Why Now Is the Best Time to Plan Your Outdoor Kitchen

Custom outdoor kitchen projects typically take 3-6 months from initial design consultation to final installation. Starting your planning in February or March means your outdoor cooking space will be ready for summer entertaining, avoiding the peak season rush when lead times extend significantly. With improved access via Junction 10 of the M25 (roadworks now complete), visiting Kitchen in the Garden at Cedar Nursery in Cobham has never been easier.

Understanding the Outdoor Kitchen Planning Timeline

The journey from concept to completion involves three distinct phases, each requiring careful attention to detail and proper scheduling.

The Design Phase (4-6 weeks)

Your outdoor kitchen journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at our Cobham showroom, where you can experience working displays and discuss your specific requirements with our expert designers. This phase includes site assessment, bespoke design development, material selection, and appliance specification. Our team works with you to create detailed plans that consider your cooking style, entertainment needs, and garden layout.

During this period, we'll also address any planning permission requirements, though most outdoor kitchens fall under permitted development rights. The proximity to RHS Wisley provides excellent inspiration for integrating your outdoor kitchen with your broader garden design.

The Preparation Phase (2-4 weeks)

Once your design is finalised, we coordinate the groundwork and utilities planning. This includes arranging gas, electric, and water connections, preparing drainage systems, and scheduling material deliveries. Our efficient delivery network ensures everything arrives when needed, whilst our technical support team handles the complex logistics of coordinating multiple trades.

Base preparation is crucial for long-term stability, particularly with heavier elements like pizza ovens or substantial stone worktops. Proper preparation during this phase prevents delays during installation.

The Installation Phase (4-8 weeks)

The installation timeline varies depending on complexity, but typically includes foundation work, structure assembly, appliance installation, and final commissioning. Weather-dependent activities like concrete work and external connections are best completed during milder spring months, avoiding both winter complications and summer heat.

Our professional installation network ensures quality workmanship throughout, with comprehensive testing and commissioning before handover. You'll receive full training on your new equipment, ensuring confidence from day one.

Why February/March Is Your Sweet Spot

Beat the Summer Rush

Demand for outdoor kitchen installations increases dramatically from April onwards as homeowners prepare for summer entertaining. Starting your project in February or March secures better availability of preferred materials and brands, plus more flexible installation scheduling. Lead times that might be 6-8 weeks in February can extend to 12-16 weeks by May.

Early planning also means access to the full range of our high-end brands and accessories. Popular items often experience stock shortages during peak season, potentially compromising your ideal design.

Optimal Weather Conditions

Spring weather provides ideal conditions for outdoor construction work. Groundwork is easier in drier conditions, concrete cures properly without extreme temperatures, and installation teams can work efficiently without summer heat constraints. This timing also allows proper testing and adjustment before your first summer gatherings.

Materials like natural stone and stainless steel benefit from gradual weather exposure rather than immediate summer intensity. Your outdoor kitchen will be properly seasoned and ready for heavy use.

Perfect Timing for Summer Entertaining

A February start means completion by May, giving you the entire summer season to enjoy your investment. You'll be ready for bank holiday gatherings, confident in your equipment, and able to host memorable summer parties. This timing also allows you to become familiar with your outdoor kitchen's capabilities before peak entertaining season.

The Kitchen in the Garden Advantage

Unmatched Accessibility

Located within Cedar Nursery in Cobham, Surrey, we're perfectly positioned for the South London and Surrey market. Junction 10 of the M25 provides excellent access - and with recent roadworks now complete, visiting our showroom is easier than ever. We're less than 5 miles from RHS Wisley, making us an ideal stop during your garden planning visits.

This central location serves customers across Surrey, South London, and the wider South region, with efficient delivery throughout the area.

Expertise You Can Trust

We maintain the largest selection of outdoor kitchens in the South, featuring high-end brands and quality accessories that represent genuine long-term investments. Our bespoke design service creates solutions tailored specifically to your space, cooking style, and budget.

Our reliable technical support extends beyond installation, ensuring your outdoor kitchen performs optimally for years to come. We also offer cookery masterclasses, helping you maximise your investment through expert technique development.

From Vision to Reality

Our showroom experience allows you to see, touch, and experience working outdoor kitchens before making decisions. This hands-on approach ensures your final installation meets expectations, with materials and appliances you've personally evaluated.

