The construction of an outdoor kitchen is more than just a luxury: these terrace delights can work on your home’s estimation. The return on investment is impressive. and landscape professionals estimate ROI at 100%, according to the National Association of 2023 “Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features.” And on top of that, homeowners reported a joy score, their happiness level after the update, of nine out of ten.
The investment can be a little, or a lot. These five outdoor kitchen ideas suit different budgets and homes.
#1 A small outdoor kitchen for limited spaces
If you reduce an outdoor kitchen to the basics, what else do you need than a grill, an oven, cupboard space and a cozy seating area? This setup does it all efficiently, for $1,000 to about $3,000, if you already have outdoor electricity. An electrician will increase the costs.
#2 An outdoor kitchen from a kit
Modular kits can be slightly customized to suit your backyard. Prefabricated and modular options cost $4,000 to $10,000, according to Family Handyman. They offer some extras, but they usually come with a grill or barbecue island and worktops.
The galley-inspired layout here also pulls double duty by adding privacy. (Please note that the cool outdoor sink requires additional plumbing, which will increase costs.)
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#3 An outdoor kitchen made of concrete and steel
DIY savvy homeowners used concrete and cement slabs to create this L-shaped outdoor kitchen that mimics today’s indoor layouts. Guests relax at the counter while the host flips burgers – it’s an open concept living in the wide open air.
No, this isn’t DIY 101, but if you have the skills, you can do it for the material cost – and concrete is cheap. However, if you hire a professional, the typical cost is about $15,000 for a kitchen with a built-in grill, steel drawers, refrigerated drawer, sink and concrete countertop made of veneered masonry, according to the “Remodeling Impact Report.”
#4 An outdoor kitchen with personal style
It must match the style of your home if you want to get a return on your investment. This DIY kitchen matches the rustic style of the home and comes with storage space that would be the envy of any indoor chef.
#5 An outdoor kitchen that says: ‘Sit a Spell’
Your outdoor kitchen can play the same role in your garden as your indoor kitchen: as the heartbeat of any gathering where guests want to stay for a while. And bonus: the added patio and pergola can also increase your home’s value a few notches.