Your Guide to Custom Outdoor Kitchen and Patio Spaces in Maryland

William Randazzo • May 19, 2025

Designing the Perfect Outdoor Kitchen and Patio Combo in Maryland

If you love entertaining, dining outside, or just enjoying the fresh air, combining an outdoor kitchen with a custom patio can transform your backyard into a true extension of your home. Homeowners are increasingly turning to outdoor living spaces in Maryland as a way to enhance comfort, add value, and bring friends and family together all year round.


At Xscape 2 Nature, we specialize in creating seamless outdoor environments that combine beauty with function. Here’s what you need to know when planning the perfect outdoor kitchen and patio combo for your Maryland home.


Why Combine an Outdoor Kitchen and Patio?

Pairing an outdoor kitchen with a well-designed patio gives you the flexibility to cook, dine, and entertain outdoors without constantly running inside. It also makes hosting easier and more enjoyable, with everything you need right at your fingertips.

From grilling and food prep to cocktails and conversation, a connected layout allows for smoother movement and better flow—making your backyard feel like a luxury retreat.

Modern outdoor kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a paver patio | Xscape 2 Nature, Maryland
Custom outdoor kitchen and patio combo with built-in grill and stone pavers | Xscape 2 Nature, Maryland

Key Features to Consider

When designing your outdoor setup, you’ll want to think beyond the basics. Here are several essential features to include:

  • Built-in Grill Station: The heart of any outdoor kitchen. Choose a grill size and fuel type that fits your lifestyle.
  • Countertops and Prep Space: Durable materials like granite or concrete will stand up to weather and wear.
  • Storage and Cabinets: Keep utensils, seasonings, and supplies within reach with weather-resistant cabinetry.
  • Dining and Lounge Areas: A custom patio design offers the space for dining tables, lounge furniture, or even a fire pit.
  • Lighting and Shade: Pergolas, umbrellas, and integrated lighting enhance comfort and allow you to enjoy your space day or night.

An experienced outdoor kitchen contractor in Maryland can help you plan each feature to ensure durability and visual appeal.


Choosing the Right Layout

Every yard is different, so your outdoor kitchen and patio combo should be designed to complement your home’s layout and your family’s needs. Some popular layouts include:

  • L-Shaped Kitchens: Ideal for maximizing corner space.
  • Straight-Line Kitchens: Great for smaller patios or minimalist designs.
  • U-Shaped Kitchens: Offers maximum counter space and separation between cooking and dining zones.

As a trusted patio contractor in Maryland, Xscape 2 Nature ensures that your layout blends beautifully with the natural flow of your property while offering practical benefits like good ventilation and shade placement.


Materials That Matter

Maryland’s weather includes everything from humid summers to chilly winters, so choosing the right materials is critical. Here are a few to consider:

  • Stone Pavers or Concrete Slabs for patios: Durable, slip-resistant, and attractive.
  • Stainless Steel for appliances: Resistant to rust and weather damage.
  • Tile or Stone Veneer for cabinet finishes: Stylish and built to last.

Working with an experienced patio company ensures your investment stands up to the elements for years to come.


Budgeting and Timeline

The total cost of building an outdoor kitchen and patio combo can vary widely depending on the size of your project, the materials you choose, and the features you want to include. From basic cooking spaces to fully equipped outdoor kitchens with high-end appliances and custom patios, your budget will reflect the level of design and functionality you’re aiming for.


When planning your project, it’s important to work with a professional outdoor living contractor who can help you prioritize features, stay within your budget, and make smart decisions that balance style and durability.


Timelines can also vary based on factors like design complexity, permitting requirements, and weather conditions. Once your design is finalized and materials are selected, most outdoor living projects are completed within a matter of weeks.

