Outdoor Kitchen Corner Bar Features & Layout Tips

Designing with the Unity L Modular System

Tags: | | | |

In this features walkthrough, Terry breaks down the utility of the Unity L. From the specifics of the 3.2 cubic foot locking outdoor fridge to strategic placement tips for smaller patios, this video demonstrates how the Unity L functions as the primary interface between the cook and the guests in the Cornerstone System.

The Unity L is the social hub of the Cornerstone System, engineered to provide professional-grade entertaining capacity in a single-day build. This “all-in” module features 12 square feet of natural limestone workspace, a raised bar that comfortably seats four adults, and an integrated stainless steel waterproof drawer unit included as a standard feature.

Project Duration: Full Day

Project Difficulty: Intermediate

You Will Need:

  • Unity L Corner Bar Kit (Includes blocks, support irons, and mounting bucks, & waterproof drawers)
  • 2-inch Natural Limestone Slabs (Optional)
  • 3.2 cu. ft. UL-Listed Outdoor Fridge (Optional)
  • Stainless Steel Sink(Optional)

Video Timeline

Timestamp

Step

Description

0:45

Seating Capacity

A breakdown of the L-shape seating for four adults.

1:10

Sink & Plumbing Notes

Considering the expense and complexity of adding an outdoor sink.

1:27

Outdoor Fridge Specs

Features of the UL-listed 3.2 cu. ft. locking fridge.

2:14

Internal Fridge Layout

Practical look at drink capacity and the internal compressor hump.

2:37

Drawers vs. Cabinets

Why waterproof drawers are the better choice for masonry cavities.

3:04

Countertop Surface

Overview of the 12 sq. ft. limestone working and dining area.

3:53

The Unity System

How the L module matches fireplaces and other kitchen components.

4:37

Small Space Layouts

Positioning the L module along patio edges to save space.

5:45

The Guest Interface

Using the Unity L as the bridge between the cooking and social areas.

Pro Tip:

Standard Waterproof Storage: Unlike our Unity PLUS units where storage is an add-on, the Unity L bar includes stainless steel drawer units as a standard feature. Terry recommends these over cabinets because the sealed design keeps your dry goods and towels bone-dry within the masonry cavity, even after a heavy rain.

Professional Grade Features for the DIY Builder

When designing an outdoor kitchen, the details of the appliances are just as critical as the masonry. The Unity L is engineered to house UL-listed outdoor components that are specifically designed to withstand the elements. Terry highlights the locking stainless steel fridge, which provides 3.2 cubic feet of storage—enough for four full cases of drinks—while featuring an automatic closing door and critter-proof locks.

Layout Strategy: Maximizing Small Footprints

The L-shaped design is a clever solution for patios where space is at a premium. Because of its unique geometry, the Unity L can be positioned near the edge of a patio or corner without losing its “wraparound” feel.

  • The Toe Kick Advantage: The bar-height exterior features an integrated toe kick, allowing guests to stand comfortably close to the limestone counter.

  • Serving & Prep: With 12 square feet of 2-inch thick limestone, there is ample room for food prep on the lower “working” side while guests enjoy drinks on the raised bar side.

  • Modular Growth: Terry explains how the Unity L acts as a “hub.” You can start with the bar and easily add grill modules or side burners later, as every component in the system is indexed to match.

Weather-Ready Storage

A key advantage of the Unity L is that it comes standard with professional-grade stainless steel drawer units. Terry demonstrates why these sealed units are superior to traditional cabinets for masonry builds. While the masonry itself is built for the elements, it can hold moisture; the included waterproof drawers ensure that your napkins, tools, and dry goods remain protected and ready for use regardless of the weather.

Further Reading:

Expanding Your Outdoor Kitchen

The Unity L is the perfect starting point for a custom wraparound kitchen. Use these guides to plan your next module:

Scroll to Top