When you’re thinking about adding an outdoor kitchen to your backyard… aesthetic isn’t the only factor you’re looking at, but it’s certainly one of the most important. Why add an outdoor kitchen to your space if you don’t like the look of it? It just wouldn’t make sense.
If you have your eyes locked on an RTA outdoor kitchen, you might be wondering, “What finish options does RTA Outdoor Living have?” You’ve likely seen some examples online… but it’s not clear to you what all the finish options are.
In this article, you will learn about all the different RTA outdoor kitchen finishes that are available, and discover which finish might be best for your space.
Stacked Stone
Stacked stone is the very first RTA outdoor kitchen finish we created… and it continues to be a popular choice! Stacked stone is inspired by ledge stone finishes, evoking a classic traditional look.
RTA’s stacked stone is offered in 3 shades: Graphite, Terra, and Chalk.
Who is a Stacked Stone Finish Good For?
Stacked Stone is a great option for anyone looking to lean into a traditional outdoor kitchen look. This rugged, rustic texture lends itself particularly well to areas such as the Northeast, Midwest, and Mountain West.
Stacked Stone in particular will look great on a concrete base, or in a backyard that doesn’t have many textures at play. If your backyard doesn’t have a variety of textures… this allows stacked stone to stand out as the focal point of the space.
Modern Concrete
Modern Concrete offers a sleek, matte concrete outdoor kitchen finish option. Leaning heavily into the modern aesthetic, this finish is offered in 2 shades: Industrial and Bright.
Who is a Modern Concrete Finish Good For?
As you might imagine… Modern Concrete is an excellent selection for homeowners wanting to lean into a more modern aesthetic. The simple clean lines and understated look can merge well with most backyards.
Modern Concrete is especially at home in areas such as Florida, Texas, Arizona, California, and most metro areas. If you like a stucco look, Modern Concrete is a nice, upscale alternative.
Reclaimed Brick
Reclaimed Brick blends elements of modern and rustic design, but leans slightly more towards a traditional look.
Who is a Reclaimed Brick Finish Good For?
If you’re seeking a more contemporary outdoor kitchen aesthetic that retains some texture, Reclaimed Brick may appeal to you. While not extremely traditional, this finish captures a timeless look.
Reclaimed Brick pairs especially well with matching pavers, brick walls, chimneys, fireplaces, and modern farmhouse or old colonial style homes. If you live in an area that has to be mindful about retaining a historical look, Reclaimed Brick may be a great solution for you.
Thinking about Designing Your RTA Outdoor Kitchen?
Weathered Wood
Weathered Wood boasts a classically rustic aesthetic, with a pleasantly worn-in wooden look. Currently, Weathered Wood is offered in 2 shades: Ash and Umber.
Who is a Weathered Wood Finish Good For?
Similar to Stacked Stone, Weathered Wood is a solid choice for anyone seeking a rustic or traditional outdoor kitchen finish. Weathered Wood feels homey and lived-in… making it a great option for homeowners who love to create a comforting or hygge atmosphere in their space.
Plank
Plank is the chameleon of RTA outdoor kitchen finishes. This neutral base can blend in just about anywhere! Plank is offered in 2 shades: Charcoal and Bright.
Who is a Plank Finish Good For?
In all reality, Plank can be a great finish choice for just about anyone. Or if you find yourself not leaning into any particular style at all… plank works great in any space. It can lend itself to a mid-century modern look, traditional style, or even a farmhouse aesthetic, depending on how your backyard is designed.
Plank is also an ideal choice for homeowners with indoor-outdoor spaces like a lanai or covered patio. The Plank look does an excellent job of blending the “indoor vs outdoor” look together, which helps the areas feel less distinct and more cohesive.
Modern Stone
Modern Stone proves that stone finishes can indeed look modern! Complex natural stone meets simple, clean lines for an interesting modern texture. Modern stone is offered in 2 shades: Ash and Bright.
Who is a Modern Stone Finish Good For?
Slat
Slat is RTA’s newest finish, featuring a modern aesthetic and an upscale texture. Slat is currently offered in 3 shades: Charcoal, Bright, and Walnut.
Who is a Slat Finish Good For?
Slat is ideal for the homeowner who wants an upscale yet understated aesthetic for their outdoor kitchen. This modern look is defined by clean, vertical lines and uniform texture. Due to the nature of this finish, some homeowners may opt to forego corner trim to lean yet further into an ultra-modern look.
We find Slat is especially at home in California backyards… but will also work nicely with backyards that have stacked stone textures.
How do I Decide on an RTA Outdoor Kitchen Finish?
At this point, you’ll have complete clarity around what finishes RTA outdoor kitchen offers… and start to get an idea of which finish may be right for you.
But how do you decide?
Ultimately, that’s not a question we can answer for you… but we can help you along the way with 2 methods.
- Try Our Online Outdoor Kitchen Design Tool: This free design tool will allow you to design your custom outdoor kitchen, and test out what different finishes may look like. And if you have your smartphone handy, you can get an AR (augmented reality) link sent to your phone to view the design you created in your backyard. This will give you a great feel for if the finish you selected will be a good fit or not.
- Speak with a Design Expert: While the design tool and AR tool are great approximations… ultimately, an RTA Design Expert will be the best resource to help you nail down on the best outdoor kitchen finish for your space. They’ll be able to assess your current backyard, consider your aesthetic desires, and make recommendations based on this information.
Enjoy browsing through finishes and designing your dream outdoor kitchen… we hope to speak with you soon!

