According to the results of a recent AIA (American Institute of Architects) Home Design Trends Survey, outdoor kitchens are still hot, topping the list of kitchen trends for the second year in a row with nearly 50 percent of the respondents reporting client popularity. (The AIA Home Design Trends Survey is conducted quarterly with a panel of more than 500 architecture firms that concentrate their practice in the residential sector.)

The popularity of outdoor cooking spaces is related to the growing trend of outdoor living in general; the outdoor kitchen now serves as the hub of the outdoor living space just as it does inside the home. 

What does an outdoor kitchen cost?

Homeadvisor reports that the average cost for an outdoor kitchen starts at around $2,700 and goes up to about $16,000. On the higher end, you can even exceed this average and spend well over $30,000.

Are outdoor kitchens worth the investment? 

Because an outdoor kitchen isn't for everyone, don't count on a big ROI if you sell your home — like a swimming pool, these spaces are only worth the expense if you think you will use and enjoy it frequently. Most experts estimate that homeowners with kitchens in their outdoor living spaces will break even on the investment when selling. But higher financial returns are more likely for homes in the Southwest and Southeast compared to those in the Midwest, Northwest, or Northeast.

If you're not sure about how much you will use your outdoor kitchen, start small to see how much use and enjoyment you get out of it. Then, you can make upgrades if it’s worth it to you and your family. 

Here are some tips for getting the best "return" on your outdoor kitchen:

Build enough counter space. Just as in an indoor kitchen, ample counter space makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. (Our heavy-duty hidden countertop brackets are perfectly suited for outdoor use!)

The grill is the centerpiece of your outdoor kitchen. If you skimp on the grill for your design, you may end up with an outdoor kitchen you rarely use. Get the best quality grill you can afford and design your outdoor kitchen around it.

Don't add unnecessary items, such as a full wood-burning pizza oven or beer tap.

Build a contained fire pit (out in the open and not under a structure).

Adding a covering like a pergola or an extended roof can boost resale; but more importantly, it will boost your enjoyment while providing shade and weather protection.

Include (if at all possible) a water supply and direct gas line for grilling.

A mini refrigerator for beverages is inexpensive and indispensable if you have a power supply to your outdoor kitchen.  

Whether you go small or grand with your outdoor kitchen design, you're sure to have an outdoor kitchen to rival any indoor cooking space!

When it comes to your countertops, you can count on The Original Granite Bracket®, with our many years' experience in countertop fabrication and kitchen design, to help you select the right brackets for your project. Connect with us here to get started on your project!