Multigenerational living — households with grandparents, parents, and children (or multiple adult generations) sharing a home — is increasingly common in Oklahoma and across the country. For these households, the outdoor kitchen takes on a particularly important role: it’s a space where all generations can gather, where grandparents can cook alongside grandchildren, and where the outdoor living area becomes a genuine center of family life. Designing an outdoor kitchen for a multigenerational household requires thinking beyond standard layouts to address accessibility, diverse cooking styles, and the varied ways different generations use outdoor space.
Accessibility Considerations
If the household includes older adults, physical accessibility should be a design priority from the start — not an afterthought. Key considerations:
- Counter height — standard outdoor kitchen counters are 36 inches high (matching indoor kitchen standards). For wheelchair users or those with limited reach, lower sections at 28 to 34 inches provide meaningful accessibility without compromising the overall layout
- Non-slip surfaces — textured or brushed hardscape around the kitchen reduces fall risk for older adults moving in the space, especially when wet
- Clear approach paths — ensure at least 36 to 48 inches of clear width on all sides of the kitchen that are intended for access; avoid tight corners that limit mobility aid access
- Knee clearance under prep areas — if wheelchair access is needed, at least one prep area should have knee clearance underneath rather than enclosed cabinet space
- Appliance placement — avoid placing primary controls (grill knobs, refrigerator handles) at heights that require bending or reaching for those with limited mobility
Layout for Multiple Simultaneous Cooks
Multigenerational kitchens often have multiple people cooking at once — grandparents working on slow-cook items while parents manage the grill, or children helping with prep. A layout that accommodates this requires:
- More prep surface — the most common complaint in shared outdoor kitchens is not enough counter space; plan for a minimum of 4 linear feet of prep surface, more for actively cooking households
- Separate cooking zones — placing the grill station and side burner station with working space between them lets two people cook simultaneously without interfering
- Multiple sink or water access points — if budget allows, a second prep sink on a separate counter run reduces traffic bottlenecks when multiple people are actively cooking
Seating for All Generations
Consider the full range of seating needs: bar stools at a counter overhang work well for adults and teens but are challenging for young children and older adults. Including a mix of bar seating, standard-height dining table seating, and comfortable lounge chairs gives every household member a place where they’re comfortable. Shade coverage is particularly important for older adults and young children who are more heat-sensitive during Oklahoma’s summer months.
Building for the Long Term
Multigenerational households often stay in a home for extended periods — which makes quality construction even more important. A well-built concrete block outdoor kitchen with proper materials and utility connections will outlast the homeownership period and add value across multiple decades. VistaScapes designs and builds with this long-term perspective on every project.
Call us at 918-779-1317 to schedule a consultation for your Broken Arrow or northeast Oklahoma outdoor kitchen project.
