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Oak & Wooden Dining Tables
Gather the family together around one of our expertly-crafted oak dining tables. Whether you're looking for a large oak dining table for hosting sophisticated dinner parties, or a small kitchen table for everyday use, you're sure to find something you love in this great range. All of our dining tables are made using the highest-quality oak and start from affordable prices, so you can shop with confidence.
Dining Table Shapes and Sizes
We have oak dining tables in all kinds of shapes for you to choose from. A standard rectangular dining table is a popular choice for any home, as it offers a great amount of space to relax and get together for an evening meal. For those who may be short on space, a square oak kitchen table is a practical choice. Compact enough to fit into kitchen corners but comfortable enough to enjoy a meal with family or friends, these smaller styles are a smart option.
For something a little more unusual, try an oval oak dining table. The smooth curves are sure to add a touch of mid-century modern charm to any dining room, perfect for those who like to stand out from the crowd with their home furnishings.
Choose from traditional natural oak finishes, painted options for a true farmhouse style, and even modern industrial options for a stripped-back look.
Dining Table Types
You'll also have a choice of sizes for your dining table, from smaller four-seat styles all the way up to 12 seat options, so you can shop with your space in mind.
If you're looking for a wood dining table that can suit you and the family but also accommodate those big special occasion dinners, look out for extendable dining tables in a number of styles. Extending dining tables are the ideal way to get the best of both worlds, and they are extremely easy to use.
How to Calculate the Best Table Size for Your Dining Room
ErikaWittlieb/CC0/Pixabay
Congratulations on your decision to get a new dining room table. Choosing a new style of table can change the whole vibe in your dining area. It's important to choose a table that fits the size of your room so there's room for everyone to walk around. Taking the time to measure the size of your dining room and comparing your open floor space to standard table sizes can help you choose a piece of furniture that's a good fit for your home.
Determine the Size of Your Dining Area
Hook the end of a tape measure to something solid against the wall, like the door trim, or have a helper hold the end against the wall. Measure all the way across the room to the opposite wall. Make a note of this size, and then repeat the measuring process on the other two walls in the room. Multiply the two numbers together to determine the size of the room in square feet. If you're choosing a dining table for a room in a house with an open floor plan, measure to the edge of the area where you want the dining area to end.
Draw the Room
Sketch the room on a sheet of grid paper or enter the dimensions in a 3D room layout planning tool. While a larger open space around the table gives a room a casual, airy feeling, allow a minimum of three feet around the perimeter of the room for walking space. The remaining space in the center of the room is the maximum to allow for a dining table. It's easier to fit a small table into a large room than it is to crowd an oversized table into a tiny room. If you have extra floor space available after placing your dining table, you can adjust the way it's positioned in the room to enhance the flow of foot traffic and increase visual appeal.
Consider Decor Elements Around the Room's Outer Edge
Some pieces of furniture are big enough they're hard to move, making them almost a permanent part of your floor plan. If there are other large furnishings around the outer edge of the room, such as a hutch or curio cabinet, be sure to include the dimensions of those items in your sketch and in your calculations.
The Role of Table Top Shapes in Choosing Table Size
This is a tip you may see at play if you look closely at tabletops for restaurants. This is because restaurant tables are often packed in snugly to provide seating for as many patrons as possible. When space is at a premium — for example if you have a small dining area and can't arrange it to leave floor space around the table — consider a round or oval table. The rounded edges of the tabletop can allow for foot traffic.
Consider a Table That Has a Leaf
Choosing a table that has a leaf is one easy way to accommodate an occasional large group while enjoying the coziness of a small table. Just add the leaf when guests are coming over and remove it when there's a smaller group present. Floor space may be tied up with the leaf is installed, but it's also freed up when you restore the table to its smaller leaf-free size.
Heavy Industrial workbench on cast iron base. Has been cleaned, waxed and polish and remains in good condition. France, early 20th century Size of this Industrial workbench with bl...
Category
Early 20th Century French Industrial Industrial and Work Tables
New Century Round Cast Iron Base with Marble Top Garden Table or Bistro Table
French style cast iron base with marble & brass top garden table or bistro table. The base it's black but you can choose the colors. Finely detailed cast iron base with white marbl...
Category
2010s Spanish French Provincial Patio and Garden Furniture
Materials
Marble, Iron, Brass
Antique Cast Iron Pedestal Base/Base ONLY
Located in
Great Barrington, MA
This listing is for the base only. The contemporary indoor or outdoor pedestal can be used in combination with a stone, glass or wood top for dining or conference table. The 19th c...
