Tips for Planning an Outdoor Kitchen or BBQ Area
By Tom Kerr
Wednesday, June 16, 2010 | 9:50 AM
Cooking, grilling, and entertaining while enjoying the convenience of your own outdoor kitchen or BBQ area is tremendous fun. If you are considering putting in this kind of feature, here are some expert tips to help you plan it more creatively, effectively, and affordably.
  • The cost of an outdoor kitchen depends on how simple or elaborate it is. But the three essential components are 1) a grill, 2) refrigerator, and a 3) sink with an adjacent counter or prep area. Those on a budget may use an ice chest instead of a fridge and a portable grill instead of a permanently installed one, but those three elements are the heart of the outdoor cooking area. 
  • Entry-level kitchens can be built for less than $1,000, while more elaborate ones will likely cost $4,000 or more. Planning the project on paper is really important, because it keeps you organized and you can easily alter those designs without spending a penny.
  • Also use modular designs - those that can be gradually expanded without looking like a haphazard patchwork. That gives you the option of upgrading your outdoor kitchen over time, as your budget allows.
  • The biggest mistake people make when planning an outdoor cooking space is that they fail to provide enough counter space and other zones for placing or storing plates, food, and utensils close at hand.
  • To minimize the cost of maintenance all materials used should meet several criteria. They should be easy to clean, require little or no painting or staining, and not rust, peel, or otherwise deteriorate when exposed to extreme temperatures or rainfall.

Start with an existing patio or terrace to avoid the expense of creating one, and then add an overhead shelter. Replace the portable outdoor grill and tables with a permanent cooking station that has built-in weatherproof counter space. Instead of using the backyard security lights or Tiki torches, invest in some soothing outdoor lighting with dimmer switch controls or install inexpensive solar-powered landscaping lights.

For some great outdoor kitchen ideas - including a complete design guide and checklist that you can download for free - visit the resourceful website of Kalamazoo Gourmet (KalamazooGourmet.com). This company is one of the leading distributors of gas grills and their site is full of information to help anyone planning an outdoor kitchen or more tricked-out BBQ area.