Transforming a Builder Kitchen into a L-Shape Culinary Space

Silver travertine stacked stone backsplash

Project Name: Transforming a Builder Outdoor Kitchen into a Custom L-Shape Culinary Space

Project Design Layout: L-Shaped

Project Materials Description: Outdoor Kitchen Building Materials: stucco finish, Uba Tuba granite, stainless steel backsplash, silver travertine stacked stone, Outdoor Kitchen Components: Blaze narrow trash storage drawer, Blaze 50 lb. outdoor ice maker, custom stainless trim kit, condensate pump, 4-inch granite backsplash, natural gas grill, granite countertop, bartop overhang, block wall enclosure, licensed plumbing connection, certified gas line reconnection, leak-tested gas connection

At Elegant Outdoor Kitchens, we love a good challenge-and this recent L-Shape Outdoor Kitchen addition project in Fort Myers was definitely a first for us! Unlike most of our builds, which are new custom outdoor kitchens, this project involved extending and enhancing an existing outdoor kitchen originally installed by Taylor-Morrison in a Lazio floorplan home. What made it unique? While we typically don’t modify existing cabinetry setups, this wasn’t a standard modification-it was a smart and seamless addition.

The Vision: From Linear to L-Shape Outdoor Kitchen

Our clients already had a built-in outdoor kitchen as part of their home’s original construction. It was functional-but limited. They wanted more space, more style, and more functionality. Rather than starting from scratch, we were able to tie into the existing structure and add a custom 8’0″ cabinet section that beautifully transformed the layout from a simple linear design into a more spacious L-shape configuration.

This transformation not only improved flow and usability-it also added a visual anchor to the outdoor space.

Custom Outdoor Kitchen Features & Finishes

To elevate the aesthetics and functionality, we included a number of high-end features and thoughtful design touches:

Appliance & Storage Additions (8’0″ Cabinet Section)

Blaze Narrow Trash Storage Drawer – A sleek, space-saving solution for outdoor waste management.
Blaze 50 lb. Outdoor Ice Maker – Perfect for Florida entertaining, connected by a licensed plumber to existing water lines.
Custom Stainless Steel Trim Kit – Framed the ice maker for a polished, integrated look.
Condensate Pump – Ensured proper drainage for the new ice maker.

The entire cabinet was finished with a stucco façade, meticulously matched to the pattern of the original outdoor kitchen for a cohesive look.

Structural Enhancements

We took special care in how we tied everything together structurally and aesthetically:

On the 5’6″ section, we enclosed a screen opening, raising it 4″ above counter height and matched it to the depth of the existing block wall. It, too, was finished in matching stucco for a seamless finish.
We removed and replaced the granite on the left side of the grill to fabricate a new, one-piece Uba Tuba granite countertop-eliminating seams for a cleaner, more premium look.
A new 4″ granite backsplash was installed-longer and more unified than the original, stretching across the newly extended section without interruption.
We included a 10″ bartop overhang at the back of the new 8’0″ cabinet, offering a perfect space for casual seating and outdoor dining.

Safety & Professionalism First

Because this project required the temporary removal of the grill, we made sure all reconnections-especially to the natural gas line-were handled by a certified gas contractor. This included a full leak test to ensure everything was safe, secure, and up to code.

Design Highlights

Stainless Steel Backsplash – Installed behind the grill for a modern, high-performance surface that’s easy to clean.
Silver Travertine Stacked Stone Backsplash – Installed along the entire 15’6″ run, adding texture and luxury to the backdrop.
Stucco Detailing – All new additions were precisely matched to the existing textures and patterns of the original kitchen and home exterior.

Before & After: A Visual Journey

They say a picture is worth a thousand words-and we couldn’t agree more. Scroll below to see the before, design renderings, and final transformation of this gorgeous outdoor kitchen renovation.

Ready to Elevate Your Outdoor Living Space in Fort Myers?

Whether you’re starting from scratch or want to expand an existing outdoor kitchen, Elegant Outdoor Kitchens is your trusted local expert. We specialize in building custom outdoor kitchens in Fort Myers, Estero, and Naples that are designed to last-and crafted to impress.