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century Unknown Baroque Dining Room Tables
Gervasoni Moon 40 Side Table with Cast Iron Base & Cast Aluminium Top
A bold combination of materials distinguishes the Moon 39/40/42 family of tables: available in different sizes, they have a blue ceramic base in the shape of an amphora, more or less...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Side Tables
Gervasoni Moon 42 Side Table with Cast Iron Base & Cast Aluminium Top
A bold combination of materials distinguishes the Moon 39/40/42 family of tables: available in different sizes, they have a blue ceramic base in the shape of an amphora, more or less...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Side Tables
Fancy Cast Iron Rectangular Table Base with Glass Top, circa 1930s
Located in
Pittsburgh, PA
Beautiful cast iron table has just been powder coated in a dark gun metal finish.
Category
Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Tables
Walnut Slab Dining Table with Cast Iron Base
Located in
Three Rivers, MA
Measures: 9' Long x 44" Wide. Live edge walnut with ossana legs. Tree is from Portland Oregon. Cast Iron base made in Rhode Island. This table is ready to ship.
Category
2010s Dining Room Tables
Solid Cast Iron Oak Barrel Cask Stand - Table Base, Circa 1850
Located in
Bainbridge, NY
Mid 19th Century Industrial solid Cast Iron Oak Stand - Table Stand. Wine. Beer. Original condition with subtle Victorian design details. Sturdy. Stable. Sculptural. Weighs 90 Pounds...
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century American Victorian Tables
English Pub Table With Wood Top and Cast Iron Base
An authentic English pub table from the 19th c., featuring a moulded round top of mahogany attached to an under-tier of cast iron with three cabriole legs showing cartouche cameo por...
Category
Antique 19th Century English Side Tables
Large Industrial Cherry Drafting Table Cast Iron Pedestal Base
Large, Industrial drafting table features a cherry top with cast iron, pedestal base that is height adjustable from 30 - 38 inches and tilt adjustable from horizontal to vertical. Dr...
Category
Early 20th Century American Industrial Industrial and Work Tables
Dining Table, Vintage Industrial Cast Iron Adjustable Base
Vintage Industrial adjustable dining table / desk base with floor style adjustments. Rescued from a pre-world war ii factory, this chain driven adjustable table has been fully restor...
Category
Early 20th Century Industrial Tables
French Cast Iron Bistro Table Base with Top Surround, circa 1900
This French cast iron bistro table base from the turn of the 20th century accompanied by a metal top surround perfect when outfitted with marble or mosaic. The iron base is detailed ...
Category
20th Century French Dining Room Tables
Round Pedestal Base Dining Table Solid Walnut Wood Cast Iron Amicalola Base
Located in
Birmingham, AL
The Amicalola base captures the room set against a round or oval table top. This pedestal base is hand cast by the artisans at Sloss Furnaces historic foundry in Birmingham to look b...
Category
2010s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Cast Iron French Pastry Style Scrolling "Butterfly" Dining Table Pedestal Base
Located in
Philadelphia, PA
Antique cast iron French pastry style black scrolling "Butterfly" dining table base. Item features impressive cast iron construction, four "butterfly wing" legs, fancy scroll work to...
Category
Early 20th Century Hollywood Regency Dining Room Tables
Gervasoni Moon 39 Side Table with Cast Iron Base & White Carrara Marble Top
A bold combination of materials distinguishes the Moon 39/40/42 family of tables: available in different sizes, they have a blue ceramic base in the shape of an amphora, more or less...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Side Tables
Gervasoni Moon 42 Side Table with Cast Iron Base & White Carrara Marble Top
A bold combination of materials distinguishes the Moon 39/40/42 family of tables: available in different sizes, they have a blue ceramic base in the shape of an amphora, more or less...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Side Tables
Antique Victorian Cast Iron Pedestal Base Paw Foot Coffee Side Table Base
Located in
Philadelphia, PA
Antique Victorian cast iron 21" pedestal base paw foot coffee side table base.***listing is for 1 base. Currently 2 available*** item features heavy cast iron construction, 4 shaped ...
Category
Early 20th Century North American Victorian Pedestals
Console Table with a Cast Iron Base and Original Marble Top
Located in
Washington, DC
A console table with a cast iron base and original marble top.
Category
Antique 19th Century French Console Tables
Mid Century Grey Marble Cafe Table with Cast Iron Base
Located in
Port Jervis, NY
Heavily veined dark grey marble 1 inch thick which sits atop a cast iron base in the form of dolphins.
