Outdoor Kitchen DIY Options

If you’re a crafty sort who loves to dig into meaty home improvement projects, there are plenty of ways to save money while increasing the appeal and value of your property. While you might not be keen to take on major installations that involve tearing down walls, tinkering with plumbing, and complying with city building codes, you can still undertake smaller projects that pack a big punch. 

When it comes to installing an outdoor kitchen, there are certain things you’ll probably want to leave to the pros, like running a gas or water line. But for the adventurous DIYer, there are a range of options you can consider tackling to create the perfect outdoor kitchen and entertaining space.  

Start With Foundational Elements 

If your concrete is crumbling, your wooden deck is riddled with rot, or your patio is the size of a postage stamp, there are DIY solutions you can turn to. If you don’t feel comfortable pouring new concrete, you can install a lovely, modern patio surface with pea gravel and pavers, or a mosaic in brick or tile.  

A product like Turfstone is easy to install, facilitates drainage, and offers an eye-catching marriage of concrete and greenery. 

Before you start adding furniture and appliances, consider whether you might want a backsplash as well. This could mean installing a freestanding wall to set your cooking island up against or adding a luxury tile backsplash to an exterior wall where you plan to place your kitchen layout. 

Custom Design a Kitchen Island You Can Assemble Yourself 

The thought of building an outdoor kitchen from scratch can be understandably daunting. But when you work with a manufacturer that offers made-to-order designs, you can often handle the complete installation on your own. 

Kitchen islands are a popular choice for made-to-order designs. Whether you choose a ready-made design or customize it to meet your every need, this option delivers the durability of powder-coat aluminum construction with storage solutions, ample counter space, and even built-in appliances.  

You might also have custom sizing options for your existing appliances. Pre-assembly before shipping ensures quick and easy setup when your island arrives. 

Build a Pergola 

You might not be eager to take on a major project like building a pavilion to protect you from the elements when you’re outside grilling. Fortunately, you don’t have to build a pavilion to avoid the sweltering sun. 

Pergolas are a great DIY project, thanks to relatively simple construction and plenty of free plans available online. You can assemble one large enough to cover just the cooking area, or expand it to add shade to your dining space as well. Train vines up the sides for added coverage, or add a tarp, canvas, or polycarbonate panels on top. 

Install Benches or Planters to Frame the Space 

You might not love the stark separation between your patio and yard space. A great way to blur the lines between hardscape and landscape features is by adding planter boxes or benches around the perimeter. 

Planter boxes can be made from wood, bricks, pavers, or other materials that match your architecture and suit your style. Alternatively, you could simply add a row of containers featuring your favorite native shrubs, grasses, or flowers. 

Benches are another convenient option. Benches will not only create a visual divide but also add seating for guests. A combination of the two may offer the greatest benefits. 

Add Fun Lighting Features 

If you’re going to the trouble of installing an outdoor kitchen, along with dining and lounge spaces, you want to maximize use value. One sad outdoor light next to the back door just won’t do. 

You can have so much fun with lighting features, whether you install solar-powered garden lights along the edge of the patio and walkways, put up lighting under trees and architectural features, or hang patio string lights overhead. The right lighting sets the mood and ensures enjoyment of your outdoor entertaining space after the sun goes down. 

Enhance With a Plant or Water Wall 

Many homeowners are interested in creating an outdoor oasis that offers opportunities to connect with both loved ones and with nature. Landscape design goes a long way toward helping you meet this goal, but ambitious DIYers can do even more. 

Plant walls are all the rage with the selfie crowd, popping up at restaurants and clothing boutiques alike. Craft your own spin on the trend with a wooden slat wall that can hold succulents, grasses, vines, or even herbs to grab when you’re grilling. 

If you’re happy with the amount of greenery in your space but would like to add a water feature, think about installing a water wall to one area of your outdoor kitchen — not too near cooking appliances, of course. It’s a lovely visual element that also delivers the tranquil tones of falling water. 

Let Your Creativity Shine 

When it comes to DIY projects, you don’t necessarily have to be an expert carpenter, plumber, or electrician. There are so many ways you can update and elevate your outdoor kitchen to make the space your own when you get creative with foundational elements and accent pieces. 

Let the experts at Stono Outdoor Living help create your dream outdoor kitchen. Start building your kitchen with our 3D configurator; it's simple and easy to use. Or schedule a no-obligation design consultation to tailor a custom outdoor kitchen design that combines comfort, functionality, and style. We guarantee a perfect fit, free shipping, and easy assembly. Shop Islands or Schedule a Consultation today.