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Outdoor kitchens can have all the amenities of indoor versions. Photo: Flickr, stirlingstoneworks
Who wouldn't love an outdoor kitchen? Adding one to your home can increase its value on the real estate market as well as contribute to your enjoyment of your own summer barbecues. An outdoor kitchen might also be right for you if you have an underused patio, you're an adventurous griller and you frequently host large groups.
There are key differences between an indoor and an outdoor kitchen. First, think about which functions are essential to your outdoor kitchen. Counter space, a sink and a grill are probably indispensable. A fridge and a pizza oven may not be. Leaving appliances out will cut down the cost, but adding them may enable you to list your home as having two kitchens. Of course, everything outside needs to be weatherproof. The experts at Lowe's recommend stainless steel sinks and appliances, and flooring and counters made of slate, stone or stucco. You may also want to purchase appliance covers and install a roof of some sort.
Think about what you like about your indoor kitchen and what you'd change if you had the chance. This is that chance! You may want to make sure that there is plenty of counter space around the outdoor kitchen grill. You can work alone or hire an architect to help with the outdoor kitchen plans (which will be especially helpful when considering sources of electricity and water). Your family's individual needs will dictate whether you need permanent seating, heaters or outdoor kitchen cabinets. When thinking of designs, realize that you will probably want to make the grill the center of it all. This Old House estimates that the cost of an outdoor kitchen ranges from $3,000 to $15,000.
We rounded up the resources to help with your outdoor kitchen plans. For more information on construction, turn to Everything You Need to Know About Outdoor Kitchens from This Old House and the outdoor kitchen designs, ideas and pictures from the DIY Network. If it's inspiration you're after, see CNN Money's 5 Killer Outdoor Kitchens and Sunset's Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen. Still stumped? Hit the books, with Outdoor Kitchen Ideas That Work by Lee Anne White, Ultimate Outdoor Kitchens: Inspirational Designs and Plans by Michelle Kodis and Outdoor Kitchens: A Do-It-Yourself Guide to Design and Construction from the editors of Better Homes & Gardens.