Category
Vintage 1920s American Beaux Arts Dining Room Tables
Vintage Heavy Cast Iron French Rococo Style Ornate Dining Pedestal Table Base
Located in
Philadelphia, PA
Vintage heavy cast iron French rococo style ornate dining pedestal table base, circa mid-20th century. Measurements: Overall 25.5" H x 28" W x 25" D. Top 15.5" W x 14" D.
Category
Mid-20th Century North American Rococo Dining Room Tables
Articulating Gooseneck Table Lamp with Cast Iron Base c.1930
Located in
San Francisco, CA
About An antique gooseneck task lamp with aluminum shade, articulating arm and cast iron base. The light bends and adjusts on the arm. Price per piece. Creator: M. Brandt an...
Category
Early 20th Century Industrial Table Lamps
Live Edge Satin Walnut Dining Table on Cast Iron Black Patina Wishbone Base
Located in
Birmingham, AL
Our live edge dining table features the natural curves of this item's original form, a living tree! This beautiful piece of woodworking sits atop our iron Legacy Wishbone Base, hand ...
Category
2010s American American Craftsman Dining Room Tables
William Herrick Cast Iron Sewing Machine Base Desk Console Table Live Edge Top
Located in
Philadelphia, PA
Antique Victorian cast iron sewing machine base desk console table with "Bow-tie" live edge wood slab top, signed William F. Herrick. Item features ornate Victorian cast iron sewing ...
Category
Early 20th Century North American Victorian Console Tables
Dining Table Vintage Industrial Cast Iron Glass Adjustable Conference Desk Base
Stunning vintage industrial cast iron adjustable conference kitchen dining table desk base. The base is a piece of American industrial history that our designer, Tim Byrne, took unde...
Category
20th Century American Industrial Dining Room Tables
Eero Saarinen for Knoll Oval Top Tulip Dining Table Early Cast Iron Base
Earlier production Eero Saarinen Knoll cast iron base Tulip group dining table. White laminate top on lacquered base.
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Live Edge Light Blond Brown Dining Table on Cast Iron Black Patina Wishbone Base
Located in
Birmingham, AL
Our live edge dining table features the natural curves of this item's original form, a living tree in this unique natural light brown color. The wide planked top sits on our hand cas...
Category
2010s American American Craftsman Dining Room Tables
Round Pedestal Dining Table Solid Pecan Wood Top Cast Iron Amicalola Base
Located in
Birmingham, AL
The Amicalola base captures the room set against a round or oval table top. This pedestal base is hand cast by the artisans at Sloss Furnaces historic foundry in Birmingham to look b...
Category
2010s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Round Pedestal Dining Table Spalted Pecan Wood Top Cast Iron Amicalola Base
Located in
Birmingham, AL
The Amicalola base captures the room set against a round or oval table top. This pedestal base is hand cast by the artisans at Sloss Furnaces historic foundry in Birmingham to look b...
Category
2010s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Adjustable 'Task' Industrial Machinists Table Lamp with Cast Iron Base
Our vintage machinist's 'Task' lamp has been recently rewired. A beautiful oval cast iron base helps make this a very practical and useful table lamp. Full length is 45". Adjusts to ...
Category
Early 20th Century American Industrial Table Lamps
19th C English Oak Reading Table on Cast Iron Base with Ball and Claw Feet
Victorian English reading table in the style of the Patent "Adapta" Table made by the firm J Foot and Son of Bond Street, London. This company produced a number of unique and origina...
Category
Antique 1890s English Victorian Tray Tables
Live Edge Claro Walnut Slab Dining Table with Blackened Cast Iron Base
Located in
Three Rivers, MA
We specialize in slab tables like this. Live edge and refined, made for any space. This is a custom build and will take 12-14 weeks to complete. We will work with you on wood choices...
Category
2010s American Dining Room Tables
Cast Iron Base Table Lamp, Italy, 21st Century
Located in
Culver City, CA
Cast iron base table lamp, Italy, 21st century Black metal shade sits on adjustable brass neck with heavy base. Base measures 6.25" diameter Maximum height 27.5". *Please Note: Th...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Industrial Table Lamps
Materials
Metal, Brass, Iron
Industrial Antique Oak Artist Rendering Easel with Cast Iron Base
Small, antique, artist rendering easel table features an oak top on a tilt and height adjustable, cast iron, pedestal base that adjusts from 29 - 40 inches height.
