If you’ve been itching to upgrade or renovate your outdoor kitchen space, what’s stopping you from getting started? In our Guide to Outdoor Kitchens in 2022, we provide with you the steps you can take to make your dream outdoor kitchen become a reality. 

Follow along for the best tips, tricks, and inspiration when it comes to building your outdoor kitchen.

Find Your Inspiration

Before you even begin designing and building an outdoor kitchen, you’ll want to discover what inspires you. Are you going for an intimate, secret garden feel? Or a more modern and trendy outdoor space? To get your wheels turning, check out some of the following top outdoor kitchen designs in 2022.

Modern

When it comes to new BBQ trends and outdoor decor, modern elements never go out of style. Modern outdoor spaces infuse an air of sophistication into the setting with a neutral color palette and sleek lines. Incorporating marble surfaces, stainless steel appliances, and wood accents, modern patios create a clean and calm space for relaxing and entertaining.

Industrial

Industrial designs are all about the raw and unfinished vibe without looking incomplete. An industrial outdoor kitchen design might feature stainless steel appliances, rich color combinations, brick accents, and wood and steel elements. 

These designs exude a stripped-down, exposed look and feel that’s reminiscent of old factories and warehouses. This no-fuss, no-frills patio design is laidback and casual yet still eye-catching and stunning.

Farmhouse

The farmhouse look will always remain a top outdoor kitchen design. This timeless decor is inspired by the rural architectural structures you’d find in a farm setting. The country-centric design is simple and practical with rustic charm that often includes reclaimed wood, stone, and wicker with crisp white accents. A farmhouse outdoor kitchen might feature white tiles, matte surfaces, and the iconic farmhouse sink. 

Determine Your Level of Renovations

Next, decide what kind of renovations and upgrades you have in mind. Maybe you’re looking to do a few small tweaks, or perhaps you’re going for a full overhaul. Consider the amount of time and money you can commit to this project, as it may determine the extent of your renovations. 

With that said, if you find yourself leaning toward the quick upgrade camp, explore some of these small-scale renovations and additions that can give your outdoor kitchen a major facelift. 

Lighting

Updating your lighting or installing new lights is a sure way to breathe fresh into your outdoor kitchen area. Pendant lights can top off your industrial design, while twinkly lights offer whimsical flair no matter what style you’re looking to achieve. From chandeliers to LED candles, your lighting options are practically endless. 

Firepits

Not only do fire pits give your space a rustic feel, but they also provide you with another space to gather with your friends and family. After all, a new firepit is a perfect excuse for hosting a backyard BBQ.

Gas Grills

Installing a sleek gas grill is one sure way to give your outdoor space a modern boost. Whether you go with a built-in one for your BBQ island or a standalone option, cooking dinner never looked this good. 

Shade

Shade can transform your outdoor kitchen, making it even more inviting, especially in the height of summer. Depending on your budget and preference, consider experimenting with awnings, shade sails, or structured coverings. 

Start Making a Game Plan

Once you’ve found gathered some inspiration and understand how big of an operation you’re going for, it’s time to start making moves. Begin by making a list of all the tasks you need complete to get this renovation in motion. 

Create a Budget 

Before building your outdoor kitchen, it’s best to build a budget. A budget will help you determine how far your money will stretch and allocate which areas your finances will cover first. Outline all your potential expenses, and if you can, set aside some extra funds to cover any incidentals. 

Figure Out What Materials You Need

While planning your dream outdoor patio design, think about what kind of raw materials you’ll need to purchase. This could involve anything from stones for your rock wall to wood for the enclosure. Also, think about other materials, like tiles, windows, and metal. 

Choose Your Appliances 

Now you’re getting to the fun part: choosing your appliances. Begin by browsing outdoor kitchen and grill buying guides to get a feel for what’s available. What designs, models, and appliances most align with your original vision? Maybe your modern patio idea involves an outdoor pizza oven and BBQ smoker. Or your industrial outdoor kitchen design needs a luxury stainless steel built-in gas grill. 

Consider Supply Chain Setbacks

The reality is that the world is still grappling with a chaotic and broken supply chain, which means there continue to be major delays, backorders, and limited resources. This includes both raw materials, appliances, and patio furniture. 

While companies are doing their best to accommodate orders and provide timely deliveries, it’s important to have realistic expectations when it comes to your timeline. Order ASAP, but build in extra padding so that you’re not disappointed should your shipments get delayed.

Decide If You Need to Hire Professionals

Few things are as exciting and fulfilling as accomplishing a DIY home renovation. However, you don’t want to take on such a big undertaking that you’re not able to complete the task. 

Be honest with yourself about the extent of your skills and what you’re capable of learning. Maybe you’re an excellent carpenter, but you lack electrical skills. There’s nothing wrong with hiring a professional to take care of a certain task, such as installing your overhead lights or landscaping the garden. If you decide to go this route, be sure to include these extra costs in your budget. 

There’s never been a better time to begin planning and designing your patio and outdoor kitchen space. For more information and guidance on your outdoor kitchen renovations and upgrades, turn to the BBQ Outlets Free Design Tool today. 

About the Author: After tasting his first American-style barbeque in the 90s, Surinder Multani got so fired up about backyard grilling that he eventually turned his passion for food and cooking into a business when he founded BBQ Outlets in 2005. Specializing in gas grills, barbecue islands, and the Smoker, Surinder expanded his BBQ equipment line to also include patio furniture, fireplaces, and an expert design team.