Hey, I’m Andrew Martin, and I’ve been working on hardscaping and outdoor living spaces for years. Designing and building outdoor kitchens has always been one of my favorite parts of the job. There’s just something about creating a space where families and friends can gather, cook, and make memories under the open sky. If you’re dreaming of an outdoor kitchen for your Tennessee backyard, I’ve got you covered with tips, tricks, and a step-by-step guide to making it happen. Why Build an Outdoor Kitchen in Tennessee? Tennessee has some of the most beautiful weather—mild winters, gorgeous spring and fall seasons, and warm summers that beg for outdoor activities. An outdoor kitchen lets you enjoy every bit of it while taking your backyard to the next level. Plus, let’s be real: nothing beats grilling steaks or baking pizzas outside while your family or friends hang out around the fire pit. Not only is an outdoor kitchen practical, but it also adds serious value to your home. It’s like creating an extension of your living space, and it’s perfect for entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a tailgate for the Titans or just having a chill evening with the family, an outdoor kitchen is the ultimate flex. Step 1: Plan Your Outdoor Kitchen Like a Pro The key to a perfect outdoor kitchen is thoughtful planning. Think about how you’ll use the space and what features are most important to you. Here are some things to consider: Location Matters Pick a spot in your backyard that makes sense. It should be close enough to the house for easy access (think about running inside for extra napkins or ingredients), but not so close that smoke from the grill wafts into your living room. If you’ve got a killer view of the Tennessee hills or a pool, position your kitchen to take advantage of that. Size and Layout Your outdoor kitchen doesn’t have to be massive, but it should fit your lifestyle. Are you the type to host big BBQ parties, or do you mostly cook for your family? Based on your needs, you can choose a layout like: Linear: Everything in a straight line. Great for smaller spaces. L-Shaped: Offers more counter space and separates cooking from prep or serving areas. U-Shaped: Perfect for the ultimate outdoor chef who wants all the bells and whistles. Utilities Plan ahead for gas, water, and electricity. If you’re adding a grill, smoker, sink, fridge, or lighting, you’ll need to think about how to run utilities to the space. Hiring professionals to help with this part is always a good call. Step 2: Choose the Right Materials Outdoor kitchens need to be built with materials that can handle Tennessee’s weather—hot summers, occasional snow in the winter, and plenty of rain. Here are some durable and stylish options: Countertops You’ll want something that can take the heat (literally). Granite is a top choice because it’s tough, looks great, and is easy to clean. Concrete is another solid option if you’re going for a modern or rustic vibe. Cabinetry Stainless steel is the MVP for outdoor kitchens. It’s weather-resistant, durable, and gives your space a sleek, professional look. You can also go with weather-treated wood or composite materials for a more natural feel. Flooring Go for non-slip materials like stamped concrete, natural stone, or pavers. They’re safe, durable, and look amazing. Bonus: they’re easy to maintain and clean up after spills or rainy days. Step 3: Add the Must-Have Features Now let’s talk about the fun stuff—the actual features of your outdoor kitchen. Here’s what I recommend: Grill and Cooking Station The grill is the heart of any outdoor kitchen. Choose one that fits your cooking style. Gas grills are convenient, but if you’re a flavor fanatic, a charcoal grill or smoker might be more your speed. Sink and Prep Space A sink makes cooking and cleaning way easier. Combine that with plenty of counter space for prepping food, and you’ll feel like a pro chef. Refrigeration A built-in mini fridge or even a beverage cooler is a game-changer. No more running inside to grab drinks or keep food cold. Pizza Oven If you’ve got the budget, a wood-fired pizza oven is next-level cool. It’s perfect for making pizzas, bread, or even roasting veggies. Storage Add drawers, cabinets, or even a pantry area to keep utensils, plates, and cooking tools close at hand. Bar Seating Adding a bar top with stools gives your guests a place to chill while you cook. It’s a great way to combine functionality with a social vibe. Step 4: Create the Atmosphere A great outdoor kitchen isn’t just about cooking—it’s about creating a space where people want to hang out. Here’s how to nail the vibe: Lighting Good lighting is essential. Add task lighting for cooking areas, ambient lighting for the dining space, and maybe some string lights or lanterns for a cozy touch. Shade and Shelter Tennessee summers can get hot, so think about adding a pergola, retractable awning, or even a full roof over your kitchen. This also protects your space from rain, so you can use it year-round. Fire Features A fire pit or outdoor fireplace is perfect for those cool Tennessee evenings. It adds warmth and makes your space feel like the ultimate hangout spot. Sound System Bluetooth speakers or an outdoor sound system let you set the mood with music, whether you’re hosting a party or just grilling for the family. Decor Add some personality with outdoor rugs, plants, and weather-resistant furniture. These finishing touches make your outdoor kitchen feel like an extension of your home. Step 5: Hire a Pro (or DIY If You’re Confident) Building an outdoor kitchen is a big