Category
Early 20th Century American Industrial Industrial and Work Tables
Adjustable Chrome Table Lamp with Cast Iron Base
Adjustable chrome table lamp with cast iron base.
Category
Vintage 1970s European Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
19th Century French Belle Époque Cafe Table with Painted Cast Iron Base
19th century French Belle Époque cafe table with painted cast iron base is a remarkably detailed work of art! Under the unassuming round walnut top is where the magic begins, with de...
Category
Antique 1890s French Belle Époque End Tables
Industrial Modern Cast Iron Jax Base Solid Teak Marquetry Danish Coffee Table
By
Rolf Middelboe, Grom Lindum, Tranekær Furniture
Located in
Chattanooga, TN
Purchased in Denmark for 5705 Kroner and delivered to Miami Florida in 1973, this colossal coffee table has been with the original owners for nearly 50 years. We acquired it this sum...
Category
Vintage 1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Primitive 200 Epoxy Resin Dining Table with Cast Iron Geometric Base
Located in
Union City, NJ
The 'primitive 200 resin dining table' was made in Ankara, Turkey with walnut wood. The wood is kilned and dried prior to being filled with high-quality resin and has cast iron geome...
Category
2010s American Dining Room Tables
Antique Singer Sewing Machine Cast Iron Victorian Base Maple Console Desk Top
Located in
Philadelphia, PA
Antique singer sewing machine cast iron Victorian base maple console table desk top. Item features cast iron singer sewing machine base, wooden top with backsplash, very nice antique...
Category
Early 20th Century North American Victorian Console Tables
1920s Signed Samuel Yellin Cast Iron Three-Legged Stand or Base
Large Samuel Yellin signed forged iron Stand or base with three legs and a black finish. This can be seen at our 2420 Broadway location on the upper west side in Manhattan.
Category
Vintage 1920s American Center Tables
Antique Industrial Oak Artist Rendering Easel with Cast Iron Pedestal Base
Antique, Industrial, artist rendering easel table features an expandable, dark, oak top from 22 - 28.5 inches with a 6.5 inch lip and tilt and height adjustable, cast iron, pedestal ...
Category
Early 20th Century American Industrial Industrial and Work Tables
Adjustable Table Lamp with Cast Iron Base by Valenti, 1970s
Fully adjustable table lamp manufactured by Italian lighting specialist Valenti, probably in the 1970s. By loosening the black rotary knob, the position of the swivel arm can be c...
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal, Chrome, Iron
Gervasoni Gray 39 Table with Cast Iron Base & Black Walnut Top by Paola Navone
Gray 39 is a table with a round top, defined by the combination of natural painted solid Canaletto walnut; white, grey, black, ocean or dove-grey lacquered wood used for the top and ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Tables
Vintage Optometrist Swivel Table with Black Glass Top and Cast Iron Base, 1940s
Located in
San Antonio, TX
Vintage optometrist table. Heavy Industrial cast iron base that adjusts in height. Top swivels, or can be locked into place. Wooden top with thick black glass. Unknown maker. Good c...
Category
Mid-20th Century Canadian Mid-Century Modern Industrial and Work Tables
Naumann Cast Iron Victorian Sewing Machine Base with Wood Top Console Small Desk
Located in
Philadelphia, PA
Antique Naumann cast iron Victorian sewing machine base with wood top console small desk. Item features ornate Victorian cast iron sewing machine base with antique wooden top, marked...
Category
Early 20th Century North American Victorian Console Tables
Vintage Optometrist Swivel Table with Black Glass Top and Cast Iron Base, 1940s
Located in
San Antonio, TX
Vintage optometrist table. Heavy Industrial cast iron base that adjusts in height. Top swivels, or can be locked into place. Wooden top with thick black glass. Unknown maker. Good co...
Category
Mid-20th Century Canadian Mid-Century Modern Industrial and Work Tables
Large Antique Industrial Oak Artist Rendering Easel with Cast Iron Pedestal Base
Large, antique, industrial, artist rendering easel table features an expandable, oak top from 22.5-29 inches with a 6.5 inch lip on a tilt and height adjustable cast iron pedestal ba...
Category
Early 20th Century American Industrial Industrial and Work Tables
Guilt Ornate Cast Iron Base Dimond Shape Onyx Top Two-Tier Lamp Table Stand
Ornate cast iron onyx top table lamp stand.
