimed wood outdoor kitchen?

Regular cleaning, re-sealing the wood annually, and covering it during harsh weather will help maintain its beauty and functionality.

What appliances should I include in my outdoor kitchen?

Essential appliances typically include a grill, refrigerator, and sink. Additional options might be a pizza oven, smoker, or ice maker, depending on your needs and budget.

How long does it take to build a reclaimed wood outdoor kitchen?

A DIY project could take anywhere from a few weekends to several months, depending on the complexity of the design and your available time.

Can I use reclaimed wood for the countertops in my outdoor kitchen?

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top