project, and getting it done right takes some expertise. I’ve been designing and building outdoor spaces for years, and I can tell you firsthand that planning and execution are everything. If you’re a DIY kind of person, start small—maybe a grill island or a simple counter setup—and build from there. But if you want something custom, functional, and built to last, hiring a professional team is the way to go. At Martin Outdoor Living, we specialize in creating outdoor spaces that fit your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Bonus Tips for Tennessee Outdoor Kitchens Plan for All Seasons Adding a patio heater, ceiling fans, or even outdoor curtains can make your kitchen usable year-round. Tennessee weather is unpredictable, so it’s worth investing in features that make your space adaptable. Think About Drainage Tennessee can get heavy rains, so make sure your outdoor kitchen has proper drainage to avoid water pooling or damaging your materials. Add a Green Touch Consider incorporating a small herb garden into your design. Fresh basil, rosemary, and thyme are perfect for outdoor cooking, and they’ll thrive in Tennessee’s climate. Final Thoughts Creating the perfect outdoor kitchen for your Tennessee backyard is all about balancing functionality, durability, and style. With the right planning and features, you’ll have a space that not only looks amazing but also becomes the go-to spot for gatherings, celebrations, and everyday family dinners. If you’re ready to take your backyard to the next level, I’d love to help. With years of experience in hardscaping and outdoor projects, I know what it takes to build a kitchen that’s not just beautiful but built to last. Let’s make your dream outdoor kitchen a reality! Feel free to reach out, and let’s get started. See y’all outside! — Andrew Martin Owner, Martin Outdoor Living
As a lifelong Middle Tennessee resident and someone who’s been working in hardscaping and landscaping for as long as I can remember, I know how much homeowners here value their outdoor spaces. Whether you’re in Franklin, Murfreesboro, Brentwood, or anywhere in between, creating a beautiful and functional backyard is a game-changer for entertaining, relaxing, or simply enjoying the outdoors. At Martin Outdoor Living, we specialize in designing and building small, custom patios that fit your lifestyle and enhance your space without feeling overwhelming. When I was growing up, I spent summers helping out in landscaping jobs, and that experience taught me the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Now, as the owner of Martin Outdoor Living, I bring that same dedication to every project we take on. Today, I want to share five patio ideas to inspire your backyard transformation. Whether you’re looking for a cozy corner retreat or a space that’s perfect for entertaining, these ideas are all about making the most of your outdoor area. 1. Cozy Corner Retreats Sometimes, less is more. A small, thoughtfully designed patio tucked into a corner of your yard can become your go-to spot for relaxing after a long day. Picture this: a cozy seating area with weather-resistant cushions, a couple of decorative planters filled with your favorite flowers, and string lights overhead to set the mood. Adding a pergola or lattice wall can give you just the right amount of privacy without making the space feel closed off. Plus, these features add a touch of architectural interest to your yard. One of my favorite projects was for a homeowner in Brentwood who wanted a quiet spot to unwind with a book and a cup of coffee. We created a corner retreat with a small pergola, climbing plants, and a water feature. The sound of running water instantly made the space feel more serene. It’s those little personal touches that take a patio from good to great. If you’re thinking about creating your own retreat, think about how you’ll use the space and what elements will make it feel uniquely yours. 2. Integrated Fire Pits There’s just something about gathering around a fire pit that makes any evening feel special. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows with the kids or sharing stories with friends, a fire pit adds warmth and ambiance to your backyard. For smaller spaces, an integrated fire pit with built-in seating is a great way to maximize functionality. Gas-powered fire pits are a low-maintenance option that’s easy to use, but if you’re like me and love the smell of a wood-burning fire, that’s always an option too. We recently worked on a project in Spring Hill where the homeowners wanted a space to host friends during cooler months. We built a circular patio with a gas fire pit in the center, surrounded by curved stone benches. To tie everything together, we added some accent lighting to highlight the fire pit and seating area. It’s a setup that’s both practical and inviting. If you’re considering a fire pit, think about what kind of seating you’ll need and how it fits into the overall flow of your patio. 3. Multi-Level Patios If your backyard isn’t perfectly flat, don’t see it as a challenge—see it as an opportunity. Multi-level patios are a great way to work with the natural contours of your yard while creating distinct zones for different activities. For example, you could have one level for dining, another for lounging, and maybe even a separate spot for grilling. Retaining walls can help define each level and add some extra seating or planting space. We’ve done a lot of work in areas like Hendersonville, where hilly terrain is common. One project that stands out was for a family who wanted a patio that blended seamlessly with their sloped yard. We used natural stone to create two levels, connected by wide steps with built-in lighting. The upper level had a dining area with a pergola, while the lower level featured a fire pit and seating area. It’s amazing how a multi-level design can make your yard feel larger and more functional. 