Our experienced designers understand both the technical requirements and lifestyle aspirations that drive outdoor kitchen projects. We'll guide you through material choices, appliance specifications, and design details that create genuinely functional outdoor cooking spaces.

Your Outdoor Kitchen Planning Questions Answered

How long does it take to plan and install an outdoor kitchen?

Custom outdoor kitchen projects typically take 3-6 months from initial design consultation to final installation. This includes 4-6 weeks for design development, 2-4 weeks for preparation and ordering, and 4-8 weeks for installation. Starting in February or March ensures your outdoor kitchen is ready for summer entertaining.

Is an outdoor kitchen worth it in the UK climate?

Absolutely. Modern outdoor kitchens are designed for year-round use in the UK climate. With proper weatherproofing, quality materials, and optional heating elements, you can extend your outdoor cooking season from March through October. The investment adds significant value to your property and transforms how you entertain.

What's the best time of year to install an outdoor kitchen?

Spring (March-May) is ideal for installation. The weather is mild enough for groundwork, materials cure properly, and you avoid the summer rush. By planning in February/March, your installation can be completed in time for summer entertaining. Autumn is also suitable, giving you a head start for the following season.

Do I need planning permission for an outdoor kitchen?

Most outdoor kitchens fall under permitted development rights and don't require planning permission. However, if you're adding a permanent structure, roof, or making significant changes to a listed building or conservation area, you may need approval. Our team can advise on your specific situation during the design consultation.

How much does a custom outdoor kitchen cost?

Outdoor kitchen costs vary significantly based on size, materials, appliances, and features. A basic setup with a quality BBQ and worktop starts from around £3,000-£5,000, whilst comprehensive custom installations with premium appliances, pizza ovens, and full cabinetry range from £10,000-£30,000+. We offer solutions across all budgets with transparent pricing.

What should I include in my outdoor kitchen?

Essential elements include a quality BBQ or grill, preparation surfaces, storage, and weather-resistant materials. Popular additions include pizza ovens, sinks with running water, refrigeration, outdoor heating, and covered dining areas. Consider how you'll use the space - whether for quick family meals or elaborate entertaining - and plan accordingly.

Professional Planning Tips

Start with Your Space

Assess your available area and observe sun and shade patterns throughout the day. Consider prevailing wind direction, which affects both cooking comfort and smoke management. Plan for utilities access, including gas, electric, and water connections. Think about proximity to your indoor kitchen for convenience, and account for adequate seating and circulation space around cooking areas.

Design for Your Cooking Style

Are you a weekend BBQ enthusiast or a serious outdoor chef? Consider your entertainment frequency, typical guest numbers, and preferred cooking methods. Whether you favour simple grilling, smoking, pizza making, or complex meal preparation will significantly influence your equipment choices and layout design.

Don't Forget the Details

Adequate lighting for evening cooking is essential - consider both task lighting for food preparation and ambient lighting for dining. Weather protection through pergolas or canopies extends usability. Plan storage for utensils, accessories, and cleaning supplies. Include waste management solutions and ensure comfortable food preparation height, typically 90-95cm for most users.

Future-Proof Your Investment

Allow space for potential expansion as your outdoor cooking interests develop. Choose quality materials and appliances that will perform reliably for decades. Consider features that add resale value, plan for technology integration, and select timeless design elements that won't look dated in ten years.

Take the First Step Towards Your Dream Outdoor Kitchen

Planning your outdoor kitchen now ensures summer readiness whilst avoiding the peak season rush that extends lead times and limits material availability. The 3-6 month timeline from design to completion makes February and March the optimal starting months for summer entertaining.

Kitchen in the Garden's position within Cedar Nursery in Cobham offers unmatched accessibility via the M25, with Junction 10 access now improved following completion of recent roadworks. Our proximity to RHS Wisley makes us an ideal stop during your garden planning visits.

With the South's largest selection of outdoor kitchens, expert bespoke design service, and comprehensive technical support, we guide you through every stage of creating your perfect outdoor entertaining space. Our showroom displays allow you to experience working installations firsthand, ensuring confident decision-making.

Visit Kitchen in the Garden at Cedar Nursery in Cobham to browse our extensive displays, speak with our expert designers, and begin planning your outdoor kitchen today. Book a design consultation or call our team to discuss your project requirements and timeline. Start your journey to the perfect outdoor cooking space this spring.