Category
Antique 19th Century Rococo Revival End Tables
Round Cast Stone Top Metal Base Coffee Table
Located in
Great Barrington, MA
Organic cast stone top with leaf design on contemporary cast iron metal base coffee table. Wonderful patina. Great to use indoor or outdoor on porch patio or in the garden. Measures...
Category
20th Century European Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Mid Century Iron Base & Wood Top Drafting Table by Saxon C1955
Located in
Port Jervis, NY
Fabulous iron and steel base with a 31 x 42.25 inch top, 1 inch thick board framed with metal sides and a pencil tool holder up front. Raises up from 33.5 to 43. In excellent vintage...
Category
Vintage 1950s American Industrial Desks and Writing Tables
Hightop Table on Industrial Base
Located in
Haddonfield, NJ
Cafe bar table, made from a Industrial jigsaw wood cutter cast iron base and a steel frames wooden fragment from a old bowling lane.
Category
Antique 1880s American Industrial Industrial and Work Tables
French Cast Iron Vases or Table Lamps and Green Marble Base, 19th Century, Pair
A fine pair of neoclassical cast iron vases with green marble bases. Elegant base for a living room lamps as presented on the images with a black and gold lampshade and also a fine ...
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century French Table Lamps
French Cast Iron Vases or Table Lamps and Green Marble Base, 19th Century, Pair
A fine pair of neoclassical cast iron vases with green marble bases. Elegant base for a living room lamps as presented on the images with a black and gold lampshade and also a fine ...
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century French Table Lamps
French Cast Iron Vases or Table Lamps and Green Marble Base, 19th Century, Pair
A fine pair of neoclassical cast iron vases with green marble bases. Elegant base for a living room lamps as presented on the images with a black and gold lampshade and also a fine ...
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century French Table Lamps
French Cast Iron Vases or Table Lamps and Green Marble Base, 19th Century, Pair
A fine pair of neoclassical cast iron vases with green marble bases. Elegant base for a living room lamps as presented on the images with a black and gold lampshade and also a Fine ...
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century French Table Lamps
French Cast Iron Vases or Table Lamps and Green Marble Base, 19th Century, Pair
A fine pair of neoclassical cast iron vases with green marble bases. Elegant base for a living room lamps as presented on the images with a black and gold lampshade and also a fine ...
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century French Table Lamps
Eero Saarinen for Knoll Custom Black Stone Top on Early Tulip Table Base Base
Early Knoll cast iron base with custom ordered black stone top. Eero Saarinen for Knoll Tulip group table.
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Cast Stone with Inset Ceramic Tile Game Table with Cast Iron Base
Located in
Port Jervis, NY
Cast stone with inset black & white tile creating a wonderful outdoor chess game table. 2.25 inches thick top. Sitting on a cast iron base with dolphin base. In excellent vintage con...
Category
Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Patio and Garden Furniture
Materials
Cast Stone, Iron
Chrome Base Art Deco Bistro Speak Easy Tables as Found Four Available
Four Art Moderne or Deco bistro dinette tables. Chrome cast iron base with lacquered column supports square black lacquered tops. Top surfaces show wear. Chrome shows age and patina....
Category
Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Tables
Organic Free Form Gold Patina Metal Base Dining Table
Located in
Great Barrington, MA
Wonderfully sculptural gold toned freeform expressive amorphic modernist square table base. The table is both minimalist and dramatic. Can be paired with a top of your choice stone,...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Dutch Organic Modern Dining Room Tables
Table, Desk Base Vintage Industrial Adjustable Machine Age Crank Up Factory
Authentic original vintage industrial cast iron factory machine age crank up desk, table base. Adjustable in height by turning the crank wheel. Size and style options available. All ...
Category
Early 20th Century American Industrial Conference Tables
Materials
Metal, Steel, Iron
1
Cast Iron Table Base For Sale on 1stDibs
With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we've got just the cast iron table base you're looking for. Frequently made of metal, iron and wood, every cast iron table base was constructed with great care. There are 185 variations of the antique or vintage cast iron table base you're looking for, while we also have 20 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. You've searched high and low for the perfect cast iron table base — we have versions that date back to the 19th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. A cast iron table base is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Industrial, Mid-Century Modern and Victorian styles are sought with frequency. A well-made cast iron table base has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Eero Saarinen, Knoll and Hopes Woodshop are consistently popular.
How Much is a Cast Iron Table Base?
Prices for a cast iron table base can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $275 and can go as high as $28,000, while the average can fetch as much as $1,900.
Read More
In Guadalajara, These Luscious Side Tables Are Chiseled from Volcanic Rock
Use them as tables or stools, indoors or out.
