How to build outdoor kitchen countertop?

WhichAisle

Hello

I'm looking into building a small countertop (yet to decide on brick or wood frame) and need advice about the footings.

The pavers drop down slightly (by 25mm) away from the building, so the floor is not quite level.

I'm not sure how to best approach this.

Do I need to make a small concrete slab if using bricks?

Or would a wooden frame allow me to add adjustable feet etc?

The structure will be W 2000 X H 900 X D 600.

Any insight appreciated, excuse the bad photoshop image.

Cheers!

MitchellMc

Hi @WhichAisle,

You’ve got a couple of workable directions here and it really comes down to how permanent and “solid” you want the finished kitchen to feel.

Because your pavers only drop about 25mm, the most robust approach (especially if you go with brick or blockwork) would be to first correct the base. That means setting up a small form and pouring a level concrete pad. Once that’s done, you’ve got a flat, stable footing to build on, which is ideal for masonry and will give you the longest-lasting result.

If you go down the timber frame route instead, you’ve got a bit more flexibility and don’t necessarily need to pour a slab. You can use adjustable feet to level the structure over the slope, or even pack it up using plastic packers under the low side to bring everything level. Once it’s set, you can hide that adjustment with a skirting or fascia panel around the base so it still looks clean and finished.

Another option could be a small deck that you would step up onto when using the bench. The mini pedestal feet allow for adjustment of it. I've created the below renderings to illustrate.

Ultimately, it just depends on whether you want a more permanent masonry-style outdoor kitchen or a lighter, more adaptable build.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell