Top Outdoor Kitchen FAQs

Before deciding to move forward with any home improvement project, it pays to do your research. If you’re reading this, we can surmise that you are interested in adding an outdoor kitchen to your patio, but you’re not sure about some things.

Today, we’ve pulled together some of the most commonly asked questions about outdoor kitchen design and installation, along with our answers. We hope this helps you make an informed decision. If you don’t see the answer to your question here, please reach out to us directly.

Let’s get started.

How Much Does an Outdoor Kitchen Cost?

Your final cost depends on the size of your outdoor kitchen, the complexity of the design, and the materials you choose, among other things. We answer the question more thoroughly in a recent blog asking the same question How Much Does an Outdoor Kitchen Cost?

Is an Outdoor Kitchen Worth the Investment?

This is a personal opinion. We can tell you that we’ve never had a client who regretted their choice to have us design and install their outdoor kitchen. We would say it’s worth the investment if you love to entertain, you like being outdoors, and you plan to be in your home for a while. But even if you have to move, that custom outdoor kitchen will be an asset that adds to the value of your home.

Related Reading: How an Outdoor Kitchen Adds to Your Home’s Value

What Shape Should My Outdoor Kitchen Be?

This is a very practical question and a good one. It can depend on your preferences, but may also depend on the size of your backyard. If you have a smaller backyard, you can still get a custom outdoor kitchen by placing it in a straight line along the back of your home. If you have more room to work with, you might want an L-shaped design, a split-level design, or another configuration.

It all depends on what features you want to include.

What Should I Include in My Outdoor Kitchen?

Again, this is a personal choice. But every outdoor kitchen needs these basics:

• A built-in gas grill
• Sink
• Countertops
• Storage area
• Refrigerator

But few people want to stop there. Many of our clients opt for components and materials that make their outdoor kitchen rival their indoor kitchen. Some of your options include adding:

• Smoker grill
• Kamado grill
• Flattop griddle
• Ice maker
• Prep sink
• Additional storage drawers
• Wine cooler
• Kegerator
• Outdoor bar area with dual-height countertops
• Outdoor fireplace
• Overhead lighting

That last item brings us to our next FAQ.

Why Should I Get a Covered Outdoor Kitchen?

If you’ve ever had to rush guests inside because of a stray shower, or wished for some shade during a summer cookout, you’ll appreciate why so many people today opt for a covered outdoor kitchen. Not only does a roof such as one provided by a pavilion protect you and your guests from the elements, but it also protects your investment.

There will be less fading of outdoor dining furniture and less exposure to the elements for your grill and countertops if you choose to include a roof in your outdoor kitchen design. In addition, with a roof, you can easily add pendant lighting in a bar area, a chandelier over the dining table, and a ceiling fan in the cooking area.

Related Reading: Why a Covered Outdoor Kitchen is a Smart Choice

Make It Exceptional. Make It Woodfield.

If you’re ready to upgrade your outdoor living space with a high-end outdoor kitchen fit for a chef, we can help. Woodfield has successfully designed and constructed custom outdoor kitchens for hundreds of the finest homes in the Northern Maryland region. We stand ready to help you realize your dreams.

We work with homeowners throughout Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Cecil County, Harford County, and Howard County. Schedule a call today.