How to Arrange Furniture + Layout Ideas
Here, we give design advice and show layout examples to help you create the perfect living room setup.
Why Hollywood A-Listers Can't Get Enough of James De Wulf's Concrete Furniture
Starting with a 900-pound Ping-Pong table, the Los Angeles designer has built a sturdy furniture-making career out of concrete.
35 Wondrous Outdoor Dining Spaces
Eating meals alfresco is one of the great pleasures of warm weather, and a beautifully appointed space only heightens the experience. Get inspired by these delectable dining areas as you think about creating your own outdoor oasis.
The Process: Scagliola Is the Swirly Faux Marble You Never Knew You Loved
The ancient decorative plaster still captivates as it did in the 17th century.
Christopher Norman Is Turning the Cast-Off Urban Trees of Los Angeles into Art
With a World War II–era milling machine, the California artist crafts poetic, sculptural furniture pieces.
19 Dreamy Feminine Bathrooms
To make a bathroom feel warm, serene and composed, adding feminine elements is the way to go. Featuring furry furniture, pops of pink and curated antiques, these sumptuous spaces are idyllic retreats in which to while away a few hours.
Ask an Interior Designer: Work-from-Home Edition
Leaping into a design project, whether it's refreshing the bedroom or redoing the whole house, can be overwhelming. Luckily, we know more than a few interior designers. You asked questions on Instagram, and now they're answering.
Movable A smart choice for small spaces that multitask—as cookout central one day and a garden hub the next. Start with a portable charcoal or gas grill fitted with heavy cast-iron or stainless-steel grates and an easy-to-clean grease trap. For storage and counter space, add a rolling cart with shelves. To avoid serving burgers tartare, buy a clip-on grill light.
Cost: $300 to $3,000
Prefab An all-in-one option for folks with more square footage and cash to spend. The basic setup (shown) typically includes a stucco-clad 5-foot island with tile counter, drop-in gas grill, and access doors for a propane tank. Extras, including granite counters, a refrigerator, and LED lighting, are ordered a la carte. DIYers can get cooking with a prefab island on delivery day.
Cost: $2,000 to $30,000
Custom A built-in-place kitchen, whether crafted by a pro or a handy homeowner, offers integrated appliances, storage, and counter space, as well as the most flexibility in terms of matching the kitchen's materials and style to its surroundings. A larger layout, extensive lighting, in-ground utilities, and a pergola-style roof add convenience but also raise the price.
Cost: $3,000 to $50,000 and up
Checklist: What to Do, When
Photo by Thomas J. Story
For movable kitchens, just roll and go. But for built-in ones with plumbing and electric, you'll likely need some help from the pros. Follow this game plan:
1. Hire a contractor (if needed)
2. Get permits
3. Gather materials
4. Run utility lines
5. Install hardscaping
6. Buy appliances
7. Add built-ins
8. Hook up lighting
Style: Traditional
Photo by Philip Harvey
A masonry base in the form of mortared brick and stone is classic. To tie it in with the house, choose a material and design, such as this running-bond brick pattern, that echoes your foundation walls or chimney.
Style: Contemporary
Photo by Michele Lee Willson/Arterra Landscape Architects
The style is characterized by sleek lines and polished finishes, such as granite and stainless steel. Here, ipe boards running in horizontal bands give dimension to the kitchen while also blending it with the wooded backdrop.
Style: Rustic
Photo by Caren Alpert
Texture and matte finishes impart a lived-in look. Here, stucco on the built-in base is tinted to mimic terra-cotta and to harmonize with the tones of a rough-stone counter. Earthy colors blend with the surrounding plantings.
Designer's Cheat Sheet
Illustration by Eric Larsen
To create a good-looking and efficient kitchen, follow these rules of thumb:
Configuration: Along One Wall
Illustration by Eric Larsen
Good for: Smaller, more budget-friendly spaces; outdoor kitchens for one cook, with a separate dining or seating area
Configuration: L-Shape
Illustration by Eric Larsen
Good for: Two or more cooks; incorporating extras, such as a sink or a refrigerator; providing a buffet, bar or seating area for entertaining
Configuration: U-Shape
Illustration by Eric Larsen
Good for: Freestanding kitchens with multiple appliances, including a grill, a refrigerator, and a sink, and a seating/bar/serving area
Configuration: Island
Illustration by Eric Larsen
Good for: Creating a hub for entertaining. Consider dividing with a raised counter so that grilling and prep are separate from socializing.
