Placing tables and chairs in your backyard might not be enough to
enjoy your get together parties during the warm season. Building an
outdoor kitchen gives you, your family, and guests a place to have
alfresco lunches and dinners without leaving your house. Plus, it can
add value to your home if you decide to sell it.
An Outdoor Kitchen Offers High Returns
The
return on investment (ROI) of an outdoor kitchen varies based on the
size of the project. The Remodeling Impact Report of the National
Association of REALTORS® says you can recover about 71 percent of the project cost of an outdoor kitchen that includes:
- One inset grill
- Ice chest
- Stainless steel drawers
- Sink
- 60 square feet of veneered masonry stone countertop
Additionally, the 2019 Cost vs. Value Report
shows you can recoup up to 55.2 percent of the cost of backyard patio
remodeling project. This project includes installation of stone veneer
modular kitchen unit with gas grill, sink, storage, and
mini-refrigerator.
The construction of an outdoor kitchen
could be a do-it-yourself project if you have the skills and the right
equipment. Otherwise, you should work with a landscape architect to achieve a quality outdoor kitchen that offers promising returns.
The Average Cost of Constructing an Outdoor Kitchen
Installing an outdoor kitchen can cost you from $4,285 up to $20,685. But the national average cost of the project
is $12,357, according to a HomeAdvisor report. A low-end kitchen may
cost you $1,000, but you might spend $38,000 for a high end one.
Landscape experts explain the design of your kitchen affects the price of the project. Your choice of grill plays a crucial role because it serves as the heart of your outdoor kitchen. Focus your energy here because once you have found the one you like; it would be easier to select the other components.
A high-end gas grill can be pricey, but it provides the flexibility to maximize the use of your outdoor kitchen. For a cost-effective alternative, you can opt for the traditional coal grill.
Design Ideas for Your Outdoor Kitchen
Traditional
outdoor kitchens are normally made of brick and mortar. Homeowners and
designers today, however, are more creative and smarter when it comes to
using their outdoor space. Designers say better-quality manufacturers expand the outdoor kitchen movement, allowing them to use the entire space for the kitchen area.
Apart
from grills, you can also incorporate specialty appliances, such as
side burners, pizza ovens, and dishwashers, to your outdoor kitchen.
Additionally,
integrate your softscape elements to your hardscapes for a truly
liveable space. Make your meals more flavorful and delicious by creating
a garden for herbs, fruits, and vegetables that you can access easily.
For
a modern look, consider using moody, highly saturated colors, such as
boysenberry, olive, and dark blue on backlashes, cabinets, or
accessories. Black brings boldness to space, as well, especially when
used correctly.
European-inspired cabinetry is also making its way to outdoor kitchens. Using sleek, modular styles of cabinetry can lend only a sleek look to your kitchen while still delivering on functional value.
An outdoor kitchen is a rewarding investment if
you have the space to spare. With the right look and appliances, this
lifestyle feature could become the selling point of your home when you
resell in the future.