Spacious outdoor kitchen and patio area designed for entertaining in Maryland by Xscape 2 Nature
Modern outdoor kitchen setup with grill, refrigerator, and prep space in a Maryland backyard designed by Xscape 2 Nature

Local Expertise Makes the Difference

Designing an outdoor living area requires thoughtful planning, quality craftsmanship, and attention to detail. That’s why choosing the right team matters. A reliable outdoor kitchen contractor will take the time to understand your needs, work with your budget, and guide you through every decision—from materials to layout and lighting.


At Xscape 2 Nature, we pride ourselves on being a leading outdoor living contractor in Maryland, known for building functional, stylish, and enduring spaces tailored to each client’s vision.


Ready to Build Your Dream Outdoor Space?

Whether you're hosting weekend cookouts or just looking to elevate your everyday outdoor experience, an integrated patio and outdoor kitchen can make your backyard your favorite part of the house. When you're ready to bring that vision to life, trust the team at Xscape 2 Nature to deliver a result that blends comfort, beauty, and value.


Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start designing your ideal outdoor living space in Maryland!

Stone retaining wall with curved shape, next to gravel ground, greenery in background.
By William Randazzo February 23, 2026
Learn how a well-placed retaining wall improves yard flow, drainage, and usable space. Discover the design impact of structural landscape features.
Aerial view of a backyard with a pool, patio, gazebo, and lawn; sunny day.
By chris darr February 14, 2026
Discover how patios, outdoor kitchens, and thoughtful hardscape design influence gatherings and everyday outdoor living at home.
Flagstone pathway curving past a stone wall and into a wooded area. Sunny outdoor setting.
By chris darr February 9, 2026
Learn what makes some patios and hardscapes last longer than others. Discover how materials, base prep, and design impact long-term outdoor durability.
Show More

Share Us!

Xscape 2 Nature Blog

Stone retaining wall with curved shape, next to gravel ground, greenery in background.
By William Randazzo February 23, 2026
Learn how a well-placed retaining wall improves yard flow, drainage, and usable space. Discover the design impact of structural landscape features.
Aerial view of a backyard with a pool, patio, gazebo, and lawn; sunny day.
By chris darr February 14, 2026
Discover how patios, outdoor kitchens, and thoughtful hardscape design influence gatherings and everyday outdoor living at home.
Flagstone pathway curving past a stone wall and into a wooded area. Sunny outdoor setting.
By chris darr February 9, 2026
Learn what makes some patios and hardscapes last longer than others. Discover how materials, base prep, and design impact long-term outdoor durability.
Stone patio with curved stone bench and fire pit.
By chris darr January 30, 2026
Winter weather can affect patios, walkways, and outdoor features more than homeowners expect. Learn what to watch for to protect hardscapes through colder months.
Snow-covered landscape with a stone retaining wall and winter foliage.
By William Randazzo January 25, 2026
Learn how winter weather affects patios and hardscapes and what homeowners should inspect and fix before spring arrives.
Construction site with workers installing pavers for a patio, with a fire pit and a truck in the background.
January 18, 2026
Compare DIY and professional hardscaping to understand the real differences in cost, time, quality, and long-term durability for Maryland homes.
Backyard patio with fire pit, stone seating, and deck attached to a two-story beige house on a sunny day.
By chris darr January 7, 2026
Explore spring and summer patio ideas that enhance outdoor living, from layout and materials to landscaping integration and long-term design planning.
Pool cover being installed on a patio, with a house in the background. A person kneels, working.
By chris darr December 29, 2025
Thinking about an outdoor living project? Learn why early planning helps with design, scheduling, and creating a space that fits your home and lifestyle.
Stamped concrete patio next to a house with double doors and a grass yard.
By chris darr December 21, 2025
Learn how paver selection affects the performance, durability, and design of hardscaping projects for Maryland outdoor living spaces.
Backyard with a multi-level deck, stone patio, fire pit, and stairs leading down to a lower level.
By chris darr December 15, 2025
Learn how early you can start planning an outdoor kitchen, patio, or landscape project and why early planning leads to better results.
More Posts