While gourmet kitchen spaces are trending in modern homes, not every home has the space to enjoy cooking and entertaining. Smaller kitchens can be frustrating to navigate, but one of the most popular solutions to this problem, aside from renovation, is to add kitchen space outdoors. Outdoor kitchens allow you to connect with nature, entertain more guests, and expand your living space, but you’ll need to consider some factors before you break ground.
More Entertainment
If you like to spend time with friends or family at home, an outdoor kitchen can set the perfect backdrop. You can cook some excellent party food or a lavish dinner outdoors, all with seating and table arrangements that allow you to enjoy the weather while you eat. You can spruce up your outdoor space or create one from scratch to increase the area you have to work with while entertaining. If you have a smaller indoor setup and wish you had more space for parties or family gatherings, consider an outdoor kitchen.
Added Home Value
Outdoor kitchens are a popular feature in modern homes. Homebuyers will pay top dollar for an outdoor entertainment space that has already been built. If you’re planning on eventually selling your home or want to boost your property value, an outdoor kitchen could work well. You’ll need to keep it maintained and working in order to see sustained value over time, however.
Expanded Living Space
Your home may have a small or cramped kitchen, or your living room lacks sufficient space for a large dining table. An outdoor kitchen would be an excellent solution for your family. Extending your living space to the outdoors is very popular, and it helps you reconnect with nature and put screens away every once in a while. Increased outdoor time can also boost your physical and mental health. If you want more space or an excuse to get the sun on your skin, you’re likely a good candidate for outdoor dining.
Enjoyable Weather
An outdoor kitchen is only valuable if it’s easily used. What is the weather like year-round where you live? If it’s too hot or cold to enjoy your patio space most of the year, you’ll want to consider that. There are solutions to extreme temperatures, such as patio heaters or misting fans, but you will want to be able to afford them and install them if you choose to go for an outdoor kitchen. You’ll also want to make sure your equipment is well protected against the harsher elements.
Adequate Backyard Space
You need sufficient space for an outdoor kitchen. You don’t just need to include the kitchen itself, but also dining space, entertainment space, and storage space as a start. Evaluate your goals for your outdoor kitchen. They can range from a simple grill setup to a complete gourmet kitchen. Take measurements of your yard and sketch a realistic layout of the space. Is there enough room to meet your needs? Are you willing to make compromises if necessary?
Make sure you know what you need beforehand. You’ll want some cabinetry or storage cabinets at a minimum, but storage sheds can also allow you to store more outdoor items, making room for your kitchen. Browse some storage sheds for sale to see if any would fit well in your outdoor kitchen floor plan. Is there enough room for a decent amount of seating? You’ll want to have enough tables and chairs, especially if you frequently entertain guests. Visit outdoor furniture stores to get a good idea of what you’ll need to fit in the space in terms of seating.
Appropriate Budget
A high-quality grill alone can cost hundreds of dollars. If you don’t have the finances to create an outdoor kitchen, you may need to wait until you can budget for it. Research the average costs of outdoor cooking appliances, countertops, and cabinetry. Try to factor in costs for any foundation or leveling work you’ll need done, too. Don’t forget about patio furniture and storage costs. You can consult with a contractor or several contractors to get a good idea of the project’s overall cost. You’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,000 to $20,000 on an outdoor kitchen, depending on its level of equipment. You can also add appliances over time to make it more affordable.
Utility Hookups
If your outdoor kitchen is going to come with a sink, appliances, and a gas-powered grill, you’re going to need adequate access to those utilities. You can purchase gas tanks for your grill, but your sink will need a water supply, and your appliances will need electrical hookups. Ensure your outdoor space already has the necessary connectivity; otherwise, you’ll need to hire a plumber and an electrician to extend your home’s utility access. Connectivity can add a few hundred or even a few thousand dollars to your expenses depending on what needs to be done.
Maintenance Fulfillment
You will need to put proper care into your outdoor kitchen once it’s installed. You’ll need to clean your grill, countertops, and equipment routinely. You’ll need to consider the impact of outdoor elements on the surfaces and equipment, and provide adequate shelter for them as much as possible. Routine cleaning or hosing of food residue from the ground and surfaces can also help deter pests. Wood, stone, or tile will typically require resurfacing or resealing at least once a year. Keep the drainage system around the patio clear to prevent damage to your outdoor kitchen equipment. If you don’t prioritize routine maintenance, you’ll lose the value and function of the space sooner than you think. Ensure you can commit to the extra workload before getting started.
Conclusion
An outdoor kitchen can be a wonderful addition to a home, especially if you enjoy entertaining or want to expand your usable living space. However, it’s a commitment that can require a significant amount of time, money, and effort to maintain. If you’ve properly budgeted, planned the space, and are ready to take on some extra household chores, you’re an excellent candidate for a beautiful backyard cooking space.