Outdoor Kitchen Checklist: What to Plan Before You Buy

Grill: built-in or cart, gas or charcoal.
Refrigeration: outdoor-rated refrigerators and beverage centers.
Cooking extras: side burners, pizza ovens or a griddle.
Storage and cleanup: doors, drawers, a trash pullout and a sink.

A good outdoor kitchen starts with the plan. Work through this list before you order appliances.

1. Set the layout and the budget

Decide where the grill, prep space, storage and seating go. Pick the grill first, because its dimensions drive the rest of the island.

Plan the gas line, electrical power and water with qualified professionals. Local codes and the manufacturers' instructions decide the requirements.

Use the cutout and clearance dimensions for the exact model of each appliance. Do not size the island from a generic width.

Large appliances ship by freight. Check the delivery path and have a place to receive and store the items until the island is ready.

Browse outdoor kitchen products, read our island planning guide, or contact us and we will help you plan.

Gas, electrical and construction work should be done by qualified professionals following local codes and the manufacturers' instructions.