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No matter what kind of a budget you have to work with your dream of having an outdoor kitchen isn't out of reach. The main elements of an outdoor kitchen can be done professionally or in combination with a little DIY work. Combine both to create the ultimate back yard outdoor kitchen of your dreams.

Outdoor Cooking

Adding plumbing, electrical or gas, to your outdoor kitchen will increase the cost. This should not be a deterrent to adding a grill, cook top or sink to your outdoor kitchen plan. You should always go into a plan with options deciding what elements you want to splurge on and what elements you can find replacements for. Cooking outdoors is an activity that has been done since the beginning of time. Installing an outdoor grill and a gas line will always ensure you never run out of gas for your BBQ. This type of BBQ will be built into a cabinet or cooking area with a counter top and room for food preparation. The budget friendly option would be to select an outdoor Charcoal grill and find a great all weather kitchen island from a local home and garden retailer or online. This allows you to move it where you need it and also put it in storage for colder, harsher weather.

Budget for Outdoor Seating

A top of the line outdoor kitchen is usually built on a patio, stamped concrete, brick paver or wood decking. This makes a well-defined seating area that can be permanent or removable. Creating a bar area with counter height stools or chairs around the cooking space invites family and friends to gather around you while the meal is being prepared, keeping the chef involved in the experience. The other option is to purchase an outdoor table and chairs. You also have the option of purchasing more seating groups for larger get together and parties. This allows you to store the furniture in bad weather, extending the life of your outdoor furniture. There are also well made furniture covers that can also protect built in seating areas and pieces so don’t let that be a deterrent to building a more permanent seating area or counters.

Outdoor Entertainment

For some, being in nature,  listening to the sounds of birds chirping and watching kids play is entertainment enough. For others, the addition of an outdoor sound system and flat screen TV is their idea of entertainment. Utilizing a built in wall of stone, a flat screen TV can be installed above a gas or electric fireplace. Complete the entertainment area with a weather friendly sofa, occasional table and arm chair all that is missing is a glass of lemonade!

Shade for your Outdoor Kitchen

If your home has an overhang, you can use that as shade for your outdoor kitchen. Create your own shade by designing and building a pergola. A pergola is a fresh air construction that keeps the majority of the sun off your outdoor kitchen. This permanent structure is a strong focal point to an outdoor kitchen. If your budget keeps you from going in this direction, consider using a metal gazebo with a weatherproof canopy. These can be found in local stores as well as online. They run the range of inexpensive to budget bending. The best way to ensure they last season to season, is to store them during winter weather.

Don’t let a little thing like a small budget stand between you and your outdoor kitchen. Hiring a good remodeling professional will give you access to ideas and cost saving alternatives and where to spend your budget wisely so you can create the outdoor kitchen you’ve always wanted.