At Home Living: Creating an outdoor kitchen on a budget

By Angela Deines

The popularity of outdoor kitchens has grown in recent years with more people staying home to relax and entertain friends and family. Having a basic plan to know what you want and how much you can spend are two of the most basic things you need to take into consideration when thinking about an outdoor kitchen.

Joe Syrokosz, owner of ValleyScapes, in St. Marys, servicing northeast Kansas, said an outdoor kitchen can usually be installed in a backyard area, regardless of the amount of space you have.

Its really about using the space correctly, making sure that everything functions correctly in its space, he said. Each backyard has its own functionality. Thats where a professional can tell you what to do.

Whether youre trying to install a kitchen area on your own or hiring a contractor, Syrokosz strongly recommends hiring a designer to help you define your goals for your outdoor space.

Some people dont understand the depth of a project, he said. You have a game plan to work from (with a designer), versus making a mistake and buying the wrong materials.

In addition to having a grill and patio, Syrokosz said the options for your outdoor kitchen can range from having a brick oven, a fireplace, built-in cabinets, lighting and water features. He said your kitchen can usually be done in phases, depending on your budget.

Financing each stage can be thought about, he said. Typically the contractor and the designer can work together with the customer.

In addition to getting the advice from a designer, Syrokosz said the homeowner needs to make sure all local ordinances for the plumbing and electrical aspects of an outdoor kitchen project are followed.

You never want to spend a lot of money on a project and then have someone come by and tell you cant have it, he said, adding that plumbing, gas and electrical lines should be installed before you begin a project.

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At Home Living: Creating an outdoor kitchen on a budget