Build an Outdoor Kitchen

Tips


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July 28th, 2022


Are you outdoorsy and a foodie that loves entertaining friends and family? An outdoor kitchen is an awesome feature to add to your backyard. Not only does this add value to your home and make entertaining guest a breeze it can add value to your home. Be careful not to let the cost of your outdoor kitchen build spiral out of control! The key to building on a budget is planning and being mindful of your creation. Below are some tips to help you get started living that al fresco life straight away!
Planning is key when building your own space, and it’s important not only for the cost but also for time management during construction - don't forget about permits if there's something else in addition like plumbing or electricity involved too (you'll want those before starting). Ready to get started on planning the outdoor kitchen of your dreams?
Stick to your budget
The most important part of the process is to set a budget. Be sure you know what you can afford before making any decisions, including what kind of materials you would like to use as this will dictate the entire project. It is easy to get carried away by all your dreams of what you want your outdoor kitchen to look like if you are not positive about how much money you can spend. It will pay to stay practical!
Fancy seating areas and built in pizza ovens are some extravagant features that many people will get distracted and tempted by when starting to plan for an outdoor kitchen. While aesthetically pleasing these and fancy seating can quickly become cost-prohibitive without a more massive budget.
From the beginning establish what your priorities are to avoid overspending on unnecessary items so you can plan accordingly. Some examples may include storage space for pots and pans, a BBQ, or large countertops. Knowing exactly what you want to be able to accomplish with your outdoor kitchen will ensure you are not drawn to unnecessary products or purchases.
Some research prior to starting your project will allow you to understand the costs of different components. We suggest exploring some stores or visiting gardening centers where these products are sold to see what your options are for each item on your list and to gather various price points. This is a great idea prior to settling on a budget.
Check out used appliances!

This is a great way to save some additional money - look for high-quality used appliances. Look everything over thoroughly for rust or broken parts. With a little work you may be able to find a used fridge that can meet your needs. Grills are something we believe should be purchased in excellent condition or new as they are often difficult to repair and can require replacing quickly. Facebook, OfferUp and other apps are some great tools to find used good condition appliances. You may find someone that is moving and needs items gone quickly because they will not want to move these items occasionally. You may get them for very inexpensive or even free.Portable appliances are another great option as they are typically cheaper than built in appliances and you can always upgrade when your budget allows.
Essentials then Extras
A sink, grill, and storage area are some small essentials that are a good place to start. Add on an outdoor refrigerator or other upgrades as desired after your initial build. Rather than completing your outdoor kitchen as one project, make it a work in progress! This will keep it fun to continue adding items or decor as you go.
Consider Materials Carefully
Keeping your outdoor kitchen clutter-free is a great idea! Be sure to think about the materials you want to use for countertops and floors. A heat and stain resistant countertop is a must. One of the best materials to use is natural stone as it is low maintenance and durable.
Flooring should be slip-resistant and durable. Tile and concrete are two good options for your outdoor kitchen floors. Tile is popular as there are many color, texture, and size options to choose from. Concrete can give a modern appearance to your countertops and flooring. Being that countertops and flooring are the foundation of your outdoor kitchen, be sure not to skimp on these.
Cabinets, Shelving, and Furniture
Outdoor furnishings can be expensive and just like the fridge you may want to consider used products. While Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist may be good options, Habitat for Humanity ReStore also offers sale frequently. Shelving, cabinets, appliances, and some furniture you could find easily at Walmart, Wayfair, or Overstock. Increasing value to your home and providing a fun way for you, your family, and any guests to enjoy delicious home cooked meals. Be sure to consider the space you want to remodel and the budget you are working with prior to starting any construction project.
It could be worth considering short-term storage space to keep things from getting damaged during construction. A self storage unit nearby can also ensure your items are protected from theft and environment damage as you work on your outdoor kitchen. Self Storage New Mexico has compiled these tips for your outdoor kitchen renovation!