Outdoor Kitchens in Small Spaces: What You Can Achieve with 2 Metres
Think your deck is too small for an outdoor kitchen? Think again. Some of our most satisfying projects have been the most compact ones. Here's what's possible in 2 metres.
Outdoor Kitchens in Small Spaces: What You Can Achieve with 2 Metres
We hear it regularly: "Our deck is too small for an outdoor kitchen." And in most cases, it's simply not true.
Some of our most satisfying projects have been tight, clever, compact kitchens that pack serious function into a small footprint. A 2-metre run with the right cabinet selection can give you everything you actually need — without taking over the deck.
The 2-Metre Minimum Kitchen
What can you fit in 2 linear metres of cabinet? More than you'd think:
Option A: The BBQ-First Build
- •600mm BBQ cabinet
- •900mm door or drawer unit (storage)
- •450mm bar fridge cabinet
Total: 1,950mm. Benchtop over everything. Clean, functional, beautiful.
Option B: The Prep Kitchen
- •600mm sink cabinet (with undermount sink)
- •450mm bar fridge cabinet
- •900mm storage cabinet
Total: 1,950mm. Excellent for prep, drinks service, and cleanup.
Smart Design for Small Decks
Go Tall, Not Wide
A standard outdoor kitchen is 900mm tall (including benchtop). If you need more storage, we can add an overhead cabinet unit above the benchtop on one end — doubling the storage without increasing the footprint.
Choose the Right Door Style
On a small kitchen, detail matters more. Alloy Frame doors in a light colour make a compact kitchen feel open and intentional. A heavy, dark door can make the same cabinet run feel cramped.
Corner Thinking
If your deck has a corner position, even a small L-shape can dramatically increase bench space without using much more deck area. A 1.2m x 1.5m L-shape feels like a complete kitchen.
The Freestanding Option
If your deck genuinely can't accommodate a fixed cabinet run, we also build custom freestanding BBQ stations — a self-contained unit with a built-in BBQ and storage that can be positioned anywhere on the deck. This works particularly well for apartment balconies and courtyard spaces.
Don't Rule It Out Before Talking to Us
Send us a photo and a rough measurement. We've found workable solutions in spaces that initially seemed impossible. And if it genuinely won't work — we'll tell you honestly.
Start with the free planner or call 0482 088 410 to discuss your space.
— MJ Leckie Carpentry
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