4. Paver Patterns The right paver design can take a simple patio and make it a showstopper. At Martin Outdoor Living, we’re all about using patterns and colors that complement your home’s style and add visual interest. Herringbone, basketweave, and circular patterns are all popular options that can give your patio a unique look. For an extra touch of style, consider using contrasting border pavers to frame the design. One of my favorite paver projects was for a homeowner in Franklin who wanted their patio to stand out. We used a mix of gray and tan pavers in a herringbone pattern, with a darker border to tie it all together. The result was a patio that felt modern yet timeless. Pavers are also incredibly durable and low-maintenance, making them a great choice for any outdoor space. 5. Outdoor Lighting Lighting is one of those details that can make or break your patio’s overall vibe. It’s not just about safety—although that’s important—it’s about creating an atmosphere. Low-voltage lighting can highlight your patio’s best features, like planters, seating areas, or pathways, while also making the space more inviting. Solar-powered lights or LED options are great for energy efficiency. I worked on a project in Murfreesboro where the homeowners loved hosting evening get-togethers. We installed soft, warm lighting along the pathways and added uplighting to highlight the trees and planters around the patio. The result was a backyard that looked just as beautiful at night as it did during the day. If you’re planning a patio project, don’t underestimate the power of good lighting. Let’s Build Your Dream Patio No matter what kind of patio you have in mind, Martin Outdoor Living is here to bring your vision to life. As someone who’s been doing this work for most of my life, I take pride in helping homeowners create outdoor spaces that are both functional and stunning. Whether you want a cozy corner for quiet evenings or a multi-level patio for entertaining, we’ve got the expertise to make it happen. If you’re ready to transform your backyard into an oasis, let’s talk. We’ll work with you to design a patio that fits your space, your style, and your budget. At the end of the day, our goal is to create something you’ll love for years to come. Reach out to Martin Outdoor Living, and let’s get started!
Hey there, Andrew Martin here, owner of Martin Outdoor Living. I’ve been working in hardscaping and landscaping for most of my life, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that investing in a paver patio is one of the best decisions you can make for your home. For us in Middle Tennessee, a well-designed patio isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a lifestyle improvement. At Martin Outdoor Living, we believe in being upfront with our customers. That’s why we offer transparent pricing on our basic patio packages to help you make an informed choice. Let’s break down what goes into the cost and what you can expect from us. What Influences the Cost? Size: The size of your patio plays a big role in determining the cost. Larger patios require more materials and labor, so a cozy patio for intimate gatherings will naturally cost less than a sprawling, multi-zone space designed for entertaining. Materials: Your choice of materials also impacts the price. Premium options like natural stone are more expensive than standard concrete pavers, but they offer unmatched durability and aesthetic appeal. Investing in high-end materials can be well worth it in the long run if you’re looking for something truly special. Design Complexity: Custom patterns, unique layouts, or multi-level patios will add to the cost. These designs often take additional time, expertise, and attention to detail to execute properly, but they’re what can take your patio from functional to breathtaking. What’s Included in a Basic Package? When you choose Martin Outdoor Living, you’re getting more than just a patio. Our basic packages typically include: Site Preparation and Grading: We make sure the ground is perfectly prepped for long-lasting results. Installation of High-Quality Pavers: We use materials that are both durable and visually stunning. Edging and Borders: These details give your patio a polished, finished look. Optional Sealing: For added protection against the elements, sealing is available as an option. Why Quality Matters Look, I get it. Budget options can be tempting. But when corners are cut, you’re often left with problems like uneven surfaces, poor drainage, or patios that just don’t hold up over time. At Martin Outdoor Living, we focus on delivering top-notch craftsmanship and using materials that stand the test of time. A well-built patio isn’t just a beautiful addition to your home—it’s a long-term investment in your property’s value and your own enjoyment. By understanding what goes into your patio’s pricing, you can see the value in choosing quality work. We’re here to help you create a space that fits your vision and your budget without compromising on excellence. Let’s talk about your project and find the perfect patio package for your needs. Reach out to Martin Outdoor Living today, and let’s get started on building something incredible for your home. Sincerely, Andrew Martin Martin Outdoor Living