Outdoor Kitchen on a Small Terrace

Not everyone has a large garden. Many of our customers live in townhouses, row houses, or apartments with terraces. The desire for an outdoor kitchen is there, but space is limited.

The good news: A compact terrace does not rule out a superb outdoor kitchen. You don't need a vast plot of land—you need a thoughtfully designed layout.

What Works on Small Terraces

Three principles will help you plan a kitchen on just a few square meters that delivers pure joy:

Linear Layout. Everything in a single row: grill, work surface, storage. Requires only 60 cm depth and fits against any wall.

Multifunctional Elements. A work surface that doubles as a bar. A base cabinet that combines waste separation and storage.

Vertical Storage. Shelves, hooks, and wall rails utilize height instead of floor space. This keeps the ground clear for easy movement.

Layout 1: The Kitchen Line (from 3 m²)

The simplest solution. Grill, work surface, and a base cabinet lined up along one wall. Ideal for narrow balconies or terraces.

Dimensions: From 200 cm width, 60 cm depth.

What Fits: Compact gas grill or plancha, 60 cm work surface, one to two base cabinets.

Tip: If the terrace is against the house wall, you can draw power directly from the indoor kitchen. This saves on installation costs.

Layout 2: The Corner Solution (from 5 m²)

Utilize two walls to form an L-shape. This creates more work surface and a natural flow of movement between prep and grilling.

Dimensions: From 180 cm per side, 60 cm depth.

What Fits: Grill, sink, work surface, two to three base cabinets.

Tip: The corner is perfect for a small sink or integrated waste bin.

Layout 3: The Island (from 6 m²)

A freestanding cooking island in the center of the terrace. Works only if you have space on all sides, but it brings a sense of generosity.

Dimensions: From 120 x 80 cm for the island, plus 80 cm clearance around.

What Fits: Grill with work surface on one side, storage underneath.

Tip: Adding bar stools to one side turns the kitchen into a gathering spot, even on a small surface.

Layout 4: The Wall Niche (from 4 m²)

If your terrace has a niche or recess, a compact kitchen unit fits perfectly there. The walls on either side provide wind protection and structure.

Dimensions: Variable, depending on the niche.

What Fits: Custom-tailored solution that optimally utilizes the space.

Tip: Niches are ideal for covering with an awning or small canopy.

Layout 5: The Foldaway Option (from 2 m²)

For the smallest terraces: A fold-down work surface that extends when needed, paired with a portable grill.

Dimensions: From 100 cm width when open.

What Fits: Folding table as work surface with storage underneath, portable grill alongside.

Tip: This solution is perfect as an entry point. Later, you can upgrade to a fixed layout.

What You Can Skip on Limited Space

Not everything that belongs in a large outdoor kitchen needs space on your terrace:

Refrigerator. If the indoor kitchen is nearby, a thermal container or cooler suffices. Saves 60 cm of valuable width.

Sink. Nice to have, but not essential. A bucket of water and the indoor basin do the job.

Large Grill. A compact two-burner gas grill or plancha is plenty for four to six people.

What You Shouldn't Compromise On

Work Surface. At least 60 cm clear next to the grill. Without prep space, every meal becomes stressful.

Lighting. Small terraces get dark quickly in the evening. An LED spot over the work surface makes a world of difference.

Storage. Even if compact: A closed base cabinet for accessories, spices, and cleaning supplies keeps the surface clear and the kitchen tidy.

Materials for Small Spaces

On a small terrace, furniture and kitchen are closer together. Choose materials that remain robust even in contact with water and heat. Stainless steel and ceramic are the top choices here, as they can be built slim and require minimal maintenance.

Avoid protruding handles or wide frames. The slimmer the construction, the more usable surface you retain.

Small Doesn't Mean Cheap

A compact outdoor kitchen often costs more per square meter than a large one. Planning, custom craftsmanship, and material quality remain the same, regardless of size.

Budget CHF 8,000 to 15,000 for a well-planned compact solution. That's less than a large kitchen, but the per-square-meter price is higher.