3 Reasons to Stay Close to the House
Photo by Karen Bussolini
1. Convenience: You won't have to haul food and supplies across the lawn. An ideal location is 15 to 20 feet from your indoor kitchen. Stay cool by placing seating where guests won't be facing the intense rays of the setting sun.
2. Budget: It's less expensive to run utilities a short distance from the house. You can also save on paving by building on an existing patio or deck by the back door.
3. Shelter: The walls of the house can provide structure and protection—at no extra cost. If under an overhang, avoid the smokehouse effect by placing the grill near the roof's perimeter.
No-Fuss Materials: Built-in Base
Photo by Mark Lohman
Cultured-stone veneer
Why: Mortared to a wood, concrete-block, or precast-concrete frame, it looks like and lasts as long as natural stone but is simpler to DIY because it's lightweight and easy to cut.
Price: $5 to $25 per square foot uninstalled
Brick
Why: Affordable and a cinch to maintain. Requires careful prep, and you may have to cut bricks to fit. But if you've got basic masonry skills, it's a good weekend project.
Price: $3 to $6 per square foot uninstalled
Stucco
Why: Troweled onto a wood, concrete-block, or precast-concrete frame, it's a hard-wearing and flameproof finish that comes in colors.
Price: $4 to $9 per square foot uninstalled
No-Fuss Materials: Cabinetry
Photo by Wendell T. Webber
Stainless steel
Why: It's durable and weatherproof and matches the grill.
Price: About $200 for doors hinged to a face frame (shown) or $500 for a full 18-inch base unit with drawer and door
Marine-grade polymer
Why: Has the charm of painted wood, but won't rot and is maintenance-free—just hose it down to clean it.
Price: Starts at $600 for a semi-custom 18-inch base unit with a door
Teak
Why: Offers a warm, classic look. Must be finished annually with a clear sealer.
Price: About $75 per door, not including hinges or a face frame, or $750 for a full 18-inch base unit with a door
No-Fuss Materials: Countertop
Photo by Fuse/Getty Images
Granite
Why: Stands up to the elements, won't stain as easily as marble, soapstone, or slate, and shouldn't fade in the sun.
Price: $50 to $100 per square foot for slabs installed
Concrete
Why: Lends a clean, contemporary look but can be prone to cracking if not properly installed. Not DIY-friendly. Must be sealed and resealed annually.
Price: About $50 to $100 per square foot for a custom-poured slab
Outdoor-rated ceramic tile
Why: Thrifty, good for DIYers, and offers a range of styles and colors. Best in regions where freezing and thawing won't damage grout lines.
Price: $3 to $10 per square foot uninstalled
Worth the Splurge
Photo by Caren Alpert
They're not necessities, but they make cookouts more enjoyable
Sink: The ease and sanitary benefit of washing hands and veggies without schlepping inside makes it worth the investment for not just the sink but also for plumbing and waste lines; about $1,800 total.
Dedicated gas line: If you have natural gas, run a line from the house so as not to struggle with a propane tank or run out of fuel during a BBQ; $300 to $900, depending on the distance to the grill.
Also Worth the Splurge
Photo by Mark Lohman
Extra burner: Ideal for side dishes. Some grills come with one, but be sure there's enough space to fit your pots. A separate burner is about $500, plus installation. Plug-in induction ones that stow away when not in use start at $200.
Refrigerator: A stainless-steel undercounter unit keeps cold drinks and ingredients within reach of the grill. Tack on $600 to the cost of a $300 fridge for a new in-ground electrical line to power it.
How to Avoid Pulling a Permit
Photo by Andrew McCaul
Some towns don't require one for prefab grill islands. But to eliminate any guesswork—and ensure that your project won't trigger a tax hike—opt for a movable kitchen with a rolling grill, a cart, and an outdoor extension cord for electricity.
Prevent Fires
Illustration by Eric Larsen
How to ensure your new cook center won't endanger you—or your home:
Grill: Position it at least 10 feet from combustible materials, such as wood siding, deck rails, and tree branches, and build in storage for a fire extinguisher.
Gas: Check the line for leaks. Mix 1 part dish soap to 2 parts water. Brush the solution on the hose and connector fittings. Turn on the gas, but don't light the grill. If new bubbles form, you have a leak. Tighten the fittings; if that fails, replace the hose and fittings.
Electric: GFCI outlets are required; it's also good to put the kitchen on its own circuit, one that's easily accessible via the control panel in your house. Use only extension cords, fans, and lights that have Underwriters Laboratories (UL) outdoor ratings, because they stand up to UV exposure and extreme temperatures.
