Setting up Your Outdoor Kitchen

• Grill – Cooking areas range from about 24-48 inches wide and 15-26 inches deep. A shelf or additional burner may add another 12 inches or so to the width. Be sure the grill is positioned so smoke blows away from your eating area.

• Eating Area – A table can range from 42x42-inch models that seat four to rectangular tables up to 96 in. long for six to eight people. It is preferable to allow at least 42 inches between the edge of the table and a wall, deck railing or other fixed object so there's room to walk behind those seated. As a safety precaution, tables need to be placed at least 60 inches from stairs, even if the eating area is just one level up. If you have selected an eating counter with high stools, allow at least 24 inches of counter width for each stool and plan on 15 inches of leg room under the counter.

• Counter space – Plenty of open counter top space is a must to prepare food and provide a holding area for a variety of items. Plan on 36 inches of counter on each side of the grill if possible. And to make food prep and cleanup easier, allow 18 to 24 inches of open space on both sides of a sink.  Adding shelves under the counters can give some added space as well.