Dollar-Saving Design: Creating an Outdoor Kitchen That's High on Style, Low on Cost

An outdoor kitchen is a must-have for anyone who loves entertaining on hot summer days and nights. The only problem is that once you start building, the costs can quickly spiral out of control. The appliances and decorations you want to create your perfect outdoor oasis may seem too expensive to consider. Fortunately, we have some great tips to help you create an amazing outdoor kitchen that delivers the style you want but won't cost an arm and a leg.

Take indoor equipment outside

Many brands amp up the price when it comes to outdoor equipment. The same shelves you use in your kitchen double or even triple in price when marketed for outdoor use. Taking indoor equipment outside helps you save. Snag a stainless-steel cart with wheels and move it outdoors. Look for one with multiple shelves for your daily supplies or one with a solid top to prep ingredients. You can even attach a few hooks for your grilling tools. It's just as easy to move shelving outside, though you may want to add a coat of sealant to protect against rust.

Repurpose existing supplies

You don't need to spend a lot buying new supplies for an outdoor kitchen because you can often repurpose things you already own. If you need a cooler to keep ingredients and dishes cold, use an old one. Make a funky cover or box from pieces of wood pallets to give it a new look. Pallet wood can also serve as a fun new counter or shelving. Before you use the wood, sand and seal it while wearing a mask, as some pallets use toxic chemicals.

Choose the right layout

The right layout is the key to creating an outdoor kitchen that any designer would love. Opt for a simple linear layout to save time and money, with a grill in the center, a prep station on each side, and a cooler or ice bucket on the end. A galley kitchen has two different work areas that sit across from each other and include more features like a sink or an oven.

Splurge on the grill

As much as it makes sense to save on other components, go ahead and splurge on the grill. The grill serves as the center of the kitchen because it's your main appliance. You can choose a charcoal grill or a pricier propane grill. You may even want to invest in a smoker or multiple grills to make a variety of dishes. You can buy used to save money. Check online around the beginning or end of summer when people sell their old grills.

You don't need to spend a ton of money to make an outdoor kitchen. Choose the right layout and look for ways to save like finding new ways to use existing kitchen equipment and buying used grills. Get more tips on summer entertaining when you follow us on Instagram. You can also rely on us to help you find the certified local professionals you need for your next home improvement project.