How much does it cost to install an outdoor kitchen?

Al fresco entertaining has been more popular than ever this year, making outdoor kitchen ideas an essential thing to think about for your backyard. 

It can be tricky to pinpoint just how much it costs to install an outdoor kitchen with factors such as size, design and materials to consider. But using our expert guide, you can find out how best to spend your money when it comes to dining in your garden. 

HOW MUCH DOES AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN COST?

Prices for outdoor kitchens start at around $5,550 (£4,000) including VAT and range to upwards of $27,700 (£20,000). 

‘Outdoor kitchens vary in price depending on if you are looking for a pre-designed layout or you would like to install a premium bespoke outdoor kitchen,’ says Ross Worrod of Grillo.

If you're wondering how to build an outdoor kitchen, this is invaluable advice. ‘For a fully custom option which can take a few weeks to build, you can easily look to spend over $69,300 (£50,000), but it’s really questionable whether you’re getting good value at that price point, or whether you’re just paying for expensive brands,’ adds Worrod.

DOES SIZE MATTER?

‘Outdoor kitchens now come in a multitude of sizes and forms, you have more reason to get outside and make the most of your outdoor space, whether you have a large garden or a smaller patio,’ says Declan Kingsley Walsh, Managing Director at Morsø UK. 

‘It’s important to consider how you’ll be using the space to determine elements like how much seating you’ll need as well as the size and capacity of the appliances you include to make sure you can cater for your needs,’ adds Walsh. 

Ross Worrod suggests that modern garden ideas now revolve around treating your kitchen as an extension to your living space, rather than a standalone piece as you’re more likely to use it and it will ultimately add greater value to your home. 

WHAT MATERIALS SHOULD YOU USE?

Outdoor grade powder-coated steel is the best option for cabinets, according to our experts. 

Emily Hawkins of The Outdoor Kitchen Collective says countertops also need to be carefully considered as inside products won’t withstand the weather conditions, and suggests choosing concrete, granite or porcelain. 

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR OUTDOOR KITCHEN 

There are many appliances to add to your outdoor space and lots of outdoor kitchen ideas to choose from. But before you do, Worrod suggests that you have a minimum space of 2.5msq and ensure that the ground is flat, hard and has non-combustible surroundings. 

So, here is a brief breakdown of what you might expect when it comes to the price of key items. 

OVENS AND BBQs

Installing an oven is essential to your outdoor kitchen, and there is a wide range of options and outdoor BBQ ideas to consider.

When it comes to gas BBQs, the price reflects the quality of the stainless steel and warranty offered.

It is more common to find BBQ’s and Pizza Ovens than a traditional oven according to Worrod, who says decent built-in BBQ’s price between $2,770 (£2000) - $4,159 (£3000) and Pizza Ovens such as DeliVita start at around $2,218 (£1600) for a full package including accessories. 

SINKS AND STORAGE

Storage space and seating is essential to any outdoor kitchen. The installation of storage space, bars and stools will cost between $1,900 (£1,400) and $2,287 (£1,650).

If you want a hand-crafted outdoor sink, then this may cost around $800 (£575). 

PERGOLAS

If you live in warmer climes and need a bit of protection from the sun, a pergola can keep you in the shade while still letting just enough light in. It also enhances the beauty of your outdoor space and can cost you anywhere between $2,200 ($1,578) - $5,900 (£4,234).

OUTDOOR REFRIGERATORS

Outdoor refrigerators are a really useful accessory to an outdoor kitchen, saving multiple trips back inside, and a key part of garden bar ideas.

It’s important to make sure your refrigerator can withstand outdoor conditions, and so prices for freestanding fridges start from around $552 (£400), but products that retail at over $2770 (£2000) will last longer in outdoor conditions.