Party-Ready Appliances
Illustration by Eric Larsen
If you like: Fries with your burger
Consider: A deep fryer.
Large capacity handles finger foods and the Thanksgiving bird.
About $140; Bed Bath & Beyond
If you like: Cold ones on tap
Consider: A kegerator.
A keg on wheels that moves the party right to the grill.
About $495; Amazon
If you like: Maryland crab feasts
Consider: A tripod-style burner.
High firepower boils deep pots of crustaceans.
About $49; Cajun Grocer
More Party-Ready Appliances
Illustration by Eric Larsen
If you like: Family-style Italian
Consider: A pizza oven.
Authentic wood-fired dome serves up a rustic slice.
About $1,900; Sur La Table
If you like: Slow-cooked ribs
Consider: A smoker.
Propane provides the heat and wood chips make the smoke.
About $170; Bass Pro Shops
If you like: Frozen margaritas
Consider: An ice maker.
A no-plumb chiller relies on a water reservoir to make cubes.
About $386; BBQ Guys
Roof: Pergola
Photo by Look Photography/Getty Images
A cedar or pressure-treated wood pavilion runs $5 to $15 per square foot. A slatted or lattice roof offers ventilation, but for more coverage, top with clear acrylic or galvanized metal.
Roof: Awning
Photo by Courtesy of Solair
For a kitchen off the house, a simple-to-retrofit option is an awning, from about $500 for an 8-foot-wide manually operated model.
Shown: Solair Shade Solutions retractable awning, with Sunbrella fabric. Find a retailer near you.
Roof: Umbrella
Photo by Tria Giovan
For a movable kitchen, get a sturdy and versatile cantilever style with fiberglass ribs and a 50-pound base to withstand wind; $200 to $300 for both. For a built-in kitchen, consider adding a hole in the counter through which to slip the umbrella post.
The Best Dining Setups For...
Photo by Blend images/Intl. St. Clair/Getty Images
Family gatherings: Plan seating for six to eight around a table that's about 96 inches long (shown). Ideally, allow 42 inches between the edge of the table and a wall or other obstruction so that there's room to push back chairs and walk behind those who are seated.
Intimate meals: A bistro set offers space-saving and portable lightweight seating for two, while a 42-inch round or square table provides enough elbow room for four.
Entertaining with friends: Just as guests congregate in the indoor kitchen, they'll gather around the grill outside. Give them a place to perch—and keep them out of the cooking zone—with a freestanding pub table and stools. For built-in kitchens with a peninsula or for grill islands, add a breakfast-bar-style overhang that's 15 inches deep for a 36-inch high counter, or 12 inches for a 42-inch one, to allow enough space for knees.
Make a Three-Prong Lighting Plan
Provide task lighting, such as a clip-on grill light or a standing lamp, for cooking and work areas. Ambient illumination at seating areas, in the form of all-weather string lights or rechargeable LED tea lights, will set the mood. And, for safety, consider spots or solar-powered stakes along paths leading to your open-air kitchen, riser lights for deck stairs, and an overhead lantern where you enter the house.
Add-Ons: Portable Heater
Stay warm and extend the BBQ season with this 46,000-Btu propane unit; no electricity required. Wheels make it easy to move.
About $235; special order at Lowe's
Add-Ons: Fold-Up Bench
Storage shelves, a lattice back for hanging utensils, and ample counter space make this collapsible fir potting bench an ideal bar or serving station.
About $127; Wayfair
Add-Ons: Dual-Use Fan
Keeps skeeters at bay while the breeze and built-in misters keep you cool.
About $70; Amazon
Add-Ons: Rolling Cooler
Supplement a fridge or forgo one entirely with this powder-coated 80-quart cooler that wheels up to the grill, then locks in place.
About $210; Patiostore.com
Add-Ons: No-Plumb Sink
This wall-mount vessel hooks up to a hose to create a cold-water washing station. Divert wastewater to garden beds with a second hose.
About $100; Improvements
Winterizing 1-2-3
Illustration by Eric Larsen
When temperatures get near freezing, you may need to close up shop for the winter. Here's how:
1. Clean and cover the grill.
2. Turn off and unplug all other appliances, such as a fridge.
3. Shut off the water supply, and flush any remaining water from the pipes. (This is easiest if your plumber installs a gravity-based winterization system; otherwise, you'll have to pump the water out.)
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