Outdoor kitchens are one of the biggest trends in home design and it’s easy to understand why. Nothing really is better than sitting outside in your own backyard, enjoying a delicious barbecue dinner with family and friends. 

A custom outdoor kitchen will last the lifetime of your home and add value to it, but there are some things you should consider up front to make sure the project is done right. 

Budget 

Outdoor kitchens come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can range from a simple patio, canopy and grill to an elaborate outdoor room made of stone, with counters, cabinets, hearths and benches. It all comes down to money, though, and how much you can do yourself versus what you would need a professional to do. 

A word of advice: If your budget is limited, spend your money on professional services to build permanent structures such as flooring, counters, etc. This really is an area that you want done right. 

Location  

Proximity to the house is a big consideration when designing your outdoor kitchen. Many homeowners prefer a location adjacent to their indoor kitchen for convenience – it’s much easier to bring dishes in and out of the house if you’re closer. It also makes sense economically because the outdoor kitchen can share plumbing and electricity with the indoor kitchen. 

Functionality 

You should consider functionality in your outdoor kitchen design. Cabinets, counters, grills and refrigerator should all be located in places that make cooking and entertaining quick and easy. 

Cover 

If you are spending all the time and money to make an outdoor kitchen, it makes sense to protect it from the elements and allow you to use it in less than ideal weather as well as later into the season. For those who live in hot climates like Florida, a cover will give you a shaded area to relax and enjoy your meal away from the bright sun. Covers can range from a fabric tarp or canopy to a roof extension or arbor. It all depends of course on budget.