Architectural Concrete for Outdoor Kitchens, Patios & Alfresco Areas (Perth Guide 2026)

Architectural concrete refers to purpose-designed concrete that focuses on both structural performance and visual finish. Unlike standard concrete, it involves:

• Custom formwork
• Refined finishes (honed, polished, textured)
• Integrated features (benches, steps, plinths)
• Colour and aggregate selection
• Precision detailing



In outdoor areas, architectural concrete becomes a design feature, not just a surface.

Perth’s climate demands materials that perform under pressure.

Architectural concrete is ideal because it:

• Handles extreme heat and UV exposure
• Resists grease, moisture and staining when sealed
• Doesn’t warp, rot or loosen like timber or tiles
• Allows seamless indoor–outdoor transitions
• Requires minimal long-term maintenance

For patios, alfrescos and outdoor kitchens, architectural concrete offers long-term durability with a premium finish.

Concrete flooring is the foundation of most outdoor living spaces.

Popular architectural flooring options include:

Honed Concrete

A smooth, refined finish created by grinding the surface.

Best for:

• Modern alfresco areas
• Seamless indoor–outdoor flow
• Low-maintenance outdoor entertaining spaces

When sealed correctly, honed concrete is slip-resistant and comfortable underfoot.

Among architectural finishes, honed concrete finishes are a standout choice for alfresco and patio areas due to their refined appearance and ease of cleaning.

Exposed Aggregate

A textured finish exposing natural stone.

Best for:

• High-traffic patios
• Pool-adjacent alfresco areas
• Homes requiring extra grip

Exposed aggregate balances aesthetics with excellent slip resistance.

Coloured Architectural Concrete

Pigments added through the concrete mix.

Why it’s popular in Perth:

• UV stable when sealed
• Custom tones to suit home exteriors
• Consistent colour throughout the slab

Light greys and natural tones remain the most practical for outdoor areas.

For homeowners upgrading their outdoor living space, professionally installed concrete patios provide a seamless foundation that works perfectly with architectural concrete finishes.

Architectural concrete truly shines in outdoor kitchens.

Common applications include:

• Concrete flooring around BBQs and cooking zones
• Custom concrete benchtops and counters
• Built-in concrete seating and bar areas
• Plinths for pizza ovens and grills

Why concrete works for outdoor kitchens:

• Heat resistant
• Easy to clean grease and spills
• Highly durable under heavy use
• Customisable shapes and finishes

When sealed correctly, concrete benchtops and floors outperform many alternative materials in outdoor settings. Many Perth homeowners now incorporate custom concrete benches into their alfresco and outdoor kitchen designs for a seamless, low-maintenance solution.

Heat Management

• Lighter concrete colours reflect heat
• Honed finishes feel cooler than dark textured surfaces
• Proper sealing reduces surface heat absorption

Grease & Stain Resistance

• Penetrating and topical sealers prevent oil absorption
• Smooth finishes are easier to clean

Slip Resistance

• Exposed aggregate provides natural grip
• Honed concrete requires slip-rated sealers

Pro Tip: Outdoor kitchens should always prioritise safety and cleanability over high-gloss finishes

Architectural concrete allows creative freedom.

Popular design ideas include:

• Continuous concrete from patio to outdoor kitchen
• Matching concrete flooring and benchtops
• Integrated concrete seating around fire pits
• Feature saw-cut patterns or border detailing
• Concrete steps linking alfresco areas to gardens

These details elevate outdoor areas into functional, design-led spaces. Design-led outdoor spaces often start with selecting the right tones and textures, which is why we recommend reading our full guide on choosing the right concrete colour and finish for alfresco and patio areas before locking in your design.

Architectural concrete pricing depends on complexity rather than just square metres.

Cost factors include:

• Finish type (honed, exposed, coloured)
• Benchtops or built-in features
• Formwork and detailing
• Sealing systems
• Site access and preparation

While architectural concrete has a higher upfront cost, it delivers long-term value and reduced maintenance.

❌ Treating outdoor concrete like indoor flooring

❌ Skipping professional sealing

❌ Choosing dark colours in full sun areas

❌ Ignoring slip resistance near cooking zones

❌ Poor drainage planning

Mistakes in architectural concrete are difficult to correct once installed.

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