DIY Outdoor Kitchen Ideas on a Budget
Beautiful outdoor kitchens aren’t only for luxury homes. If you’re looking to create the ultimate backyard kitchen and entertainment space, this guide has you covered. We’ll go over the best DIY outdoor kitchen ideas on a budget.
From how to choose the best grills to how-to-use furniture to create that built-in look, these money-saving ideas will give you a designer outdoor kitchen for less. Let’s get designing.
1. Choosing a Grill
Choosing a grill is arguably the most important part of creating an outdoor cooking station. You’ll want to take some time to research which grill station is best for you. Check out the camp chef vs traeger pellet grills, for example. Look over the benefits of each grill and the difference a pellet grill brings to the table.
After doing a little homework on the different types of grills, carve out how much you’d like to spend on it. This will help determine how much you spend on the rest of your project.
The grill also sets up your design and layout. The grill will often need to go next to some prep space. You’ll want a counter or table nearby to place your meat or veggies, chop, and prep what you’re cooking.
2. The Fridge
Refrigeration is an important consideration for outdoor cooking. Think about what you’d like to use your fridge for. Some people like to store ingredients and food outdoors while others only need a beverage fridge. There are a wide variety of fridges available for anyone’s budget.
If money is tight, plan your kitchen design around an entrance to your kitchen. This way your indoor fridge is close by. The same goes for a second fridge in the garage. If you can’t swing another outdoor fridge, you can still get a great outdoor kitchen using other fridges indoors.
To save money, incorporate space for coolers and ice buckets. These are great for keeping appetizers and drinks cold. If the budget allows, an ice maker is another great luxury to have in an outdoor kitchen.
3. Creating a Plan
Once you’ve chosen your appliances and set your budget, it’s time to create a plan. Your kitchen design will include where each appliance will go and how you’ll lay out your workspace.
Think about the flow of your space here. Where do you want to grill, cut veggies, and have drinks accessible for guests, should you look for outdoor heaters near me?
If your budget allows, an outdoor sink is another important element to consider. You can use it to wash fruit or vegetables, dishes, or glasses. Depending on your layout and budget, you can often tap into hot and cold water from your home. Hot water is also handy for hand washing after touching raw meat on the grill.
4. Storage and Prep-Space
Storage and prep space are crucial in any outdoor kitchen. Once you’ve established a plan for your layout, it’s time to think about how you’ll build your prep space and storage. For larger budgets, these are often built-in using brick, stone, and cement.
If you’re looking for prep space on a budget, you can buy outdoor furniture that is easy to assemble that can act as a counter. There are outdoor bars, serving stations, and outdoor islands that make prep spaces easy and affordable to create. Wood and outdoor tiles are also easy DIY options.
You’ll want to build-in some storage into your outdoor kitchen as well. You’ll need places to store plates, glasses, and table linens. Outdoor cabinets, built-in drawers, or pre-assembled outdoor furniture is great for this.
Consider enough space for silverware, trays, bowls, and servings dishes as well. You’ll be able to store everything you need for outdoor cooking and entertaining without needing to run inside every few minutes. You want your outdoor kitchen to be as functional as your indoor kitchen.
5. Seating and Outdoor Entertainment Space
Your outdoor kitchen should always include space for sitting and eating. You’ll want to build in some room for a great dining table. If you entertain a lot for large groups, make sure you have multiple options.
Create different zones for formal, sit-down meals, as well as casual drinks and appetizers. High top tables, bar stools, and coffee tables are perfect for setting down drinks and snacks. You can find an assortment of contemporary coffee table for sale online to add to your entertainment space and this provides the ultimate in convenience.
Rocking chairs, Adirondack chairs, and chaise lounges are perfect for relaxing near a fire or a pool. Include side tables to rest drinks and food on here as well. Each zone in your outdoor entertaining and cooking space will have a function and use.
Some zones are for cooking while others are for sitting back by the fire with a cup of coffee. If you need another reason for investing in your outdoor space, think of the health benefits alone. You’ll enjoy hours outdoors cooking, relaxing, and entertaining with your friends and family.
Any money you invest in outdoor living is money well-spent. Indoor-outdoor living is a huge selling feature when it comes to resale. It’s a great amenity with a nice return on your investment.
DIY Outdoor Kitchen Ideas on a Budget
DIY outdoor kitchen ideas on a budget won’t limit your enjoyment. Just because you aren’t spending millions on an outdoor space doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful outdoor kitchen for your family.
From choosing the right grill to creating the best layout, these tips are useful on any budget. Once you’re done, you’ll have an amazing outdoor kitchen you can enjoy for years to come. For more home and design inspiration, head to the blog section for resources and tips.
